Beautiful Foros: the most elegant holiday in Crimea. Holidays in Foros: what to see, what to do? Attractions and Beaches of Foros Where to stay on vacation
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On the southern coast of Crimea there is a small village with a thousand-year history and picturesque nature called Foros. Many writers wrote about this town and dedicated poems and music to it. The beauty of Foros is impressive and captivating; it is impossible to remain indifferent to it.
Foros is separated from Yalta by about thirty kilometers, and the southernmost point of Crimea, Cape Sarych, is three kilometers away. The location determined the exotic beauty of this village. But it is most appreciated for its rich history, which has given us many attractions.
According to the chronicles, Foros is more than two thousand years old, or more precisely twenty-five centuries. The town has retained its name since antiquity. Translated from Greek, it means several concepts: toll, cliff and lighthouse. Scientists are still not sure of the correctness of the translation, but many tourists associate Foros with the lighthouse.
This city is considered the most ancient on the peninsula. He survived more than one state: Ancient Hellas, the Roman Empire, the Ottoman and Roman Empires. In those distant times, Foros was one of the largest settlements in Taurida, since modern cities were built much later. Therefore, to get acquainted with the deep Crimean history, you should first go to Foros.
Foros Park
Foros Park is considered the natural highlight of the city. The first mentions of it date back to the 30s of the 19th century. Today the park is under state protection and is considered a monument of garden and park architecture.
Officer N.N. was the first to start laying out the garden. Raevsky. But the view for which this place became famous was created by a merchant from Moscow named Kuznetsov. He was a wealthy merchant, traveled a lot and visited abroad. Kuznetsov Alexander Grigorievich bought the lands from Raevsky and planned to make a place of amazing beauty on their territory.
And he succeeded. Several landscape artists and gardeners, a whole team of gardeners and agronomists worked on the park. Kuznetsov brought plants from different countries of Asia, Europe and even from America. It took him about five years to transform the wasteland into the most famous park on the southern coast of the peninsula.
Foros Park has more than once competed in beauty with, as there are also many rare overseas plants here. It is compared to the garden of the Vorontsov Palace, because the landscape and architectural compositions are not inferior to the count's estate.
The park stretches over 70 hectares, a third of which is reserved for cultural plantings, and the rest is forest. Rare, outlandish plants grow in each zone of the park: Aleppo pine, Himalayan cedar, Spanish fir and others.
The most famous part is “Paradise”. It is located in the middle park area, where the best landscape compositions are collected. Consists of six small, small-sized lakes. The cascade is connected by many bridges, passages and paths, walking along which you can admire swans swimming among water lilies. Here you can hear the trills of birds, the steady roar of waterfalls, and time seems to stand still.
Another attraction of Foros Park is the groves: bamboo, cedar, oak, olive.
Kuznetsov Palace
The architectural landmark of Foros Park has a centuries-old history. The mansion was built in the late 80s of the 19th century. He is a prominent representative of Russian classicism. The estate is located in the very center of the park area, and its windows and balconies offer picturesque views of the forest and sea.
The palace was built by the best craftsmen, under the supervision of Billiang, a famous architect. The decoration of the interior of the house was also not simple: its walls were painted with landscapes of the Russian hinterland. Such decoration was the wish of Kuznetsov himself. He was very ill and could not live in Russia, so he missed his homeland greatly. Fifteen panels still adorn the walls of the palace rooms. They are painted on canvas glued to damp plaster.
Now the estate belongs to the Foros sanatorium, but you can visit it on a guided tour.
Dacha Tesseli
Among the attractions of Foros, a special place is given to the one located in the west of the town. This building was erected in the same year as the Kuznetsov Palace, so the Dacha was also made in the style of Russian classicism, fashionable at that time.
The materials for the construction were valuable Inkerman stone, and the estate was faced with gray limestone. However, a rare mosaic technique was used for this, making the walls look much more beautiful. The interior of the estate boasts tiled stoves, fireplaces lined with marble, parquet floors and massive wooden doors. The building itself seems monumental and majestic. It is characterized by the spirit of antiquity, bygone centuries.
The unusual name of the building is taken from the Greek language, which means “silence”. This name fully justifies itself. A nearby park with tall cedars and strange plants isolates you from the bustle and noise of the world. The best specialists of the Nikitin Botanical Garden worked on the landscape park. They planted over two hundred varieties of plants, which have successfully taken root in these areas and now delight visitors. From the windows of the Dacha there is a unique panorama of the mountains, sea, coast and park.
According to historical information, many famous personalities came here, in particular Chaliapin and Gorky. The famous writer was once even the rightful owner of this estate. For his achievements in literature, the Soviet authorities presented it to him. Thanks to this coincidence of circumstances, the Silence Dacha became a cultural mecca on the southern coast of Crimea. Famous writers, poets and other cultural figures came here. This place left a deep mark on the writer’s life, inspiring him to create a number of masterpieces. Gorky’s personal belongings, practically untouched by time, are still kept in the offices of the building, and there is his pedestal on the territory of the park.
Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to see the Tesseli Dacha from the inside. Government bodies are located within its walls, so you can only admire the beauty of the architectural landmark from afar.
Cape Sarych and its lighthouse
Guests of Foros should definitely visit the nearby one – the southernmost point of Crimea. But it is not only the territorial feature of this place that attracts tourists. There is a lighthouse here, reminiscent of the famous Foros lighthouse.
Once upon a time, ancient Alexandria stood on the site of the modern city. Next to it was the island of Pharos. On its rocky shore, ancient craftsmen built the world's tallest lighthouse, which became the seventh wonder of the world. The coast and the island were connected by an artificially created sandy isthmus, making it easier to maintain the building.
The lighthouse was built in 280 BC. It was gigantic: it consisted of three tiers, and the total height was one hundred and twenty meters. The lower tier was located separately, from where the three-story tower originated. The thickness of its wall blocks was thirty meters. The first tier was built from massive limestone slabs. The second tier had a tower shape with eight sides. This design was chosen for a reason: each face looked in the direction of the wind. The tower walls were lined with marble slabs. On the third tier there was a lantern. It was a round turret with columns, a giant dome and a seven-meter statue of a sea deity on it.
There was always a fire burning in the small round tower of the lighthouse. Its light was incredibly bright due to reflective plates made of the thinnest metal. That's why the sailors saw him from afar. The wonder of the world stood until the 14th century, when it was destroyed by an earthquake.
The lighthouse on Cape Sarych is just a reminder of the majesty for which Foros was famous. It is much smaller, and has nothing in common with the ancient structure.
Tsar Nicholas II chose the place to build the lighthouse when he sailed along the coast of Crimea. The sailors pointed him to the southernmost point of the peninsula, and the sovereign decided that there should be a lighthouse at this place. There were many bureaucratic disputes associated with its construction, since at that time this land was private property. The lighthouse has survived cataclysms, wars and changes of states. It is already more than a hundred years old, and it is still a property of Cape Sarych and Foros as well.
Laspi Bay
Visitors to the South Coast for the sake of the sea should definitely take a walk along. This is one of the best places on the coast, with picturesque nature, azure sea, fresh air and a magnificent panorama of the Crimean beauty.
The bay is located near Cape Aya, 40 kilometers from Yalta and 30 kilometers from Sevastopol. This place has a pleasant subtropical climate. It is warmest here on the Crimean coast, and the rocky shores protect from the winds.
Vacationers stay in the nearby village of Batiliman, but always come to swim in the clear waters of Laspi Bay.
Cape Aya
This natural attraction is located near Balaklava. A characteristic feature is sheer cliffs and grottoes. The place is famous for its beautiful wildlife, with rare plants and Mediterranean woodlands. Here you can see Sudak and Pitsun pines, different types of juniper and pistachio trees.
Many animals listed in the Red Book live on Cape Aya: weasel, horseshoe bat, marten, snakes, deer, foxes, roe deer and even wild boars. Hunting is not allowed here, as Cape Aya is a protected area.
Foros Church of the Resurrection of Christ
This temple is considered the hallmark of Foros. It was built at the end of the 19th century at the expense of the main Crimean philanthropist - merchant Kuznetsov. He chose a site on Red Rock and asked the Bishop for permission to build it. This location was chosen so that everyone passing by could see the church from afar, admire its beauty and come here. That’s what Kuznetsov himself wanted.
It took four years to build the monumental structure. Since then, not a single person remains indifferent when driving past the temple. Tsars and princes, great public figures, politicians and many famous people visited here.
The interior walls of the temple were painted with church-themed paintings, the windows were made of stained glass, the floor was tiled, and the columns were made of marble. Rare Gospels, exclusive liturgical books, gold and silver church accessories were kept here.
With the advent of Soviet power, the temple fell into disrepair. Valuables were taken away, the church was closed and it became deserted. In the early 80s, they wanted to give this land for a boarding house, but local residents defended their shrine. Now they are restoring it through joint efforts. The Black Sea Fleet donated the lighthouse bell from Cape Sarych, the temple was consecrated and is currently operational. You can read more about the church.
Mellas Palace
In Foros you can see architecture of different styles, but the Mellas Palace is unique. It looks like a castle from the Middle Ages, although it was built in the 30s of the 19th century. Its architecture combines several styles and decorative elements.
Next to the mansion there is a park that leads directly to the sea. There is a vineyard on the estate, which is still preserved. Many famous people visited the palace, and Alexei Tolstoy even lived here for twenty years.
Rock Sail
Near Foros there is a rocky massif called Chelebi. It contains many colorful places, but the brightest of them is the Parus rock, so nicknamed for its isolation from other stone blocks. Geologists call it an outlier rock because it seems to have “moved away” from other rocks. Its height is one and a half hundred meters, and its shape is similar to a tetrahedral pyramid.
Each side of the Parus has a unique relief, which is why the rock has long been chosen by climbers.
Foros has many wonderful sights. The village itself is interesting and original. It’s nice to come here for excursions and sea holidays.
Get from Yalta to Foros You can take shuttle bus No. 128 from the upper platform of the Yalta bus station.
Unique nature, excellent climate and magnificent beaches make the Crimean Peninsula an ideal holiday destination. On its coast there are many recognized resort centers, one of which is the village of Foros. Crimea has always attracted tourists with similar mini-tourism centers where they can have an unforgettable vacation.
Where is the village located in Crimea?
The city of Foros is the southernmost point on the map of Crimea, occupying part of the most beautiful coast between Yalta and the hero city. The mild Mediterranean climate makes it possible to have a comfortable holiday in these parts all year round. The village is famous for its unique park where you can enjoy the healing air. It is no coincidence that the first and last president of the USSR, and later the top leadership of Ukraine, loved to relax here. The first mention of the settlement, found in the treasury papers of the Genoese, dates back to 1360. Now about two thousand people live in the town.
Foros on the map of Crimea
Where to stay for vacation?
As in all resort areas of the coast of the Crimean Peninsula, holidays in Foros involve accommodation in one of or within the private sector, where there are many guest houses, cottages and apartments. If you negotiate with the owners directly, that is, without intermediaries, you can save a lot on accommodation.
Even in Soviet times, it was considered one of the best health resorts in the country. And now people who have problems with the circulatory and respiratory systems should come to court. The institution has all the conditions for comfortable living. The housing stock includes both VIP apartments and rooms for family accommodation. There is a swimming pool and tennis court on site.
You can perfectly accommodate the whole family in small cozy rooms, some of which have exits to terraces. They are simply equipped and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. A clean private beach with sun loungers is literally a three-minute walk away. There is an inexpensive cafe and bar very close by.
You can stay comfortably during your holiday in Foros in Forossea. It only has five rooms, but all of them are luxury. The interiors are beautiful and have climate control systems. The apartments are furnished with high-quality furniture and equipped with the necessary household appliances. You can eat your own meals, cooking in a compact shared kitchen or in a restaurant located next door.
Where you can arrange an elite stay in the village deserves special attention. Crimea cannot always boast of such establishments. Resort guests will be pleased with a large restaurant, where several world cuisines are presented, an excellent spa center, where it is easy to order wellness treatments, and a fitness room, equipped with the latest sports equipment.
What to see in the village of Foros?
The main attraction of the city is called, located on a stone cliff above the sea. It was erected in 1892 in honor of the miraculous rescue of Emperor Alexander III from death during a train accident. Temple - 
this is a beautiful structure, which is crowned with eight mini-domes, arranged in two tiers and surrounding the main dome, it can be seen from afar from the sea.
In the center of Foros Park there is a beautiful building built in the mid-19th century for the tea magnate Alexander Kuznetsov. made in the traditional Russian architectural stylistic direction. Its luxurious terrace is surrounded by a stone balcony, offering wonderful views of the park and the Black Sea. In the halls you can see magnificent wall panels.
Another place recommended for visiting is the one built at the highest point of the pass along which the old road from Sevastopol to. The massive door, decorated with two large semi-columns, has two porticoes of impressive size. The entire structure looks majestic. Sitting on the observation deck, you can admire the views of Foros and the Foros Church against the backdrop of the seascape.
Where to go with children?
Undoubtedly, you need to spend a day with the whole family in, which was built in the first third of the 19th century. It is considered the pearl of landscape design of the Crimean peninsula. In Foros, relaxing along shady alleys surrounded by plane trees, magnolias and cedars, you can enjoy the wonderful air while admiring the luxurious flower beds. In the park area there are many small forms in the form of gazebos, openwork bridges and sculptures. 
In small ponds you will see large carp.
A real adventure for a child will be an excursion to the village, located in the vicinity of the village. In this original natural formation, you can wander along staircases surrounded by stalactites, which sometimes take on the most unexpected forms, reminiscent of human figures or fantastic creatures. It’s easy to complete the entire route with a tour of the high vaulted galleries in an hour. Children are simply crazy about the acoustic effects and love to take pictures against the backdrop of stalactites.
No child will remain indifferent to. There are a lot of them here, although they are all pebbly. Most of all, the children love to frolic on the coastal edge of the children's camp of the same name as the town of Crimea. Entry into the sea is convenient here - reviews confirm this, so families often settle down to spend passive time here. Other beaches that can be noted are Green and Derevyashka. The kids are always delighted with sea swimming!
Where can you eat in Foros?
For gourmets who prefer fish dishes, the A’More restaurant is an ideal dining option. Order dishes from Kalkan, flounder, sea bass or dorado here. In addition to their amazing taste, they will be exquisitely decorated and served. It is not difficult to order a unique treat from the chef. After your meal, treat yourself to a cup of aromatic coffee or a cigar and a glass of elite cognac.
The restaurant "Shalash", the building of which is stylized to resemble this simple structure, 
will invite guests to dine with dishes of Crimean Tatar cuisine, prepared according to ancient recipes. You won’t find better shish kebab or pasties than here on vacation in Foros. The wine list features excellent drinks made in Crimea.
In the Grand Fleur cafe you can always eat inexpensively, treating yourself to dishes of Ukrainian and Russian cuisine. The service here is fast and the atmosphere is very comfortable. The establishment brews excellent coffee and offers delicious desserts. The staff treats visitors with great respect; they often offer discounts that allow you to save money.
True connoisseurs of culinary masterpieces will appreciate the Fondue cafe-bar, located at Kosmonavtov Street, 9. Regulars of the establishment note the music played here in the evenings, hearty portions of dishes served by efficient waitresses. The helpfulness of the staff also plays an important role - it is clear that the owners make sure that due attention is paid to customer service.
How to get there (get there)?
You can get to Foros from Yalta by minibus No. 128, departing from the Yalta bus station literally every half hour. Travel time will be about 1 hour. It is easy to get there by any transport going to Sevastopol. From - from the Kurortnaya bus station, which is near the Railway Station - regular buses also go here. Here is the schedule of the nearest bus routes:
By car you can get to Foros from Yalta in this way:
From Sevastopol by car you will have to cover the following route:
Today it is not difficult to arrange a measured and relaxing holiday in Crimea. Foros is one of the best villages on the vastness of the peninsula for such a pastime. Here you can have a wonderful rest with health benefits, receiving a lot of positive emotions. In conclusion, we offer a short video review of the resort town. Enjoy watching!
Located on the southern coast of Crimea. The name “foros” was established in the 5th century, denoting tribute, cash contributions that went to the treasury of the Delian League (formed against the Persians by ancient Greek coastal cities and islands in the Aegean Sea). Also, scientists suggest that the name comes from the famous Faros lighthouse in Alexandria. An ancient temple was found in the vicinity of the village; it could also serve as a lighthouse.
The landscapes here are very picturesque and original. One of sights of the village- Foros Park. Recently, it was available exclusively to party workers vacationing in sanatoriums. But now any tourist can visit this incredible garden and park monument. founded in the 19th century by Raevsky Sr., owner. Later, he hired a gardener to divide the park into three parts. The lower, seaside part is the most modest. It is separated from the Middle part by a garden road that stretches from Tikhaya Bay in the east to the former hippodrome in the west. The middle part of the park is called “Paradise”: there are six tiny lakes with miniature waterfalls, located at different levels and merging into one cascade. Above the paradise, towards the highway, a forest park rises.
In the mountain spurs near Cape Nikolai, in the west, there is a former. The building is located on the territory of a small park planted with various exotic plants. 1933-1936 famous for the fact that Maxim Gorky rested and worked here. In the park there is a pool filled with mountain water, dug by Komsomol members for Gorky. The writer rested here in the shade of the trees, floating in a boat. At the very entrance to the house there is now a bust of Gorky, and inside there is a memorial room where everything related to the life and work of the writer has been preserved.
A couple of kilometers away is the southernmost point of the Crimean peninsula and Ukraine. In 1898, a lighthouse and a fog bell, which are still in operation today, were built in this place. From here they gave signals to the ships whenever the fog became too thick and the light could not get through it. From a distance, the lighthouse resembles a huge chess rook. On the eastern slope of the cape is state dacha No. 1 “Zarya”. It was here that in 1991, during the August putsch, the then President of the USSR M.S. Gorbachev was staying.
Baydar Gate
Further, over the road they are piled up, immediately behind which there is a beautiful bay - Laspinskaya Bay. Giant mountains protect it, surrounding it on three sides with an expressive semi-ring. The bay has very diverse vegetation: relict plants, orchids of the rarest species, etc. In 1980, this place was recognized as a protected area.
The resort strip of the southern coast of Crimea ends with the steep Cape Aya, rising above Batiliman from the west. The Baydar Pass completes the South Coast and opens the lands of Sevastopol. In memory of the completion of the construction of the Yalta-Sevastopol road, in 1848, at an altitude of 527 m, the Baydar Gate was installed - a stone arch in the form of an antique portico.
Above, there is a single rock - Red Rock. She looks quite romantic: sad, lonely, but proud and unapproachable. It was on it that in 1892, according to the design of the architect Chagin, the Foros Church of the Resurrection of Christ was built. The mosaic patterns are especially beautiful here, because the masters of the genius A. Salviatti worked on them, and the famous artists Makovsky K.E., Korzukhin A.I. worked on the interior. and etc.
Foros Church
The western coast from Foros to Cape Ai-Todor (including Swallow's Nest) is beautiful with its coves with clear water, rocks and bottom slopes, pebble beaches, and in places with large blocks of volcanic rock and limestone. The beaches of Foros are popular due to two strong water currents. Due to this, the water is constantly updated and remains the cleanest and most transparent on the entire southern coast of Crimea. The sea depth at the end of the breakwater ranges from 3 to 6 m.
To the west of the boarding house “Foros”, between Cape Nikolai and Cape Nikolai, in a cozy cove there is a wild beach, considered the territory of nudists. The nudi beach in Foros has about 30 years of history and testifies to the democratization of society. It is always clean and tidy here; vacationers carefully monitor the order on the beach and the juniper trees. From year to year, the beach is threatened by land grabs, but every year so far this is just talk. But the cottages are getting closer and closer...
For a long time, Foros was a deserted part of Crimea, covered with thickets of bushes and trees. In the 19th century, rich subjects of the Russian Empire began to actively buy land. Now Foros is a picturesque town for a quiet and relaxing holiday. There are no entertainment complexes here, but there are many interesting attractions. In the article I will tell you where you should definitely go and show interesting places on the map.
Cold beach
A relatively wild beach without attractions, sun loungers, umbrellas and other attributes of civilization. Only a wooden canopy stands alone on it. When going here, you should stock up on drinks and food.
The name comes from the fact that the water here is colder than in other parts of the Black Sea near the coast. There is a simple explanation for this - it is here that three cold springs flow into the sea.
Beach "Derevyashka"
In any resort region on the coast there have always been nudist beaches. Near Foros this is the Derevyashka beach. In order to get to it, you need to take a walk through the Foros Park, passing through it to the asphalt highway. And from there there are several descents.
Nobody really watches the slopes, so they are washed out by rain and are very steep. The beach is considered wild, so there are many tents located on it during the swimming season.
Beach "Quiet Bay"
One of the few Foros beaches that is less crowded than others, even at the height of the swimming season. This happens because the village council has imposed restrictions on business activities in this place. Therefore, it is worth stocking up on food and water for visiting the beach. Well, to get to it you will have to spend more time than to other beaches.
The pebbles on the beach are small, the coast is quiet and clean. The seabed is quite steep and the bay is deep. That's why there's even a pier here.
Devil's staircase
In ancient times, a mountain pass in the vicinity of Foros served to communicate the southern coast with mountain cave settlements. There are no stairs as such here. The road is quite simple, and although Shartan-Merdven is only 1 km long, the journey to the top will take at least 30 minutes.
You can get there either with a guided tour or on your own. On the Sevastopol-Yalta highway, get off at the Oliva stop. Follow the signs and walk past the boarding house to the Old Road to Yalta. This is where the climb to the top begins.
Temple of the Sun
From the turn to Laspi Bay there is a road leading to the Sun Temple. This is a formation of multi-ton stones, their arrangement reminiscent of the sun. It is considered the most mysterious and mystical place of power. It was chosen for pilgrimage by adherents of esoteric teachings and yoga. It is believed that the temple can grant wishes.
There is also a legend that only a person with pure thoughts can easily overcome the path to the temple. Those who carry evil within themselves will face great difficulties along the way.
Ahnenerbe researchers believed that there was a place of power here that made it possible to control and influence events around the world. There have been attempts to conduct research. The goals of the research are still classified, and the research teams simply disappeared.
Gorbachev's dacha
There are also attractions that tourists cannot visit, even if they want to. For example, in Foros this is Gorbachev's dacha. It is located two kilometers from Foros itself. The site for construction was chosen by the wife of the general secretary. A worse place in all respects could not be imagined.
First of all, in this place it was very difficult to protect the territory, since the area was open on all sides. And due to seismological factors and constant landslides, the place is generally unsuitable for any construction.
Plants were brought here because the slope was poor in vegetation. The dacha is surrounded by a high multi-meter fence. Inside, in addition to expensive finishing, a separate communications center and even a “nuclear” room were created. Despite the fact that luxury apartments should attract the attention of those in power, only L. Kuchma took advantage of it in his time. The dacha is considered a place with “bad energy”.
Laspi pass and observation deck
The pass is located on the road from Sevastopol to Yalta. This is the first and highest point, which actually begins the southern coast of Crimea. The observation deck offers views of Batiliman and Laspinskaya Bay. A visit to the observation deck is included in the excursion towards Yalta.
Near the observation deck there are amenities such as parking, toilets, cafes and even a motel. The trade in Crimean souvenirs is very developed. You can get there either with a tour or by public transport to the Laspi Pass stop.
Laspi Bay
Just 800 meters from the pass there is a bay of the same name. This is a very beautiful and warm place on the southern coast of Crimea. Despite its name, the water in the bay is crystal clear.
Due to the fact that even in winter the temperature here never drops below 15 degrees, you can admire the surroundings all year round. Thanks to its beautiful landscapes and clean water, Laspi appeared in such films as Amphibian Man, Savages, Before First Blood.
Bay and tract Batiliman
The bay is famous for its water. It is considered one of the cleanest on the coast. This happens due to strong currents, which renew the bay’s waters three to four times a day. Plants grow in the tract, many of which are 1000 years old. Many of them are listed in the Red Book.
This is one of the favorite places for divers and climbers. The walls of the tract are almost vertical, and climbing the mountains that surround this place is quite difficult.
Uzundzhi Canyon
Named after the river Uzundzhi of the same name, which originates from Ai-Petri and flows into the Chernorechenskoe reservoir. Traveling through the canyon is quite interesting if you have the right equipment - at least comfortable shoes and clothes, and warm paita in your backpack. There is no road along the river; all 11 km will have to be covered on foot.
The river is very shallow, so in dry summers it can dry up completely. To appreciate all the beauty of the mountain river, it is better to come here in spring. Although, seeing what was hidden under the water and exploring the riverbed is also an interesting activity.
Baydar Valley
The valley is located in the southeast direction from Sevastopol. It is rightfully considered the most picturesque in Crimea. The valley lies in a basin and connects the mountainous area with Foros and Laspi. The Chernaya River flows through the valley and there are two reservoirs - Chernorechenskoye and Goncharinskoye. The relief and vegetation are somewhat reminiscent of Switzerland, only in miniature.
The valley is a source of underground fresh water, which is very important for the peninsula. Today it is a natural protected reserve; many animals and plants are listed in the Red Book. A Roman road ran through the valley, the remains of which are still preserved. It was used mainly in winter and autumn, when navigation became impossible for Roman and other merchant ships.
From Foros you can get to the valley through the Baydar Gate.
Baydar Gate
The “Baydar Gate” pass is the first thing a traveler encounters on his way when traveling from the South Coast to Sevastopol. The construction of the gate was carried out in 1848. This event is timed to coincide with the opening of the road -.
In appearance, the gate arch is somewhat reminiscent of the triumphal arch in Paris. There is an observation deck on the roof from which you can admire the surroundings and take beautiful pictures. The beauty of the pass was noted by Empress Catherine II, and after the construction of the “front entrance” from the valley to the South Coast, A. Mitskevich, L. Ukrainka, V. Mayakovsky and others came here.
During the war, the pass was a strategic object that could not be held, despite all the efforts made. Although for a day Terletsky’s detachment managed to hold back the army of Nazi Germany, while the main troops retreated to Sevastopol.
Skelskaya cave
The cave is located in the lower reaches of the Uzundzha River. It appeared as a result of a fault in the earth's crust, and natural factors modified it to its present form. Water seeps through the limestone, which has formed a whole palace of stalactites and stalagmites.
Thanks to the formation of stalagnates, five halls were formed that anyone can visit. Each hall has its own name, which are not
are random and reflect the presence of bizarre figures in each of the halls. The names are as follows: Knight's, Organ, Fireplace, Dolphin and the Hall of Ghosts.
Entry into the cave is permitted only with accompanying persons, since descending into such earthly cavities is associated with certain dangers, and not all tourists are experienced climbers or diggers. A pleasant fact is that there is a road leading to the cave, along which you can get to the very entrance.
House of Count Kuznetsov
A wealthy tea merchant was one of the first to buy land in Crimea near Foros. He had weak lungs and moving to Crimea was supposed to improve his health. He chose a place that was ideal for its construction. On the adjacent territory, he laid out a park, into which many unique and rare plants were brought.
Despite the size of the mansion, it was rebuilt in just a few years. The exterior decoration fits perfectly into the design of the park. The interior decoration was second to none. The collection of panels could be the envy of the Tretyakov Art Gallery. By the way, all the canvases were pasted on the walls. This mishandling saved their existence during the war and the looting of the estate.
Nowadays, Kuznetsov’s house is located on the territory of the sanatorium. Admission is free, so anyone can admire it. You can get to the attraction from Yalta or Sevastopol. Get off at the Forossky Descent stop.
Foros Park
The ideological inspirer and creator was the same tea magnate Kuznetsov. It was he who began landscaping and beautifying the area around his mansion in the 19th century. The park contains many different plants; the cascade of ponds and waterfalls is simply mesmerizing. You can walk in it all day long throughout your vacation. For those who love beach holidays, you can go down the alley straight from the park to a well-maintained beach.
Conventionally, the park can be divided into two parts. The first, Paradise, is landscaped for tourist walks. And the second is a forest of trees that are hundreds of years old.
There is a sad curiosity about the park. By order of Stalin, after the American president visited the park, all the cypress trees were cut down. For Americans, cypress trees are cemetery trees.
Foros Church
It is considered one of the main attractions of Crimea and is located at an altitude of 412 meters above sea level. It is visible from the Sevastopol - Yalta highway and seems to hang over it. The church is active, so services are held every Sunday, and weddings or baptisms can be observed every day.
The construction of the church was carried out by the same magnate Kuznetsov. There are two versions of the reasons for the construction of the temple. The first says that it was built in honor of the miraculous rescue of Emperor Alexander III and his family during a train crash. The second is more banal. Kuznetsov was a tea magnate, and the royal family at that time had a monopoly on the tea trade. This is a kind of payoff for breaking the monopoly. In any case, the temple was often visited by the royal family.
What sights to see in Foros on your own
If you come there for the first time in your life, then it is better to go on all excursions with a guide or guide. This will allow you not only to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and architecture, but also to expand your horizons with new knowledge.
For example, you can visit Laspi Bay, the beaches, and the Baydar Valley on your own, especially if you have a car. But traveling through canyons, tracts, and cave cities is best done with experienced guides. You can get to and by bus.
Where to go in winter
There are many attractions in the surrounding area that can be seen regardless of the time of year. This is, for example, the house of Count Kuznetsov, or the park adjacent to the house, or the same Foros Church. But places like Skelkaya Cave or the Temple of the Sun are best visited in the dry season.
Today the following organized excursions are offered in Foros. A trip to the Uzundzha Canyon, a dolphinarium in Laspi Bay, Skelskaya Cave, a trip to wineries, “Drunken Grove” in Foros Park and many others.
Foros
Holidays in Foros are distinguished by their tranquility and warm welcome. The famous Foros Park, the Cote d'Azur, the warm sea and stunning views of the majestic mountains are the main attractions of Foros. And now more about what this village is like, as well as what you can see in Foros.
About the village of Foros. Resort in a nutshell
The village of Foros is considered the southernmost point of the southern coast of Crimea. It is located between Yalta and Sevastopol. More specifically, Yalta is 50 km away from Foros, and Sevastopol is 40 km away. If you do not have a personal car and travel by public transport, then it will be more convenient to get to Sevastopol. Buses run more frequently in this direction. Although it is unlikely that when you come to Foros to relax, you will have the desire to leave this fabulously picturesque place. The village of Foros in Crimea itself is small. There are few high-rise buildings here.
Most of the residential area of the village is occupied by private sector. Accommodation can be rented either in private houses or apartments by advertisement, or in local Foros hotels. The infrastructure here is quite developed.
There is a food and clothing market, shops, restaurants and cafes. You can also buy at the market Home wine And delicious figs. For the most part, people come here to improve their health and improve their health. Since ancient times, sick people came to Foros tuberculosis. The local pine needles and juniper have a healing effect on the lungs. What else is remarkable about the village and where can you go here?
Guest house ‘Grand Fleur’ – Photo 03
What to see in Foros? Things to do?
Foros Church
Anyone who comes to the village for the first time or simply drives past on the Sevastopol highway cannot help but pay attention to the proudly towering Church of the Ascension of Christ, better known as the Foros Church. This church can be seen from all corners of the village, and throughout the entire route. The golden dome of the church is illuminated at night by powerful lanterns.
True, it is impossible to get to the church on foot. But in the center of Foros you can book an excursion from experienced guides. You will be taken by comfortable transport to the church itself and told about the history of its creation. From the top there is a breathtaking view of the entire village, the beaches of Foros and the nearby settlements. At altitude you can breathe incredibly fresh and easy.
Foros Church – Photo 05
Skelskaya cave
This place was opened to tourists quite recently. There is a cave not far from the Foros Church. The Skelskaya Cave is in no way inferior in its beauty and mystery to the famous Marble Cave.
To get here, you can book an excursion trip called “Baydar Gate”. This tour includes a stop at the Foros Church, travel through the Baydar Valley and a visit to the Skelskaya Cave. Just take comfortable shoes and a jacket with you. The cave, although small, is quite damp and cool.
Foros Park
It is the duty of every guest of the village of Foros in Crimea to visit the Foros Park. This is a historically valuable and picturesque place. The founder of this park was the merchant Alexander Grigorievich Kuznetsov. This is the man who made tea accessible to all segments of the population, significantly reducing its selling price.
In the village of Foros in Crimea, Kuznetsov built himself a cozy house, where excursions are now held, and also laid out a magnificent garden with exotic varieties of various plants and trees. There are currently 200 plant species.
But in addition to vegetation, the park has “ Paradise" or " Paradise", where excursion groups come from all over the peninsula. In this place you will see a cascade of six lakes. Water lilies grow in each of the lakes. Tourists love to take pictures in front of the sculpture in the form of deer. It’s also very quiet and peaceful here. The aroma of juniper trees, spread throughout the park, has healing properties.
The park is located on the territory Crimean sanatorium "Foros". Previously, only the Soviet elite rested in this sanatorium. Now anyone can rent a room in the Foros sanatorium in Crimea. By the way, entrance to the park through the sanatorium is absolutely free. Payment is made only for a tour of the park or Kuznetsov Palace. There is also something to gawk at in the house of tea magnate Kuznetsov. Panels embroidered on fabric, a huge dining table for the entire room and, of course, a view of the azure sea from the windows.
Lilies in Foros Park - Photo 09
Beaches of Foros
The beaches in Foros, as in most of the Crimean Peninsula, are pebbly. There are six beaches in the village: Green, Cold, Pink, wild beach « piece of wood"and near Cape Chekhov. At the end of the village, if you go through the tunnel in the wall, you can go to the sixth beach " Quiet Bay" This is a small beach, surrounded on all sides by breakwaters and hills. Thanks to this, there are almost never big waves or storms here.
The water temperature in Foros depends on the time of year. During the season, water sports can be enjoyed on the beach. Divers love the depths here. At Tikhaya Bay you can rent a speedboat, boat, catamaran or jet ski. Excursion boats and steamships depart from the Foros sanatorium, making boat trips all the way to Cape Aya. Some of them, at the request of tourists, even visit Balaklava Bay. Along the way, you will pass the famous “Brezhnev Dacha”, where no one lives yet. Politicians have been very superstitious about this place since Brezhnev was removed from his post while he was vacationing at this dacha.
Brezhnev Dacha - Photo 12
It is known that Ukrainian presidents celebrated their birthdays here. Tourists are not brought here because the dacha is under state control. The ship’s guide will also show you a beach with the strange name “Stone River”. It got its name because of a rock mudflow, that is, a crumbling rock. Only daredevils rest on this beach, since one wrong move up this “stone river” can cost your life.
