Cheap Flights To Mineralnye Vody

Located in the Russian Caucasus (the mountain range in between Russia and Iran), Mineralnye Vody is a jumping off point to explore one of the world's least known regions of outstanding natural beauty. Easily accessible these days by affordable flights, the town has plenty to offer itself. Meaning "Mineral Waters", it became a leading spa destination for 19th-century Russians, and you can get a sense for its heydey at buildings like the Cathedral of the Holy Virgin. There are also some engaging museums, such as the Aviation Technology Museum and the Pushkin Gallery in nearby Zheleznovodsk. However, it's never been a place for pure sightseeing -- no, this is a destination for people who seek natural beauty and pure relaxation. Enjoy spa treatments like a 19th-century aristocrat, take riding classes and head out on the trails or venture into the soaring Caucasus Mountain range, where peaks like Mount Beshtau are paradise for climbing fans. Unspoiled, often untouristy but always welcoming, this part of Russia is a wonderful place to visit.

Things To Do

Mineralnye Vody is not a classic city break destination. You won't find famous buildings or pumping nightlife here. Instead, it's a place to unwind and be at one with nature, and there's no shortage of things to do.

• The ultimate in relaxation

The whole Stavropol Krai region around the city was developed as a spa destination, with cities like Pyatigorsk and Zheleznovodsk attracting literary legends to take to the waters. You can follow in Lermontov and Pushkin's footsteps by enjoying spa escapes at local centres.

• Descend into magical bathing caves

To really enjoy the Caucasus spa experience, you'll need to visit the Proval lake. Located inside a mountain near Pyatigorsk, the waters remain at a reliable 26-42 degrees centigrade. The lake is a major attraction, but the opulent mansions nearby are also an amazing sight.

• Take a trip to Kislovodsk

Just south of Mineralnye Vody, you'll find Kislovodsk: one of the region's major attractions. Stroll through the beautiful Kurortny Park, try a cup of mineral water at the Narzan spa and see works by Nikolai Yaroshenko, who painted here for decades.

Calendar Of Events

Mineralnye Vody and Stavropol Krai may not have an international profile as a cultural destination, but don't be fooled: there are some exciting events to attend all the same. Here are some of the region's annual highlights that you may want to explore:

• The Russian Highline Festival: Hosted by Kislovodsk every May, this unique festival focuses on daredevils who make their living walking the tightrope (in this case 100 metres over the Tobot waterfall).

• IntoTheBus: This idiosyncratically named festival in Kislovodsk takes place at a gorge near the city every August and brings together more than 50 Russian and international music artists in an enchanting setting.

• The International Balloon Festival: A major hot air ballooning event, this September festival sees the skies over Stavropol fill up with colourful craft, creating a magnificent spectacle.