Karelia is a region that extends between Russia, Sweden and Finland. It is a territory of ancient history, home of the Karelians, people of northern Europe. This region was long disputed between the three countries; after the Russian revolution, Russian Karelia became the autonomous republic of the Soviet Union, which since 1991 has taken the name of the Republic of Karelia.
A land of ice and forests, Karelia is a region of Russia that not many know, often omitted during a trip to the vast country. In fact, there are many interesting activities that snow and nature lovers can practice here: from hiking on sledges pulled by huskies to skiing.
Did we intrigue you? Let's discover together the wonders and attractions of the Russian Karelia.
Where is it: a white paradise between Finland and Russia
Karelia borders with the White Sea and the Gulf of Finland.
It is home to the two largest lakes in Europe, Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega. Traditionally it is divided into Eastern and Western Karelia, namely Russian Karelia and Finnish Karelian. The northern section of Lake Ladoga is called Karelia Ladoga. The area to the north is instead called White Karelian and the one to the south Karelia of Olonec.
What to do in Karelia: tours and activities
What to do during a stay in the Russian Karelia? One of the most popular activities, even for families with children, is the husky sledge safari to discover the snow-covered forests. During these excursions there are often stops with snacks, tea and local Karelian products.
Snowmobile safaris are also possible: beginners will be able to try their hand at this experience, since before starting the local suppliers give instructions on how to use the vehicle and on the safety rules. The snowmobile allows you to explore the forests in the snow while having fun.
During a tour in Russian Karelia, you can also take some time to visit the village of Rubcheyla, characterized by houses and buildings in the traditional Karelian architecture of the nineteenth century. We also recommend a visit to the Three Bears Nature Reserve, surrounded by pine woods above Lake Syamozero.
The best time to visit Karelia and to do snow activities is winter, when the white and frozen woods take on a magical atmosphere.
Curious about Karelia now?
