Who discovered the Kola Peninsula. The Kola Peninsula: history, description and interesting facts. Khibiny and Kirovsk

Kola Peninsula(mouth. Murman, Cola, Ter listen)) is a peninsula in the northwest of the European part of Russia, in the Murmansk region. It is washed by the Barents and White seas.

In the western part there are the Khibiny mountain ranges (up to 1200 m high) and Lovozero tundras (up to 1120 m high). In the north - tundra vegetation, to the south - forest tundra and taiga.

Borders

The Kola Peninsula occupies a little less than 70% of the area of ​​the Murmansk region. The western border of the Kola Peninsula is defined by the meridional depression, which runs from the Kola Bay along the Kola River, Imandra Lake, Niva River to Kandalaksha Bay.

Story

Physical and geographical characteristics

Geographical position

The Kola Peninsula is located in the far north of Russia. Almost the entire territory is located beyond the Arctic Circle.

In the north it is washed by the waters of the Barents Sea, in the south and east by the waters of the White Sea. The western boundary of the Kola Peninsula is the meridional depression, which runs from the Kola Bay along the valley of the Kola River, Lake Imandra and the Niva River to Kandalaksha Bay. The area is about 100 thousand km².

Climate

The climate of the peninsula is varied. In the northwest, warmed by the warm North Atlantic Current, it is subarctic marine. Towards the center, east and southwest of the peninsula, continentality increases - the climate here is moderately cold. Average January-February temperatures range from minus 8 °C in the northwest of the peninsula to minus 14 °C in the center; July, respectively, from 8 °C to 14 °C. Snow falls in October and completely disappears only by mid-late May (in mountainous areas in early-mid June). Frosts and snowfall are possible in summer. Strong winds (up to 45-55 m/s) are frequent on the coast, and lingering blizzards in winter.

Hydrology

Many rivers flow through the Kola Peninsula: Ponoi (the longest river on the peninsula), Varzuga, Kola, Yokanga, Teriberka, Voronya, Umba, etc.

There are a large number of lakes, the largest are Imandra, Umbozero, Lovozero.

Geological structure

In the western part of the Kola Peninsula, which has a dissected relief, the territory reaches its highest heights. There are separate mountain ranges with flat tops, separated by depressions: Khibiny and Lovozero tundra. Their heights reach 900-1000 m. Only a few peaks of the Khibiny (Chasnachorr - 1191 m), Lovozero tundra exceed 1000 m. The eastern half of the Kola Peninsula is characterized by a calmer undulating relief with prevailing heights of 150-250 m. Among the undulating plain rises the Keiva ridge (397 m), consisting of separate chains stretched from northwest to southeast along the central part of the peninsula.

The Kola Peninsula occupies the eastern part of the Baltic crystalline shield, in the geological structure of which thick strata of the Archean and Proterozoic take part. The Archaean is represented by highly metamorphosed and intensely dislocated gneisses and granites, in places cut through by pegmatite bodies. Proterozoic deposits are more diverse in composition - quartzites, crystalline schists, sandstones, marbles, partly gneisses interbedded with greenstone rocks.

Minerals

In terms of the variety of mineral species, the Kola Peninsula has no analogues in the world. About 1000 minerals have been discovered on its territory - almost 1/3 of all known on Earth. About 150 minerals are found nowhere else. Deposits of apatite-nepheline ores (Khibiny), iron, nickel, platinum metals, rare earth metals, lithium, titanium, beryllium, building and jewelry and ornamental stones (amazonite, amethyst, chrysolite, garnet, jasper, iolite, etc.), ceramic pegmatites , mica (muscovite, phlogopite and vermiculite - the world's largest reserves).

Relief and nature

Flora and fauna

Infrastructure

The cities of Murmansk, Apatity, Severomorsk, Kirovsk, Ostrovnoy, Kola and Kandalaksha and the urban-type settlements of Safonovo, Kildinstroy, Revda and Umba are located on the peninsula.

The Russian Northern Fleet's bases of Severomorsk and Gremikha are located on the peninsula. Severomorsk is the headquarters of the Northern Fleet.

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An excerpt characterizing the Kola Peninsula

Seas.

In the western part there are the Khibiny mountain ranges (up to 1200 m high) and Lovozero tundras (up to 1120 m high). In the north - tundra vegetation, to the south - forest tundra and taiga.

Borders

Story

Physical and geographical characteristics

Geographical position

The Kola Peninsula is located in the far north of Russia. Almost the entire territory is located beyond the Arctic Circle.

In the north it is washed by the waters of the Barents Sea, in the south and east by the waters of the White Sea. The western boundary of the Kola Peninsula is the meridional depression, which runs from the Kola Bay along the valley of the Kola River, Lake Imandra and the Niva River to Kandalaksha Bay. The area is about 100 thousand km².

Climate

The climate of the peninsula is varied. In the northwest, warmed by the warm North Atlantic Current, it is subarctic marine. Towards the center, east and southwest of the peninsula, continentality increases - the climate here is moderately cold. Average January-February temperatures range from -8 °C in the northwest of the peninsula to -14 °C in the center; July, respectively, from +8 °C to +14 °C. Snow lies on average from mid-late October to mid-May (in mountainous areas from late September-early October to mid-June). Frosts and snowfall are possible in summer. Strong winds (up to 45-60 m/s) are frequent on the coast and mountain plateaus, and lingering snowstorms occur in winter. Due to the high humidity and strong winds, even slight frosts are extremely difficult to endure.

Hydrology

Many rivers flow through the Kola Peninsula: Ponoi (the longest river on the peninsula), Varzuga, Kola, Yokanga, Teriberka, Voronya, Umba and others.

There are a large number of lakes, the largest are Imandra, Umbozero, Lovozero.

Geological structure

In the western part of the Kola Peninsula, which has a dissected relief, the territory reaches its highest heights. There are separate mountain ranges with flat tops, separated by depressions: Khibiny and Lovozero tundra. Their heights reach 900-1000 m. Only a few peaks of the Khibiny (Chasnachorr - 1191 m), Lovozero tundra exceed 1000 m. The eastern half of the Kola Peninsula is characterized by a calmer undulating relief with prevailing heights of 150-250 m. Among the undulating plain rises the Keiva ridge (397 m), consisting of separate chains stretched from northwest to southeast along the central part of the peninsula.

The Kola Peninsula occupies the eastern part of the Baltic crystalline shield, in the geological structure of which thick strata of the Archean and Proterozoic take part. The Archaean is represented by highly metamorphosed and intensely dislocated gneisses and granites, in places cut through by pegmatite bodies. Proterozoic deposits are more diverse in composition - quartzites, crystalline schists, sandstones, marbles, partly gneisses interbedded with greenstone rocks.

Our free guide to the Kola Peninsula is part of a large guide to Russia. In it you will find information about the natural attractions of the Kola, lakes and rivers, unique northern reserves.

Rest on the Kola Peninsula is:

• rafting on northern rivers and lakes;
• ascent to the passes of the Khibiny mountains;
• visiting ancient settlements Far North;
• rest at recreation centers;
• skiing;
• fishing and hunting.

With the help of our guide to the Kola Peninsula, you can easily plan an independent trip, book a hotel or recreation center, select a full-fledged tour or a separate excursion.

Budget (2015)

Tickets

Traveling around the Kola Peninsula, most tourists start from Murmansk, Apatit or Kirovsk. It is in these cities that airports and large railway stations are located, which have direct communication with the center and north-west of Russia.

The prices for economy class air tickets for the main destinations are as follows (per person in both directions):

• Moscow - Murmansk: from 7000 rubles;
• St. Petersburg - Murmansk: from 10,600 rubles;
• Moscow - Apatity (Kirovsk): from 9000 rubles;
• St. Petersburg - Apatity (Kirovsk): from 8000 rubles.

Railway tickets for the same destinations are not much cheaper, especially given the much longer travel time (more than 1 day):

• Moscow - Murmansk: from 6300 rubles (reserved seat) and 12600 rubles (compartment);
• Moscow - Apatity: from 5300 rubles (reserved seat) and 7000 rubles (compartment);
• St. Petersburg - Murmansk: from 5,000 rubles (reserved seat) and 7,200 rubles (compartment);
• St. Petersburg - Apatity: from 4500 rubles (reserved seat) and 6600 rubles (compartment)

based on one person in both directions.

Intercity bus service is well established on the Kola Peninsula. So, from Murmansk you can get to the most popular cities and towns. Prices for a one-way ticket per person: to Apatit or Kirovsk - from 555 rubles, to Kandalaksha - from 630 rubles, to Monchegorsk - from 345 rubles, to Olenegorsk - from 261 rubles, to Severomorsk - from 160 rubles, to Umba - from 710 rubles, to Titovka - from 280 rubles, to Teriberka - from 331 rubles and Cola - 343 rubles

Accommodation

There are not so many hotels on the Kola Peninsula, although in last years tourism infrastructure is developing noticeably. In Murmansk, a standard double room in a 3-star hotel will cost 2200-3500 rubles per day, in Monchegorsk, Kirovsk and Apatity the prices are higher, apparently due to the proximity to popular ski resorts. Here, prices for a room in the same category vary between 2900-5200 rubles per day. A popular type of recreation on the Kola is various camp sites on the rivers Kola, Tuloma, Viva, Lake Imandra, in the Lovozero region. Here, the cost of living starts from 900 rubles per day per person and rises depending on the complex of included services and the comfort of the residential facility.

Nutrition

Restaurant service on the Kola Peninsula in all its diversity is presented only in large cities - Murmansk, Monchegorsk, Kirovsk, Apatity. For example, the restaurants "Tsarskaya Okhota", "Tundra", "Dekante" top the rating of the best restaurants in the Murmansk region. Here you will be offered delicious dishes of the national Sami and Pomeranian cuisine, for example, venison with a variety of berry sauces. Of course, the average check in such establishments will start from 1,500 rubles per person. You can dine inexpensively in a variety of pubs, pizzerias and self-service cafes. Here, a complex lunch will cost 500-700 rubles per person, depending on the institution. If you go on a trip along the Tersky coast, then most of the settlements that you will meet on the way are small villages, half abandoned. There is no point in looking for a cafe there; at best, you will find a grocery store for organizing an independent picnic in nature. Food prices are basically the same as the average for Russia. The only thing is that there is a wide variety of types of sea fish, from which many national dishes are prepared, it is much cheaper, always fresh and tasty. You can buy from locals or go fishing yourself.

Story

The Kola Peninsula, located in the Far North of Russia on the border with Norway in the waters of the White and Barents Seas, was called Murman until the beginning of the 20th century. The ancient sites of the first people discovered by scientists on the territory of the peninsula date back to the Stone Age. As for the indigenous population of the peninsula - the Saami, their ancestors began to inhabit these northern lands later, only in the 2nd millennium BC. They were engaged in reindeer herding, hunting and fishing on the northern coast. Russians began to actively populate the Tersky coast of the Kola Peninsula only in the 9th-11th centuries: in different historical documents and chronicles mention large settlements of Varzuga and Kola. They quickly begin to develop sea routes, organizing a promising trade in fish and furs with European countries in the North and West.

The natural wealth of the Kola land and established trade relations with many European countries attracted the attention of the Russian government. In the middle of the 19th century, active scientific study of the Kola Peninsula began. Numerous expeditions are sent for the purpose of a detailed study of the geography of the area, mapping. In 1916, the Murmansk railway line and the port of Romanov-on-Murman (modern Murmansk) were built. This ensured the connection of the central part of Russia with the Kola Peninsula both by land and by sea.

The peninsula was actively involved in the events of the civil war in Russia. In addition to the confrontation between the White Guards and the Bolshevik forces, intervention from England and America began in 1918, in connection with which a large-scale partisan movement was organized under the leadership of the Bolsheviks. As a result, foreign troops were forced to leave the peninsula, the White Guards were also defeated, and Soviet power was established throughout the territory.
Since that time, the active industrial development of the region began. Forestry and fisheries were restored. Huge deposits of various minerals, including the richest reserves of apatite, have been discovered in the depths of the Khibiny. The development of these deposits contributed to the development of several industrial sectors at once - the production of fertilizers (in Kirovsk), non-ferrous metallurgy (in Monchegorsk).

During the Great Patriotic War, the line of the northern front passed along the Kola Peninsula. Fierce battles were fought on land and in coastal waters. Ground forces, aviation and the Northern Fleet suffered huge human losses, holding back the active onslaught of the enemy, preventing him from reaching the strategically important Murmansk. Through courage and heroism Soviet soldiers, The port of Murmansk worked without interruption, and the enterprises of the region supplied products for the needs of the front without stopping. The complete liberation of the Kola Peninsula took place in October 1944, and in honor of the heroism of the Soviet people in the north, a special medal "For the Defense of the Arctic" was established.

In the postwar years, the active industrial development of the Murmansk region continued, and today it is one of the most powerful industrial regions of Russia. In the Khibiny, more than 9 million tons of apatite are mined per year, logging and fishing are actively carried out on the shores of the Barents and White Seas, non-ferrous metallurgy is successfully developing in Kovdor and Monchegorsk, and a whole network of hydroelectric power plants and nuclear power plants is operating to meet the large demand of the peninsula for electricity. The Kola Peninsula today is still of great military and strategic importance. The Northern Fleet is based here with headquarters in Severomorsk, and there are large ports that provide direct access to the open ocean throughout the year. Recently, ecological tourism and skiing have been actively developing. More and more residents of our country and foreigners are striving to explore the amazing nature of the Far North of Russia.

Business card

The hallmark of the Kola Peninsula is undoubtedly the amazing nature of the Russian North, harsh, but no less beautiful. On the one hand, there are endless tundras, lonely peninsulas with half-forgotten villages and a cold ocean beating into sheer coastal cliffs. And on the other hand, these are green river valleys immersed in dense forests, picturesque mountain passes and gorges hidden in the heart of the Khibiny, fabulous northern lights in winter and long white nights in summer.

A trip to Kola really builds character. If you are not afraid of cold and wind, many hours of off-road driving with a constant risk of getting stuck away from civilization when you next try to overcome the ford and you like campfire romance on the coast of the White or Barents Sea, then we can say with confidence that you will be able to see the real Far North Russia.

Go to the Tersky coast - the surrounding landscapes are inspiring there, and under your feet - placers of amethyst brushes, shining in a variety of shades. And someone will certainly want to visit the most northern point of Russia - the German Cape or wander in silence through the ruins of military fortifications and trenches from the Second World War on the Sredny and Rybachy peninsulas, marveling at the courage and stamina of people who defended their homeland in such harsh conditions. It will be interesting to visit the Sami reindeer herders at Seydoozero or Lovozero, ride reindeer sleds and feel the traditions of this ancient people.

People from different parts of our country go to Kola also for the sake of fishing and hunting. The most popular places: lakes Imandra, Big and Small Vudyavr, Umboozero, as well as the Kola, Tuloma, Varzuga, Teriberka, Umba rivers are rich in valuable salmon species, among which there are truly record specimens. And hunting for fur-bearing animals has been practiced on Kola since the first Russian settlements appeared on the peninsula.

And yet, for most tourists who have visited the Kola Peninsula, the Khibiny leaves the most vivid impressions. This is the oldest mountain range, in the depths of which there are huge deposits of iron ores, semi-precious stones and a wide variety of minerals, many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth. On the slopes of the Khibiny Mountains there are popular ski resorts that can please experienced riders with extreme slopes and wide snowy couloirs for off-piste skiing. Ecological trekking is also actively developing here - fascinating mountain hikes with overcoming passes of various categories of difficulty.

Those who go to the Kola Peninsula can hardly be called tourists. These are real travelers who are accustomed to weather surprises and difficulties on the road, those who value natural beauty above hotel service and familiar tourist entertainment.

Make it a must

Explore the Khibiny

This natural attraction is number one among many tourists planning a trip to the Kola Peninsula. The Khibiny mountains have always been full of mysteries. Previously unknown minerals are still being found here - of course, because this is the oldest mountain range, the geological age of which is more than 350 million years. The unique natural wealth attracts researchers from all over the world, the largest mines for the extraction of a wide variety of minerals operate here. Khibiny attracts no less interest among lovers of outdoor activities and ecotourism. On the slopes of the Khibiny Mountains there are the best ski centers in the North, climbing routes of various complexity, hiking to mountain lakes and rivers are organized.

Relax on Lake Imandra

Lake Imandra is called the pearl of the Kola Peninsula. Its shores are very picturesque and diverse - these are steep cliffs, and gentle sandbanks strewn with huge boulders, and in some places you can even find comfortable pebble beaches. This place is very popular among tourists. Here you can just relax by renting a house at the base, go fishing, go boating or go hiking in the surrounding forests for berries and mushrooms. And for those who love speed, adrenaline and adventure, there are many developed routes for rafting on rapids that flow into the lake, as well as opportunities for various types of kitesurfing at any time of the year.

Catch your "record" salmon

Even if you are not an avid fisherman, fishing on the Kola is a real thrill. More than 18,000 rivers flow on the peninsula, all of them are different in nature and the surrounding landscape, but they have one thing in common - the wealth of valuable species of fish that come to spawn from the Barents Sea. "Salmon" are mountain-type rivers with a rapid current and shallow, but long rapids. By the way, in order to overcome such a threshold, the salmon must have a strong tail fin, which helps it to jump up to 3 meters high! Not all representatives of the salmon family are capable of this, so only the best specimens rise into the rivers. The rivers Kola, Yokanga, Tipanovka, Kharlovka, Rynda are considered places for first-class fishing. It is absolutely possible to catch a truly huge fish here: reports are full of photos of the lucky ones holding 1.5 meters long salmon in their hands, the weight of which can reach up to 45 kilograms! So feel free to go for your personal record.

Look for amethysts on the Tersky coast

There is a particularly picturesque place on the Kola Peninsula - this is the Tersky coast - the southeastern coast of the White Sea. It was here that the first Russian settlements began to appear, which later became major centers of maritime trade and fishing - Umba, Varzuga, Kuzomen, Kashkarantsy. Nowadays, unfortunately, they look rather depressing, almost nothing reminds of their former prosperity. But the surrounding nature has retained its charm. There is a wonderful place here - Cape Korabl, famous for its colorful amethyst shores. Of course, now you will not find large amethysts worthy of the rings of royal people here. But everywhere there are plenty of natural souvenirs in the form of rock fragments with small crystals of various shades - pale pink, lilac, bright purple, blue or even black. Here you need to walk slowly, completely forgetting about the daily routine, just admiring the magical glow of the coast in the rays of the northern sun.

Wander the Kuzomensky Sands

How do you like the idea to visit the desert in the middle of the northern tundra? It sounds unrealistic, but when traveling around Kola, what you will not see! It is worth coming to the village of Kuzomen to be convinced of this. Getting here is not the easiest thing, but the local scenery is really some kind of fantastic. Instead of the usual rocky shores, there are endless red sands, every year getting closer and closer to the village itself. There is almost no vegetation, except that in some places there are bizarre trees standing on bare roots - it is the wind that blows the soil out from under them, turning them into fabulous characters from a dense forest. And don't be surprised if you meet here free-roaming Yakut horses. They were once brought to the village for collective farm work, but they preferred a free life, and now they roam here on their own.

Visit reindeer herders

The Saami are an indigenous people who have inhabited the Kola Peninsula since the second millennium BC. Since time immemorial, they have been engaged in reindeer herding, preserving the ancient traditions of handling these noble northern animals to this day. Today, tourists have the opportunity to visit the Saami reindeer herders by going on their own to the Lovozero tundra or by ordering an organized snowmobile tour. In any case, it will be an exciting adventure: you can watch or even take part in reindeer sleigh competitions, taste the best dishes of the national Sami cuisine. This is a very hospitable people, so if you want to stay for a few days, you will be offered to spend the night on warm reindeer skins in a chum - a traditional Sami dwelling.

Why and when to go

Walks in the cities of the Far North

When: Anytime during the year.

One way or another, you will begin your journey around the Kola Peninsula by arriving in one of the major cities. Most likely, it will be Murmansk, Kirovsk, Apatity or Severomorsk. These cities initially developed as large industrial centers or important strategic ports with year-round access to the open ocean. Therefore, you should not count on outstanding architecture or a rich excursion program here. However, it is definitely worth taking a walk and feeling the specifics of the harsh northern cities, and at the same time taking a run through the most popular attractions.

The hallmark of Murmansk, the main port city in the Arctic, is the famous Lenin icebreaker and the northernmost oceanarium in Russia. By visiting the first one, you will be able to look at the legendary nuclear reactor, which provided the vessel with a unique speed in the arctic ice. And in the aquarium you will find a wonderful performance with the participation of talented gray seals, ringed seals and the only trained sea hare in Russia. They perform clever tricks and even play musical instruments.

Severomorsk is still an important basing center for Russia's Northern Fleet. A huge K-21 submarine flaunts on the pier near the main square of the city, which gained world fame thanks to a series of successful military operations at sea during the Great Patriotic War. It was a real "ocean storm" that sank 17 enemy ships. Now the submarine has a permanent museum exhibition, and tours of the combat compartments are conducted.

Kirovsk and Apatity are located at the foot of the picturesque Khibiny mountains. Lifts lead directly from the city to the famous ski slopes of Aikuaayvenchorr and Kukisvumchorr. And nearby is the Polar Botanical Garden. N. Avrorina is one of the largest in Europe. Here you can look at the collections of plants from all over the world in huge greenhouses, as well as take a walk along the ecological path to the slopes of the Khibiny peaks to get acquainted with the northern flora in natural conditions. Fans of mineralogy should also visit the Geological Museum in Kirovsk, which contains unique samples of rare minerals and precious stones mined in the bowels of the Khibiny. If you come to Kirovsk in winter, be sure to visit the Snow Village. This is a whole city built of ice and snow. Interesting thematic events are held here, you can play hide and seek in the snow labyrinth and even hold a wedding ceremony in the solemn ice hall.

Visiting nature reserves

When: Year-round, the best time to visit is during the summer months.

You can get up close and personal with the interesting flora and fauna of the Far North of Russia by visiting one of the three nature reserves of the Kola Peninsula with an excursion. The oldest biosphere reserve in Russia, the Lapland Reserve, was created to protect the reindeer population. Today it is a unique corner of nature, uniting picturesque mountain landscapes, river and lake valleys and dense centuries-old coniferous forests. In addition to ecological routes to get acquainted with the flora and fauna of the reserve, tourists really like the excursion to "Fabulous Lapland" to visit Santa Claus.

The Kandalaksha Nature Reserve is one of the first and largest marine reserves in Russia, spread over more than 550 islands in the Barents and White Seas. Here is a real bird kingdom: during a tour of the archipelagos, you can see thousands of colonies of gulls, guillemots, cormorants and a wide variety of "flying". However, the most important inhabitant of the reserve is the common eider. This is a species of sea duck, whose down is considered very valuable. It was for the purpose of protecting eiders from mass destruction for commercial purposes that the Kandalaksha Reserve was created in the 30s of the 20th century. Excursions on a boat in the protected waters of the White Sea are popular: in addition to the "bird markets", you can see seals, sea hares, seals, and if you are especially lucky, then a flock of dolphins or beluga whales.

Pasvik is a nature reserve of international format, located on the border of Russia with Norway. This is a special place on the Kola Peninsula, where the forest-tundra meets the northern taiga, which determines the richness of flora and fauna. Here grow magnificent northern forests with centuries-old pines and many beautiful glacial lakes. Most Popular tourist routes- visit to the island of Varlam with the museum of the Norwegian explorer Hans Skonning and the border village of Rajakoski.

mountain trekking

When: The best time for climbing is from early June to mid-September.

The Khibiny are far from the highest mountains in Russia: the main peak of Yudychvumchorr has a mark of just over 1200 meters. However, this is a very picturesque and ancient mountain range, in the depths of which beautiful gorges and pristine lakes are hidden. Most of the Khibiny mountain passes have a difficulty category of 1A and 2A or are not categorized at all, so special equipment for climbing is usually not required, with the exception of passing through some gorges in winter time. However, the hikers must be in good physical shape and ready for sudden changes in weather conditions, which is a common thing in the conditions of the northern climate, regardless of the time of year. For beginner climbers, many routes have been developed through the low passes of Ramsay, Geographers, Kukisvumchorr, Postman. More experienced athletes choose the Krestovy, Eagle's Nest, Shchel, Chorrgor North passes for climbing - their conquest requires more serious mountaineering experience and endurance. Also popular are routes to the Lovozero tundra (the highest point is Mount Angvundaschorr, 1127 meters high) with a visit to Seydoozero, sacred to the Sami people.

The most beautiful period for trekking on the Kola Peninsula is from late May to mid-July. At this time, the sun does not set below the horizon, and you can enjoy the amazing northern "white nights". They add a special romance to the already beautiful mountain landscapes.

Adventures

When: Anytime of the year, depending on your interests.

In itself, a trip to the Kola Peninsula is already a real adventure, a test of strength in harsh weather and off-road on the way to the most beautiful places in this amazing northern region.

Many rivers flow here, different both in landscape (plain, mountainous), and in speed of flow and the presence of rapids. This creates excellent opportunities for organizing a variety of water adventures: sports rafting, family rafting, recreational kayaking, kitesurfing. If you crave speed and have sufficient experience to overcome rapids of different difficulty categories, choose routes along the rivers Umba, Krasnenkaya, Kutsayoki, Tumcha. For calmer rafting, the Kola, Tuloma, Kolvitsa, Varzuga rivers, as well as the tributaries of Lake Imandra, are suitable. The best time for such trips is from late July to early September. Weather conditions are more or less stable, and there are many berries and mushrooms in the surrounding forests.

Traveling along the Tersky coast and to the Sredny and Rybachy peninsulas will appeal to lovers of jeeping and extreme off-road driving. Some coastal villages are like ghosts: many houses stand without windows, local residents there are very few left, and there are even fewer tourists. This has its own advantage: you can enjoy the endless northern expanses, colorful rocky shores and bewitching landscapes of the harsh ocean. There is also the possibility of diving. For example, in the village of Dalnie Zelentsy on the shores of the Barents Sea, there is a diving school. True, getting here again is quite difficult without a reliable SUV. Alternatively, you can contact the instructors of the school in advance and arrange a transfer.

Popular options for winter adventures on the Kola Peninsula are various ski trips on frozen lakes and river valleys, as well as sports routes for experienced skiers in the mountains - to the gorges and passes of the Khibiny. March is considered the best time for ski tours on Kola.

You can also go on snowmobiles to Lovozero - get acquainted with the traditions of the indigenous people - the Sami and ride reindeer sleds. And if you are attracted by places shrouded in ancient mysticism and legends, go hiking to Seydozero. According to one of the legends, on the site of this lake there was once a highly developed ancient civilization Hyperborea, destroyed as a result of some natural disaster like Atlantis. Fragments of ancient buildings were even found at the bottom of the lake, and on land - traces of the existence of an old observatory, which has characteristic similarities with Stonehenge. The Saami consider the lake sacred, believing that it is guarded by the giant Kuyva, a legendary character in Saami myths. On one of the rocks surrounding the lake from all sides, its image is carved. For the Sami, this place inspires both fear and awe. Along the banks of the Seydozero there are many so-called "places of power" - ritual structures made of stones that have a special energy.

Fishing and hunting

When: throughout the year, depending on the place and purpose of fishing and hunting.

The Kola Peninsula is known throughout our country for its famous "salmon" rivers and extensive opportunities for salmon fishing, both independently and as part of specially designed tours. The Tersky coast of the White Sea is considered the most popular place: it is from here that whole shoals of fresh and strong fish rise into the numerous lakes and rivers of the peninsula. The fishing season opens at the end of May and continues until September. However, the best time for salmon fishing is the period from the last week of May to the 20th of June. At this time, on the rivers Kola, Varzuga, Pana, Yokanga, Indel, Tipanovka, there are really huge specimens, weighing from 10 to 50 kg! However, experienced fishermen claim that salmon fishing requires special skill and knowledge. This is a very strong, smart and resourceful fish that is able to jump out of the water to a great height and always fights to the last - the more excitement the angler experiences from this fight. In addition to salmon, the coast of the Barents and White Seas, as well as reservoirs in the depths of the peninsula, are rich in cod, trout, grayling, pike, perch, burbot, pink salmon, whitefish and other fish species. So without a valuable trophy, you definitely won’t leave.

As for hunting, the spring season falls on the month of May, and the autumn-winter season opens from the second half of September and lasts until the end of February. It is allowed to hunt upland and waterfowl - partridges, ducks, geese, black grouse and capercaillie, fur-bearing animals, hare, it is forbidden - lynx and otter. However, for some animals the number of licenses is limited. For example, during the season only 40 licenses are issued for bear hunting, about 50 for elk, and there are also restrictions on shooting wolves and wolverines. It should be noted that for the lack of a license or violation of the rules of hunting, a fine of up to 4,000 rubles is levied.

Useful

How to get there

The Kola Peninsula is connected with the central and northwestern parts of Russia by air, as well as by a network of roads and railways. Airports are located in the cities of Murmansk and Apatity, they receive regular flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. From the same cities, as well as from Minsk and Vologda, there are direct trains to Murmansk. A railway connection with Volgograd, Anapa and Adler is added to the summer schedule.

Suburban electric trains connect the main cities and settlements within the region: major railway stations are located in Apatity, Kirovsk, Olenegorsk, Kandalaksha and Kolya. To cities and towns located far from the Murmansk railway can be reached by bus or private car. The main federal highway M18 "St. Petersburg - Murmansk" crosses the Kola Peninsula from south to north. Regular flights depart from Murmansk bus station to Kandalaksha, Umba, Varzuga, Teriberka, Kola and Titovka. From Olenegorsk by bus you can get to Monchegorsk, Revda and Lovozero. There is also an international bus service with Norway (bus Murmansk - Kirkenes) and Finland (flights Murmansk - Ivalo and Kandalaksha - Kemijärvi).

The state borders of Russia with Norway and Finland pass along the Kola Peninsula, therefore there are three international automobile checkpoints: "Borisoglebsk" - in the village of the same name in the Pechenga region towards Norway; "Lotta" - near the village of Svetly in the Kola region and "Salla" - near the village of Alakurtti in the Kandalaksha region towards Finland.

Time

Time on the Kola Peninsula coincides with Moscow.

Climate

The climate of the Kola Peninsula is very diverse, weather conditions can change dramatically at any time of the year. For example, thaws are not uncommon in winter, and unexpected frosts can occur in the summer months. Various climatic conditions are typical for the sea coast of the Kola Peninsula, its central part and mountainous areas. The northern coast is influenced by the Barents Sea with its warm currents. The coldest month here is February, when the thermometers drop to minus 12ºС, the warmest is July (+12-13ºС). In the central part of the Kola Peninsula, the climate becomes continental, which is characterized by relatively warm weather in summer and persistent cold in winter. When moving inland, a decrease in average annual temperatures is observed. In the mountainous region, it is already colder summers with an average temperature in July of +10ºС and rather mild winters (the minimum temperature in January is -13 ºС), and the most precipitation falls here. In winter, lingering blizzards are frequent, and in the summer-autumn period - rains, fogs and strong winds (up to 45-55 m/s). Snow falls already in October and completely melts only by the end of May, and in the mountains it does not lie until mid-June.

Another distinctive feature of the Kola Peninsula is the long polar days and nights. In summer, the sun does not set below the horizon for almost a month and a half, and in winter you can watch the beautiful northern lights.

Well... The photo tour around the Kola Peninsula, which our team, after a series of strange events, began to jokingly call "fotosurr", ended successfully. All participants returned home safe and sound and are already posting their first impressions on the Internet ( once and two). We are with Vasily in_windows got to their native land later than everyone else, because. "bonus" we had a long and boring haul to Voronezh. Nevertheless, any road ends someday, cars dry out after conquering the fords of the Sredny Peninsula and prepare for the next MOT, the first few photos are selected from among the gigabytes of photos and a post-announcement of upcoming reports is born.

So, what do I have to say on the merits of the matter...

02 . I think many people are interested in what is the state of roads and directions on the Kola Peninsula and how my faithful Duster coped with the off-road sections of the route. There will be a big post about this - with a description of all the nuances, victories and defeats. So far, I can only say that in a week I drove more puddles than in the entire previous driving experience, but the high water in the rivers after the rains did not stop us and all the goals were achieved. Before the trip, I planned to buy AT tires, but in the end I went to stock and it showed itself perfectly. Of the additional preparation was made only, in the cabin was installed, and on the roof. I will write about all this in detail in the near future. Well, oh too. Thanks for the photo Vladimir Kolesnikov.

03 . On the way to Kola, we spent the night on the shores of the White Sea in Rabocheostrovsk. Despite the fact that the church is fake (this is the scenery for Lungin's film "The Island"), the place was very impressive, there was good light, both in the evening and at dawn, so it's definitely to be.

04 . Part of the team traveled with us from St. Petersburg, the rest joined already in Murmansk. Having rammed things, we went to the route. The weather deteriorated rapidly. The first photo stop happened already in the rain at the waterfall on the Euring River. A few days later, already on the way back to Murmansk, we spent the night right there. The seething and swift stream of water framed by autumn colors, I think, is also worthy.

05 . The Mustatunturi Ridge, in my opinion, is one of the most picturesque places on the Kola Peninsula. !

06 . . What was our surprise when, having arrived at the point (the "Two Brothers" rocks), we found there a crew from ... Voronezh! 2500 kilometers from home! The guys came to Kola under the impression of Vasily's last year's reports.

07 . After the Sredny peninsula, we moved to Rybachy and here I finally "fell ill" with this harsh northern beauty.

08 . We are two days. The weather improved and something happened, for which many people generally go to the Arctic. When no one was waiting (and many had already collapsed to sleep in tents), the clouds quickly pulled apart and it was already well after midnight. Of course, I couldn’t help but put a photo with him as a header, but I was also inspired by the texture of coal-black stones and rocks, red algae and the endless cycle of the ebb and flow of the Northern Arctic Ocean. Therefore, there will be just a lot of interesting photos from Kekursky.

09 . Famous after the film "Leviathan" the village of Teriberka. I can't say that I was very impressed.

10 . But it's just unrealistically cool. Especially on long exposure))

11 . Then we went to the Lovozero tundra. This is the second highest mountain range on the Kola Peninsula. When we climbed to the top, unexpectedly for ourselves, we saw not only snow, but concrete frost. And the traditional hurricane wind for these places. Together we decided to abandon spending the night in tents and went to the village of Revda in search of something warmer. We found a hotel called "Hotel", which turned out to be almost as cold as it was outside. In general, the hotel category "trash". We slept in sleeping bags on unmade beds, cooked dinner on our own stove near the car, because The electric stove in the kitchen couldn't even boil water.

12 . Volodya said in the morning that this hotel in Revda was the most extreme stage of our journey. And Vasily complained that he still had to spend the night not far from. By the way, did everyone find the figurine in green in the photo? This is