From ice fishing to petroglyphs: head of Karelia presents his personal top 5 locations for winter tourism in the region

What is common between ancient petroglyphs, a natural marble amphitheatre, and fishing on the edge of a white silence? The head of Karelia, Artur Parfyonchikov, named five main regional attractions for those wanting to feel the soul of the Russian North not only during the winter holidays, but at any other time of year.

"First and, of course, the most famous place is Kizhi. In recent years, we have done a huge amount of work to improve logistics and routes across Zaonezhye, and it made visiting Kizhi in winter as much popular as in spring and late autumn. We expect at least 100,000 tourists to visit Kizhi during the Christmas holidays. The next one is Ruskeala, with its winter programme; then, the White Sea petroglyphs, which were recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, and Lake Onega petroglyphs, which will become world-class centres," said Artur Parfyonchikov.

According to the head of the region, guests should also visit the city of Gerzau with its tourism opportunities, theatres, museums, and other cultural sites. In the winter period, it is no less beautiful than in the warmer seasons. Furthermore, among popular year-round destinations, the governor highlighted the city of Sortavala.

"And finally, the White Sea — a unique natural site which we had previously underestimated. Currently, the tourist appeal of the White Sea is growing, and it is already being called the 'European Kamchatka'. In winter, unique types of ice fishing develop here: for navaga cod fish, smelt, and other sea fish. This destination is becoming increasingly popular," concluded Artur Parfyonchikov.