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Achieve Your Potential in Competition IOM Sailing

Vickers RC Sailing

Producer of the V11 Competition International One Metre Design by Ian Vickers.

Our workshop opened in 2014 with the V8 IOM. Since then we have produced hundreds of hand crafted IOM yachts in the Vickers design range. Yachts that have helped IOM competitors around the world achieve their potential and exceed expectations in competition.

We are currently offering the V11, the innovative design that finished 3rd at the 2019 World Championships in Port Alegre, Brazil.

When our clients return, they know they are tapping in to smart, competitive technology in IOM design and build. Stiff, Lightweight boats, that are Easily Assembled, Fast and Forgiving to sail. Join the fun!

Improve your results at the club and the regatta, with the fast and forgiving V11 from Vickers RC Sailing

Set Up and Sail

The V11 detailing is simple but effective. In conjunction with the V11 Set Up Guide, assembly is straight forward, and vital tuning information assists you to quickly understand and master your V11's potential

Vickers RC Sailing build processes are well refined and thought out.

Our boats are light, stiff and clever,  keeping to a simple and effective philosophy around detailing

The V11 design is a hull, foils and bulb package to compliment the full range of conditions experienced in RC Sailing. The hull design has full volume forward and features the familiar chines and tumblehome of the modern IOM for reduced weight and windage, as well as good tracking characteristics. The V11 features our peaked style foredeck for efficient water shedding when buried downwind and a geometrically strong shape for the forestay and mast ram areas.

Foils are slippery and strategically positioned with the rig to balance the yacht. The V11s forgiving balance through the wind range, allows the skipper to focus on the race at hand, and not rely on micro steering to maintain a consistent VMG.

The rig sits solid on its deck stepped mast step, complimented at deck level with an encapsulating mast gate arrangement over the mast ram. The rudder tube is rigidly supported inside the moulded servo tray. 

Hull construction is from E-Glass Fibreglass Cloth and High Grade Epoxy Resin.

The foils are Carbon Fibre Layup with High Grade Epoxy Resin.

Paint system is a 2 pot Urethane and the boat is thoroughly post cured before finishing.

The V11 Features-

Plastic main hatch access. 

Ready to accept RMG Winch and Standard sized Rudder Servo

Bow Bumper attached.

Hardware is Bantock including an adjustable mast ram, adjustable mainsheet post and tiller arm.

All necessary fittings attached for standing and running rigging.

The V11 comes out of our workshop in Beach Haven, Auckland New Zealand and is ready to accept rigs and electrics.

We also make sails that can be added to the order, or ordered separately.

So hit the enquiry button to discuss delivery times and options.

We are ready to help.

Essential to success in sailing comes down to the  Rig and how it is set up and tuned. The V11 comes with a Set Up Guide that covers all the expert information needed to set up like the guns. It specifies the hardware, construction and tuning information to get your rig and sails set up and sailing near optimum straight off the bat, so you can enjoy your racing and punch above your weight.

Include Sets of sails from Vickers RC Sailing and enhance the experience.

Vickers Rc Sailing is back taking orders again for the V11

We look forward to hearing from you 

Thanks for submitting!

Occasional ruminations, experimentations, and observations on the art and nonsense of building wooden radio control sailboats. Thanks for visiting!

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Presenting the vickers v8 wooden iom rc sailboat.

Looks great! Now you're ready to start your J.

Wonderful job, looks fabulous. I've just started mine. No idea what I'm doing. Will take me a lot more than 70 days I suspect. Thanks for this post.

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3D Printed RC Yachts

Affordable IOM 3 D Printed Kits

Paul Barton

I'm a member of a thriving RC sailing group at Whitefriars SC in the Cotswolds. We have a fleet of 15 IOMs that race every Tuesday during the year as well as a similar sized fleet of DF95 that race on a Monday.

3d Printed IOM

Five years ago I came to RC sailing from sailing full size yachts and regret that I didn’t try it 20 years earlier. I started out with a 25 year old IOM, built by Squire Kay, that was well past its best and really not a good start. I then bought a second hand IOM by Barry Chisam, an ASBO, which I used to learn how to sail. I then bought a new Sedici, an Italian boat with an impressive pedigree. I had to wait around 14 months which was less than ideal.

My primary goal is to bring an affordable, modern design, IOM to the market with rapid delivery for self assembly and finishing.

As an engineer, I’ve always been interested in innovations and became aware of the potential for 3D printing around 12 years ago. Around 3 years ago I began to explore the idea of using it to print IOM boats. I was fortunate to be in a position to place a order for a Sedici but had to wait 14 months for delivery. From the placing of an order with the large, prominent manufacturers, it can take anywhere from 4 months to over 2 years to get the boat into the hands of the owner and the costs can easily spiral towards and in some cases way beyond £3000

Using 3D printing, I believe, it is quite possible to shorten the order/build process to just a few weeks and get many more IOM yachts into the hands of skippers at price that is much more reasonable.

If you want to look at the whole subject the best site to start with is https://3dprintedradioyachts.com/. There are even some free designs there for you to print yourself.I spent many hour on the site and cannot commend the author highly enough.

Having looked at several designs for 3d printing I printed a few for testing and while they might be wonderful designs they all had flaws. Some were:

• awkward to assemble
• took a long time to finish
• needed glass cloth reinforcement

Eventually I settled on the Alioth IOM design from Juan Egea. Juan is a very experienced IOM sailor and has done well on the world stage. His Alioth Design, in its second iteration, is a good performer in all conditions and has the results to back it up.

The Alioth may look familiar but the painstaking work Juan has done to produce a strong and light hull is what marks it out. It is printed in a continuous spiral which is capable of producing an outstanding surface finish which really needs very little finishing. We know of several boats that have been printed and put on the water without any surface treatment. The innovative thing about the design is the way Juan has kept the weight out of the fore and aft ends and the strength in the centre.

For the moment the best way to contact me is to use the contact form on this website.

Fin’s

We are working on several fin designs. Parallel, tapered and wine glass forms. All use the same head fitting and will be available very shortly. As fins are critical to the performance of any boat we are now supplying Dave Creed fins and rudders as an option.

LATEST NEWS

Reflecting on Three Years of Progress

As we mark the third anniversary of the Alioth's launch, we're filled with gratitude for the journey we've shared. Throughout these years, our...

Interview with Juan Egea during the 2023 IOM European Championship

Discover the interview with Juan M Egea about the 3D printed boat, Alioth, during the 2023 European Championship of the IOM class held in...

Alioth V3 is available now

New GCode files generated with the most advanced slicing technology that improve the strength, durability, and …

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By adhering to the Decalogue you voluntarily commit yourself to the good practices defined to keep the oceans clean.

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International One Meter RC Sailboat: Your Guide to Sailing and Racing in Style

• By - Kyle Hilson
• Posted on November 14, 2023 November 14, 2023
• Posted in RC Boats

Remote-controlled sailboats have become an increasingly popular hobby among water enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Among the many types of remote-controlled sailboats available on the market today, the International One Meter RC Sailboat stands out for its distinct design and international racing scene. Measuring exactly one meter in length, these sleek and elegant sailboats are built to compete in races around the world. In this article, we will explore the world of International One Meter RC Sailboats, from their specifications and materials to the competitive racing scene and maintenance requirements. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner interested in trying your hand at remote-controlled sailboat racing, learning about the International One Meter RC Sailboat is sure to intrigue and inspire you. So, let’s dive in!

What is an International One Meter RC Sailboat?

An International One Meter RC Sailboat is a remote-controlled sailboat that is one meter long and built to strict guidelines for racing. Here are some of the key specifications and features of these sailboats:

• The hull length must be exactly one meter, with a maximum beam of 200 mm.
• The minimum weight of the boat is 4 kg, including all batteries and any removable ballast .
• Sail area is limited to 5250 square millimeters, with a maximum mast height of 1.75 meters and maximum boom length of 1 meter.
• The sail must be made from a non-stretch material, with no more than one self-tacking jib and one mainsail allowed.
• Common materials used for construction include fiberglass , carbon fiber , and Kevlar .

If you’re interested in purchasing your own International One Meter RC Sailboat , you can find a variety of models available online or through specialty hobby retailers. Some popular models include:

What size sailboat is best for solo sailing?

When it comes to solo sailing, the recommended sailboat size usually ranges from 20-30 feet, with 25 feet being the most common. A smaller sailboat allows for ease of handling, maneuverability, and control. However, it is essential to consider your skills and experience when selecting the boat’s size to ensure your safety.

There are various sailboat models and sizes to choose from, and boating enthusiasts can check out websites such as Sailmagazine, Yachtingworld, and Sailrite for additional information on sailboat sizes and types.

Sailing an International One Meter RC Sailboat

Sailing an International One Meter RC Sailboat requires skill and precision to maneuver the boat through the water. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• The wind direction and speed will greatly affect the boat’s performance, so it’s important to adjust the sails accordingly.
• Racing rules dictate that boats must stay “clear astern, clear ahead, or overlapped” when tacking or jibing, to avoid collisions.
• In gusty winds, it’s crucial to keep the boat balanced to prevent capsizing .
• Some sailboats may have adjustable ballast , which can be used to improve performance in certain conditions.

Interesting facts about International One Meter RC Sailboats:

What skills do you need to sail a boat?

Sailing a boat requires several skills, including:

• Navigation: The ability to read charts, use a compass, and understand tide and wind patterns.
• Maneuvering: Knowing how to steer the boat, adjust sails, and handle ropes and lines.
• Maintenance: Understanding the basics of boat maintenance and repair is essential.
• Safety: Knowing how to keep yourself and others safe on the boat, including wearing the appropriate safety gear and being prepared for emergencies.

If you’re looking to improve your sailing skills, there are courses and certifications you can take through organizations such as the American Sailing Association or the Royal Yachting Association. Additionally, websites like Sailing World or Sail Magazine offer helpful articles and resources for sailors of all levels.

Racing an International One Meter RC Sailboat

The International One Meter RC Sailboat class has a vibrant racing scene , with events held around the world. Here are some things to know about racing these sailboats:

• Starting procedure: Races typically begin with boats lining up behind a start line, with timed signals to indicate the start of the race.
• Race course: Courses are usually marked by buoys or other markers, and may involve multiple laps or other variations.
• Windward/Leeward: One common racing format involves sailing upwind and downwind legs to reach a mark, making a turn, and then sailing back to the start.
• Strategy: Skill in reading wind patterns, adjusting the boat’s balance and sail trim, and avoiding collisions with other boats are all important in racing an International One Meter RC Sailboat.

If you’re interested in taking your International One Meter RC Sailboat to the next level and competing in races, there are a number of resources available:

• The International One Meter Class Association maintains a website with information on class rules, race results, and upcoming events.
• Local and regional sailing clubs may have regular International One Meter RC Sailboat races or events.
• Online forums and communities can provide advice and support for those interested in racing International One Meter RC Sailboats.

What is the most popular RC sailboat class?

The most popular RC sailboat class is the International One Meter (IOM). It is a strict one-design class that is easy to sail and has a large international following. IOM sailboats are typically between 1 and 1.07 meters in length and weigh around 4.5 kilograms. There are several websites and forums dedicated to the IOM class, including the International Radio Sailing Association (IRSA) and the United States Radio Sailing Association (USRSA). Numerous IOM models are available from various manufacturers, including Joysway, Dragon Sailing, and Radio Sailing Shop.

Maintenance of an International One Meter RC Sailboat

Keeping your International One Meter RC Sailboat in good condition is important for both performance and longevity. Here are some tips for maintenance:

• Hull care: Regularly clean the hull with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. For tougher stains, use a specialized cleaner formulated for fiberglass or carbon fiber .
• Sail care: Store sails rolled up rather than folded to prevent creases and damage. Check for any tears or fraying regularly and mend as necessary.
• Battery care: Recharge the battery after each use, and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use to prolong its lifespan.
• Rigging: Check the rigging, including lines and booms, for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them as necessary.

Common issues that may arise with an International One Meter RC Sailboat include:

• Rudder issues: If the rudder is not responding properly, it may need to be adjusted or replaced.
• Sail malfunctions: Sails may become tangled or not deploy properly. Inspect your sail before each use and make sure it is in good condition.
• Electronic issues: If your remote control is not operating properly, there may be an issue with the frequency or battery voltage, or the receiver may need to be replaced.

If you need assistance with maintenance or repair, there are several resources to consider:

• Local hobby shops may offer repair services or carry parts and supplies.
• Online retailers selling International One Meter RC Sailboats may offer advice, tutorials or support in regards to maintenance and repair
• The International One Meter Class Association website also provides resources and advice for maintaining your sailboat.

How do you maintain a sailboat?

Maintaining a sailboat can be a simple but essential process to ensure its longevity and safety. Here are some tips on how to maintain a sailboat:

• Wash the sailboat regularly with mild soap and water, paying particular attention to the hull, deck, and rigging.
• Inspect the rigging and sails for any signs of wear and tear, and replace damaged parts as needed.
• Check the engine, oil, and fuel filters regularly, and change them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Inspect the batteries and wiring for any damage, and make sure they are properly charged and maintained.
• Keep the sailboat covered when it is not in use to protect it from the sun, wind, and rain.

There are several websites and products that can assist with sailboat maintenance, including:

Where to Buy an International One Meter RC Sailboat

If you are interested in purchasing an International One Meter RC Sailboat , there are several options to consider:

• Specialty hobby shops: Look for stores that specialize in remote control sailboats or racing boats for the best selection.
• Online retailers: There are several online retailers that sell International One Meter RC Sailboats, often with a wider selection and the added convenience of home delivery. Popular online retailers include Amazon, eBay and Aliexpress .
• Manufacturer websites: Some manufacturers will sell their International One Meter RC Sailboats directly to the consumer on their website. This can be a good option for those who want a unique or customized sailboat.

When purchasing an International One Meter RC Sailboat, it’s important to do your research and buy from a reputable source. Look for reviews of the retailer or manufacturer before making your purchase.

It’s also worth considering the cost of additional supplies or accessories you may need, such as batteries, chargers, and radio equipment. Some International One Meter RC Sailboat retailers offer packages that include everything you need to get started.

Here are some popular International One Meter RC Sailboat models to consider:

Where to buy a cheap sailing boat?

If you’re looking for a cheap sailing boat, there are a few options to consider:

• Online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often have listings for used boats at lower prices. However, it’s important to thoroughly research the seller and inspect the boat before making a purchase.
• Boat auctions can also be a good way to find a cheap sailing boat. Websites like Boat Auctions Direct and GovDeals.com offer listings of upcoming boat auctions across the United States.
• Boat rental companies may sell their older boats at a discounted price. Contacts with companies operating in your area may turn out to be a good idea.

Remember that a lower price may mean that the boat needs repairs or maintenance before it’s seaworthy. Always factor in the cost of any necessary repairs before making a purchase.

Sailing an International One Meter RC sailboat is a great hobby that provides stress relief, social interaction, and the satisfaction of building and sailing a toy boat. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a beginner, an International One Meter RC sailboat gives you the opportunity to sail in diverse waters and compete in international races.

With so many brands and models available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Keep in mind the specifications, materials, and racing rules when purchasing an International One Meter RC sailboat. Whether you decide to buy from a specialty shop, online retailer, or manufacturer website, always choose a reputable source and do your research beforehand.

Once you have your sailboat, take care of it and use it as a tool to learn and improve your sailing skills. Participating in races or joining a club can be a good way to meet new people and learn from experienced sailors.

Overall, an International One Meter RC sailboat is an exciting and fulfilling hobby that can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Don’t wait any longer and start exploring the waters with your own International One Meter RC sailboat today!

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What is IOM Sailing? * A Perfect Blend of Skill, Precision and Sailing Strategy. * The International One Metre (IOM) class represents the pinnacle of RC sailing in 38 countries worldwide, demanding precision, tactical skill, and technological expertise. Governed by the International One Metre International Class Association (IOMICA), this class adheres to strict specifications and "open box" rules, ensuring fair and competitive racing on the highest levels. IOMICA facilitates international competitions, fostering a global community where seasoned sailors challenge their skills and innovate in sailboat design and strategy to win most prestigious IOM events worldwide.

An Introduction to the IOM International Class Association

The IOM ICA has three major areas of responsibility, it covers: the class rules, international events, and class measurers. It exercises these responsibilities under the jurisdiction of World Sailing.

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World Championship 2024 (AUS) - UPCOMING!

Every two years, the International One Metre (IOM) class of radio controlled yacht invite the best radio control sailors from around the globe to compete for World Championship glory. In October 2024, the eyes of the radio sailing community turn to Queensland, Australia as the harbour city of Gladstone prepares to host this prestigious international event.

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A welcome from the IOM ICA Executive Committee

It is my honour as one of the youngest IOMICA Executive members to address you on behalf of our newly elected Executive Committee. Like you, my passion and commitment for this brilliant global class have only strengthened with my growing participation. It is fitting having this address come from one of our youngest members, as more than 50% of our electorate is new to the Executive Board. So, to initiate this address, I would simply like to start by pausing to thank each and every one of you. Thank you for your support and participation in a radio sailing class that has origins dating back to 1958. What an accomplishment! This lengthy tradition  has produced some amazing sailboat designs and memorable events year after year. The shared passion for IOM has generated a  global camaraderie  that unites us all. Recognizing this, we would like to acknowledge some remarkable individuals for their stalwart commitment and personal sacrifice in promoting our IOM Class and the infrastructure behind it.

We must congratulate Mr. Fred Rocha for his eight years of service as the IOM ICA Chairman and acknowledge everything he accomplished. His perpetual enthusiasm   and  inclusivity  are traits that have greatly benefitted our class. He aspired to improve both our internal and external communication, promote the development of our class in new territories, and openly embrace new concepts and ideas. Fred was very generous with his time and support of all our organizational requirements, and worked tirelessly in this pursuit. Congratulations also need to be extended to our newly elected IOM ICA Chairman, Mr. Olivier Cohen. Additional changes in the Executive resulted in the position VC – Technical is going from Mr. Jeff Byerley to Mr. Robert Grubiša, VC – InfoComms passes from Mr. Pedro Egea to Josip Marasović, and the position of Treasurer formally transferring from Mr. David Turton to Mr. Sean Wallis. Pedro Egea deserves special recognition, as he’s tirelessly served our group with IT and “common sense” support for now eleven years — you are a genuine rockstar!! VC Measurement position is vacant, but we wanted also to congratulate Mr. Lawrie Neish, a true veteran who was helping us for around 11 years!! Gentlemen, you all deserve our heartfelt thanks for your service, and be assured we will raise a glass on your behalf.

As COVID continues to be a present challenge for all of us, I’d like to conclude this greeting with a note of  enthusiasm .  Always remember why the IOM Class is held in such high esteem in so many different countries,  surviving the test of time!  No matter how technologically advanced and exceptional IOM sailboats become in future, we will always rely on an overwhelming and continued desire to explore all facets and possibilities to improve performance and everyone’s experience in the end.  We need to continue to push our limits in all sectors of this class, and convey that information in an  open  and  democratic  fashion. This voice needs to be expressed beyond just our annual vote, but vocalized at every race, regatta, start, and buoy rounding, and literally every metre moving forward. Whether you are sailing at a top international regatta or having a twilight club race with friends, you are all part of this active global  IOM family . We are all facing challenges and uncertainty in our daily lives, but we do not have to question our passion and commitment to IOM. Through your individual activities and support, each of you is responsible for helping make this class what it is now and will ultimately become. Our growth and transformation evolve only when you  participate ,  experiment , and continue to  explore , so your engagement is crucial to our success in the future. We look forward to seeing you at future regattas, active in our forums and chats, social media and in photos. The year 2021 is at the very end, but we are just getting started, so let us all continue our story  together .

– Josip Marasović, new VC InfoComms

The IOMICA Technical Sub Committee is dedicated to maintaining the technical integrity of the International One Metre model yacht in the best interests of IOM class owners world-wide.

The IOMICA Events Sub Committee is a committed group of international IOM sailors, who are dedicated in bringing you the very best of IOM championships.

The IOMICA InfoComms Sub Committee takes care of the IOMICA website and the forum.

The IOMICA Measurement Sub Committee is responsible for the class measurement rules.

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IOM A rig kit

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Quick Overview

Pack contains spars, rigging and fittings sufficient to make one A rig . Full Overview bottom of page.

5% discount when ordered with a B and C rig kit.

Product code. IOM-RIGKIT-A

Availability: In stock

• Ball raced gooseneck + £24.75
• Metal body gooseneck + £5.50
• Ball raced headsail swivel - 120-100 or 120-110 or 120D + £15.25
• 31S rigging screws for SAILSetc boat + £5.00
• Mast drilled with limit marks applied + £15.75
• Black boom spars + £2.50
• FINGER PATCHES + £11.50
• TELL TALES ON JIB + £2.75

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• Completed rig certified + £25.50

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• Product Description

The standard rig pack contents.

Pack contains spars, rigging and fittings sufficient to make one A rig with the following features: General features: •    comprehensive plan and step by step instructions •    anodised mast material - 7075 T6 grade - natural (silver) or black •    mast or no mast as chosen •    anodised, stainless steel and/or nickel plated fittings as appropriate •    headsail boom counterbalance weight •    gooseneck/kickingstrap unit is simple to fit to mast •    faired, clip on spreaders  •    flexible 7 strand rigging wire for standing rigging •    Dyneema rigging cord for running rigging •    self locking rigging screws, fastenings and terminations

The better boat suppliers provide rigging plans specific to their designs. Always use the dimensions in those in preference to the dimensions given in our rig plans. Then the rig tuning instructions given by the boat's designer will be relevant to the rigs you have built.

If you require the kicking strap to be extended so that it is easier to operate on boats where the gooseneck is sunk low in the boat, please choose the 'kicking strap extended' option.

Consider having the mast cut into two pieces and supplied with a joint piece to reduce the cost of packing and carriage significantly. Alternatively, consider having additional mast tubes sent for the same packing and carriage charge for use as spares or for friends.

You will need the following materials to supplement the pack; cyano glue, tape for limit  marks (measurement bands).

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Make assembly of rig and boom kits easier by using the drill blocks (to aid drilling holes in the correct place and attitude) and boom fitting assembly block (to add fittings at correct attitude). See DB-BOOM , DB-MAST-110 and BFAB .

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This is a complete rig kit for the IOM. The kit features Variant Marine Hardware and is suitable for A,B,C rigs The kit includes Mast, Gooseneck, Variant "A" profile Main and Jib Boom kits with all fittings, Backstay hook, Backstay crane, Mast head plug, Head board wire, bowsie 6pack, Stainless steel rigging wire, Spectra sheet line A pair of variant rigging Screws, Spreader kit, jib head stay hook, Jib Counter Balance. The kit is composed of the following components: 1 - 11mm dia 2500mm long Clear anodized Aluminum mast 1 - VM005 Variant Marine Main Boom Kit 1 - VM004 Variant Marine Jib Boom Kit without Jib Swivel 1 - VM001 Variant Marine Gooseneck Pack for 11mm Mast 1 - VM023 Variant Marine Head Board Wire 1 - VM013 Variant Marine Mast Head Plug 1 - VM007 Variant Marine Rigging Screw M3x20 set 1 - VM032 Variant Marine Jib Counter Balance 1 - VM019 Variant Marine Spreader Kit 1 - VM017 Variant Marine Jib Head Stay Hook 1 - VM021 Variant Marine Backstay Crane 1- VM011 Variant Marine Backstay Hook 1 - VM009 Variant Marine Bowsie 6 pack 1 - RW100 Stainless Steel Rigging wire for Varinat Spreader Kit. 1 - SSL100 10 meters Spectra sheet line

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Variant rig Kit

Posted by Daryl USA567 on 14th Mar 2014

Great product, well engineered parts, but the kit does not come with any instructions of description of what parts are for. Add a rigging guide or descriptions and it is a 5

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• Places - European, Western and Northern Russia

YEKATERINBURG: FACTORIES, URAL SIGHTS, YELTSIN AND THE WHERE NICHOLAS II WAS KILLED

Sverdlovsk oblast.

Sverdlovsk Oblast is the largest region in the Urals; it lies in the foothills of mountains and contains a monument indicating the border between Europe and Asia. The region covers 194,800 square kilometers (75,200 square miles), is home to about 4.3 million people and has a population density of 22 people per square kilometer. About 83 percent of the population live in urban areas. Yekaterinburg is the capital and largest city, with 1.5 million people. For Russians, the Ural Mountains are closely associated with Pavel Bazhov's tales and known for folk crafts such as Kasli iron sculpture, Tagil painting, and copper embossing. Yekaterinburg is the birthplace of Russia’s iron and steel industry, taking advantage of the large iron deposits in the Ural mountains. The popular Silver Ring of the Urals tourist route starts here.

In the summer you can follow in the tracks of Yermak, climb relatively low Ural mountain peaks and look for boulders seemingly with human faces on them. You can head to the Gemstone Belt of the Ural mountains, which used to house emerald, amethyst and topaz mines. In the winter you can go ice fishing, ski and cross-country ski.

Sverdlovsk Oblast and Yekaterinburg are located near the center of Russia, at the crossroads between Europe and Asia and also the southern and northern parts of Russia. Winters are longer and colder than in western section of European Russia. Snowfalls can be heavy. Winter temperatures occasionally drop as low as - 40 degrees C (-40 degrees F) and the first snow usually falls in October. A heavy winter coat, long underwear and good boots are essential. Snow and ice make the sidewalks very slippery, so footwear with a good grip is important. Since the climate is very dry during the winter months, skin moisturizer plus lip balm are recommended. Be alert for mud on street surfaces when snow cover is melting (April-May). Patches of mud create slippery road conditions.

Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg (kilometer 1818 on the Trans-Siberian Railway) is the fourth largest city in Russia, with of 1.5 million and growth rate of about 12 percent, high for Russia. Located in the southern Ural mountains, it was founded by Peter the Great and named after his wife Catherine, it was used by the tsars as a summer retreat and is where tsar Nicholas II and his family were executed and President Boris Yeltsin lived most of his life and began his political career. The city is near the border between Europe and Asia.

Yekaterinburg (also spelled Ekaterinburg) is located on the eastern slope of the Ural Mountains in the headwaters of the Iset and Pyshma Rivers. The Iset runs through the city center. Three ponds — Verkh-Isetsky, Gorodskoy and Nizhne-Isetsky — were created on it. Yekaterinburg has traditionally been a city of mining and was once the center of the mining industry of the Urals and Siberia. Yekaterinburg remains a major center of the Russian armaments industry and is sometimes called the "Pittsburgh of Russia.". A few ornate, pastel mansions and wide boulevards are reminders of the tsarist era. The city is large enough that it has its own Metro system but is characterized mostly by blocky Soviet-era apartment buildings. The city has advanced under President Vladimir Putin and is now one of the fastest growing places in Russia, a country otherwise characterized by population declines

Yekaterinburg is technically an Asian city as it lies 32 kilometers east of the continental divide between Europe and Asia. The unofficial capital of the Urals, a key region in the Russian heartland, it is second only to Moscow in terms of industrial production and capital of Sverdlovsk oblast. Among the important industries are ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, machine building and metalworking, chemical and petrochemicals, construction materials and medical, light and food industries. On top of being home of numerous heavy industries and mining concerns, Yekaterinburg is also a major center for industrial research and development and power engineering as well as home to numerous institutes of higher education, technical training, and scientific research. In addition, Yekaterinburg is the largest railway junction in Russia: the Trans-Siberian Railway passes through it, the southern, northern, western and eastern routes merge in the city.

Accommodation: There are two good and affordable hotels — the 3-star Emerald and Parus hotels — located close to the city's most popular landmarks and main transport interchanges in the center of Yekaterinburg. Room prices start at RUB 1,800 per night.

History of Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg was founded in 1723 by Peter the Great and named after his wife Catherine I. It was used by the tsars as a summer retreat but was mainly developed as metalworking and manufacturing center to take advantage of the large deposits of iron and other minerals in the Ural mountains. It is best known to Americans as the place where the last Tsar and his family were murdered by the Bolsheviks in 1918 and near where American U-2 spy plane, piloted by Gary Powers, was shot down in 1960.

Peter the Great recognized the importance of the iron and copper-rich Urals region for Imperial Russia's industrial and military development. In November 1723, he ordered the construction of a fortress factory and an ironworks in the Iset River Valley, which required a dam for its operation. In its early years Yekaterinburg grew rich from gold and other minerals and later coal. The Yekaterinburg gold rush of 1745 created such a huge amount of wealth that one rich baron of that time hosted a wedding party that lasted a year. By the mid-18th century, metallurgical plants had sprung up across the Urals to cast cannons, swords, guns and other weapons to arm Russia’s expansionist ambitions. The Yekaterinburg mint produced most of Russia's coins. Explorations of the Trans-Baikal and Altai regions began here in the 18th century.

Iron, cast iron and copper were the main products. Even though Iron from the region went into the Eiffel Tower, the main plant in Yekaterinburg itself was shut down in 1808. The city still kept going through a mountain factory control system of the Urals. The first railway in the Urals was built here: in 1878, the Yekaterinburg-Perm railway branch connected the province's capital with the factories of the Middle Urals.

In the Soviet era the city was called Sverdlovsk (named after Yakov Sverdlov, the man who organized Nicholas II's execution). During the first five-year plans the city became industrial — old plants were reconstructed, new ones were built. The center of Yekaterinburg was formed to conform to the historical general plan of 1829 but was the layout was adjusted around plants and factories. In the Stalin era the city was a major gulag transhipment center. In World War II, many defense-related industries were moved here. It and the surrounding area were a center of the Soviet Union's military industrial complex. Soviet tanks, missiles and aircraft engines were made in the Urals. During the Cold War era, Yekaterinburg was a center of weapons-grade uranium enrichment and processing, warhead assembly and dismantlement. In 1979, 64 people died when anthrax leaked from a biological weapons facility. Yekaterinburg was a “Closed City” for 40 years during the Cold Soviet era and was not open to foreigners until 1991

In the early post-Soviet era, much like Pittsburgh in the 1970s, Yekaterinburg had a hard struggle d to cope with dramatic economic changes that have made its heavy industries uncompetitive on the world market. Huge defense plants struggled to survive and the city was notorious as an organized crime center in the 1990s, when its hometown boy Boris Yeltsin was President of Russia. By the 2000s, Yekaterinburg’s retail and service was taking off, the defense industry was reviving and it was attracting tech industries and investments related to the Urals’ natural resources. By the 2010s it was vying to host a world exhibition in 2020 (it lost, Dubai won) and it had McDonald’s, Subway, sushi restaurants, and Gucci, Chanel and Armani. There were Bentley and Ferrari dealerships but they closed down

Transportation in Yekaterinburg

Getting There: By Plane: Yekaterinburg is a three-hour flight from Moscow with prices starting at RUB 8,000, or a 3-hour flight from Saint Petersburg starting from RUB 9,422 (direct round-trip flight tickets for one adult passenger). There are also flights from Frankfurt, Istanbul, China and major cities in the former Soviet Union.

By Train: Yekaterinburg is a major stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Daily train service is available to Moscow and many other Russian cities.Yekaterinburg is a 32-hour train ride from Moscow (tickets RUB 8,380 and above) or a 36-hour train ride from Saint Petersburg (RUB 10,300 and above). The ticket prices are round trip for a berth in a sleeper compartment for one adult passenger). By Car: a car trip from Moscow to Yekateringburg is 1,787 kilometers long and takes about 18 hours. The road from Saint Petersburg is 2,294 kilometers and takes about 28 hours.

Regional Transport: The region's public transport includes buses and suburban electric trains. Regional trains provide transport to larger cities in the Ural region. Buses depart from Yekaterinburg’s two bus stations: the Southern Bus Station and the Northern Bus Station.

Regional Transport: According the to Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT): “Public transportation is well developed. Overcrowding is common. Fares are low. Service is efficient. Buses are the main form of public transport. Tram network is extensive. Fares are reasonable; service is regular. Trams are heavily used by residents, overcrowding is common. Purchase ticket after boarding. Metro runs from city center to Uralmash, an industrial area south of the city. Metro ends near the main railway station. Fares are inexpensive.

“Traffic is congested in city center. Getting around by car can be difficult. Route taxis (minivans) provide the fastest transport. They generally run on specific routes, but do not have specific stops. Drivers stop where passengers request. Route taxis can be hailed. Travel by bus or trolleybuses may be slow in rush hour. Trams are less affected by traffic jams. Trolley buses (electric buses) cannot run when temperatures drop below freezing.”

Entertainment, Sports and Recreation in Yekaterinburg

The performing arts in Yekaterinburg are first rate. The city has an excellent symphony orchestra, opera and ballet theater, and many other performing arts venues. Tickets are inexpensive. The Yekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theater is lavishly designed and richly decorated building in the city center of Yekaterinburg. The theater was established in 1912 and building was designed by architect Vladimir Semyonov and inspired by the Vienna Opera House and the Theater of Opera and Ballet in Odessa.

Vaynera Street is a pedestrian only shopping street in city center with restaurants, cafes and some bars. But otherwise Yekaterinburg's nightlife options are limited. There are a handful of expensive Western-style restaurants and bars, none of them that great. Nightclubs serve the city's nouveau riche clientele. Its casinos have closed down. Some of them had links with organized crime. New dance clubs have sprung up that are popular with Yekaterinburg's more affluent youth.

Yekaterinburg's most popular spectator sports are hockey, basketball, and soccer. There are stadiums and arenas that host all three that have fairly cheap tickets. There is an indoor water park and lots of parks and green spaces. The Urals have many lakes, forests and mountains are great for hiking, boating, berry and mushroom hunting, swimming and fishing. Winter sports include cross-country skiing and ice skating. Winter lasts about six months and there’s usually plenty of snow. The nearby Ural Mountains however are not very high and the downhill skiing opportunities are limited..

Sights in Yekaterinburg

Sights in Yekaterinburg include the Museum of City Architecture and Ural Industry, with an old water tower and mineral collection with emeralds. malachite, tourmaline, jasper and other precious stone; Geological Alley, a small park with labeled samples of minerals found in the Urals region; the Ural Geology Museum, which houses an extensive collection of stones, gold and gems from the Urals; a monument marking the border between Europe and Asia; a memorial for gulag victims; and a graveyard with outlandish memorials for slain mafia members.

The Military History Museum houses the remains of the U-2 spy plane shot down in 1960 and locally made tanks and rocket launchers. The fine arts museum contains paintings by some of Russia's 19th-century masters. Also worth a look are the History an Local Studies Museum; the Political History and Youth Museum; and the University and Arboretum. Old wooden houses can be seen around Zatoutstovsya ulitsa and ulitsa Belinskogo. Around the city are wooded parks, lakes and quarries used to harvest a variety of minerals. Weiner Street is the main street of Yekaterinburg. Along it are lovely sculptures and 19th century architecture. Take a walk around the unique Literary Quarter

Plotinka is a local meeting spot, where you will often find street musicians performing. Plotinka can be described as the center of the city's center. This is where Yekaterinburg holds its biggest events: festivals, seasonal fairs, regional holiday celebrations, carnivals and musical fountain shows. There are many museums and open-air exhibitions on Plotinka. Plotinka is named after an actual dam of the city pond located nearby (“plotinka” means “a small dam” in Russian).In November 1723, Peter the Great ordered the construction of an ironworks in the Iset River Valley, which required a dam for its operation. “Iset” can be translated from Finnish as “abundant with fish”. This name was given to the river by the Mansi — the Finno-Ugric people dwelling on the eastern slope of the Northern Urals.

Vysotsky and Iset are skyscrapers that are 188.3 meters and 209 meters high, respectively. Fifty-story-high Iset has been described by locals as the world’s northernmost skyscraper. Before the construction of Iset, Vysotsky was the tallest building of Yekaterinburg and Russia (excluding Moscow). A popular vote has decided to name the skyscraper after the famous Soviet songwriter, singer and actor Vladimir Vysotsky. and the building was opened on November 25, 2011. There is a lookout at the top of the building, and the Vysotsky museum on its second floor. The annual “Vysotsky climb” (1137 steps) is held there, with a prize of RUB 100,000. While Vysotsky serves as an office building, Iset, owned by the Ural Mining and Metallurgical Company, houses 225 premium residential apartments ranging from 80 to 490 square meters in size.

Boris Yeltsin Presidential Center

The Boris Yeltsin Presidential Center (in the city center: ul. Yeltsina, 3) is a non-governmental organization named after the first president of the Russian Federation. The Museum of the First President of Russia as well as his archives are located in the Center. There is also a library, educational and children's centers, and exposition halls. Yeltsin lived most of his life and began his political career in Yekaterinburg. He was born in Butka about 200 kilometers east of Yekaterinburg.

The core of the Center is the Museum. Modern multimedia technologies help animate the documents, photos from the archives, and artifacts. The Yeltsin Museum holds collections of: propaganda posters, leaflets, and photos of the first years of the Soviet regime; portraits and portrait sculptures of members of Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of various years; U.S.S.R. government bonds and other items of the Soviet era; a copy of “One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich” by Alexander Solzhenitsyn, published in the “Novy Mir” magazine (#11, 1962); perestroika-era editions of books by Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Vasily Grossman, and other authors; theater, concert, and cinema posters, programs, and tickets — in short, all of the artifacts of the perestroika era.

The Yeltsin Center opened in 2012. Inside you will also find an art gallery, a bookstore, a gift shop, a food court, concert stages and a theater. There are regular screenings of unique films that you will not find anywhere else. Also operating inside the center, is a scientific exploritorium for children. The center was designed by Boris Bernaskoni. Almost from the its very opening, the Yeltsin Center has been accused by members of different political entities of various ideological crimes. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00am to 9:00pm.

Where Nicholas II was Executed

On July, 17, 1918, during this reign of terror of the Russian Civil War, former-tsar Nicholas II, his wife, five children (the 13-year-old Alexis, 22-year-old Olga, 19-year-old Maria and 17-year-old Anastasia)the family physician, the cook, maid, and valet were shot to death by a Red Army firing squad in the cellar of the house they were staying at in Yekaterinburg.

Ipatiev House (near Church on the Blood, Ulitsa Libknekhta) was a merchant's house where Nicholas II and his family were executed. The house was demolished in 1977, on the orders of an up and coming communist politician named Boris Yeltsin. Yeltsin later said that the destruction of the house was an "act of barbarism" and he had no choice because he had been ordered to do it by the Politburo,

The site is marked with s cross with the photos of the family members and cross bearing their names. A small wooden church was built at the site. It contains paintings of the family. For a while there were seven traditional wooden churches. Mass is given ay noon everyday in an open-air museum. The Church on the Blood — constructed to honor Nicholas II and his family — was built on the part of the site in 1991 and is now a major place of pilgrimage.

Nicholas and his family where killed during the Russian civil war. It is thought the Bolsheviks figured that Nicholas and his family gave the Whites figureheads to rally around and they were better of dead. Even though the death orders were signed Yakov Sverdlov, the assassination was personally ordered by Lenin, who wanted to get them out of sight and out of mind. Trotsky suggested a trial. Lenin nixed the idea, deciding something had to be done about the Romanovs before White troops approached Yekaterinburg. Trotsky later wrote: "The decision was not only expedient but necessary. The severity of he punishment showed everyone that we would continue to fight on mercilessly, stopping at nothing."

Ian Frazier wrote in The New Yorker: “Having read a lot about the end of Tsar Nicholas II and his family and servants, I wanted to see the place in Yekaterinburg where that event occurred. The gloomy quality of this quest depressed Sergei’s spirits, but he drove all over Yekaterinburg searching for the site nonetheless. Whenever he stopped and asked a pedestrian how to get to the house where Nicholas II was murdered, the reaction was a wince. Several people simply walked away. But eventually, after a lot of asking, Sergei found the location. It was on a low ridge near the edge of town, above railroad tracks and the Iset River. The house, known as the Ipatiev House, was no longer standing, and the basement where the actual killings happened had been filled in. I found the blankness of the place sinister and dizzying. It reminded me of an erasure done so determinedly that it had worn a hole through the page. [Source: Ian Frazier, The New Yorker, August 3, 2009, Frazier is author of “Travels in Siberia” (2010)]

“The street next to the site is called Karl Liebknecht Street. A building near where the house used to be had a large green advertisement that said, in English, “LG—Digitally Yours.” On an adjoining lot, a small chapel kept the memory of the Tsar and his family; beneath a pedestal holding an Orthodox cross, peonies and pansies grew. The inscription on the pedestal read, “We go down on our knees, Russia, at the foot of the tsarist cross.”

Books: The Romanovs: The Final Chapter by Robert K. Massie (Random House, 1995); The Fall of the Romanovs by Mark D. Steinberg and Vladimir Khrustalëv (Yale, 1995);

See Separate Article END OF NICHOLAS II factsanddetails.com

Execution of Nicholas II

According to Robert Massie K. Massie, author of Nicholas and Alexandra, Nicholas II and his family were awakened from their bedrooms around midnight and taken to the basement. They were told they were to going to take some photographs of them and were told to stand behind a row of chairs.

Suddenly, a group of 11 Russians and Latvians, each with a revolver, burst into the room with orders to kill a specific person. Yakob Yurovsky, a member of the Soviet executive committee, reportedly shouted "your relatives are continuing to attack the Soviet Union.” After firing, bullets bouncing off gemstones hidden in the corsets of Alexandra and her daughters ricocheted around the room like "a shower of hail," the soldiers said. Those that were still breathing were killed with point black shots to the head.

The three sisters and the maid survived the first round thanks to their gems. They were pressed up against a wall and killed with a second round of bullets. The maid was the only one that survived. She was pursued by the executioners who stabbed her more than 30 times with their bayonets. The still writhing body of Alexis was made still by a kick to the head and two bullets in the ear delivered by Yurovsky himself.

Yurovsky wrote: "When the party entered I told the Romanovs that in view of the fact their relatives continued their offensive against Soviet Russia, the Executive Committee of the Urals Soviet had decided to shoot them. Nicholas turned his back to the detachment and faced his family. Then, as if collecting himself, he turned around, asking, 'What? What?'"

"[I] ordered the detachment to prepare. Its members had been previously instructed whom to shoot and to am directly at the heart to avoid much blood and to end more quickly. Nicholas said no more. he turned again to his family. The others shouted some incoherent exclamations. All this lasted a few seconds. Then commenced the shooting, which went on for two or three minutes. [I] killed Nicholas on the spot."

Nicholas II’s Initial Burial Site in Yekaterinburg

Ganina Yama Monastery (near the village of Koptyaki, 15 kilometers northwest of Yekaterinburg) stands near the three-meter-deep pit where some the remains of Nicholas II and his family were initially buried. The second burial site — where most of the remains were — is in a field known as Porosyonkov (56.9113628°N 60.4954326°E), seven kilometers from Ganina Yama.

On visiting Ganina Yama Monastery, one person posted in Trip Advisor: “We visited this set of churches in a pretty park with Konstantin from Ekaterinburg Guide Centre. He really brought it to life with his extensive knowledge of the history of the events surrounding their terrible end. The story is so moving so unless you speak Russian, it is best to come here with a guide or else you will have no idea of what is what.”

In 1991, the acid-burned remains of Nicholas II and his family were exhumed from a shallow roadside mass grave in a swampy area 12 miles northwest of Yekaterinburg. The remains had been found in 1979 by geologist and amateur archeologist Alexander Avdonin, who kept the location secret out of fear that they would be destroyed by Soviet authorities. The location was disclosed to a magazine by one his fellow discovers.

The original plan was to throw the Romanovs down a mine shaft and disposes of their remains with acid. They were thrown in a mine with some grenades but the mine didn't collapse. They were then carried by horse cart. The vats of acid fell off and broke. When the carriage carrying the bodies broke down it was decided the bury the bodies then and there. The remaining acid was poured on the bones, but most of it was soaked up the ground and the bones largely survived.

After this their pulses were then checked, their faces were crushed to make them unrecognizable and the bodies were wrapped in bed sheets loaded onto a truck. The "whole procedure," Yurovsky said took 20 minutes. One soldiers later bragged than he could "die in peace because he had squeezed the Empress's -------."

The bodies were taken to a forest and stripped, burned with acid and gasoline, and thrown into abandoned mine shafts and buried under railroad ties near a country road near the village of Koptyaki. "The bodies were put in the hole," Yurovsky wrote, "and the faces and all the bodies, generally doused with sulfuric acid, both so they couldn't be recognized and prevent a stink from them rotting...We scattered it with branches and lime, put boards on top and drove over it several times—no traces of the hole remained.

Shortly afterwards, the government in Moscow announced that Nicholas II had been shot because of "a counterrevolutionary conspiracy." There was no immediate word on the other members of the family which gave rise to rumors that other members of the family had escaped. Yekaterinburg was renamed Sverdlov in honor of the man who signed the death orders.

For seven years the remains of Nicholas II, Alexandra, three of their daughters and four servants were stored in polyethylene bags on shelves in the old criminal morgue in Yekaterunburg. On July 17, 1998, Nicholas II and his family and servants who were murdered with him were buried Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg along with the other Romanov tsars, who have been buried there starting with Peter the Great. Nicholas II had a side chapel built for himself at the fortress in 1913 but was buried in a new crypt.

Near Yekaterinburg

Factory-Museum of Iron and Steel Metallurgy (in Niznhy Tagil 80 kilometers north of Yekaterinburg) a museum with old mining equipment made at the site of huge abandoned iron and steel factory. Officially known as the Factory-Museum of the History of the Development of Iron and Steel Metallurgy, it covers an area of 30 hectares and contains a factory founded by the Demidov family in 1725 that specialized mainly in the production of high-quality cast iron and steel. Later, the foundry was renamed after Valerian Kuybyshev, a prominent figure of the Communist Party.

The first Russian factory museum, the unusual museum demonstrates all stages of metallurgy and metal working. There is even a blast furnace and an open-hearth furnace. The display of factory equipment includes bridge crane from 1892) and rolling stock equipment from the 19th-20th centuries. In Niznhy Tagil contains some huge blocks of malachite and

Nizhnyaya Sinyachikha (180 kilometers east-northeast of Yekaterinburg) has an open air architecture museum with log buildings, a stone church and other pre-revolutionary architecture. The village is the creation of Ivan Samoilov, a local activist who loved his village so much he dedicated 40 years of his life to recreating it as the open-air museum of wooden architecture.

The stone Savior Church, a good example of Siberian baroque architecture. The interior and exterior of the church are exhibition spaces of design. The houses are very colorful. In tsarist times, rich villagers hired serfs to paint the walls of their wooden izbas (houses) bright colors. Old neglected buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries have been brought to Nizhnyaya Sinyachikha from all over the Urals. You will see the interior design of the houses and hear stories about traditions and customs of the Ural farmers.

Verkhoturye (330 kilometers road from Yekaterinburg) is the home a 400-year-old monastery that served as 16th century capital of the Urals. Verkhoturye is a small town on the Tura River knows as the Jerusalem of the Urals for its many holy places, churches and monasteries. The town's main landmark is its Kremlin — the smallest in Russia. Pilgrims visit the St. Nicholas Monastery to see the remains of St. Simeon of Verkhoturye, the patron saint of fishermen.

Ural Mountains

Ural Mountains are the traditional dividing line between Europe and Asia and have been a crossroads of Russian history. Stretching from Kazakhstan to the fringes of the Arctic Kara Sea, the Urals lie almost exactly along the 60 degree meridian of longitude and extend for about 2,000 kilometers (1,300 miles) from north to south and varies in width from about 50 kilometers (30 miles) in the north and 160 kilometers (100 miles) the south. At kilometers 1777 on the Trans-Siberian Railway there is white obelisk with "Europe" carved in Russian on one side and "Asia" carved on the other.

The eastern side of the Urals contains a lot of granite and igneous rock. The western side is primarily sandstone and limestones. A number of precious stones can be found in the southern part of the Urals, including emeralds. malachite, tourmaline, jasper and aquamarines. The highest peaks are in the north. Mount Narodnaya is the highest of all but is only 1884 meters (6,184 feet) high. The northern Urals are covered in thick forests and home to relatively few people.

Like the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States, the Urals are very old mountains — with rocks and sediments that are hundreds of millions years old — that were one much taller than they are now and have been steadily eroded down over millions of years by weather and other natural processes to their current size. According to Encyclopedia Britannica: “The rock composition helps shape the topography: the high ranges and low, broad-topped ridges consist of quartzites, schists, and gabbro, all weather-resistant. Buttes are frequent, and there are north–south troughs of limestone, nearly all containing river valleys. Karst topography is highly developed on the western slopes of the Urals, with many caves, basins, and underground streams. The eastern slopes, on the other hand, have fewer karst formations; instead, rocky outliers rise above the flattened surfaces. Broad foothills, reduced to peneplain, adjoin the Central and Southern Urals on the east.

“The Urals date from the structural upheavals of the Hercynian orogeny (about 250 million years ago). About 280 million years ago there arose a high mountainous region, which was eroded to a peneplain. Alpine folding resulted in new mountains, the most marked upheaval being that of the Nether-Polar Urals...The western slope of the Urals is composed of middle Paleozoic sedimentary rocks (sandstones and limestones) that are about 350 million years old. In many places it descends in terraces to the Cis-Ural depression (west of the Urals), to which much of the eroded matter was carried during the late Paleozoic (about 300 million years ago). Found there are widespread karst (a starkly eroded limestone region) and gypsum, with large caverns and subterranean streams. On the eastern slope, volcanic layers alternate with sedimentary strata, all dating from middle Paleozoic times.”

Southern Urals

The southern Urals are characterized by grassy slopes and fertile valleys. The middle Urals are a rolling platform that barely rises above 300 meters (1,000 feet). This region is rich in minerals and has been heavily industrialized. This is where you can find Yekaterinburg (formally Sverdlovsk), the largest city in the Urals.

Most of the Southern Urals are is covered with forests, with 50 percent of that pine-woods, 44 percent birch woods, and the rest are deciduous aspen and alder forests. In the north, typical taiga forests are the norm. There are patches of herbal-poaceous steppes, northem sphagnous marshes and bushy steppes, light birch forests and shady riparian forests, tall-grass mountainous meadows, lowland ling marshes and stony placers with lichen stains. In some places there are no large areas of homogeneous forests, rather they are forests with numerous glades and meadows of different size.

In the Ilmensky Mountains Reserve in the Southern Urals, scientists counted 927 vascular plants (50 relicts, 23 endemic species), about 140 moss species, 483 algae species and 566 mushroom species. Among the species included into the Red Book of Russia are feather grass, downy-leaved feather grass, Zalessky feather grass, moccasin flower, ladies'-slipper, neottianthe cucullata, Baltic orchis, fen orchis, helmeted orchis, dark-winged orchis, Gelma sandwart, Krasheninnikov sandwart, Clare astragalus.

The fauna of the vertebrate animals in the Reserve includes 19 fish, 5 amphibian and 5 reptile. Among the 48 mammal species are elks, roe deer, boars, foxes, wolves, lynxes, badgers, common weasels, least weasels, forest ferrets, Siberian striped weasel, common marten, American mink. Squirrels, beavers, muskrats, hares, dibblers, moles, hedgehogs, voles are quite common, as well as chiropterans: pond bat, water bat, Brandt's bat, whiskered bat, northern bat, long-eared bat, parti-coloured bat, Nathusius' pipistrelle. The 174 bird bird species include white-tailed eagles, honey hawks, boreal owls, gnome owls, hawk owls, tawny owls, common scoters, cuckoos, wookcocks, common grouses, wood grouses, hazel grouses, common partridges, shrikes, goldenmountain thrushes, black- throated loons and others.

Activities and Places in the Ural Mountains

The Urals possess beautiful natural scenery that can be accessed from Yekaterinburg with a rent-a-car, hired taxi and tour. Travel agencies arrange rafting, kayaking and hiking trips. Hikes are available in the taiga forest and the Urals. Trips often include walks through the taiga to small lakes and hikes into the mountains and excursions to collect mushrooms and berries and climb in underground caves. Mellow rafting is offered in a relatively calm six kilometer section of the River Serga. In the winter visitor can enjoy cross-mountains skiing, downhill skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, snow-shoeing and winter hiking through the forest to a cave covered with ice crystals.

Lake Shartash (10 kilometers from Yekaterinburg) is where the first Ural gold was found, setting in motion the Yekaterinburg gold rush of 1745, which created so much wealth one rich baron of that time hosted a wedding party that lasted a year. The area around Shartash Lake is a favorite picnic and barbecue spot of the locals. Getting There: by bus route No. 50, 054 or 54, with a transfer to suburban commuter bus route No. 112, 120 or 121 (the whole trip takes about an hour), or by car (10 kilometers drive from the city center, 40 minutes).

Revun Rapids (90 kilometers road from Yekaterinburg near Beklenishcheva village) is a popular white water rafting places On the nearby cliffs you can see the remains of a mysterious petroglyph from the Paleolithic period. Along the steep banks, you may notice the dark entrance of Smolinskaya Cave. There are legends of a sorceress who lived in there. The rocks at the riverside are suited for competitive rock climbers and beginners. Climbing hooks and rings are hammered into rocks. The most fun rafting is generally in May and June.

Olenii Ruchii National Park (100 kilometers west of Yekaterinburg) is the most popular nature park in Sverdlovsk Oblast and popular weekend getaway for Yekaterinburg residents. Visitors are attracted by the beautiful forests, the crystal clear Serga River and picturesque rocks caves. There are some easy hiking routes: the six-kilometer Lesser Ring and the 15-kilometer Greater Ring. Another route extends for 18 km and passes by the Mitkinsky Mine, which operated in the 18th-19th centuries. It's a kind of an open-air museum — you can still view mining an enrichment equipment here. There is also a genuine beaver dam nearby.

Among the other attractions at Olenii Ruchii are Druzhba (Friendship) Cave, with passages that extend for about 500 meters; Dyrovaty Kamen (Holed Stone), created over time by water of Serga River eroding rock; and Utoplennik (Drowned Man), where you can see “The Angel of Sole Hope”., created by the Swedish artist Lehna Edwall, who has placed seven angels figures in different parts of the world to “embrace the planet, protecting it from fear, despair, and disasters.”

Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons

Text Sources: Federal Agency for Tourism of the Russian Federation (official Russia tourism website russiatourism.ru ), Russian government websites, UNESCO, Wikipedia, Lonely Planet guides, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, National Geographic, The New Yorker, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, AFP, Yomiuri Shimbun and various books and other publications.

Updated in September 2020

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