These Photos Will Put Russian Karelia On Your Bucket List

Russia‘s natural wonders are truly a sight to behold. Together with Kamchatka and the Altai Mountains, the Republic of Karelia is among the most popular destinations in Russia for lovers of the great outdoors, thanks to its pristine lakes, historic sites, breathtaking landscapes and traditional food. As if you needed any more convincing, check out these stunning images from St. Petersburg-based photographer Alena Leskova.

Located in the north-west of Russia, Karelia is famous for its unspoilt nature and wooden architecture.

While 50% of Karelia is forest, the republic is also home to 27,000 rivers and 61,000 lakes, with Ladoga and Onega lakes being the largest.

Petrozavodsk, the capital of Karelia, and its picturesque suburbs are also worth exploring, if only to visit Russia’s first spa, founded by Peter the Great – Marcial Waters.

Part of Ruskeala mountain park, Ruskeala marble quarries were commissioned by Catherine the Great in the 18th century to supply marble for various construction projects in St.Petersburg, including Saint Michael’s Castle, the Marble Palace, the Hermitage and St. Isaac’s Cathedral. In the 19th century the quarry was abandoned and flooded to become one of Russia’s most visually arresting tourist attractions.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.