In and Around Sochi

Prized as one of Russia’s best shore resorts during the Soviet era, Sochi has been appreciated by tourists from all over USSR for its unique location, subtropical climate and great infrastructure. Nicely situated between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, Sochi and its territories sprawl for roughly 90 miles along the shores of the Russian Riviera. When the nearby ski resort of Roza Khutor in Krasnaya Polyana was developed, Sochi quickly gained popularity as a winter resort. Its attractions include parks, botanical gardens, mountains, waterfalls, and even subterranean caves. It’s no wonder it was chosen to host the XXII Olympic Winter Games and XI Paralympic Winter Games this year. The actual competitions are taking place 17 miles south of Sochi along the coast, with skating events being held in a town called Adler and ski races in Krasnaya Polyana, 29 miles east.

While visiting Sochi use this little guide to learn where to find good local food, the city’s best entertainment and how to explore the region and , maybe, where to see a live performance when the competitions are over.

If you appreciate luxury and comfort, I would recommend staying in the best hotel in Sochi, The Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina which is a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and first class service. The resort has 37 acres of gardens, access to the sea, and prides itself on a state of the art movie theater where guests can enjoy the latest blockbusters. Forty beautiful rooms designed by Susanne Loggier and Patrick Brugmann face the sea, each with an impressive terrace. The hotel also has the posh Lili Bar and two luxury restaurants, Moskva, for day and Black Magnolia for after dark. Rodina has the best spa complex in Sochi that combines a stylish and tranquil setting with innovative procedures and an individualized approach.

As tempting as it is, don’t spend your entire time at the Rodina. Sochi and the surrounding region offer an abundance of excursions and events aimed at adventure and culture. If you’re interested in culture, Sochi’s Town History Museum has impressive exhibits. Their collections include Caucasus nature, Black Sea marine life, and archeological discoveries of the region. The space display at the museum features the Soyuz 9 capsule which spent 18 days in orbit returning to Earth in June 19, 1970.

Other places worth visiting are:

• Winter Theater – a beautiful performance space
• The botanical gardens
• Nearby Sochi towns and villages

  

Sochi offers the following activities for those who love the outdoors:

• Fishing in the Black Sea
• Mountain hiking
• Parachuting with Rosto Sochi Airclub
• Mineral baths