superyacht aurora

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AURORA Yacht – Astonishing $120M Superyacht

AURORA yacht was delivered in 2017 and is one of 103 yachts within her size category. Custom built by Lurssen, the cost of running this superyacht per year is approximately $10 Million.

She was originally known as Project Gatsby, due to the influences of the roaring twenties.

AURORA yacht interior

The interior of the AURORA yacht is strongly inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1920s. The design has influenced by several designers from that era.

Responsible for this luxurious design is Winch Design , one of the world’s most successful yacht designers.

Every deck has spaces created for families, and the interior is highlighted by the lighting fixtures all around the yacht.

The interior of AURORA is also quite a bit larger than other yachts of similar size, partly because of the full-beam sky lounge.

One of the more impressive areas on the yacht. She is one of the yachts with the most interior volume in the world, so there is plenty of space for her guests.

Specifications

The AURORA yacht measures 74 meters (243 ft) in length and has a 13,2 meters (43,4 ft) beam. Her draft is 3,75 meters (12,4 ft), and she reached a top speed of 18 knots.

Her cruising speed is 14 knots, and she has a range of more than 4000 nautical miles.

Compared to other yachts in her size range, AURORA has a top speed of 0,09 knots over the average and a cruising speed of 1,06 knots above the average. She is powered by two MTU engines.

She has the space to accommodate up to sixteen guests and a twenty-two-person crew.

As well as designing the interior of the AURORA yacht, Winch design is also responsible for the design of her exterior, with stainless steel and mahogany furnishings.

The Art Deco inspiration continues here, with circular portholes and curved lines.

The naval architecture was developed by Lürssen , and AURORA has a steel hull and a teak deck. The superstructure is made of aluminum.

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Description

AURORA stands as a showcase of Lurssen ’s exceptional craftmanship and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of yacht design. Her unparalleled interior is testament to the collaborative efforts between the Winch design team and the current owner. Drawing inspirations from diverse artists, sculptors and designers worldwide, they have meticulously crafted, multiple one-of-a-kind pieces for each space onboard.

AURORA has accommodation for fourteen guests in seven luxurious suites cared for by a crew of twenty-one.

Special features include:

• Impressive main aft deck arrangement with the 10m2 pool equipped with a swim jet
• Jacuzzi on Bridge deck
• €9million+ worth of antiques & one-of-a-kind pieces onboard
• Meticulously maintained by the captain and crew
• Fully equipped Technogym on the upper deck

Tender & Toys

HINKLEY “T29R” (approx. 9.4 m)  XTender “XT 157” (approx. 9.7 m)  1 x FASSMER Fast Rescue Boat (6.33 m) (IMO/SOLAS approved)  1 x Petrol driven YAMAHA “super jet”  2 x Petrol driven SEADOO jet skis  5 x Battery driven seabobs  Several boards (surfing, SUP, etc.) and water skis  1x Inflatable Flite board 2x Kiwi Carib Kayaks  1x Petrol driven jet surf 1x Jet Ski flyboard 1x Carbon fibre diving board Various sporting equipment (Soccer balls, Volleyball etc)  Variety of fully stocked fishing equipment Inflatable slide (Aurora logo) I Inflatable Jungle Joe  1x Various towable inflatables 1x Diving Center (fully stocked equipment)

Characteristics

Main Specifications Length: 74.00m (242.8ft) Year: 2017 Exterior Designer: Winch Design Interior Designer: Winch Design Beam: 13.0m (42.6ft) Draft: 3.65m (12.1ft) GT: 2,113 Flag: Cook Island Class: C + HULL + MACH; Y AUT-UMS (Y) Construction Material: Hull Steel Construction Material: Superstructure Alumnium Construction Material: Deck Teak

Performance & Capacity    Cruising Speed: 14knts Max Speed: 17.7knts Range: 6293 nm @ 14 knts / 8400 nm @ 12 knts Engines: 2x2,682hp MTU Fuel Capacity:  237,900 litres Fresh Water Capacity: 71,100 litres Black Water Capacity: 10,000 litres Grey Water Capacity: 23,200 litres Water Maker: 1 x IDROMAR duplex fresh water producer “IDM 30” (2 x 30 m³/day)  2 x IDROMAR uv-sterilizer unit „UV750“  2 x IDROMAR fresh water treatment system (10 m³/h) " Propulsion: Twin screw diesel

Ancillary Equipment  Steering system: 2 x ROLLS ROYCE type SR-562 hydraulic steering gear to BECKER rudder Inclination limited to 35° / 35° for speed under 8 knots Inclination limited to 15° / 15° for speed over 8 knots 1 x Steering control system  Electrical emergency steering is possible by switches on the cabinet at Steering Gear Room (I L 1) AFT SB. Manual emergency steering can be done in the Steering Gear Room (I L 1) SB.  Talk Back System is installed in Steering Gear Room  Bowthruster: 1 x 200 kW VOITH tunnel thruster Propeller Unit system “FU-37-LRC-1000” Stabilisers: 2 x QUANTUM zero speed XT Fins (Extendable type) Extendable fin integrated into the main fin. Main fin not retractable Fuel oil separator: Self-cleaning separators (max. 2000 l/h) Bilge Pump: for bilge services three general service pumps can be used (45 m³/5 bar) Fire Pump: One fire fighting pump (capacity 45 m3/h at 5 bar)  One emergency fire fighting pump (capacity 45 m³/h at 5 bar) in Engine Room  One fire fighting pump (capacity 45 m³/h at 5 bar) inside the Bow Thruster Room 28 x C-hydrants which are distributed on each deck inside and outside  C-Type fire hose 20 m (28 x) and 15 m (2 x), adjustable nozzle and wrenches (all stored next to the hydrants) " Boilers: 3 x WESCO NAVY fresh water heater (3 x 600l = 1800l)  Shore Power: 2 x Shore connections (50 m each). 2 x 200kVA Shore connection transformers. Input: 380 / 400 / V AC, 50 Hz. Output: 400 V AC / 50 Hz. 1 x 20 kVA converter supplying 115 V AC/60 Hz sockets throughout the vessel Airconditioning: 1 x HEINEN & HOPMAN single pipe central air system divided into 5 zones each with their own HVAC unit. Interior spaces fully air conditioned; technical spaces ventilated. 1 x chilled water plant with 3 compressor units.

Communication Equipment & Navigation  Satcom: 2 x SAILOR type 3027 C_A INMARSAT-C satellite   communication systems  no. 1 for integrated Ship’s Security Alert System (SSAS)       no. 2 for Long Range Identification + Tracking Service (LRIT)  1 x SAILOR type FBB 250 INMARSAT 500 Fleet Broadband communication system  2 x VSAT system  Cellular: 1 x GSM system VHF: 1 x MF/HF-system, 2 x VHF systems, 1 x crew VHF Autopilot: Autopilot system is installed in the Bridge Console. For track control application the system has an interface to ship´s ECDIS.  VSAT: 2 x Sea Tel type 6012-33 (VSAT) Antenna Systems for various IP connectivity 2 x Sea Tel type 6004E (TVRO) Marine Satellite Television system.             Telephone System: 1 x GSM system Echo Sounder: 2 x FURUNO echo sounder system, type FE-800 with transducer tanks  Radar: 1 x 12ft S-band (30kW) radar system 1 x 8ft X-Band (25 kW) radar system including application on various workstations Chart Plotter: Electronic chart display information system (ECDIS) for electronic navigational charts (ENC) with backup units in the bridge console GPS: Two independent FURUNO 0560 differential global positioning systems (DGPS) AIS: 1 x FURUNO 0725 Universal AIS system  

Accommodation

Guests Sleeping: 14

Guest Cabins: 7 (3 double, 4 twin)

Crew Sleeping: 21

Crew Cabins: 12

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74m Lurssen Superyacht AURORA Delivered

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By Oliver Pearson   15 June 2017

In a recent press announcement, the iconic German shipyard confirmed that the 31m/100ft motor yacht AURORA was delivered to her owner last week.

Launched in March, and completing her sea trials at the end of May, AURORA is now in the hands of her discerning owner, with her maiden voyage scheduled for the middle of the month.

Confirmed to be spending her debut season in the Mediterranean , there’s no doubt that the exceptionally styled motor yacht is going to be turning heads in the summer hotspots.

Described as ‘a modern interpretation of an old classic’, the interior and exterior have been meticulously styled by the team at Winch Design to lend AURORA an extreme distinctiveness.

Whilst her communal and guest spaces take their cues from the art deco movement of the 1900s, there are still plenty of innovative touches which make her a superyacht of the future.

Out on the exterior, mahogany and stainless steel have been artfully integrated to provide both a unique profile and sense of elegance.

Divided into a number of dedicated spaces for luxurious outdoor living, there are numerous options for the owner and his family to take up a spot of sun lounging, alfresco dining, or chilling by the water.

With a large swim platform extending off the aft of the superyacht, there’s also a great convenience when it comes to getting out and enjoying water toys and tenders.

The perfect fusion of traditional and futuristic styling, superyacht AURORA is sure to become an instant icon

Though it has been shrouded in secrecy throughout the duration of her build and launch, the interior of superyacht AURORA is reported to be inspired by the glamour of art deco designers.

As well as a full-beam sky lounge and an exceptionally well-appointed master cabin, the superyacht also features a main salon decorated with awe-inspiring pieces of artwork.

As more information regarding the superyacht becomes available, YachtCharterFleet will be sure to keep readers fully up to date.

Whilst M/Y AURORA is not expected to be made available for charter, be sure to take a look at all of the Lurssen superyachts which are open for charter vacations .

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74m Lurssen 2017

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• Impressions

The 74-meter luxury yacht Aurora was delivered in 2017. Her striking exterior and distinctive interior are both the work of the Winch Design team. With rich mahogany and stainless steel exterior furnishings, she reflects the romance of luxury travel on transatlantic liners. Each deck was carefully planned to include family spaces. Classic features combined with innovative details such as a large portlight in the main staircase and custom, state-of-the-art lighting across each deck give her authentic charm. Her interior is based on the Art Deco style of the 1920s, drawing inspiration from influential artists and designers of that era.

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AURORA Camper & Nicholsons

• Inspiration

AURORA has 5 Photos

AURORA News

Dutch shipyard Moonen Yachts announces ...

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If you have any questions about the AURORA information page below please contact us .

A General Description of Motor Yacht AURORA

From the Camper & Nicholsons ship building company in the United Kingdom the AURORA is 31 m 102 (foot) in length. Superyacht AURORA can accommodate up to 8 guests with 5 qualified crew. Her former names or project names are Stilvi; Bearcat; Rossana; Elefthera. She will reach a maximum speed of 12 knots.

The Build & Yacht Design with respect to Luxury Yacht AURORA

Camper & Nicholsons was the naval architect firm involved in the technical superyacht design work for AURORA. Also the company Camper & Nicholsons skillfully worked on this project. the United Kingdom is the country that Camper & Nicholsons constructed their new build motor yacht in. After the official launch in 1964 in Southampton she was afterwards passed over to the happy owner after sea trials and testing. Her core hull was constructed with steel. The motor yacht main superstructure is made extensively from aluminium. With a beam of 5.3 metres or 17.4 ft AURORA has moderate internal space. She has a fairly shallow draught of 2.2m (7.2ft). She had refit maintenance and alteration work completed in 2003.

Main Engines And The Speed The M/Y AURORA :

The 8L3B engine installed in the motor yacht is built by GARDNER. She is driven by twin screw propellers. The engine of the yacht creates 460 horse power (or 169 kilowatts). She is equiped with 2 engines. The combined output for the yacht is thus 920 HP / 338 KW. As far as stabalisers are concerned she was built with Vosper.

On board Superyacht AURORA She Caters For The Following Main Accommodation Potential:

Providing cabins for a maximum of 8 welcome guests overnighting, the AURORA accommodates them in style. The boat uses around 5 able yacht crew to operate.

A List of the Specifications of the AURORA:

Further Information On The Yacht

This motor yacht has a teak deck.

AURORA Disclaimer:

The luxury yacht AURORA displayed on this page is merely informational and she is not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor is she represented or marketed in anyway by CharterWorld. This web page and the superyacht information contained herein is not contractual. All yacht specifications and informations are displayed in good faith but CharterWorld does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the current accuracy, completeness, validity, or usefulness of any superyacht information and/or images displayed. All boat information is subject to change without prior notice and may not be current.

Quick Enquiry

Dear Trina, I just wanted to say the Aurora Crew was excellent - everything was perfect - Rich and Sam are the best crew we have ever chartered with by miles - Sam's cooking was brilliant every meal was over the top and excellent - We have travelled all over the world and I would rank this one as one of our best trips ever - I would highly recommend Rich and Sam and the Aurora - in fact if I were you, I would go out of my way to get your clients to charter with them. BW Chartered AURORA 67 in The Caribbean, Mar

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In Pictures: Inside the First Amels 220 Superyacht Aurora Borealis

Aurora borealis.

Delivered in July last year, the 67.1 metre Aurora Borealis is the first superyacht in the Amels 220 range. BOAT takes a tour inside...

Photography: Jeff Brown/Breed Media and Winch Media

Designed by Tim Heywood , Amels’ new Limited Editions 220 is an evolution of the 212, adding a beach club among other updates.

The Beach Club

The transom was stretched by 50cm to comfortably fit sun loungers on the platform and spa facilities inside.

The Sundeck

The owner also altered the sundeck design by removing the helipad, leaving plenty of room for relaxation.

The Jacuzzi on board Aurora Borealis sits on the sundeck.

The Main Deck Aft

The vast main deck aft needed no adjustment.

The Formal Dining Area

Adjacent to the aft deck, the dining area is formal yet enjoys a touch of the outdoors.

The Main Deck Saloon

Just forward is a relaxed lounging area centred around a custom two metre diameter coffee table.

The Main Saloon

The main saloon has a circular motif achieved by the coffee table made from a single slab of marble, mirrored above by an impressive lighting fixture.

The Upper Saloon

The upper saloon provides a great space to watch a film, entertain or relax with views out of the floor-to-ceiling windows. An impressive bar topped with elegant Breccia Sarda marble provides the focal point.

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• Description

Step aboard the luxurious 25m/82ft Moonen yacht, AURORA, and prepare to embark on a yachting adventure that perfectly blends elegance, comfort, and exploration. Originally built in 2004 by the prestigious Dutch yard Moonen, AURORA has undergone two significant refits, the most recent being a ‘no expense spared’ transformation in 2022. This extensive update has elevated the yacht to new heights of opulence, making her a true standout in the charter market. AURORA is now more than just a yacht; she is an experience, ready to charm discerning guests with her timeless beauty and modern amenities.

SUPERIOR QUALITY & CRAFTSMANSHIP

AURORA’s design is a testament to Moonen’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, embodying the expedition-style yacht’s renowned seaworthiness without sacrificing luxury. Her sleek lines and sturdy build are complemented by a sumptuous interior that oozes sophistication. The latest refit has introduced an array of fine furnishings and décor collected from around the world, creating an ambiance of refined elegance throughout the yacht. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the rich wood paneling to the plush fabrics that invite you to relax and unwind.

LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS

AURORA can accommodate up to eight guests overnight in four spacious and luxurious cabins, each designed to provide the utmost comfort and privacy. The Master Cabin is a true sanctuary, featuring a king-sized bed, ample storage, and an ensuite bathroom that rivals those found in five-star hotels. The VIP cabin offers similar luxuries, while the double and twin cabins are perfect for family or friends, each with its own ensuite facilities. All cabins are located on the lower deck, ensuring a peaceful retreat away from the main social areas.

ENTERTAIN IN STYLE

When it comes to entertaining, AURORA excels with her superbly spacious deck areas. The flybridge is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and an outdoor cinema where you can watch your favorite films under the stars. This is the perfect spot for sunset cocktails, with the gentle sea breeze adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The aft deck provides an inviting al fresco dining area, where you can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by AURORA’s talented chef, who specializes in creating culinary delights tailored to your tastes. For more formal occasions, the main saloon offers an elegant indoor dining experience, surrounded by large windows that allow natural light to flood in, enhancing the already bright and airy ambiance.

A PLATFORM FOR ADVENTURE

AURORA is not just a yacht for relaxation; she is also a fantastic platform for adventure. The yacht is equipped with an array of water sports equipment suitable for both kids and adults, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to explore the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, try your hand at paddleboarding in the calm waters of the Whitsundays, or simply lounge on the sun deck with a good book, AURORA has it all.

THE PERFECT CHOICE

Her versatility makes AURORA the perfect choice for a wide range of charter experiences. Whether you are planning an intimate event, a corporate gathering, or a family holiday, the yacht offers privacy and discretion in a setting that is both luxurious and inviting. AURORA’s experienced and professional crew, including a fantastic captain, a highly skilled chief stewardess, a talented chef, and an experienced deckhand, are dedicated to making your charter experience truly unforgettable. With three crew members on day charters and four on overnight charters, you can rest assured that every detail will be taken care of, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on board.

From the iconic Sydney Harbour to the stunning Gold Coast, and the pristine waters of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, AURORA is your gateway to exploring Australia’s most beautiful cruising grounds in unmatched style and comfort. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, a charter on AURORA promises an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Contact our team to find out more about an unforgettable AURORA charter experience.

tender and toys

• Highfield Tender – Sport 460
• 2 Sea Scooters
• Selection of fishing rods
• 2 paddleboards / sea kayaks
• Inflatables, wakeboards, water-skis, snorkel equipment, wetsuits, stinger suits
• Yoga mats, weights and resistance bands

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

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Nalchik city, Russia

The capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria republic .

Nalchik - Overview

Nalchik is a resort city located in the south of European Russia, the capital of the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, its administrative, cultural, and educational center.

The population of Nalchik is about 239,600 (2022), the area - 67 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 8662, the postal codes - 360000-360904.

Nalchik city flag

Nalchik city coat of arms.

Nalchik city map, Russia

History of nalchik, foundation of nalchik.

The official date of foundation of Nalchik is considered to be 1724 - the time of the foundation of the first settlements on the banks of the mountain river of Nalchik at the foot of the wooded mountains of the Main Caucasian Range, when the auls of Prince Aslanbek Kaitukin moved here from the upper reaches of the Kuma River. From 1724, the auls of the main princes of Kabarda - Aslanbek Kaitukin, Dzhambot Tatarkhanov, Kuchuk Dzhankhotov - were located on the present territory of Nalchik.

The fortress of Nalchik was founded by General Aleksey Yermolov either in 1818 or in 1822, during the Caucasian War (1817-1864). The military settlement at the fortress was founded in 1838. In 1850, its population was 272 people.

In 1871, the military settlement of Nalchik was transformed into a civilian settlement (sloboda). Since that time, the local economy and industry began to develop. In 1884, about 3.5 thousand people lived in Nalchik. There were 13 brick-tile and lime factories, 4 smithies, 4 water mills, 20 inns, more than 50 shops, dozens of taverns and wine cellars.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Nalchik began to turn into a resort. Thanks to the mild climate and the presence of mineral waters, it became very famous. By 1913, the population grew to 18,600 people.

More historical facts…

Nalchik in the 20th century and beyond

Nalchik sloboda received the status of a city by the decision of the Constituent Congress of Soviets of Kabardian Autonomous Oblast in 1921. At the same time, the decisions were made to build a power plant in Nalchik, as well as a mechanical plant with a foundry (later transformed into a hydro-turbine plant) and a timber mill. In 1923-1928, an elevator, a mechanized mill, and the Nalchik confectionery factory were built.

In 1923, the Lenin Educational Town was established (today’s Kabardino-Balkarian State University - one of the largest universities in the North Caucasus) with pedagogical, agricultural and cooperative technical schools. In 1939 the population of Nalchik was 47,970 people.

During the Second World War, Nalchik was occupied by the Germans from October 28, 1942 to January 3, 1943, the city was largely destroyed. About 9 thousand residents died in the battles.

On March 8, 1944, the forced deportation of the Balkars began. In total, 37,713 people were sent from the Nalchik railway station to permanent exile to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Officially, the deportation was based on the facts of participation of the Balkars in collaborationist formations that sided with Nazi Germany during the Second World War.

Subsequently, by the highest state bodies of the USSR, and later - of Russia, this deportation was declared illegal, criminal, and an act of genocide. In 1957, a massive return of the Balkars to their homeland began. In 1959, the city’s population was 87,600.

In the 1960s-1970s, Nalchik was developed according to a new general plan corresponding to its status of a resort city. A distinctive feature of the urban development was that between the main streets with multi-storey buildings there were whole quarters of “hidden” private houses, many of which were pre-revolutionary buildings.

In the sanatoriums of Nalchik, about 36,000 people rested and were treated in 1958, 80,000 - in 1968, and 100,000 - in 1971. In the late 1980s, the Nalchik resort reached the peak in its development and presented an almost idyllic picture of the prosperity of a socialist state. In 1989, the population of Nalchik was 234,500 people.

In 1991, Nalchik became the capital of the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria within the Russian Federation. Just as in all of Russia, the collapse of the USSR and the severance of industrial ties led to the fact that most of the city’s enterprises were closed. By 1995, the situation worsened even more when refugees from Chechnya were accommodated in local sanatoriums and rest homes. The entire resort area and city park fell into disrepair.

1997 was a turning point for Nalchik - the city began to be actively decorated and landscaped again. In 1999, by the decree of the Government of the Russian Federation, the Nalchik resort was assigned the status of a resort of federal significance.

In October 2005, the city was attacked by Islamist militants. 14 civilians and 35 police officers and law enforcement officers were killed, more than 240 people were wounded, including 129 law enforcement officers. The number of militants killed according to various sources ranges from 41 to 97 people.

In 2010, Nalchik was awarded the honorary title “City of Military Glory”.

Pictures of Nalchik

Rainbow in Nalchik

Author: Deni Altmar

The restaurant Sosruko in Nalchik

Author: Vladimir Shelyapin

Nalchik Railway Station

Author: Karolina P.

Nalchik - Features

The Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria is one of the most beautiful and unique places in Russia in terms of natural, historical, and cultural characteristics. Nalchik, the capital of the republic, is located in its center in a picturesque area at the foot of the Main Caucasian Range at an altitude of 512 meters above sea level.

There are several versions of the origin of the city’s name. The most probable is that it got its name from the mountain river of Nalchik, which flows through its territory, and its geographical location in a semicircle of mountains resembles a horseshoe. The name of the city is based on the word “nal” - “horseshoe”, which is used in both the Kabardino-Circassian and Karachai-Balkarian languages. The horseshoe is depicted on the city’s coat of arms along with Mount Elbrus.

The climate of Nalchik is the climate of the foothill zone. The average temperature in July is plus 21 degrees Celsius, in January - minus 2.5 degrees Celsius. The main feature of the local climate is the daily fluctuations in air temperature, especially in summer.

According to the 2010 All-Russian Population Census, the ethnic composition of the population of Nalchik is as follows: Kabardians - 49.25%, Russians - 28.77%, Balkars - 12.16%, Ossetians - 2.04%. The majority of the city’s population are Sunni Muslims.

The federal highway “Caucasus” passes through Nalchik. From the Nalchik railway station, trains leave in the direction of Moscow located about 1,700 km north of it. The airport of Nalchik offers regular flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Minibuses (known as “marshrutka”) form the basis of the city’s public transport.

Nalchik is a fairly large industrial center. The leading branches of industry are non-ferrous metallurgy, light industry, food and pharmaceutical industries. Kabardino-Balkaria and its capital Nalchik are a popular center for tourism, mountaineering and skiing.

Due to the mild natural and climatic conditions, the presence of various mineral waters and therapeutic mud, the balneological resort of Nalchik is on a par with the resorts of the Caucasian Mineral Waters - Kislovodsk, Yessentuki, Pyatigorsk, Zheleznovodsk. About a quarter of the city is a resort area. In the resort part of the city and around it, there are about 40 sanatoriums, rest houses, tourist centers, boarding houses. On a relatively small territory of Nalchik, there are 18 mineral springs of various physical and chemical composition.

The valley of the resort is surrounded by mountains in a semicircle protecting this beautiful place from the winds. A magnificent panorama of the majestic peaks of the Greater Caucasus opens from any point.

Main Attractions of Nalchik

Atazhukinsky Garden - the largest park in the North Caucasus. Named after the Kabardian prince Atazhuko Atazhukin, it was founded in 1847. The total area is about 250 hectares, the length of the main alley - 1.5 kilometers. The park has over 150 species of plants, a river, lakes, an observation deck, sculptures, a pavilion with mineral water, a zoo, cafes and restaurants, a summer concert hall (Green Theater). In 2002, Atazhukinsky Garden was recognized as the best green park in Russia. Shogentsukova Avenue.

Nalchik Hippodrome . From time immemorial, Kabardino-Balkaria has been famous for its thoroughbred horses. Therefore, it is not surprising that one of the main attractions of Nalchik is its hippodrome. The hippodrome was built in the 1930s. In 2006, reconstruction was carried out. Horse races held here are very popular among locals and tourists. Malbakhova Street, 30.

Nalchik Central Mosque (2004) - not only one of the most original architectural objects of the city, but also a unique religious building of Islam. As conceived by the architect Andrey Asanov, not traditional canons were used in the construction of the building, but a modern high-tech style. The height of the mosque is 21 meters, the minarets - 30 meters. Shogentsukova Avenue, 133.

Restaurant “Sosruko” - one of the symbols of Nalchik. In the 1950s, it was decided to build a new restaurant in Nalchik where numerous vacationers could spend their evenings. The winner of the competition was the architect Palagashvili, who proposed to make the building recognizable and unique.

The exterior of the restaurant is stylized as a head dressed in a helmet and a hand with a flaming torch - the hero of the national epic Sosruko, who seems to grow out of a mountain 640 meters high. The helmet has an observation deck, which offers impressive panoramic views.

National Museum of the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria . The exposition of the department of nature displays a huge relief map of the republic and samples of minerals extracted in its different parts. Slides and dioramas introduce visitors to the natural monuments, flora and fauna of Kabardino-Balkaria, the uniqueness of which is due to the presence of five climatic zones on the territory of the republic.

The historical part of the exposition tells about the most interesting archaeological finds of Kabardino-Balkaria, about the history of the Kabardians and Balkars (the indigenous inhabitants of the republic) from ancient times to the present day, about their traditions, customs, ethnography, and culture. Gorkogo Street, 62.

Kabardino-Balkarian Museum of Fine Arts named after A.L. Tkachenko . The exhibition halls of this museum showcase works of European, Russian and national artists, sculptors, masters of decorative and applied art created in the 19th-20th centuries. The pride of the museum is the collection of masterpieces created by French watchmakers of the 18th century, antique Japanese, Chinese, European, and Russian porcelain. Lenina Avenue, 35.

Chegem Waterfalls in the Chegem Gorge - a picturesque natural monument, one of the natural tourist attractions of Kabardino-Balkaria and one of the most beautiful places in Russia located about 55 km from Nalchik. Here you can also buy wool products, souvenirs, and other Kabardian and Balkar goods. There are several small cafes with national cuisine.

Nalchik city of Russia photos

Streets of nalchik.

Nalchik - a city surrounded by mountains

Author: Shlykov Kirill

On the street in Nalchik

Author: Valery Podlesny

Apartment house in Nalchik

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