
Sochi from the Black Sea
Home to the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, Sochi is nestled in the
slopes of the Caucasus Mountains and stretches 90 miles (145km)
along the coast of the Black Sea, the longest city in Europe.
Referred to as the 'Russian Riviera', Sochi boasts an inviting
subtropical climate, pebbled beaches, lush forests, botanical
parks, waterfalls, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Caucasian
Biosphere Reserve, and a world-class skiing resort close by - not
your typical Russian city.
Famed for its sulphur springs and boasting over 200 health spas,
including the world-renowned Matsesta, Sochi is more than just a
healthy holiday destination. Every summer the elite of Russia
descend upon Sochi for the annual film festival, 'Kinotavr' along
with two million other visitors who come to enjoy this vibrant
season. During the winter, Sochi sees a slew of tourists making
their way to the nearby ski resort of Krasnaya Polyana, which is
set to host a number of events of the 2014 Winter Olympic
Games.
Home of tennis ace Maria Sharapova and Stalin's favourite dacha,
the city of Sochi offers visitors great skiing, hiking and sailing
opportunities. Any trip here will be a memorable and relaxing
one.