Independent tourism and recreation in the village of Krasnaya Polyana

Historical information about the village of Red Polyana

Krasnaya Polyana is one of the most famous mountain villages in Russia, located in the valley of the Mzymta River at the foot of the Main Caucasus Range, about 40 km from Adler. Today it is known as the center of ski tourism and the venue of the 2014 Winter Olympics, but its history goes much deeper - into antiquity and the era of the Caucasian War.

Ancient history and the first settlements

The territory of the modern Red Polyana was inhabited by people in ancient times. Archaeologists found here the remains of ancient fortifications, dolmens and traces of old caravan routes. Through the Mzymta valley were routes that connected the Black Sea coast with the Caucasus and Transcaucasia.

In the early Middle Ages, Adyghe and Abkhaz tribes lived here. In the VI-IX centuries, fortresses and guard fortifications were built in the vicinity, since the area was of great strategic importance. These lands were part of the sphere of influence of the mountain peoples of the Western Caucasus.

The Caucasian War and the Disappearance of Old Towns

In the XIX century, the region was at the center of the Caucasian War between the Russian Empire and the mountainous peoples of the Caucasus. In the valley of Mzymta lived the Ubykhs and Abadzekhs – peoples who resisted the advance of Russian troops.

In 1864, after the end of the Caucasian War, it was in the area of Krasnaya Polyana that the famous military parade of the Russian army was held, symbolizing the final annexation of the Western Caucasus to the Russian Empire. This event is considered the official end of the Caucasian War. Caucasian War

After the war, much of the local Muslim population was evicted or emigrated to the Ottoman Empire. Many villages were empty, and the territory remained almost deserted for a long time.

Founding of the village

The modern Krasnaya Polyana appeared in 1878, when Greek Pontians from Stavropol – natives of the historical region of Pontus on the southern coast of the Black Sea moved here. The first families, according to legend, saw a picturesque valley with a reddish autumn fern and named the place “Red Polyana”.

Settlers began to build houses, engage in agriculture, cattle breeding and gardening. They built the church of St. Charalampius and opened a school. The Greek community has long been the basis of the settlement.

Red Polyana in the Russian Empire

At the end of the XIX century, Krasnaya Polyana began to attract the attention of scientists and doctors due to its climate. In 1898, a state commission arrived here to study the possibility of creating a climate resort. The researchers discovered mineral springs and praised the local mountain air. Climatologist Alexander Voeikov even called Krasnaya Polyana “Russian Riviera”.

Soon a road was built from Adler to the mountains - Krasnopolyanskoe highway. This was the most important stage in the development of the village, as it was extremely difficult to get here before.

At the beginning of the XX century, the authorities planned to create here a resort town called "Romanovsk" in honor of the royal family of the Romanovs, but the name did not catch on. Local residents continued to use the old name - Krasnaya Polyana.

Soviet period

After the revolution, the village gradually turned into a mountain climatic resort. In the 1920-1930s, tourist centers, rest houses and sanatoriums were created here. The development of the mountain routes of the Caucasus began.

In 1950, Krasnaya Polyana received the status of an urban-type settlement.

In Soviet times, the place remained relatively quiet and difficult to access. Mountaineers, tourists and geologists came here. Skiing existed, but the infrastructure was minimal compared to modern times.

Post-Soviet time and turning into a resort

Abrupt changes began in the 1990s and especially in the 2000s. Krasnaya Polyana began to actively develop as a ski center. Modern routes, cable cars, hotels and tourist complexes appeared.

The key event was the decision to hold the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. It was Krasnaya Polyana that became the center of the Olympics mountain cluster.

In a short time, they were built:

• new roads;

• railway line Adler - Krasnaya Polyana;

• modern ski complexes;

• Olympic venues;

• Hotel and tourist areas.

After the Olympics, the village turned into a year-round resort of international level.

Modern Red Polyana

Today Krasnaya Polyana is not only a village, but also a whole tourist region. There are large resorts here:

• Rosa Khutor

• Gazprom Polyana

• Red Polyana Resort

The region has become a center of winter sports, mountain tourism, hiking and ecotourism. At the same time, the village retains historical traces of the Greek past - old cemeteries, the names of the first settlers and the temple of St. Charalampius.

The history of Krasnaya Polyana is a way from ancient mountain settlements and the consequences of the Caucasian War to a modern international resort that has become a symbol of the new tourist Russia.

What is interesting about the village of Red glade

The place where the Caucasus really opens up

Krasnaya Polyana is not just a mountain village. This is a whole world of high ridges, alpine meadows, waterfalls, ancient forests and pure mountain air. Back in the XIX century, travelers called this valley “Russian Switzerland”, and scientists considered the local climate one of the best on the Black Sea coast.

You can move here in an hour:

• from subtropical palm trees of the Sochi coast;

• to snow peaks with a height of more than 3000 meters;

• from warm sea evenings;

• To the cool alpine air.

It is this combination that makes Red Polyana unique.

A story hidden among the mountains

The history of Red Polyana is felt literally in the landscape. The valley was known to the ancient peoples of the Caucasus and served as part of the old trade routes between the Black Sea and the mountainous regions.

After the end of the Caucasian War in the XIX century, Greek settlers came here, who founded the first permanent settlements. According to legend, in autumn the valley was covered with a reddish fern, and the settlers called it “Red Polyana”.

You can still see in the village:

• old houses;

• Greek names of local residents;

• the temple of St. Charalampius;

• The atmosphere of a quiet mountain settlement, preserved near modern resorts.

Olympic heritage

Real world fame Krasnaya Polyana received after the Winter Olympic Games 2014. It was here that competitions in alpine skiing, biathlon, snowboarding and ski jumping took place.

The Olympics completely transformed the region:

• Modern cable cars appeared;

• new world-class tracks;

• high-speed railway;

• luxury hotels and spa complexes;

• Restaurants with Caucasian and European cuisine.

Today, tourists can literally touch the Olympic history, riding along the same tracks where the best athletes in the world performed.

In the village of Red Polyana you will be met.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy. individual tours.

Levels of residence in the village of Krasnaya Polyana

Premium holiday - 5 ★ and expensive resorts

Suitable for those who want comfort, spa, swimming pools and beautiful views.

Popular options:

• Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi is one of the most famous luxury hotels with mountain views.

• Grand Hotel Polyana is a large resort complex with territory and spa.

• Novotel Resort and Spa Krasnaya Polyana is a modern option next to the lifts.

• HILLS POLYANA Hotel & SPA is a more intimate and cozy spa hotel.

They usually come here:

• on winter vacation;

• romantic trips;

• spa weekends;

• family vacation.

Average level - comfortable and without overpayment

This is the most popular option among tourists.

For example:

• Gorilla Panorama

• Gorki Hotel Suites

• Utomlennyye Solntsem

Usually here:

• good numbers;

• Breakfast;

• transfer to lifts;

• beautiful views;

• Prices are well below premium.

Budgetary options

For those who come to ride or walk in the mountains, rather than sitting in a hotel.

Popular:

• Hostel Aibga

• Khostel "Alokha"

• Tukan Hotel

• Solar Hotel Krasnaya Polyana

Such places shall be chosen:

• youth;

• snowboarders;

• company of friends;

• Tourists on a small budget.

Guest houses - the most atmospheric option

Very popular format in Krasnaya Polyana. These are small houses in the mountains with a homely atmosphere.

For example:

• Guest house ATMOSPHERE | Atmospheric Krasnaya Polyana

• Polyana Guest House 315

• Villa Uyutnaya

• Guest house "Manor in the mountains"

They're loved for:

• comfort

• silence;

• Mountain views;

• It feels like home.

Where to go and what to see in Red Polyana

Cable cars and mountain panoramas

The main symbol of the Red Polyana is lifts and observation decks.

The most popular:

• Kanatnaya Doroga Kurorta Krasnaya Polyana

• Rosa Peak.

• Gora Chernaya Piramida

From here you can see the Caucasus Mountains, gorges and clouds below the level of the site. In summer they go up here for walks, in winter for skiing and snowboarding.

The easiest way to get there is by bus or train “Swallow” to Rosa Khutor station, then on foot or by the resort shuttles.

Polycar Falls

One of the most beautiful and tall waterfalls in the region.

• Waterfall Polikarya

Especially impressive in spring and early summer when snow melts in the mountains. Many tourists call it “the noise of the Caucasus”.

How to get there: First on the cable car, then on foot along the equipped trail.

Caucasian Biosphere Reserve

The real world of wild nature of the Caucasus.

• Caucasian State Natural Biosphere Reserve

• Vol'yerny Kompleks

Here you can see:

• mountain forests;

• alpine meadows;

• rare animals;

• environmental routes.

Very popular place in summer and autumn.

How to get there: Buses and taxis run regularly from Estonia Sadka and Krasnaya Polyana.

Akhshtyr Cave and Akhtsu Gorge

Some of the most atmospheric places in the region.

• Ahshtyr cave

• Ahtsu Gorge

The cave is known for ancient human sites, and the gorge - incredible views of the rocks and the Mzymta River.

How to get there: Most convenient by car, excursions or taxi on the way to Adler.

Olympic Village and Rosa Khutor

The modern center of life of the resort.

• Olympic Village

• Rosa Khutor

Here:

• beautiful promenades;

• restaurants;

• concerts;

• festivals;

• Olympic venues;

• Evening mountain lighting.

Many tourists come here even without skiing - just for the atmosphere.

The easiest way to get there is by train “Swallow” or by bus from Adler and Sochi.

Temple of St. Haralampia

The historical place of the old Red Polyana.

• Church of Saint Charalambos

This is one of the symbols of the Greek history of the village. Very quiet and beautiful place with a view of the mountains.

How to get there: It is located right in the village, easy to walk.

How convenient it is for a tourist to move

Transportation in Krasnaya Polyana is now very good. After the Olympics, a modern road and the Adler-Krasnaya Polyana railway line appeared here.

Main modes of transportation:

• Swallow train;

• buses;

• taxi;

• car sharing;

• cable cars between the levels of resorts.

Where is it convenient to get:

• from Adler Airport - approximately 40-50 minutes;

• from Sochi - about 1-1.5 hours;

• between the resorts - 10-20 minutes.

Events and entertainment in the Red Pool

Winter (December to March)

It's the main season. They come for snow, skating and partying.

What's going on?

• New Year holidays with shows, fireworks and concerts

• Ski season (Rosa Khutor, Krasnaya Polyana, Gazprom)

• Apres-ski parties (music and bars right by the slopes)

• Big concerts at Red Arena

• Musical festivals, for example

Spring (March-May)

The season ends smoothly.

What happens?

• ski-season closure

• carnival

• sporting

• fewer people, calmer atmosphere

It is suitable for those who want to ride without crowds.

Summer (June - September)

Krasnaya Polyana turns into a mountain resort without skis.

What's going on?

• Open-air music festivals

• fresh-air concert

• Trails, marathons, cycling

• gastronomic festival

• yoga and wellness retreats

Autumn (September-November)

The quietest time.

What happens?

• gastro and wine festivals

• sports-race

• few tourists, quiet rest

• Beautiful nature (Golden Mountains)
  

What weather is suitable for a trip to the village of Red Polyana

Winter (December to February)

Air:

• in the valley: -2 ... +8 °C

• in the mountains: −5...−15 °C (sometimes colder)

Water (sea in Sochi):

• +9...+12 °C - you can not swim

The snow is stable, the perfect time for mountain skiing.

Spring (March-May)

Air:

• March: +5... +12 °C

• April: +10... +18 °C

• May: +15...+25 °C

Water:

• +10...+16 °C (still cold)

Snow is melting in the mountains, it is warm and green below.

Summer (June - August)

Air:

• +20...+30 °C (sometimes up to +32 °C)

• in the mountains usually 5-10 degrees cooler

Water (sea):

• +22...+27 °C – comfortable for swimming

This is the season of walks, festivals and the sea.

Autumn (September-November)

Air:

• September: +20...+28 °C

• October: +12... +20 °C

• November: +5... +12 °C

Water:

• September: +23...+25 °C (warmest sea)

• October: +18...+22 °C

• November: +14... +18 °C

The velvet season is warm, but without heat and crowds.

What traditions and customs should be observed in the village of Krasnaya Polyana

Language of communication

• The main language is Russian

• In touristic places (hotels, resorts, restaurants) they often speak basic English.

• In the mountains and small cafes, English may not be used.

Useful: at least simple phrases in Russian greatly facilitate communication.

Traditions and cultural characteristics

Krasnaya Polyana is a tourist resort, so there are no strict “local customs” as in ethnic regions, but there are general norms of behavior:

• Politeness in communication - it is important to say hello, thank you

• Calm behavior in public places (especially in transport and hotels)

• In the mountains it is customary to respect nature: do not litter, do not go off the paths

• In restaurants and cafes, it is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% if you like the service.

Laws and regulations that are important to follow

These are the usual laws of Russia, but tourists need to know the main thing:

Alcohol and behaviour

• It is forbidden to drink alcohol in public places (streets, parks)

• It is forbidden to appear intoxicated and disturb order.

Smoking

• You can smoke only in permitted places.

• Prohibited in transport, entrances, public buildings

Photo and security

• You can not photograph military installations, some state institutions

• On ropes and in the mountains, you must observe safety rules (do not go beyond the fence)

Roads and transport

• Pedestrians must comply with traffic rules (in Russia it is strict).

• In the mountains in winter must be careful movement - often ice

Nature.

• It is forbidden to make fires outside special zones

• You can not break plants and litter in protected areas

What to try and what souvenirs and gifts to bring from the village of Krasnaya Polyana

Food and products worth bringing

1. Mountain honey

• One of the most popular souvenirs.

• There's chestnut, lime, grass.

• It is often considered more “medical” because of high-altitude herbs.

2. Cone jam

• Pine or spruce cones.

• Interesting taste and is considered useful for the respiratory tract.

3. Mountain herb tea

• Peppermint, thyme, St. John's wort, oregano.

• It is often sold as “Caucasian phytochai”.

4. Adyghe cheese

• Soft, fresh, without strong salt.

• It is well stored in vacuum packaging.

5. Nuts and dried fruit

• Hazelnut, walnut, jelly, fig.

• Often locally produced or from the South Caucasus.

“Health” and wellness remedies

1. Herbal balms and tinctures

• Based on mountain herbs, sometimes with propolis or honey.

• They are used for immunity and recovery.

2. Fir butter

• It is used for inhalation, massage, aromatherapy.

• Popular for colds.

3. Mountain salts and baths

• salt with the addition of herbs and essential oils.

• It is used for relaxation and skin.

Souvenirs and handicrafts

1. Caucasian knives (decorative)

• Often handmade, with ornaments.

• It is better to take as a souvenir, not for use.

2. Wooden products

• Spoons, dishes, cutting boards.

• Often beech or nut.

3. Woolen products

• Plaids, socks, slippers.

• Made of sheep wool, very warm.

4. Magnets and ornaments with mountains

• With the image of Elbrus, Caucasus, Krasnaya Polyana.

Safety of rest and availability of documents for travel to the Red Polyana

1. Travel documents

For a tourist, you usually need:

Definitely:

• Passport (validity – at least 6 months at the time of entry)

• Visa (if required for your country)

• Migration card (issued at entry)

• Registration at the place of stay (usually issued by the hotel)

Important:

• It is best to always carry a passport or a copy of it.

• The hotel must register a foreign tourist within 24 hours.

2. Health insurance

Although not formally checked, it is highly recommended and often mandatory for a visa.

What's important about insurance:

• Coverage of outdoor activities (mountains, skis, snowboard!)

• Coverage amount of at least $30,000-50,000

• Enable evacuation (in the mountains it is critical)

• Round-the-clock assistance service

Without insurance, medical care for foreigners can be very expensive, especially evacuation from the mountains.

3. Emergency services in Russia

Single number:

• 112 - universal rescue service (works even without a SIM card)

In addition:

• 103 - ambulance

• 101 - Fire service

• 102 - police

• 104 - Gas service

In the mountains of Krasnaya Polyana there is also a mountain rescue service (through 112 or resort rescuers).

4. Mobile and Internet

In the region, stable communication with the main operators:

• MTS

• MegaFon

• Beeline

• Tele2.

Features:

• In the mountains, a signal may disappear on ropes and in gorges

• Best coverage at MegaFon and MTS

• Almost everywhere there is 4G in the resort area

Advice: if you plan trips - download offline maps in advance.

5. How much can a tourist stay in Russia?

Depends on nationality:

Visa-free (for many countries)

• Usually up to 90 days in 180 days

With a visa.

• The term depends on the type of visa (usually 30-90 days, tourist)

• Extensions are possible only through migration authorities in Russia

Important:

• Excess of stay = fine, deportation or ban on entry

• Departure date is recorded on the migration card

6. Safety in the Red Polyana

Main risks:

• Mountain injuries (skiing, snowboarding, trekking)

• Fast weather change

• Loss of communication in the mountains

• Rockfalls off track

Safety regulations:

• Do not go beyond marked tracks without a guide

• Watch the weather (in the mountains it changes in 30-60 minutes)

• Notify the hotel of routes

• Do not ride off the tracks without avalanche equipment