The endless Baikal is without a doubt the deepest and greatest reservoir of fresh water on our planet, stretching for 600 km on the surface of the globe, which once served as the picturesque cradle of ancient tribes. The lake is fraught with a lot of mysterious and interesting places, characterized by amazing nature and mysterious atmosphere.
Arriving at Baikal, first of all visit the island of Olkhon with rugged banks and a whole mix of unique landscapes. Here, nature itself has created favorable conditions for ecotourism, water, bicycle, horse and hiking tours. For this purpose, thousands of vacationers come here annually.
A place covered in legends
Olkhon Island on Baikal, a photo of which can be seen in the article, is the pearl of the mainland. In addition, it is the largest island with a length of 73 km and a width of 15 km. From its mountain capes, a panorama of the whole Baikal and its natural heritage opens. According to local residents, this area is inhabited by mystical creatures. Legends and myths have long been formed about Olkhon.
It was in its vicinity that the ancient shaman was awarded the gift of communication with otherworldly forces. On the island there is a dragon made of stone, which is worshiped by the Buryats. They consider him a sacred deity - the master of Olkhon. It is believed that this inanimate structure brings good luck and protects against accidents on the road. To appease the spirit, tourists place an offering near its “feet” and pour alcohol on the ground around it.
Climatic and environmental conditions
Olkhon Island on Lake Baikal adjoins the territory of the Baikal Reserve. Its climate is significantly different from the rest of the mainland.
In winter, the area has little snow and no severe frosts. There are a lot of sunny days on this continent, the hottest months are July and August. Little precipitation falls on Olkhon, the reason for this is the presence of the Primorsky ridge, which protects the island from the penetration of air masses. However, despite such a powerful natural barrier, sometimes heavy rains occur here and strong winds are observed.
As for the flora, it leaves indelible memories and emotions. Pristine nature concentrated in one place steppe landscapes, marble archipelagos and warm bays. The area is covered with mixed forests with relict islands, as well as dense red lichen, dunes and sandy hilly areas.
Olkhon Island on Lake Baikal is quite large-scale, it housed the large lakes Nuku-Nur, Shara-Nur (salt lake), Nurskoye and Hankoy. Missing in the vicinity of the river, sometimes in the thickets of the forest you can find small streams after rain, which quickly dry out.
Sacred and outstanding objects
The island of Olkhon on Lake Baikal is famous for its numerous historical archaeological structures, of which there are about 140 pieces. This legacy of the Baikal region includes ancient settlements, ruins and burial grounds. In the northern part is the Kobylia Golova Peninsula with picturesque bays and rocky capes. Otherwise, it is called Khorin-Irgi. According to reliable sources, life originated on this plot of land 5 thousand years ago.
On the northern coast of this peninsula there is the famous Halte cape, from the height of which you can personally see the Small Sea, the Olkhon Gate and the entire Seaside Range. During the excavations, archaeologists found a cult complex of the 17-18 centuries on the cape. Another popular attraction is Cape Horgoy with a protective wall built by the Kurykans. Nearby is an earthen rampart. Evidence of signs of vital activity was found here iron knives and arrowheads of 6–9 centuries.
In the north of Olkhon is located the Hankhoi Lake, where different fish live. On the western part of this lake, scientists discovered a dilapidated ritual center built in the 7-10th centuries BC. On its territory there are about 20 ancient stone buildings. The Shaman Rock is especially popular. It houses a cave, previously used for sacrifices. Later, an altar of Buddha was built here, which even local residents began to worship.
Travel and vacation on Baikal
The island of Olkhon has been considered a mecca for several decades. Attractive area for secluded, extreme and beach holidays. The peak of the influx of tourists falls on July-August, here come fans of ethnography, yoga, fishermen and connoisseurs of active pastime. The area is famous for the healing mud and mineral waters of the yellow lake (Shara-Nur).
People stop in private houses, tents and hotel complexes. Sufficiently developed tourist infrastructure is famous for the island of Olkhon on Lake Baikal. The hostels are always full of guests, especially in the summer. The entire territory of this island is officially recognized as safe and protected, there are no dangerous ticks and animals. We offer you to get acquainted with several complexes.
Chalet "Lada"
A comfortable hotel is a wooden cottage in the middle of the forest. In the cold season, rooms are heated. The rooms have cozy fireplaces that give the atmosphere a romantic look. The hotel has a real Russian bathhouse and a sports equipment rental center on its territory. There is a tour desk and cafe.
Three meals a day are provided for guests. You will definitely try exquisite dishes of Siberian cuisine, you will be able to appreciate the unique treats of whitefish and omul, as well as taste assorted vegetables. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Complex "Marina Olkhon"
An ancient hotel on the coast of the beautiful Zagli Gulf - a secluded place for lovers of peaceful relaxation. In this corner of paradise you really feel all the charm of natural charm. And the purest air, sun rays and silence act better than any medicine on our body. The housing stock is presented in the form of small seasonal houses with partial amenities. On the basis of a wide selection of entertainment from fishing to educational tours.
Those who wish to plunge into the world of peace and pristine natural beauty can visit the island of Olkhon on Lake Baikal at any time. Reviews of tourists coming to these parts are, in some cases, enthusiastic. The majestic, harsh and somewhere magical area hospitably and friendly welcomes guests. Vacationers were satisfied with comfortable hotels, comfortable conditions, an atmosphere permeated by ancient legends and secrets.