Karelia puts on tourism

Republic of Karelia, situated in North-Western part of Russia, and traditionally viewed by the Russians as one of their favorite holiday destinations, has introduced it's program of tourism development in the international investment forum in Sochi.

The Karelian authorities plan to increase the share of tourism in the republic's economy to 15%.

The main project worth 8 bln rubles is the development of a single tourist route including three main historical attractions of Karelia - the Orthodox cathedrals and monasteries of Kizhi, Valaam and Solovki.

The project emphasizes the development of the tourist infrastructure on the islands where each of the architectural ensembles stands. It includes piers, hotels, cultural and business centres.

Another big project is renovation of 'Martial Waters' resort - the first historical Russian spa built by Peter the Great. It has unique mineral spring famous for their benign qualities. Also a Centre of Water Tourism is planned to be built in Karelian capital Petrozavodsk.