Although when under Communism Solovki’s remote and inhospitable location led to its conversion into one of the most infamous and cruel gulags, today restoration is underway to restore it to its former glory.
There is a short window of opportunity in the summer months of June and August when the weather is usually glorious. Although it is not an easy destination and accommodation is severely limited, the trip is well worth the reward.
The Solovetsky Islands, which are also referred to as Solovki, are located in the cold waters of the southern White Sea, just outside the Arctic Circle. The islands have historically seen a range of human extremes from endurance and heroism to severe cruelty, and they are home to one of the most influential monasteries in the Russian Tsarist Empire, the Solovki Monastery.
The easiest way to reach Solovki is to travel from St Petersburg by train and boat stopping on the way to visit the little-known city of Kargapol, with its unique wooden architecture. On arrival, the best way to approach the island is by a rowing boat through the myriad of natural canals which criss-cross the island.
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A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
My travels were first inspired by my love of the UK, which I take as much pleasure in exploring as countries far and wide. For me, travel is all about the adventure, the people I meet and the food I sample along the way.
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