Sochi Travel Guide

Sochi Overview

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.