As the winter season of 2024/2025 draws to a close, experts from the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RST) have pointed out the most popular skiing destinations for Russians. Leading the pack is the Sochi mountain cluster, renowned for its picturesque resorts like Rosa Khutor and Krasnaya Polyana. Ilya Vinogradov, the General Director of ANO 'Center for the Development of Mountain Ski Industry and Tourist Territories,' highlights that Sochi attracts over half of all vacationers, with estimates suggesting that about 70% of tourists prefer this area.
Following Sochi are the Caucasian resorts of Arkhyz, Elbrus, and Dombay, which have garnered substantial popularity among winter sports enthusiasts. Vinogradov suggests a likely increase of around 10% in visitation to Sheregesh in the Kemerovo region compared to last year, further solidifying its position in the rankings.
As for the Altai Mountains, both Manzherok and Belokurikha are emerging as leaders, while Abzakovo and Bannoye are the preferred choices in the Urals. Gubakha, situated in the Perm region, has also seen a surge in visitors, reporting a 30% rise during the New Year holidays this season compared to last.
Notably, Bolshoy Vudyavr in the Murmansk area has emerged as a popular option, attracting winter sports enthusiasts with its quality trails and extended skiing season, alongside natural wonders like the Northern Lights. The resort has observed a 15% uptick in guests this winter.
Looking at statistics from the online booking service 'Ostrovok', the average accommodation costs per day show significant variations across top destinations. Esto-Sadok, part of the Sochi cluster, has an average nightly rate of 14,000 rubles, which represents an 18% increase from last year. Krasnaya Polyana follows closely with an average rate of 12,300 rubles, reflecting a 14% rise. Arkhyz and Dombay have averaged 12,300 and 8,550 rubles respectively, marking increases of 21% and 24%. Sheregesh rounds out the top rankings with an average nightly cost of 11,100 rubles, showing a 23% increase.
Olga Ivanova, Head of Public Relations at Fun&Sun travel operator, indicated that the most popular destination for organized skiers is Krasnaya Polyana, where the average package cost, including flights, is around 74,000 rubles per person, which is a 15% increase year-on-year. Sheregesh follows this with an average package costing 75,000 rubles, also up 15% from last year. The resorts of the North Caucasus rank third in the list, led by Dombay with an average check of 22,000 rubles for four nights, and Arkhyz at 13,000 rubles for three nights, both options excluding flights.
Alena Gromova, Director of Domestic Market at Coral Travel, corroborated this popularity of Caucasian resorts, particularly emphasizing Rosa Khutor due to its high-level hotels, luxury restaurants, and a comprehensive ski infrastructure that boasts over 100 km of trails. She noted, “Gazprom Polyana is a very beautiful place: wide forest trails, excellent infrastructure, and a rich event calendar.”
Comparatively, the older Dombay resort is better suited for more experienced skiers, whereas Arkhyz appeals to skiers of all skill levels due to its mild climate and ample facilities. Vinogradov added that the demand for high-adrenaline experiences such as heli-skiing is rising among enthusiasts.
Sheregesh, known for its powdery snow and lower elevation mountains, holds a unique charm. As reported, “Sheregesh does not have large or chain 5 hotels, well-developed infrastructure, like in Krasnaya Polyana, but there are enough 3-4 hotels and guest houses. Companies, parents with children come here, there is everything for both beginners and advanced skiers, great opportunities for freeride. This season, the resort was more popular with our tourists than a year earlier,” said Gromova.
The resorts of the Altai Territory, particularly Belokurikha and Manzherok, are gaining traction among winter sport fans. Vinogradov noted, “According to preliminary data, the average check at Russian ski resorts has grown by 11-30%. For example, at the Bannoye and Abzakovo resorts, the revenue from cable car services increased by 31%.” The sales of ski passes in Krasnaya Polyana also saw a surge of 21%, alongside a 29% increase for long-distance tickets.
Additionally, there has been a noticeable increase in interest towards winter sports overall, igniting demand for skiing lessons for both children and adults. On average, training service sales have increased by about 15% compared to last winter season, prompting resorts to expand their beginner programs.
Vinogradov pointed out that as guest numbers surge, infrastructure development is not lagging behind.
