Excursion "Health Paths"

Today, everyone knows that the climate of Crimea is healing. But this was not always the case, the realization of this fact became an important medical discovery. Consequently, the name of the person who made it was immortalized in a walking route that has a beneficial effect on physical and mental well-being – this is the Botkin Trail in Yalta.

The wooded slopes of the natural amphitheater surrounding Yalta with a semi-ring of mountains are beautiful and diverse. And from above, the sky is propped up by the impregnable spurs of yaila. It is here, between the waterfalls Wuchang-Su and Yauzlar, is the rock Stavri-Kai.

Panoramic views from Stavri Kai to the coast and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. From here to the south, the horizon line is visible at a distance of more than 100 km, about a third of the entire width of the Black Sea. And this despite the relatively small height of the rock, only 663 m. The effect of the height from the top of the Stavri-Kai is enhanced by the fact that from the south it is steep and steeply disappears from under the feet, sinking its base into a dense forest.

The name Stavri-Kaya is translated as “cross rock” (from Greek). "Stavros" means "cross", and Turk. "kaya" means "rock." There used to be an old stone cross, which is now replaced by a modern Orthodox one. With the appearance of the cross on top of the cliff, several local colorful legends are associated.

Dr. S.P. Botkin is known for being one of the first in Russia to advocate for the treatment of patients by the effects of natural factors on the body. He defended the healing possibilities of the Crimean climate, becoming one of the founders of the health sector of the peninsula.

He was no longer alive when the Crimean-Caucasian Mountain Club decided to perpetuate his memory. Fans of the professor's teachings raised funds, and the Yalta club members paved a hiking route near the city in a healthy area. This was done in 1901-1902.

The trail is maintained in good condition, it does not allow the appearance of debris, branches and other natural interference are removed from the road. Walking on it does not require special training and good health. It is always possible to rest, since there are benches, steps are arranged on difficult-to-pass areas, numerous signs will not allow you to get lost.

The general condition of the human body is positively affected by a walk in those places where the Botkin trail passes. The route on the map is laid in detail, but it is difficult to get lost without it, since the direction is prompted by pointers. The trail has a length of 4.6 km. There are many opportunities to “short” the path, but then you will have to climb more steeply uphill. The official route implies a longer, but gentle climb.

The beginning of the trail at the Fairy Tales Polyana can be determined by the asphalt. You should move in the direction of the same name camping. Next, next to the gate, you can find a stand where all the local hiking trails are depicted. Here is the most solid on the way sign Botkin trail route It seems to be designed for some Ivan-tsarevich – a huge stone with a carved inscription.

At the first stage, you need to cross the Ai-Dimitri stream, walk along the gorge and go to the Lower Yauzlar waterfall. It is necessary to turn to the left to avoid falling into the canyon. Next, after another ascent, you can see the Upper Yauzlar Falls. Both of them are on the river Yavluz, which will have to cross. Bridges are thrown across the stream and river. In the photo, they look taut, but in fact are quite reliable, although they can make an unusual person worry.

Next comes the climb to the top of Stavri Kai. We need to move along the serpentine path. You can climb right up the slope (you can see numerous “wild” paths), but it is not easy physically. However, this is not prohibited - many young, strong tourists do. At the top there is an observation deck, which offers magnificent views of the surrounding area, including both waterfalls. The site is not fenced, so it is better not to come close to its edge - at the bottom of the vertical rock.

The route passes through the pine forest, where it is easy to breathe: coniferous phytoncides are very useful for respiratory organs. In addition to pine trees, beeches and other trees typical of the middle stripe grow here. The forest area looks especially original in autumn (it becomes multicolored), which is confirmed by the reviews of tourists who have seen it. From the rock Stavri-Kai you can go further, to the waterfall Wuchang-Su.