The best ski resorts in the Elbrus region. Ski resort "Elbrus" ("Elbrus") Villages of the resort area

The Elbrus region ski resort is one of the largest winter recreation areas in Russia and beloved by active sports vacationers. Located in the Caucasus, in the depths of the Baksan Valley, it united two entire mountain slopes - Elbrus And Cheget.

How to get to the Elbrus resort

From Moscow and St. Petersburg you can get to Elbrus by plane and train. Let's talk about the methods of movement in more detail.

The ski resort is located on the territory of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic of Russia (the capital is Nalchik). The nearest large cities are Nalchik, Mineralnye Vody, Essentuki, Prokhladny, Pyatigorsk. And the villages that are in close proximity to the Elbrus region and to which, in fact, you need to drive up - Neutrino, Elbrus, Tegenekli, Terskol, Baidaevo. All of them are located along the main road, which leads directly to the recreation area.

By plane you can fly to the two airports closest to the resort - Mineralnye Vody and Nalchik. Moreover, the Mineralnye Vody airport is more convenient (larger choice of carrier airlines), although it is located further from Elbrus than Nalchik airport. So it’s up to you to decide which “air gate” to choose.

You can view the prices of plane tickets on the website aviasales.ru.

You will have to get from the airport to the resort by taxi, bus or minibus. Local public transport runs irregularly and infrequently, so the ideal option is to book a taxi transfer in advance. Travel time from both airports is approximately 2.5-3.5 hours.

If you prefer to move to train, then from Moscow (or St. Petersburg) you can get to Pyatigorsk, Nalchik, Prokhladny, Mineralnye Vody.

You can get from the railway station to the Elbrus ski resort by public transport (bus, minibuses), but they rarely run. It’s best to use a taxi service by ordering a car in advance - you’ll save time and won’t have to freeze. Travel time - 2.5-3 hours.

Ski pass: cost and other details

Resort "Elbrus" (or "Elbrus-Azau")

The resort operates two cable cars. One is an old pendulum, the other is a more modern gondola (the third is under construction). Ski passes for both lifts are sold for one day only.

Please note that when purchasing a ski pass for the gondola ski lift, you will have to pay a deposit of 300 rubles. (it is refunded if you return the ticket on time and without damage).

The following people can use the cable cars for free (by providing the relevant documents confirming the benefits):

• WWII participants;
• disabled people of group I;
• children under 7 years old (under the supervision of elders).

Gondola CD

Pendulum CD

From the Mir station to the Gara-Bashi station you can go up on snowcats, the estimated cost of the trip is 400 rubles.

Resort "Cheget"

“Cheget” has one chairlift. The cost of a ski pass for the whole day is 800 rubles, an excursion ticket is 500 rubles. The benefits apply to the same category of citizens as at the Elbrus-Azau resort.

Ski season at the Elbrus ski resort

The ski season lasts at the Elbrus ski resort from November to May. It is worth noting that certain sections of its slopes are full-fledged snow slopes literally all year round.

Weather and snow availability by month

The climate of the Elbrus region is formed by the highlands and its contrasting topography. On the plains it is continental, however, going up into the mountains, you will almost always find icy cold. True, there are surprisingly many sunny days here. Frost and sun are ideal companions for a ski resort.

Trails (piste map, trail information, length, snow quality)

Beginners who are just trying to experience the delights of alpine skiing, as well as riders with many years of skiing experience behind them, go to Elbrus. The slopes here are mainly wide and gentle “blue” for confident skiers with short “red” sections. Beginners are welcome in the Azau clearing, where a “green” (the flattest) track and a rope tow are prepared for them.

The Elbrus-Azau resort has 7 tracks with a total length of 11 km. Excellent snow cover and, accordingly, the ski season are established here from October to May.

There are several stations on Elbrus: “Old Horizon” (3000 m), “Mir” (3500 m), “Gara-Bashi” (3780 m) and “Priut-11” (4100 m). There are small hotels and “high-mountain shelters” on them - here those skiing and climbing Elbrus can relax, sleep and refresh themselves.

Resort "Cheget"

Slopes for extreme sports, slopes running through a pine forest, silence and unity with nature - all this is about “Cheget”. The total length of its routes is 20 km. There are 15 of them in total with elevation differences from 2100 to 3050 m. Dense snow cover lies here from November to May (sometimes until June).

Descents on "Cheget" are an indescribable pleasure for lovers of adrenaline sensations. It is advisable to ride in a group equipped with the necessary equipment, since avalanches are common on its northern slope. The Cheget hillocks - natural training springboards for maintaining balance - will also add sharpness to the impressions. But for snowboard lovers, it’s better to go straight to the southern slope; the slopes there are wide and quite steep.

The easiest route (indicated in green on the map) is also the highest (3070 m, from the Cheget-3 station on the rope tow). Its length is incredibly small - only 350 m. Below are the black and red slopes - for professional skiers.

Entertainment at the resort

How to entertain yourself and your friends at the Elbrus resort, besides skiing and boarding? Lots of options:

• Go for a walk through the Elbrus region natural national park - a unique area, rich fauna and stunningly beautiful views.
• Go to the village Terskol- a real sports center of the Elbrus region. There is a well-equipped paintball court and all conditions for helibiking (mountain biking). And if paintball has long entered the hearts of passionate team players, then it’s worth saying a few words about helibiking. Skiers are lifted to hard-to-reach places by helicopter, and experienced riders descend on bicycles.
• Ride horses - horseback riding on Karachai horses will not leave true connoisseurs indifferent.
• Visit “natural” excursions, admire the local gorges, see with your own eyes the Blue Lake, waterfalls, hot springs, and the Narzan Valley.
• Visit local shops - stock up on souvenirs and edible treats (for example, local wine and cheeses).
• Have a blast in disco bars and nightclubs - both have dinner and dance. They are located in the glades of Cheget and Azau (for example, “Captain Pete”, “Chegebar”, “Balkaria” “Deep Purple”)
• Going to a bathhouse or sauna is the best relaxing winter holiday! You are welcome at the Winter Tale Hotel, Sky Elbrus, Ozone 7 Summits, Turning Hotels, etc.
• Play billiards - almost all hotels and boarding houses invite fans to friendly matches.

Services at the resort (skating schools, etc.)

At the Elbrus ski resort there are rental points for the necessary equipment for a rider - clothes, skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, poles, backpacks, even tents, crampons, carabiners and goggles. They are located in the glades of Azau and Cheget, as well as at most hotels and inns.

Beginner skiers and those who have already “taken their first steps”, have received their dose of adrenaline and want to improve their professional level, are waited by experienced instructors of the resort. The estimated cost of an hour of individual lessons is 1000 rubles. On the official website of “Elbrus” you will find the telephone numbers of trainers, with whom you should sign up in advance.

Where to stay: list of hotels

The main question of interest to those who want to relax at the Elbrus ski resort is where to stay? On the territory of the complex and in neighboring villages there are a lot of options for every taste and preference - from modest economy-class hostels to hotels with luxury rooms. Read more about accommodation options in our article.

You can find accommodation options yourself on booking.com.

Hotels on the map:

Transport

You can travel around the resort territory and to nearby settlements by public transport (buses, minibuses), cars and snowcats (special snow-compacting machines) - more about this in our article.

Taxi

You can also take a taxi inside the ski resort - cars will comfortably take you to your desired destinations in Elbrus and the surrounding area, and to the airport and railway station.

You can order a taxi or transfer from Mineralnye Vody to your hotel on a large and reliable taxi ordering website KiwiTaxi. Just fill out the application and they will find you a transfer for any number of people at the best price.

Facts you need to know about the resort

• Having decided to spend a vacation at the Elbrus ski resort, you need to take into account its climatic features - you may not have enough oxygen at high altitudes, but you may have an abundance of sunlight. Stocking up on sunscreen is the least you can do.
• Elbrus is the highest mountain not only in the Caucasus and Russia, but also in Europe itself (western peak - 5642 m, eastern peak - 5621 m).
• Toponymists offer various translations of the name “Elbrus”, each is beautiful in its own way: “Towering Mountain”, “Snow Cap”, “Brilliant Peak”.
• Mount Elbrus has two peaks, two peaks - western and eastern. The craters of extinct volcanoes are covered with snow and ice all year round, which is why in some areas of Elbrus the ski season does not stop even in summer.
• If you are choosing between Cheget and Elbrus, we recommend the latter: experienced riders, beginner skiers and snowboarders can ride here.
• Bard Yuri Vizbor liked to stop at the famous round cafe “Ai” (translated from Balkar as “moon”) at the “Cheget-2” station.
• In clear sunny weather with local, simply amazing, air transparency, the viewing range from Elbrus reaches 300 km. So, if you wish, you can see both Nalchik and Pyatigorsk.
• When going to Elbrus, do not forget to set the time four hours ahead (compared to Moscow and St. Petersburg).
• Skiers who have chosen the resort confidently declare that Elbrus is the highest downhill mountain in the world. Check it out too!

Do you want even more interesting facts about the Elbrus ski resort? .

Elbrus resort webcams

Images broadcast on Elbrus region webcams, allowing you to observe its active resort life online, can be found in our article.

Elbrus in summer

Do you know that you can come to a ski resort not only during the “cold season”, but also in the summer? Read about what to do in the Elbrus region at this wonderful time of year in our article.

The resort in numbers (highest and lowest points, elevation difference, longest route)

Resort "Elbrus" (or "Elbrus-Azau")

The longest route of the Elbrus-Azau resort (length - 2.5 km, height difference - 650 m) is "Old Horizon".

Resort "Cheget"

The highest point is the Cheget-3 station (3000 m), the lowest point is the Cheget clearing (2100 m), the elevation difference is 1140 m. The length of the longest route of the Cheget resort is 5 km.

Security at the resort

A resort with a half-century history is a recreation area that many skiers speak warmly of year after year. Its safety and reliability have been confirmed by the competent services of the Russian Federation. The slopes are protected by special mesh fences. The mountain rescue service is on duty at the resort around the clock.

We told you about the dynamically developing Elbrus resort that has become a favorite among many skiers. We hope that our advice will be useful to everyone who decides to test the stories about its natural beauty and uniqueness. Have a great trip and easy descents!

Independent travelers can always check the cost and options for tickets to

Mount Elbrus is the highest point in Europe, and the Elbrus region has always attracted many tourists. But the Elbrus region is especially attractive for skiers. Some mountain slopes are covered with snow all year round, which makes it possible to keep the ski season open. In addition to skiing, tourists will find many interesting entertainments here. The most popular slopes of the Elbrus region are Elbrus (Azau) and Cheget. Both resorts are located near the village of Terskol in Kabardino-Balkaria.

Slopes and stations of Elbrus

Since then, the popularity of Cheget has not decreased not only in the country, but also in the world, although its tracks are still considered one of the most difficult tracks in the world. The routes to Azau are much simpler and more comfortable.

However, the lifts here are still the same - old Soviet ones, in other words, slow, inconvenient and unreliable. If you need comfort and smooth slopes, Cheget is not for you. Snow groomers do not touch these slopes; here you are alone with the natural relief of the Elbrus region.

Cheget is a Mecca for experienced riders. Many people dream of experiencing its untouched virgin lands, rugged slopes, slopes from 20 to 45 degrees.

The highest point of the trails is 3050 meters, with a mountain height of 3700 meters. The lower station is located at an altitude of 2100 m. The total length of the tracks is 20 km. The ski season lasts from November to May.

Cheget trails and cable cars

The Cheget trails are beautiful and dangerous. Only experienced skiers can ski here. If you go away from the ski lifts, you can only ride in a group, with a full set of avalanche equipment. Avalanches often occur here, especially on the northern slopes. The southern slopes are more gentle and even. Often the trails are closed due to high temperatures. The mountain rescue service is constantly on duty.

The famous Cheget hillocks deserve special attention, skiing on them develops ski control and a sense of balance. The mounds are located in the second stage, incl. under the cable car.

There are 11 trails on Cheget, they vary in difficulty. Snow groomers pass through them very rarely. Let's explore the resort's trails and start from the top of Cheget:

Section 3070 meters – Station “Cheget-3” (3000 m)

The easiest green trail starts at the top of Cheget, at an altitude of 3000-3070 meters. Its length is only 300 meters. This is a good place for beginners to ride to hone their skills. You can climb to the top using the “Mop” type. From the top the majestic Elbrus opens in all its glory.

Section “Cheget-3” (3000 m) – “Cheget-2” (2750 m).

More complex red and blue routes begin from the Cheget-3 station. The site is served by a single-chair cable car. Next to the lower station of this section is the famous cafe “Ay”, where Yuri Vzibor liked to stay and the filming of the film “Breakfast with a View of Elbrus” took place. The observation deck near the cafe offers a beautiful view of the double-headed peak of Elbrus, the Donguzorun, Nakra and Kogutai mountains.

Section “Cheget-2” (2750m) – Polyana Cheget (2100m)

This route is also quite steep, but is marked blue. In the Cheget clearing, life is in full swing; there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops. The area is served by single-chair and double-chair cable cars. Let us note once again that these are old and worn-out lifts that break down quite often.

The northern slopes of Cheget are more suitable for lovers of extreme sports. The most famous slope was popularly called “Dollar” for its curves; this is a real test even for an experienced skier. The southern slope is flatter and wider - for lovers of measured driving and snowboarders, but it also has difficult terrain.

Prices for Cheget ski lifts

The cost of a daily subscription is 800 rubles. Excursion lift – 500 rubles per time. There are no multi-day ski passes.

How to get to Cheget

1. By plane to Mineralnye Vody or Nalchik, then transfer to a regular bus to Terskol.
2. By train to Mineralnye Vody, Nalchik, Pyatigorsk or Prokhladny, then transfer to a regular bus or taxi to Terskol.
3. Order a group taxi from Mineralnye Vody, Prokhladny, Nalchik.

Accommodation

You can explore the slopes of Cheget for more than one day, so the best option would be to rent a room at a local hotel. There are a lot of them in Cheget. You can stay in the hotel of the same name at the foot of the mountain, or you can rent a room in Terskol. But the hotels in the Cheget clearing are more attractive for tourists, because the ski lifts are no more than 5 minutes’ walk away.

Our advice: Before you set foot on the Cheget trails for the first time, carefully study the slopes and trail maps; the trails are not marked, but you can determine from the terrain which zone you are in. It is better to start skiing with an instructor, guide or in a group, because... There is a great danger of getting lost here. It is better not to leave the rolled out places. There is a high risk of injury on Cheget, so follow the safety rules.

If you have ever visited the Elbrus region, have no doubt - you will want to return there again and again. And every time it will be full of impressions and emotions.

The Elbrus region is an unusually beautiful mountain region, which is often called the pearl of the Caucasus. Here are the most famous peaks of the ridge - Elbrus and Ushba, Koshkantau and Shkhara, Ullu-Tau and Dykhtau, Shkheldy and others. The Elbrus region is also famous for its most powerful glaciers - Bezengi and Dykh-Su.

Mountain ranges that stretch parallel to each other cut through picturesque gorges that amaze tourists with their unprecedented beauty. Against the background of this greatness of the stone, like a precious pearl, gray-haired Elbrus appears in all its splendor, which climbers and tourists have long chosen as their vacation spot. They are attracted to these places by majestic snow-capped mountains, swift mountain rivers, inaccessible cliffs, and luxurious flowering valleys.

Advantages of the resorts in this area

The Elbrus region attracts adventurers from all over the world with excellent ski slopes. Today, here on earth there is a national park, which has become a world-famous resort. This territory harmoniously combines mountainous terrain and a unique climate.

The peaks of Elbrus and Cheget, the unique beauties and its attractions are beautiful at any time of the year. In summer, tourists are delighted by wonderful forests, waterfalls and mountain rivers, and at this time daredevils come here to conquer new peaks. In winter, the snow-white slopes attract lovers from all over the world like a magnet.

Elbrus is the highest point in Europe. Its height on the western side is 5642 meters, and on the eastern side - 5621 meters. The magnificent Elbrus National Park unites two ski resorts - Elbrus and Cheget.

Climatic conditions

The weather allows skiing in the Elbrus region from mid-November to early April, and in the high mountain areas - even in May. The Elbrus region (KBR) belongs to the south, and therefore the weather here is appropriate - in winter there is a lot of snow, and sometimes there is none at all. Its absence is especially often observed on the lower routes; the upper ones do not encounter such problems. The best time for skiers to relax is the end of December - the beginning of March.

Another characteristic feature of this area is that there are at least three hundred sunny days a year. The winter average monthly temperature is -15...-10 °C. Weather conditions in the Caucasus are more stable when compared, for example, with the Alps. In July and August the air warms up to +28 °C.

The slopes of Elbrus and Cheget, known to many amateurs and professionals, which remain snow-covered even in summer, can compete with any similar resort. The total length of the trails is more than 35 km.

Ski resorts of the Elbrus region (Azau)

This resort is located 150 km from the city of Nalchik. Its routes are laid on the southern slopes of Elbrus. Today, skiers and snowboarders have the opportunity to ride across the vast expanses of this famous mountain. Tourists coming to the Elbrus region find it difficult to evaluate the Elbrus ski resort.

At first glance, there is all the infrastructure necessary for a modern ski resort - lifts, a snowmaking system for (artificial) slopes, snowcats. But at the same time, the resort loses somewhat in the quality and variety of services provided. If it is more important for you to feel the thrill of skiing on the slopes of an extinct volcano than minor everyday inconveniences, then this place should interest you. Many experts and skiing enthusiasts choose this particular ski resort. Elbrus (Russia) provides athletes with the opportunity to choose the most suitable place to relax.

On the main part of the slopes of the Elbrus resort, the season begins in October and ends in mid-May. And at an altitude of more than 3800 m, the season lasts throughout the year, however, these areas can only be reached by snowcats.

Due to low humidity, the climate here is mild and frosts are easily tolerated. In winter, temperatures drop to -15 °C, rarely below -25 °C. And if you find yourself at the highest point (4050 m), prepare for temperatures down to -40 °C. The weather is changeable - heavy snowfall can suddenly give way to calm and clear weather.

Skiing

It is generally accepted that this ski resort at altitudes from 2350 to 3800 m has seven slopes with a length of 11 kilometers. In fact, the slopes of the resort are one continuous track, designed for both beginners and experienced riders. There are no traditional dividers or signs here, and there is a minimum number of barrier nets. Complete freedom of movement is the main feature of this resort. Limitless spaces await you, where you can independently choose the most suitable route for yourself.

The slope is conventionally divided into five sections:

1. "Azau (2350) - Old Horizon" (3000). It is served by the Elbrus 1 lift. This is a “red” (difficult) section, which, if the route is not properly prepared, can easily turn into a “black” section. At first the track is narrow, then it gradually widens and turns into a steep section (200 m drop). Once you pass it, you will again enjoy a calm ride.
2. "Old Horizon (3000) - World (3500)". This route is easier (blue difficulty level). It is served by the Elbrus 2 pendulum lift. The beginning of the descent will remind you of the “black” track. If you are not confident in your abilities, slow down when passing this section.
3. "World (3500) - Gara-bashi (3800)." Medium level of difficulty. The chair lift is working. There is a nice wide area with a slight slope. When passing the route in poor visibility, you should go through it carefully, as you can easily lose your way and end up in areas with cracks.
4. "Gara-bashi (3800) - Shelter of the Eleven (4100)." The route is designed for experienced athletes. You can only go up on snowcats. Rise time - 24 minutes.
5. The Elbrus region also has hard-to-reach places. The Elbrus ski resort is no exception. Athletes can only get to these areas by helicopter. Skating on a glacier, magnificent landscapes and speed will give you incomparable emotions. Freeride lovers will undoubtedly appreciate it.

Safety

On the slopes, the control and rescue service is responsible for the safety of tourists. The nearest medical facility is located in the village of Elbrus. The most dangerous areas are fenced off with special catch nets. Please remember that this is an avalanche-prone area. There are CCTV cameras at each station.

Services

Ski resorts in the Elbrus region offer a variety of services. In particular, Elbrus has:

• equipment rental;
• ski schools;
• rental of snowmobiles and sleds;
• lifting by snowcats;
• heli-skiing

At each station of this resort there are many small cafes, tea houses, and snack bars. Here you can have a quick and inexpensive meal.

Where to live?

If you come to the Elbrus region, the Elbrus ski resort (see photo below) may surprise you with a variety of accommodation options. Here you can stay in comfortable rooms, some of which are located in the Azau clearing, close to the first stage of ski lifts. During the season, the cost of hotel rooms varies from 2000 to 8000 rubles per day.

A more affordable option is accommodation in the private sector in one of the six villages of the Elbrus region. Tourists often stop in Terskol and Tegenekli. Many hotels include two meals a day in the room rate.

Ski resort "Cheget" in the Elbrus region

This resort is well known in the Caucasus. Its popularity dates back to Soviet times. This ski resort began accepting tourists in the middle of the 20th century. The first cable car (chairlift) in the Soviet Union appeared here in 1963. In February of the same year, the winter sports contest was held here. The appearance of the cable car contributed to the active development of skiing in the country. And the Cheget complex has since gained worldwide fame. It is considered the most extreme. It was named after a mountain 3700 m high. “Cheget” is located five kilometers from Mount Elbrus. Not everyone can conquer its slopes, but skiing here will give you an adrenaline rush.

Trails for daredevils

We have already said that the height of Cheget is 3700 m, and the ascent height is 3050 m. The significant difference in height is 1140 m. There is snow on this picturesque mountain from early November to mid-May. The length of the tracks is 20 km. The ski resorts of the Elbrus region are famous not only in Russia for their difficult slopes. They are also known in Europe. But they are especially difficult at the Cheget resort.

The tracks here are not just steep, they also have all sorts of obstacles. There are often stone barriers that are not covered with snow, and there are often no markings. But this does not stop the extreme sports enthusiasts who come here every year. The most experienced and courageous skiers prefer to ski on the northern slope. It's great for freeriding. The southern slopes are gentle, but the terrain on these routes is difficult to read. Experienced athletes advise beginners not to deviate from the route, as they can easily get lost. There are no children's trails at this resort.

Accommodation

At the foot of the mountain there is a hotel with a quite predictable name - “Cheget”. It was built in a picturesque and strategically correct place - in a pine forest, in a clearing, next to the beginning of the cable car. You can stay in hotels with more original names reminiscent of our Soviet past - “Terskol”, “Wolfram”, “Itkol”. A bus takes tourists from them to Cheget twice a day. With great comfort you can stay in the ZhanTamAl’ hotel complex or in the Abil Kaala hotel, in the Goryanka hotel.

If you wish, you can always rent a room in the private sector of Terskol. You are unlikely to get the European level of comfort here, but the prices are not high either - 400 rubles per night with breakfast.

How to get there?

Today, many ski lovers choose the Elbrus region (ski resort) for their holidays. How to get here? This is what newbies are interested in. You need to fly to the airport of Nalchik or Mineralnye Vody, then take a regular bus or take a taxi to the city of Terskol.

If you prefer rail transport, then you should take a ticket to one of the stations - Nalchik, Prokhladny, Pyatigorsk, Mineralnye Vody. A regular bus will take you from the station to the resort, which runs quite often, especially during the season.

The highest altitudes in Europe, long slopes for descent of varying degrees of difficulty, a pleasant climate, snowy winters, comfortable temperatures and a lot of sun - these are the factors for which the mountains of the North Caucasus are so loved.

The Elbrus region attracts many fans of alpine skiing and freeride, from professionals to beginners. If the Elbrus Azau resort is perfect for the latter, then professionals should pay attention to Cheget.

We have studied all the features of the infrastructure and slopes of the resorts so that you can prepare and make an informed choice, and also updated prices for the 2016/2017 ski season.

By plane

It is convenient to fly to this ski resort from distant places by plane. You need to take tickets to Mineralnye Vody airports (you can allocate half a day to) or Nalchik ().

Mineralnye Vody Airport: direct flights from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Yekaterinburg, Lipetsk, Norilsk, Simferopol, etc. From other cities, flights with a transfer in Moscow are possible.
Travel time from Moscow: 2 hours
6,000 - 9,000 rub.

Nalchik Airport: direct flights from Moscow. From other cities it is possible to fly with a transfer in Moscow.
Travel time from Moscow: 2 hours
Average cost of a round trip ticket: from 11,000 rub.

Check the exact price of air tickets for the dates you need:

By train

If trains are closer to you, then in addition to Nalchik and Mineralnye Vody you can go to Prokhladny or Pyatigorsk.

Trains from many major Russian cities run to the Mineralnye Vody and Pyatigorsk stations.
Travel time from Moscow: 1 day

To the slopes of Elbrus and Cheget by bus/car

From these large cities there is excellent bus service to the Cheget and Elbrus-Azau routes. In addition to relatively cheap regular buses, which will take you there in 2.5-3.5 hours, there are also minibuses and regular taxis, which will be somewhat more expensive, but without reference to the schedule. It's better to bargain with taxi drivers. During peak season, the price is so inflated that you can persuade the driver to pay 2/3 of the originally announced price.

The distance to the slopes from Nalchik is 130 km. A little further from Mineralnye Vody - 180 km.

When driving by car, you need to get to the post of the city of Baksan, and then head towards the villages of Tyrnyauz and Elbrus, behind which the resort area will be located.

Resort area villages

In total, there are 6 villages in the resort area, which stretch along the Baksan Gorge for 16 km, but have a developed infrastructure for tourism 3. From the villages to the ski lifts you can get by taxi.

Ski season

The skiing season runs from October almost until May, and above Garabashi the slopes are in acceptable condition all year round. The most pleasant time is February, March, April. In March the weather is so good that you can see sunbathers on the slopes.

• By purchasing a ski pass for the entire duration of your vacation, you save money;
• No waiting in line to buy a one-time ski pass.

A small clarification: if you want to use the rope tow, then the general ski pass does not apply to it. You will need to buy a one-time ticket.

There are two main ski areas in the Elbrus region: Elbrus Azau and Cheget. We will tell you more about them.

Elbrus - Azau

You need to start getting acquainted with alpine skiing from the Elbrus slope first.

A day or two is definitely needed to get used to the climate. If you immediately climb to the maximum altitude, you can easily get altitude sickness.

Manifestations of the disease are not pleasant: fatigue, shortness of breath, headache, rapid heartbeat, flatulence, nausea, leading to vomiting. Therefore, do not deny your body a period of adaptation and get used to the altitude gradually.

Beautiful official video about the 2015/16 season on Elbrus:

Prices for ski passes for cable cars on the Elbrus-Azau slope

There are three lifts on the slopes of Elbrus-Azau - the first, second and third stages. The rate for a ski pass depends on the number of days for which the ski pass is purchased, the date (holidays are more expensive), and the lifts used. Below is information from the official website of the resort on prices for the 2018/2019 season:

In addition to the actual cost, they will also charge you 100 rubles per plastic card ski pass, and the amount will be returned after the card is returned.

The first stage is the lowest point for skiing, the third is the highest. The higher you plan to go and the longer the slopes available to you, the more expensive the ski pass will be.

Below we will look at which lifts go where and how these lines differ from each other.

Cable cars

There are as many as 7 of them on the slope of Elbrus, one of which is still under construction. The length of the roads is divided into 3 parts - 2 transfers.

First of all goes from Azau station to Stary Kruzor. You can take the new Roma-1 gondola cable car up in 5 minutes, or use the Elbrus-1 pendulum cable car, which will take you there in 12 minutes. The length of the routes in the first case is 1740, in the second – 1900 meters, passing at an altitude of up to 3000 meters above sea level.

Second stage goes from the Stary Krugozor station to the Mir station, taking you to a height of three and a half thousand meters in 7 minutes on Roma-2 or 12 minutes on Elbrus-2. During this time you will cover a distance of 1800 meters.

Third stage will take you to a height of 3780 meters in 15 minutes on the Elbrus chairlift. The gondola cable car duplicating this kilometer-long ascent is not yet ready for commissioning.

You can climb even higher - to Shelter-11, using a snowcat or snowmobile. The ascent will take about 20 minutes and will cost from 400 rubles.

The drag road goes through the Azau clearing for 5 minutes and rises from 2300 meters to 2500.

Elbrus-Azau routes

On the slopes of Elbrus there are 7 trails, more suitable for beginners and amateurs than the Cheget trails. Although in fact the tracks are not separated from each other in any way and represent a wide common area for skiing.

• From “Shelter-11” to “Gara-Bashi” there is a wide, gentle slope, suitable for training beginners when they get used to the highlands.
• From “Gara-Bashi” to “Mir” station the elevation difference will be 280 meters. The route is flat and wide, quite steep and has a medium degree of difficulty. The one on the right is narrower and steeper than the one on the left.
• From “Mir” to “Old Horizon” the elevation difference is 500 meters. The beginning of this section is only for the most experienced. A little lower, the descent will be manageable for an amateur who is firmly on his skis.
• From Krugozor to the Azau clearing the difference is 650 meters. At first narrow and steep, the trail gradually widens to a moderate level of difficulty.

In this video you can clearly see the descent from Mir Station to the Azau clearing, 4.5 km:

The total length of the descent from the Garabashi point to Azau is 6815 meters, with a track width of 60 to 80 meters, which meets international standards for skiing.

Garabashi Gorge, Terskol Gorge, Observatory and Semifinal, as well as several smaller life-threatening tracks, are used by fans of freeriding.

Despite the serious rescue service and the presence of guides who can warn about the dangers and features of a particular route, accidents sometimes occur.

People die due to negligence, avalanches or falling into twenty-meter-deep cracks outside the areas of well-trodden trails.

Cheget

The slopes of Mount Cheget are definitely not for beginners.

Ski pass on Cheget

If you have already purchased a ski pass for the slopes of Elbrus, you will have to buy it separately for Cheget. There are only two options on sale: excursion for 500 rubles and all day for 800.

Cheget cable cars

There are only three cable cars and two queues on Cheget. You can get from the Cheget clearing to the “Ai” cafe on the “Cheget-1” chairlift or a paired chairlift. A climb of 1600 meters in the first case will take you 11 minutes, in the second – 17. During this time you will rise from a height of 2700 to a height of 2750 meters above sea level.

The chairlift “Cheget-2” of the second stage lifts to a height of 3000 meters in 6 minutes. In these minutes, 900 meters of the mountain slope will fly under you.

Cheget trails

There are 15 trails in Cheget, with a total length of 20 km. The height difference from the top to the bottom is 950 meters.

The hilly terrain, steep slopes, and pine forest attract freeriders. Snowboarders prefer the southern slope - it is wider, although it retains the steepness of the slope.

There is nothing for beginners to do here. Except that there is a small piece of an easy track 350 meters long at the very top - above the Chegeta 3 station, which can only be reached by ski lift. Everything else is marked as trails of a high level of difficulty - for professionals and freeride descents. An additional risk is the possibility of avalanches and rocks.

Video of freeriders on Cheget:

Housing

Boarding houses and hotels

The easiest option to rent a hotel is to choose and book it on the official website of the resort: http://prielbrusie-ski.ru/view/accommodation/ or in a specialized housing aggregator in the Elbrus region - nedoma.ru

Or use hotel aggregators (Booking, Ostrovok, Oktogo) - there you can find truthful reviews and take advantage of aggregator bonuses.

Private sector

If you prefer apartment conditions, then it is better to stay in Terskol - this village is closest to the ski lifts. Cost from 500 rubles per person per day. The further you are from the ski slopes, the cheaper the accommodation. Consider options in Baidaevo, Tegenekli, Elbrus, Neutrino. The latter is located at a distance of 16-18 kilometers from Cheget and Azau.

Accompanying services

Rental

The resort has about a dozen shops where you can buy special equipment for sports or mountaineering. But such a purchase is not always justified. Therefore, it is easier and cheaper to contact rental offices. Rentals are carried out in the same stores or at special rental points in the Azau and Cheget valleys. Sometimes this service is provided in hotels for residents.

Rental is considered to be per day. A deposit and/or document is required for equipment or equipment.

You can take a set at once: skis + poles + boots or snowboard + boots. Children cost 600 rubles, adults 900 rubles on the first day. In subsequent days or if you pay for several days at once - it’s cheaper, on January holidays it’s more expensive. Also available for rental are goggles, helmets, jackets, overalls, tents, sleds, waterproof trousers and many other things that do not even occur to beginners.

Rental places often provide repair services for damaged equipment.

Sports equipment stores

• Terskol: “Alpindustria”, “Tourist equipment”, “Elbrus-navigator”, “Open world”
• Polyana Azau: “Vertical”

Pharmacies

• At the Azau cable car station
• At the boarding house "Cheget" and the hotel "Snow Leopard" on the Cheget glade
• In the post office building of the village of Terskol
• In the village of Tyrnauz

ATMs

• In the village of Terskol - Eurokommerts and Sberbank of Russia at the Elbrussia Hotel, Caucasian Development Bank at the Terskol tourist center
• Polyana Cheget – “Sberbank of Russia” in the boarding house “Cheget”

Personal instructor

For those wishing to study with an instructor, please keep in mind that you must sign up in advance. Their work is in great demand. Approximately one hour of individual lessons costs 1000 rubles.

There are instructors teaching children.

You can catch such an important person near the ski lifts or directly during instruction in the clearings.

Each coach has his own approach. It will be better if you observe his work from the outside a little, and then decide whether to hire him or not.

If this is your first time skiing, don’t skimp on advice for a beginner. They can not only bring you pleasure, but also keep you healthy.

Transfer

You can order cars of different classes and different capacities, including minibuses and trucks. They will come to you at the time you specify and take you where you need to go. It is possible to meet at the airport or train station.

Connection

At the ski resorts of the Caucasus, communications from mobile operators Megafon, MTS and Beeline work best. Don't forget that you will be in a roaming zone. Incoming calls are charged, outgoing calls are at a high price. Check the cost of services with your telecom operator.

Use walkie-talkies to communicate with friends on the slopes.

Wi-Fi and internet cafe

There is a café for Internet access in the boarding house “Cheget” in the clearing of the same name. Another one in Terskol. Wi-Fi is provided by many hotels and guesthouses.

Sights and entertainment of the Elbrus region

On our website there are also ones near Elbrus - it will help you plan your visit.

You can diversify your leisure time in the Elbrus region by visiting the following places:

• National Park "Elbrus"
• Valley of Narzans
• Chegem waterfalls
• Waterfall "Maiden's Braids"
• Bezengi Glacier
• Blue Lake

You can also play paintball in Terskol, master helibiking - mountain biking, ride horses of the famous Karachay breed, visit a nightclub, disco bar, sauna, of which there are plenty right in the meadows of Cheget and Azau. Many hotels organize billiards tournaments.

If you have not yet chosen where you will live and want to save money when booking, we recommend using the RoomGuru service. Firstly, it contains hotels, apartments and guest houses from many different booking systems, so you won’t miss out on a worthwhile option. Secondly, you can immediately compare prices for one place in different services and book where it is cheaper (this is not always Booking!).