This is a special trip for those who are keen on biking. Apart from good biking in Noth-Weatren Russian nature and some unique landscapes this tour will give you an opportunity to see and touch old wooden churches, chapels and peasants' houses together with the oldest Russian cities and St.Petersburg. Visiting Khizhi will bring you back for several centuries and you will be able to imagine yourselves just a simple Russian peasant living during the rule of Peter the Great and later.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from St. Petersburg to starting point of biking. On the way tour to "Staraya (Old) Ladoga" on the bank of Volkhov river, 12 km away from the Ladoga Lake (about 120 km from St.Petersburg). This is one of the most ancient cities in Russia which was first mentioned in 862 AD. Drive to the first campsite (about 140km from Old Ladoga) on the banks of Savozero lake. (D)
Day 2: For the first day we propose some gentle biking (not more than 30km). See abandoned old wooden church of Mikhail Archangel built in 1703. Night in a camp not far from the village. Our aim is to reach the village Alyokhovschina. Night in a camp not far from the village. The idea to stay at this village is to feel the atmosphere of old village life. (B/L/D).
Day 3: Continue on our way to the village Vinnitsy. 70 km of biking. (B/L/D).
Day 4: A day of rest. The village Vinnitsy is located in a deep river valley in the turning point of the river. The village is mostly inhabited by Veps - a small nationality with Finnish roots. The spirit and the mentality of these people differ from those of Russians. Some of them still speak the local Veps language. The dark bread baked in the local bakery is considered to be the best in the region. We can see a small local Veps culture museum, which was opened quite recently in the village and helps us understand better the local customs and way of life. Banya. Night in a camp. (B/L/D).
Day 5: Continue on our way to Kimozero Lake. See the village Gomorovichi with the former wooden Nickolas chapel, a historical monument of the 18th century. Unfortunately the chapel is not very well preserved now. Total distance is 38km. The road is asphalt. Night in a camp near the village. (B/L/D).
Day 6: Continue on our way to Onega Lake. Passing the village Youksovitchy with ancient St. Georgian church dating back to the early 16th century. The road is asphalt and partly country. The road is still full of good upgrades together with pleasant descents. Our next night we spend not far from Voznesenie, a big village, situated right in the place where the river Svir' (which links Ladoga Lake with Onega Lake) flows into Onega Lake. Total distance is 64km. Night in a camp not far from the lake. (B/L/D).
Day 7: In the morning we cross the river Svir' on a ferry and continue our trip along the shores of Onega Lake. Village Scheleiki with Dmitriev church which was built in 1783. Total distance is 35km. Radial tour to the small village Gimreka where there is an old Christmas church (the second part of the 17th century). Night in a camp on the shore of the lake. (B/L/D).
Day 8: Continue on the way to Petrozavodsk. The last 2km are by a sandy road through the pine forest. Total distance is 35km. The road is mainly ground. Arrive at Sheltozero which is the main town of Vepps region. This is a great chance to feel the atmosphere of hospitality at a Karelian village, as we're visiting the private houses. Visit museum of local lore and history. During the excursion we'll see typical interior of a Vepps house (end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th century), will learn a lot about the vepps nation's history, traditional handicraft, etc. There will be a small folklore concert and traditional tea with pies. In the afternoon - drive to Petrozavodsk. Night in a hotel. (B/L/D).
Day 9: Excursion to Kizhi (4 - 5) hours. Free time. Overnight train to St. Petersburg. (B/L/D).
Day 10: Arrival to Saint-Petersburg. (excursions upon request). (B).
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
The prices are calculated on a group basis for 6 and more participants.
Included: hotels in St. Petersburg and Petrozavodsk; tents/huts for the rest of the trip; all meals; all transfers and ground transportation as per program; train tickets; support vehicle for biking; bikes rent; camping equipment; city tour in St.Petersburg and Kizhi; guide for biking; support staff; visa support.
Not included: visa consulate fee and insurance; personal camping and biking equipment.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Russia
Bicycle Touring
Email it to a friend:
Click here to email this vacation to a friend
|
| Check out these similar vacation offers: |
|
|
