"Russian High North - land of contrasts" Murmanskaya Oblast' by morten-skandfer

Murmask is the regional capital in the region with the same name, founded some 100 years ago. Aeroflot flies you there, and Meridian and Polyarny Zory Hotels can be recommended. South of Murmansk city, a string of industrial Cities are located: Monchegorsk, Kirovsk, Apatity. Kirovsk is my favourite, beautfully located in the Khibiny mountains, a sports place indeed.

Mountainbiking in the rain

Quiet Kirovsk city, people are going on by themselves, working hard, but also enjoying the great outdoors: skiiong, hiking, cycling.

Palace of culture

Rural town Kirovsk has a huge palace of culture, important for the locals. For acommodation, try Gastinitsa Severnaya ("The Northern Hotel").

• Pros:Long winter, Russian food
• Cons:Long winter, Russian food
• In a nutshell:Murmansk Oblast, more than tundra