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Zheleznovodsk
Zheleznovodsk is often called the 'Switzerland of the Caucasus' because the city is almost entirely surrounded by forest. Positioned at the foot of Mount Zheleznaya, it is known for its unique hot mineral springs such as Smirnovskaya and Slavyanovskaya. Architectural landmarks include the Oriental-style Palace of the Emir of Bukhara and the elegant Pushkin Gallery made of glass and iron. Visitors prize the tranquility and clean forest air, which can be enjoyed on numerous hiking trails around the mountain. The Cascade Staircase, one of the longest of its kind in the region, connects the upper resort zone with the man-made lake and is magnificently illuminated in the evening. Zheleznovodsk is quieter than Kislovodsk, making it an excellent spot for those seeking rest. Local cuisine has fresh trout from mountain streams and traditional Russian pelmeni served in forest restaurants. Access is mostly via Mineralnye Vody. The handy time to visit is summer, when the forest provides cool shade, or early autumn when the deciduous trees turn spectacular colors.
- Location: Russia
- Top sights: Medovaya · Kabanka · Zheleznaia
- Nearby: Pyatigorsk (9 km)
- Population: ~24.632
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 26 | 22 | 42 | 45 | 75 | 83 | 66 | 49 | 44 | 46 | 37 | 31 |
Geography
Facts
- Highest percentage of forest cover among the region's spa towns
- Famous for the hot Smirnovskaya and Slavyanovskaya springs
- Location of the Palace of the Emir of Bukhara
- Home to the distinctive cast-iron Pushkin Gallery
- Nestled at the foot of the 853m high Mount Zheleznaya
- Features one of the longest cascade staircases in Russia
- Known for healing calcium-rich mineral water
- Small-town charm with excellent air quality
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Zheleznovodsk (11)
Frequently asked questions
Zheleznovodsk: where is it located?
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