Lake Baikal Ring: Map-Scheme
Bolshie Koty (or Big Cats) is a village of only 150 residents. It is situated right on the shore of Lake Baikal, about 70km/43 mi southeast of Irkutsk city by ferry. There is no regular ground transport between Irkutsk city and Bolshie Koty. During the summer, residents and visitors use water transportation. When winter comes, "ice" roads connect villages to urban areas. A former site for gold digging, today the village is mainly known for its picturesque views. The Siberian wooden architecture interspersed by pine trees, surrounded by mountains and the lake, make a peaceful and unforgettable impressions. During the visit, you can hike the mountains or pay a visit to the local scientific base. It has a museum with interesting botanic and zoological collections (400 exhibits) and an aquarium (the only in Russia with a collection of Baikal fish species). If you stay overnight, take a hike to old shafts left from gold digging.
|
