The Republic of Karelia might not be the first place you think of when you imagine Russia, but it’s certainly one of its most interesting and underappreciated regions. Tucked up in the northwest corner of the country, Karelia lies on the border with Finland, offering a unique mix of Russian and Scandinavian influences.
In fact Karelia is actually a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to Russia as few tourists actually venture into the area.
A Brief History of Karelia
Karelia has a long and complicated history, shaped by its location between two powerful neighbors namely Russia and Finland. Over the centuries, it has changed hands multiple times, first under the control of Swedish kings, then the Russians, and for a brief period, Finland. After the Winter War in the 1940s, Karelia became a part of the Soviet Union as a full Soviet Republic before becoming part of Russia.
Today, it’s known for its natural beauty and its relatively low population density. With a small population that lives mostly in the capital, Petrozavodsk, and a few other towns, the region feels quiet, laid-back, and often overlooked by those heading to Russia’s bigger cities like Moscow or St. Petersburg. But that’s exactly why it’s so special as it’s one of the places in Russia where you can still experience something authentic, but without the masses. This is particularly true since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Photo: marusia.savina, Amazing Birds
Nature at Its Best
When it comes to Karelia, nature is the star of the show. The region is full of forests, lakes, and rivers that look like they’ve been pulled straight from a postcard. Lake Ladoga, the largest lake in Europe, is one of Karelia’s most iconic landmarks. It’s so vast that it can feel like an ocean. You can explore its shores, visit the islands, and even get a glimpse of the old wooden churches that dot the landscape.
If you’re into hiking or just getting out into the wild, Karelia offers plenty of spots to do that. The rugged terrain, thick forests, and crystal-clear lakes make it an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, you can always take a boat trip or simply sit back and enjoy the view of the endless wilderness.
Photo: Beachysky
Soviet Remnants of Karelia
Karelia’s Soviet history is still very much visible today. During the Soviet era, the region was an important industrial center, especially for logging and mining. Some of the old factories and Soviet-era buildings still stand, and in places like the town of Kondopoga, you can see the lasting impact of the industrial boom that once thrived here. If you’re into history, it’s interesting to see how the Soviet period shaped the local economy and environment.
But perhaps the most intriguing remnants of the Soviet past are the abandoned military sites scattered across the region. While not as famous as places like Chernobyl, Karelia has its fair share of deserted military towns and bunkers that were once part of the Soviet Union’s defense system. These abandoned sites feel like they’re frozen in time, offering a window into a part of Russia’s history that few people outside of the country ever get to experience.
The People of Karelia
Karelia’s population is small but diverse, with many locals having roots that stretch back to the indigenous Karelian people. These people have a unique culture that blends Russian and Finnish traditions, seen in everything from the food they eat to the language they speak. The Karelian language is still spoken by some, though Russian is the dominant language.
The locals are friendly but fairly reserved, not surprising given the harsh winters they endure. Karelia is a place where people are used to the cold, and life moves at a slower pace. They’ve also kept many of their old traditions alive, particularly in terms of food. You’ll find plenty of hearty dishes like fish soup, rye bread, and of course, reindeer, which is a local delicacy. The region is also known for its delicious berries, including lingonberries and cloudberries, which are used in jams, desserts, and other treats.
Photo: Best of Archeoly
Getting to Karelia
One of the things that makes Karelia such an interesting destination is how hard it is to get there. It’s not the easiest region to access from other parts of Russia, and flights to Petrozavodsk can be few and far between. But that just adds to the charm if you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten track, Karelia is it. You can catch a train or drive from St. Petersburg, but expect the journey to take a little longer than you might expect.
Once you’re there, you’ll be glad you made the trip. The quiet, peaceful atmosphere is the complete opposite of Russia’s big cities, and the chance to explore a part of the country that most tourists never even think about is something you won’t forget.
Karelia: A Place to Get Away From It All
The Republic of Karelia is a place where nature still reigns supreme, where Soviet history lingers in the background, and where life moves at its own pace. It might not be the easiest place to get to, but that’s part of what makes it special. If you’re looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Russia, Karelia is a place that’s well worth the journey. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or just enjoying the beauty of the natural world, Karelia has something for everyone at least in the mind of YPT!
Click to check out YPT’s Russia Tours.
About Post Author
