Solovetski Islands and the White Sea

Gentle summer walking and boating in Arctic Russia | 11 days

First settled by monks in the 1430s, the Solovetski Archipelago in the White Sea comprises around 100 islands of varying size, some of them covered by tundra and others with a groundcover of blueberry and crowberry. They abound with lakes, wildflowers and nesting birds and, in summer, beluga whales gather to calve in the shallow waters.

On the largest island, surrounded by enormous stone walls, stands the legendary 16th Century Solovetski Monastery, which in the 20th Century was one of the most feared and infamous prison camps, described by Solzhenitsyn in his book ‘Gulag Archipelago’. Now that the monks have returned, it is possible to visit the beautiful cathedral, church, refectory and other buildings enclosed by the great ‘kremlin’ or fortification. There are over 170 architectural and archaeological monuments on the islands, including 33 mysterious stone labyrinths dating back around 3,000 years. In some places, using small boats and wooden rakes, men still collect seaweed to be made into local products.

Accommodation here is simple – family-owned comfortable small hotels with delicious food. It’s an excellent place for walking in summer. Your journey is by train from St. Petersburg to Kem and then by boat across the White Sea.

Dates:      Best times to travel are June – August. Tailor-made to suit.

Price:       Guide prices from £2,535 per person (based on six travelling). Ask about prices for smaller groups

Leader:    Local English speaking Russian leader

Key info: Group size 6 minimum. Weather can be variable with temperatures ranging from 5-20 degrees C. The pace will be leisurely, easy walking entirely at your discretion

Important note: As a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, travel is suspended until further notice. We continue to watch the situation carefully and will issue updates accordingly.

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