If you travel around Sochi by rented car, it is definitely worth stopping by one of the main attractions - Big Akhun Mountain. Here is a paved road, so you can get straight to the mountain, leaving the car at the parking lot. And from there, you can take a walk through the picturesque surroundings.
The way from Sochi takes 29 km (about 40 minutes). Be careful on the turns, there are serpentine sections.
Why to come here:
- to see the best viewing platform in Sochi;
- explore local caves;
- walk along rivers and waterfalls;
- get acquainted with the rich flora of the mountain;
- enjoy picturesque views and breathe in fresh, clean air.
Akhun Mountain Guide
The mountain massif consists of 3 main points: Big Akhun (663 m), Little Akhun (501 m), and Eagle Rocks (380 m). The whole territory is a natural treasure protected by the state.
The first thing you should do is to visit the observation deck with the tower. From here, you can enjoy incredible views of Sochi, the Black Sea and the green hills. Here you can take cool pictures. Near the tower there are cafes and souvenir shops. You can take a ride on the Ferris wheel.
After enjoying the views, go explore other beauties of the mountain.
Akhun is diverse with its flora and fauna. Here you will find about 200 species of plants, some of which are included in the Red Book. A lot of animals, birds and fish, including wild ones.
On the territory there are about 30 caves. But not all of them can be visited.
We advise to go down to the Agura Gorge. You will see: waterfalls, water rolls, the Agurchik River, rocks, and an abandoned hot spring. From here you can see the Eagle Rocks, which is worth getting to if possible.
There are 2 ways to get to the cliffs:
- return to the parking place on the mountain Akhun, get in your car and follow the road;
- walk from the gorge along the river and waterfalls.
Eagle Rocks are notable for the ancient Greek legend. That is why there is a statue of Prometheus, who, according to legend, stole fire from the gods and gave it to ordinary people.
From here you can see the Agura Gorge and Mount Akhun. There is a small cafe where you can taste Caucasian cuisine and drink tea. In cold weather you will be warmed by mulled wine. You can also visit the cave by walking up the stairs in the steep cliff. Such a way is safe, but a share of adrenaline is provided.
Man-made attractions
In addition to the natural beauties and the above-mentioned sights on the territory of Mount Akhun there are several interesting structures that are worth seeing:
- Abandoned restaurant
Once upon a time, a tragic story befell the entertainment establishment. This place is shrouded in mystery and mysticism. Now tourists can see the remains of an empire building from the Stalinist era and learn about its sad fate.
- Ruins of a Christian temple
Located on top of Maly Akhun, near the pond.
