Not just Red Square: What to see in Moscow in 1 day

Mountain air, clear glacial lakes, ancient monuments and breathtaking panoramic views – in summer the sights of Arkhyz impress with incredible beauty. June, July and August are the perfect time to explore amazing natural landscapes. You should walk along the scenic hiking routes and enjoy the beautiful views.

The region combines adventure, history and tranquillity, making for a varied and fulfilling holiday. In this article, you will find the most beautiful natural and historical places. We have also prepared useful tips to help make your trip exciting and unforgettable.

Sights of Arkhyz – the main natural places worth seeing

The mountainous region is known for its stunning scenery and rich historical heritage. In summer, it is convenient to travel and discover new places. You can explore beautiful natural corners, ancient settlements and astronomical sites. The region has both popular tourist spots and little-known but no less interesting ones. Each of them will leave vivid impressions.

Waterfalls and lakes of Arkhyz – picturesque spots

Arkhyz water bodies and cascades mesmerise with their purity, depth and contrasts. In summer, it is pleasant to take refuge from the heat in the coolness here, enjoying the fresh air. Walks are especially beautiful thanks to the views of cliffs and flowering alpine meadows.

Sofia waterfalls

The highest in the region, they flow down from the Sofia Glacier, falling from a height of over 90 metres. The waterfalls, which are located in a mountain valley, are fed by melting snow. This is why their flow is particularly powerful in summer. The road leads through picturesque alpine meadows, along the way offering spectacular views for kilometres around.

Sofia Lakes

These glacial reservoirs are located at an altitude of more than 2,800 metres. In summer, their surface is covered with thin layers of ice. When it melts, amazing colours appear – from deep blue to bright turquoise. To get to the lakes, you have to walk about 7 kilometres uphill, but the stunning views are worth it.

Lake Semichrome

The lake got its name because of the water’s ability to reflect several shades of colour depending on the light. Its depth reaches 15 metres and the surrounding area is rich in flora and fauna. It is one of the most picturesque places of Arkhyz nature.

Lake of Love

This small and very popular lake is situated among majestic rocks. According to legend, if you bathe in its icy water, it will bring happiness to lovers. The lake reflects the mountain peaks like a mirror, creating incredible photographs.

Ancient secrets of Arkhyz – heritage of civilisations

The resort hides not only its natural splendour, but also its centuries-old history. It is imprinted in its ancient buildings and archaeological finds. A place where great civilisations crossed each other, creating unique monuments that still excite the minds of researchers. Ruins of ancient cities, mysterious stone constructions and mysterious rock carvings open the veil of the past. They give a glimpse into the world of ancient peoples who left their mark in these places.

Alanian settlement

One of the most significant archaeological sites in the Caucasus. It represents the ruins of an ancient settlement of Alans, a people who inhabited these lands more than a thousand years ago. Fragments of fortress walls, temples and dwellings have been preserved on the territory. Archaeologists find here pottery, weapons and household items that allow them to imagine the life of the ancient society. Excavations continue, and new finds are regularly added to museum collections.

Leso-Kyafar dolmens

These mysterious megalithic structures are scattered among the forests. They are ancient stone structures believed to have been used for cult and ritual ceremonies. Some theories link them to mysterious Bronze Age civilisations. The stone slabs of which the dolmens are made are perfectly matched to each other. This indicates a high level of construction knowledge of ancient masters.

Face of Christ

On one of the rocks in Arkhyz, one can notice an image of a face resembling an icon. This phenomenon is still controversial: some believe that it was created by ancient monks. Others are sure that it is just a creation of nature. Pilgrims come here believing in its miraculous properties, while scientists try to find a scientific explanation for this phenomenon. This place has a special energy and is often included in the itineraries of excursion programmes.

Space is closer than it seems – the starry sky of Arkhyz

Arkhyz is one of the best places in Russia for stargazing. There is practically no light pollution here. The high altitude above sea level allows you to observe the cosmos in a crystal clear atmosphere. This region has ideal conditions for space observation. That is why one of the largest observatories in the country was built here. In it, astronomers study the mysteries of the universe and distant stars.

Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences

This scientific complex includes Russia’s largest optical telescope. Its 6-metre diameter mirror allows you to explore distant galaxies, stars and nebulae. Tours are organised for tourists, during which you can learn about the latest discoveries in astronomy. You can look into the laboratories and even observe celestial objects through professional equipment. The night tours here are impressive. In the dark sky you can see the Milky Way and constellations in all their glory with incredible detail.

In summer in Arkhyz you can see amazing natural landscapes and traces of ancient civilisations. The beauty of the mountains and the mysteries of history are combined here. Travelling to the depths of space, makes this place unique and multifaceted to explore.

Adventures in the mountains: hiking trails and tourism

The resort offers a variety of hiking routes – from simple walks to difficult ascents. Mountain tourism is actively developing in Arkhyz. Here you can test your strength by overcoming routes and at the same time enjoy the views of pristine nature.

Popular Routes:

• trail to Sofia Waterfalls (14 km) – the most picturesque trail;
• ascent to the lake Semitsvetnoe (9 km) – a difficult but very beautiful way;
• excursions to the Face of Christ – an opportunity to see the rock art.

Excursions in Arkhyz allow you to comfortably visit many attractions. Learn historical facts and discover new routes.

Conclusion

The mountainous region offers travellers a combination of nature, history and an opportunity to get closer to science. In summer in Arkhyz you can see the sights, feel the majesty of the mountains and touch the secrets of ancient civilisations. Summer makes the Caucasus region especially attractive. It is in this period that the opportunity to get to the most picturesque and amazing places unhindered appears.

Expensive hotels in Moscow have long ago ceased to be just an overnight stay – each one turns the stay into a performance. Here laconic interior, high service and the panorama of the centre create an atmosphere thought out to the millimetre. Premium-level locations are concentrated within the Ring, where every detail – from the view of the Kremlin to the textiles in the rooms – plays in the top league.

“Four Seasons: the architecture of status

The hotel occupied a part of the historic building of the Moscow Hotel near Manezh Square. High ceilings, Italian marble floors and gilded décor are not decoration, but part of the brand experience. Deluxe rooms overlook Red Square, the Kremlin and Alexandrovsky Garden. A Signature Suite starts from 350,000 ₽ per night. A premium SPA complex with a Russian bath and hammam, 24-hour Butler service and the Quadrum restaurant with a focus on Tuscan cuisine complete the concept of “the best 5-star hotels in Moscow”.

“The Carlton, Moscow”: a classic that never gets old

The flagship luxury hotel on Tverskaya Street offers aesthetic tranquillity a stone’s throw from the Kremlin. Here, Moscow’s expensive hotels peak at a combination of history and understated luxury. The facade is reminiscent of the Grand Style era, while the interior includes antique elements and author’s chandeliers. Rooms are decorated in restrained cream and graphite colours. The Novikov Restaurant and the O2 Lounge rooftop bar overlooking the centre provide the perfect end to the day. The spa area, including a 20-metre pool, is designed according to the canons of Asian aesthetics.

“The National: a monument with a mini gallery

More than a century ago, ministers of tsarist Russia and European industrialists settled here. Today it is home to business elite, cultural figures and Arab investors. The guest lists are like a Forbes page. Beautiful views of the Kremlin offer a rare combination – collectible interiors, mosaics, antique furniture, paintings from the early 20th century. Spacious rooms with panoramic glazing provide unique perspectives on the city. The in-house restaurant Moskovsky is an example of top flight Russian gastronomy, from serving to author’s recipes.

“Radisson Collection Hotel: the vertical of glamour

One of the seven Stalinist skyscrapers. Expensive hotels in Moscow rarely play on the contrast of a historical facade and ultra-modern filling. Here they managed to combine Soviet monumentalism and modern engineering solutions. The rooms are decorated discreetly but expensively – cashmere, brass, natural stone. The main emphasis is on the view: high floors offer a panorama of Moscow City and the embankment. A spacious conference hall, known as a place for private meetings and sessions, completes the picture of business status.

“Moscow Marriott Imperial Plaza: understated glossiness

The location near the Three Railway Stations provides a strategic advantage – step-by-step accessibility to the main transport arteries. The interiors are an example of business minimalism: strict lines, warm colours, wood and stone textures. Executive rooms include access to an enclosed lounge area. It is especially appreciated for its calibrated service, clear logistics and thoughtful SPA centre with a laconic swimming pool. Conference rooms can accommodate up to 500 people, providing ideal conditions for business events.

“Baltschug Kempinski”: the hotel where the Kremlin is reflected

Only from this side of the Moscow River does the very corner of the viewpoint open up: St Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin towers, the Spasskaya Tower – everything is just like on a postcard. Expensive hotels in Moscow can rarely boast such an exact hit in the visual image of the city. Interiors in the style of St. Petersburg classicism, fine cuisine as in Café Kranzler, personalised offers for guests of a set of luxury rooms. The spa zone with a swimming pool and Finnish sauna, as well as the service of a personal chef complete the impression.

“Metropol: the theatre stage of comfort

The hotel’s history dates back to 1905. Art Nouveau interiors with Vrubel mosaics, stained glass windows and cast bronze give the space an aura of museum value. The rooms are unique – none of them repeats another in terms of layout. Luxury hotels in Moscow rarely preserve the individuality of rooms at such a level. Breakfast under the glass dome of the Metropol restaurant is almost a ritual. Guests have access to a library with rare editions, a closed wine room and masterclasses by guest chefs.

“President Hotel”: status for the chosen ones

Built as a hotel for top officials, it still retains an air of diplomatic immunity. Located on Bolshaya Yakimanka Street, overlooking the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Deluxe rooms include two bedrooms, a meeting area and a personal assistant. SPA-zone with an indoor pool is in private mode. The conference hall can accommodate up to 1000 guests – one of the largest in the centre. State security, pass-controlled car park, separate entrance for VIP guests.

“Hyatt Regency Moscow Petrovsky Park: balance for businessmen

Expensive hotels in Moscow don’t always play on the tourist circuit. It is located near Petrovsky Park, surrounded by diplomatic missions. The concept is built on balance: the rooms are decorated in urban style, the lobby is decorated with Scandinavian wood, the Heritage restaurant emphasises local products. Spacious fitness room, indoor pool, yoga studio, work spaces. Business-orientation is emphasised by the layout: each room includes functional areas for negotiations.

7 key criteria for choosing a VIP-level hotel in Moscow

Premium placement requires an accurate frame of reference. One wrong choice and the level of expectations becomes out of sync with reality:

1. Location – walking distance to the centre, the Kremlin, cultural and business facilities.
2. History – the presence of cultural context and the architectural value of the building.
3. Rooms – spaciousness, uniqueness of the interior, view from the windows.
4. Service – personal assistant, round-the-clock room service, privacy protection system.
5. Spa and pool – enclosed area, premium treatments, unique design.
6. Restaurant – author’s cuisine, gastronomic sets, recognised chefs.
7. Conference room – technical equipment, privacy, premium facilities.

A clear focus on these parameters eliminates frustration. Expensive hotels in Moscow meet not only the five-star standard, but also individual expectations at the fine-tuning level.

Difficulty of choice is a myth

Expensive hotels in Moscow offer an excess of choice: every segment is covered. Architecture – from Art Nouveau to minimalism. View – from the Kremlin to the park. Level – from classic to ultra-modern. Service – from simple luxury to personalised administration.

Expensive hotels in Moscow: the results

Expensive hotels in Moscow are not just comfort, but a strategic choice. Marriott Imperial and Hyatt are suitable for business purposes, Metropol or National for cultural environment. Visual panoramas will be provided by Baltschug Kempinski and The Carlton, status will be emphasised by Four Seasons and President Hotel.

Not only location in the centre is important, but also the balance between service, architecture and privacy. Each object forms a standard, where luxury is not a show, but a mindset.