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Review of a David Urquhart Coach Tour of the Scottish Highlands

When my sister outlined her plans for my mum’s secret *****-ith birthday (censored information) trip, a David Urquhart Travel coach trip around the Scottish Highlands with a three night stay in Mackay’s Hotel in Strathpeffer, my first thoughts were ‘this is not my idea of a holiday’. However, sharing our pain was my mother, sister, her boyfriend, his mother and three nephews in their 20s (one with his German girlfriend who is a fan of all things Scottish).

Transportation to Strathpeffer After a night in the Thistle Hotel in Glasgow we meet up with the extended family to join the coach at Buchanan Street Bus Station at 9.30am. The coach had three more pick up points, Hamilton, Paisley and east Kilbride, before we headed north. It was full and whilst most of the passengers were in the 60+ age bracket, there were also a few slightly younger people including a couple in their 20s. We were allocated the whole of the back seats area – it felt like being the rowdy party on the school bus.

The trip north was a long one. The plus points were that we could relax, catch up with each other and enjoy scenery that grew ever more dramatic and breathtaking by the mile. The downside was that the tape of an Irish comedian played by the driver was appalling – but had my mum in stitches of laughter. By her own admission, she’s easily pleased.

We stopped off, bizarrely, at a garden centre for lunch at 11.30. Too early for us but it allowed me to stock up on haggis pie, scotch pie and a pork pie from the centre’s pile-on-the-pounds inducing Scottish deli whilst my nephew took the opportunity to bag his first tablet bar .

Mackay’s Hotel, Strathpeffer Somewhere after 4pm we reached Strathpeffer and Mackay’s Hotel . Andy and I had an attic room. It was decent enough with tea and coffee making facilities and a great view of Strathpeffer’s main street. The only downside was that the shower needed some fine adjustments before we could find the right mix of power and temperature – this was only achieved on the last day.

Dinner in Mackay’s Hotel, Strathpeffer There were two sittings for dinner (6.30 and 7.00pm).  The waitresses in the restaurant were mainly young Eastern Europeans and were smart, efficient and friendly (having two, young & attractive single men in our company did no harm whatsoever). Wine was a reasonable £7 a bottle and we had a bottle of red and a bottle of white with each meal. You’re never going to get gourmet food on a trip like this, but what was served was freshly cooked and decent enough. What was particularly impressive was that the menu (which changed on each of the three nights) always had meat, fish, salad and vegetarian options – it was clearly well planned out so that it had something for everyone.

Entertainment at  Mackay’s Hotel You can’t argue with different live entertainment each night. But boy does the quality vary. The first night was an appalling guitarist who didn’t do requests, couldn’t play the guitar and stuck mainly to a mix of C&W type music that’s been popular in parts of Scotland for decades – Patsy Cline and (OMG was I really subjected to this) Daniel O’Donnell. My mother loved it and the cheap bar prices – £1.50 for any drink – helped numb the pain for the rest of us. As a complete alternative there was a Rush tribute band playing in the village’s spa pavilion a few yards along the road. The second night involved a disco featuring music from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s (one song). The DJ looked as though he been let out of the local rest home for the night and his opener to a couple in their early 60s that they might be ‘too young’ for his music and that they’d be better off at the JLS concert in Dingwall down the road didn’t bode well. Neither did his opening song…Patsy Cline…again. The arrival of the waitresses livened things up, especially where my nephews were concerned. After the disco ended (we all ended up on the dance floor to a bit of Robbie Williams and probably the liveliest Gay Gordons witnessed at Mackay’s) they carried on partying with the waitresses until 5am and arrived down for breakfast later that morning happy, but a bit the worse for wear.

Excursions with David Urquhart Travel As well as half board accommodation and transport the package included excursions to Inverness , Ullapool and Pitlochry where we were dropped off and allowed to spend a couple of hours or so exploring each. I much preferred this approach than being herded around. There was also plenty of free time to spend in Strathpeffer itself, a village that boasts a lot of things to do and see, including wonderful little walks, for its diminutive size.

The David Urquhart Coach Tour of the Scottish Highlands was not at all what I’d expected. Being part of a big group of mixed ages clearly upped the fun factor but the whole operation was professional and far more interesting and enjoyable than I had imagined. It was a very relaxing way of getting to see some stunning parts of the Scottish Highlands and overall represented incredible value for money.

Buzz Trips Fact File: David Urquhart Travel offer a choice of tours. The Highlands Leisure weekend that we opted for cost £125 per person for 3 nights/4 days including half board accommodation www.davidurquhart.com

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That was surprising, and when you think about the price it’s really good value, isn’t it. I love driving in Scotland, but you can’t see everything when you the one doing the driving, so a coach is a possible alternative…..so long as you have your iPod from the sound of it!

It surprised the hell out of me. I’m not a fan of coach trips – I hate the idea of being herded around – but it didn’t feel like that. It just felt like it was an easy way to travel from A to B and, like you say, enjoy the scenery en route.

Whilst we visit our youngest son quite often in Wrington North Somerset from South Africa, we dicided in 2008 to go on a trip to the Scottish Highlands also staying over at the McKays Hotel and going on excursions to Inverness where we did a boat trip on Lochness and visited Portree on the Island of Skye thereafter travelled right up to John O’ Groates. The dinners and breakfasts at the Hotel was really something to look forward to every day. The company on the tour was a very friendly crowd where we have made some very good friends There was lots of entertainment in the evenings which we very much enjoyed with a tot of real Scotch whisky. Scotland has sone of the most beautiful sceneries we have enjoyed on a coach tour and we will definitely do it again . We can commend this tour any time to all who would like to do a coach tour to the Scottish Highlands.and at such reasonable fares.

Thanks for leaving the comment Amanda. Sounds like you enjoyed it as much we did. We had great fun on the trip and couldn’t believe the value for money. The Highlands scenery is simply stunning.

Please do not use this travel company! They obviously do not train their staff in customer service at all and their Coach drivers do not obey the Highway Code. Travel with this company at your own peril. For example, they nearly ran over a woman pushing her baby in a Pram on the promenade. The woman was walking on the path when a David Urquhart Coach mounted the pavement and forced this woman to take drastic avoidance action otherwise the Coach would have hit her and her baby. The Coach was using the promenade and the road to turn round rather than use common sense and driving a little bit down the road to turn around. The Coach driver didn’t even apologise to this woman nor did his fellow coach driver who just shouted after the woman when she confronted him about his fellow coach drives driving. On the coach it said Britannia Mystery tour, well does that also include a tour to the local hospital too! We are all absolutely disgusted with what we saw from this company. I will definitely not be travelling with it.

I need to use a mobility scooter does you buses accommodate for this

We’re not the coach company Mary, this is just a review of one of David Urquhart’s trips. And a most enjoyable one at that.

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Reviews 4.0.

Most relevant

Just came home yesterday from grand…

Just came home yesterday from grand national weekend stayed at Queens Hotel was clean and food was good, staff were very helpful.our coach driver big Joe was excellent from start to finish would definitely travel with yous again.

Date of experience : April 14, 2023

Long loud journey

We left Glasgow to travel to Newquay. The driver was extremely loud and literally shouted over his speaker for the whole journey. Most of his humour was inappropriate for pensioners. He loved the sound of his own voice and laughed hysterically at his own jokes. It was torture however we enjoyed a fantastic stay at the Eliot hotel which made up for the horrendous journey. Excellent hard working staff. Hotel is jaded but clean.

Date of experience : August 20, 2022

David urguhart trip to Beamish

David urguhart trip to Beamish was absolutely fantastic, from the driver / tour guide Joe to the staff at the Ramada hotel, the food and the warm friendly welcome from everyone. Huge well done to all of you for an exceptional holiday. Thoroughly enjoyable. Jim, Meg, Marj and Bill

Date of experience : June 18, 2022

Escape to the highlands

Escape to the highlands, based at small village of Garve. Traveled to Garve from Aberdeen pickup , we had a perfect trip with our drive Graham how truly added to our experience ! Food at Garve was just perfect with so much choice, all we could have wanted & staff are lovely , we had entertainment on 3 nights & 2 day excursions !The Hotel itself is an old hotel with nice firm beds new pillows & good quality sheets & towels & plenty hot water. Couldn't ask for more ,Value for money overall 5 star , can't wait to book another ,

Date of experience : February 11, 2020

Edinburgh Tattoo

Edinburgh Tattoo. Just came back from coach trip with David Urquhart to Edinburgh Tattoo. Our driver, Derek, was highly experienced, well mannered and extremely helpful. The stops at the services were timed correctly. The company of the other travellers was a pleasure, we had some good fun. Can't fault the Willowbank Hotel in Largs. Very welcoming, friendly and very helpful all round, plus some quick repartee ! Food good and plentiful. Comfortable and clean rooms. Would definitely go back there.

Date of experience : August 09, 2019

Christmas 2019 at the Waverley Hotel Great Yarmouth

Having just returned home from spending Christmas at the Waverley Hotel Great Yarmouth. Our double room, 218 was spacious, clean, with walk shower, mattress springs needed a wee drop of oil 😂, but with a mattress cover, made it comfortable. Hotel needed a little updating, but still warm and comfortable, food a Was exceptional. All certainly good value for overall cost. Our driver "Bill of (Pewsey in the vale) Coaches was brilliant, is experience shone through, and having once been a coach driver myself, I speak with experiance. May I take this opportunity in Thanking everyone who was involved in making our Chrismas enjoyable And wish you all a Very Happy New Year.

Date of experience : December 29, 2019

Highland Escape (3 nights)

Just back from a 3 night trip to the Highlands and Skye staying at Garve Hotel. Driver, Davie, was excellent and had fantastic knowledge of local area and provided fab commentary. The twin room was a little dated but had everything that we needed. The breakfast was first class, help yourself to cereal, porridge, juice etc and served with tea, coffee, toast and cooked breakfast. 3 course evening meal was very good variety and served quickly. Waitresses were very helpful and nothing was too much trouble. The entertainment was fabulous with musician/singers on two nights and bingo on the last evening. The barman called the numbers and was an absolute hoot. Would highly recommend this trip.

Date of experience : June 19, 2019

my husband and i have just returned…

my husband and i have just returned from blackpool, with david urquhart cant fault them in anyway.from perth to blackpool we were greeted with a very friendly and cheery driver.coach was spotless and very comfortable. we were looked after and informed all the way there and back plus while we were on holiday,lovely days out to liverpool and southport which was very nice,mark was his name we couldnt have asked for a better driver ,and will certainly be back with david urqhart travel next year.

Date of experience : October 05, 2019

Stayed at Georgian Hollies Hotel for a July weekend with a friend. Hotel nice, food good, entertainment good, or should I say too good! We were not best pleased with the male who exposed himself at the window facing ours, a coward of course who didn't show his face although his face might have been an improvement ha ha. Hotel manager wasn't too bothered when we reported it.

Date of experience : August 28, 2018

The price of the coach holidays are so…

The price of the coach holidays are so reasonable. The hotels are certainly in the 1 to 2 star range but generally they are clean but tired and the food generous. I really do not understand people who complain when they have a holiday from Monday to Friday, breakfast and dinners included as well as a couple of trips and travel to and from their chosen spot. What in the world do you want for around £200 or less.

Date of experience : October 11, 2019

FROM A "LOON" AND HIS WIFE.

MY WIFE AND I HAVE JUST RETURNED FROM A FIVE DAY HOLIDAY, STAYING IN THE BOSTON HOTEL SCARBOROUGH..WE HAD AN ENJOYABLE TIME,OUR DRIVER MARK WITH HIS OWN BRAND OF HUMOUR, AND KNOWLEDGE KEPT US FROM WEARYING ON OUR TRAVELS, ALL IN ALL A REAL VALUE FOR THE MONEY HOLIDAY.

Date of experience : March 01, 2020

The old David Urquhart had some not…

The old David Urquhart had some not very good reviews. But now the David Urquhart Brand has been taken over by Alfa travel who use leisureplex hotels and they are so much better. David Urquhart only pick up in Scotland now .and Alfa travel the rest of the UK

Date of experience : February 12, 2022

First rate drivers

We've done a few trips now with this company and enjoyed all of them, although some locations are obviously better than others. Their drivers are smartly dressed, good drivers, knowledgeable about the destinations and always polite and courteous. We also had a good laugh with our recent driver who was around our age so this was an added bonus! Although the passengers tend to be older in years than my sister and I, some of them are good company and enjoy themselves to the full; for us "younger" travellers this is a great way to get to explore and not having to drive ourselves.

Date of experience : August 18, 2019

Torquay break

Just back from a good break in Torquay At the Burlington hotel after the initial problem with water Coming in the ceiling we got moved to another room thanks to the Staff Who moved our gear to the new room,good food at all meals prices off Drink were very reasonable my wife enjoyed her glass of wine 🍷 at £3 A special mention for James the night porter as I don’t sleep 🛏 well he couldn’t have been any more helpful & last but not least a special mention for Jasmine our waitress What a pleasant young lady & nothing was a problem 10 out of 10 Jasmine Would certainly stay here again

Date of experience : September 22, 2019

Just come back from a 4 day holiday…

Just come back from a 4 day holiday staying at the Garve Hotel in the Highlands with David Urquhart tours Accommodation was beyond belief. We were put in annexe no 5 and as we are elderly we asked for a walk in shower but got a bath with a overhead shower The carpet was filthy and decor horrendous just wanted home Also vynil was lifting causing a safety hazard

Date of experience : July 29, 2019

HIGHLANDS AND SKYE TOUR.

HIGHLANDS AND SKYE TOUR. TRAVEL : very long journey because the coach went to pick up passengers in 8 towns , some passengers on the coach for 12 hrs. HOTEL: rooms with loose wallpaper and damp patches very tired and tacky. EXCURSIONS: disappointing, some passengers gave up and didn't bother on the last day. Spent more time on the coach than at the destination. DRINKS VOUCHERS: holiday was advertised as having 2 free drinks vouchers. Turned out to be 1 voucher for half a pint, house spirit or small wine. After much complaining the hotel staff gave us an extra voucher. OVERALL: very disappointing, will not use this company again.

Date of experience : August 15, 2019

Mini break to Dunoon

Just come from spending a 4 night mini break at the Glenmorag Hotel in Dunoon with David Urquarts. Cannot fault the company at all. Neil our driver was fantastic and really made the holiday. He was knowledgable about where we were going (interesting and funny facts) He was polite and helpful, we had my 87 year old mother with us and he was always there to help her on and off the coach. Have to say he is a huge ambasador for the company. The day trips out were fantastic, we had great weather which no doubt helped but the places we visited were all different and interesting in their own right. First coach trip I have ever been on and will certainly be booking again. Thank you Neil, we loved you.

Date of experience : May 18, 2019

Just returned home from a lovely 5days…

Just returned home from a lovely 5days 4nights holiday in Blackpool, staying at the Sheraton Hotel where we had a lovely stay. Our driver "John "was very nice and made our journey and day trips very entertaining. Would definately use company for other coach trips. Thankyou Mrs Susan Kettles

Date of experience : September 27, 2019

Just been to torquay with david…

Just been to torquay with david urquhart travel. Pick ups were a bit of a headache but onward .got held.up in traffic.cant be help We were late getting to our hotel the abbey court .the staff waited behind to cook us a meal which was great . .full breakfast every day and various evening meals food was good had an trip to the theatre was good night.then excursions to buckfast abbey totnes exmoor exeter were very good and a day to ourselfs great trip thank you david urquhart. Mr david haggart .

Date of experience : September 01, 2019

what a dissapointing trip

what a dissapointing trip. 4 days out of 7 on motorways . two stops by castles only allowed 15 minutes at each. hotel garve .more like hotel transylvania .food was good but in the middle of nowhere. full of stuffed birds and animals .lift,tv,games room didnt work.The driver was a good safe driver,Lee,unfortunately he diidnt like to talk about scottish culture or liked stoppimg at any cultural sites.Visit to Isle of Skye was biggest dissapointment . only 90 minute stop.would never recommend this company .Wish i had read reviews before booking. J renwick

Date of experience : June 21, 2018

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Hart Hotels & David Urquhart Travel providing an unforgettable experience

For many years Hart Hotels have been offering a “warm welcome” to guests on David Urquhart Travel tours ; countless numbers of these guests have returned to the hotels time and time again as their experience was unforgettable.  Whether it’s a relaxing break away or an action packed adventure, you can be assured of a sincere, friendly welcome and the very best standards of hospitality from Hart Hotels.

Hart Hotels are now welcoming tours and guests from other domestic operators as well as European inbound tours.

Garve Country House Hotel is set in the wonderful Scottish Highlands, nestled in the hamlet of Garve; a real home from home.  Set amidst attractive gardens leading down the Blackwater River, offering a tranquil setting for those seeking a restful break.

Garve Country House Hotel

The décor and surroundings of the hotel compliment the serene setting of the Highlands.  Garve is a great base for touring John O’Groats, Inverness or the famous Kyle Line, as featured on Michael Palin’s Great Train Journeys of the World.  It is also ideally situated for outdoor pursuits, there are many specially constructed walkways to take you to nearby Silverbridge or Rogie Falls; more experienced walkers can tackle the lonely heights of Ben Wyvis.

Centrally located in the picturesque Victorian Spa town of Strathpeffer and surrounded by an area of outstanding beauty is the MacKay’s Hotel and Spa.

MacKays Hotel & Spa

This hotel offers excellent accommodation, superb food and hospitality standards, which makes every visit memorable.  The MacKay’s Hotel sports a heated indoor pool as well as a public bar, which is very popular with the locals.  The MacKay’s Hotel is an excellent base for all sorts of activities, whether it’s exploring the Highlands, golfing, visiting the many distilleries in the area or taking a trip to The Black Isle, Beauly or “Capital of the Highlands” – Inverness.

On the west coast overlooking the scenic seaside resort of Dunoon is the Glenmorag Hotel. Its hilltop location set amidst its own lovely grounds boasts spectacular views of the Clyde.

Glenmorag hotel

The hotel is warm and welcoming and it’s perfectly situated for a relaxing break away.  For the more active break, guests can take advantage of the many walks Dunoon and Argyll has to offer, with fabulous views and a chance to spot a red squirrel or roe deer.  The Glenmorag Hotel is an ideal base for tours to Oban, Isle of Skye as well as Glasgow and Loch Lomond.  Its impressive ballroom hosts dance and entertainment evenings including cabaret and psychic nights.

All of our hotels have live entertainment each evening and bar deals are also on offer at Dunoon and Garve at certain times of the year.  Our dinner, bed and breakfast packages are available at exceptional value for money.

For further information and bookings please call Julie McKane on 01355 271643 or 01355 271577  or e-mail [email protected] and join the other UK and domestic coach tours in the delights of a Hart Hotels break.

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David urquhart travel Review

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I recently went on a trip organized by David Urquhart Travel and I had a wonderful experience. The company provided great service and the tour guide was fantastic. The accommodations were comfortable and the itinerary was well-planned. I would definitely travel with them again!

I recently booked a trip with David Urquhart Trave...

I recently booked a trip with David Urquhart Travel and I must say it was a wonderful experience. The company provided excellent service from the moment I made the reservation until the end of the trip. The staff was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The tour guide was fantastic, providing us with interesting insights and stories about the places we visited. The accommodations were comfortable and the itinerary was well-planned. I highly recommend David Urquhart Travel!

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I had an amazing trip with David Urquhart Travel. The company provided excellent service and the tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. The itinerary was well-organized and allowed me to explore some incredible destinations. I highly recommend them!

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I recently went on a trip organized by this travel company and it was an absolute delight. The whole experience was smooth and hassle-free. The accommodations were great and the tour guide was informative. I would definitely travel with them again in the future!

👍 I had an amazing time on my trip with David Urqu...

👍 I had an amazing time on my trip with David Urquhart Travel. The staff was friendly and the tour guide was excellent. The itinerary was well-planned and I had the opportunity to visit some incredible places. I would definitely book with them again! 👍

😊 I had a wonderful time on my trip with David Urq...

😊 I had a wonderful time on my trip with David Urquhart Travel. The company provided excellent service and the tour guide was fantastic. The itinerary was well-planned and allowed me to see many beautiful places. I would highly recommend them! 😊

I had a fantastic trip booked through their websit...

I had a fantastic trip booked through their website. The whole experience was great. The company organized everything smoothly and efficiently. The tour guide was knowledgeable and entertaining. I would definitely recommend this travel company to anyone looking for a memorable trip.

My experience with David Urquhart Travel was nothi...

My experience with David Urquhart Travel was nothing short of exceptional. The company provided top-notch service and the tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. The itinerary was well-organized and allowed us to explore some hidden gems. I would highly recommend this travel company!

👌 I had a great time on my trip with David Urquhar...

👌 I had a great time on my trip with David Urquhart Travel. The company provided excellent service and the tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. The itinerary was well-designed and allowed me to explore some amazing places. I would highly recommend them! 👌

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About david urquhart travel.

David Urquhart Travel: Your Ultimate Destination for Coach Holidays in the UK and Ireland David Urquhart Travel is a leading provider of coach holidays in the UK and coach tours in Ireland. With over 35 years of experience, we have established ourselves as one of the most trusted names in the travel industry. Our aim is to provide our customers with an unforgettable holiday experience that they will cherish for a lifetime. At David Urquhart Travel, we offer inclusive coach holidays to a wide variety of traditional British destinations. Whether you are looking for a short break or a longer holiday, we have something to suit everyone's needs and budget. Our coaches are modern, comfortable and equipped with all the latest amenities to ensure that your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We understand that planning a holiday can be stressful, which is why we take care of everything from start to finish. From booking your accommodation to arranging your excursions, our team of experienced travel experts will ensure that every aspect of your trip runs smoothly. Our range of coach holidays includes trips to some of the most popular destinations in the UK such as Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and Devon. We also offer tours around Ireland where you can explore its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. One thing that sets us apart from other travel companies is our commitment to providing excellent customer service. We believe that every customer deserves personal attention and care throughout their journey with us. That's why we have dedicated customer service teams who are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have. In addition to our coach holidays, we also offer self-drive breaks where you can explore at your own pace without having to worry about driving long distances or navigating unfamiliar roads. Our self-drive packages include accommodation at some of the best hotels across Britain along with detailed route maps so you can make the most out of your trip. At David Urquhart Travel, we pride ourselves on our attention to detail and our commitment to providing the best possible holiday experience for our customers. We are constantly updating our itineraries and adding new destinations to ensure that we stay ahead of the competition. So why not book your next coach holiday with David Urquhart Travel? With our unbeatable prices, excellent customer service and wide range of destinations, you are sure to have a holiday that you will never forget.

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Reviews 4.0.

Most relevant

Just came home yesterday from grand…

Just came home yesterday from grand national weekend stayed at Queens Hotel was clean and food was good, staff were very helpful.our coach driver big Joe was excellent from start to finish would definitely travel with yous again.

Date of experience : 14 April 2023

Long loud journey

We left Glasgow to travel to Newquay. The driver was extremely loud and literally shouted over his speaker for the whole journey. Most of his humour was inappropriate for pensioners. He loved the sound of his own voice and laughed hysterically at his own jokes. It was torture however we enjoyed a fantastic stay at the Eliot hotel which made up for the horrendous journey. Excellent hard working staff. Hotel is jaded but clean.

Date of experience : 20 August 2022

David urguhart trip to Beamish

David urguhart trip to Beamish was absolutely fantastic, from the driver / tour guide Joe to the staff at the Ramada hotel, the food and the warm friendly welcome from everyone. Huge well done to all of you for an exceptional holiday. Thoroughly enjoyable. Jim, Meg, Marj and Bill

Date of experience : 18 June 2022

Escape to the highlands

Escape to the highlands, based at small village of Garve. Traveled to Garve from Aberdeen pickup , we had a perfect trip with our drive Graham how truly added to our experience ! Food at Garve was just perfect with so much choice, all we could have wanted & staff are lovely , we had entertainment on 3 nights & 2 day excursions !The Hotel itself is an old hotel with nice firm beds new pillows & good quality sheets & towels & plenty hot water. Couldn't ask for more ,Value for money overall 5 star , can't wait to book another ,

Date of experience : 11 February 2020

Edinburgh Tattoo

Edinburgh Tattoo. Just came back from coach trip with David Urquhart to Edinburgh Tattoo. Our driver, Derek, was highly experienced, well mannered and extremely helpful. The stops at the services were timed correctly. The company of the other travellers was a pleasure, we had some good fun. Can't fault the Willowbank Hotel in Largs. Very welcoming, friendly and very helpful all round, plus some quick repartee ! Food good and plentiful. Comfortable and clean rooms. Would definitely go back there.

Date of experience : 09 August 2019

Christmas 2019 at the Waverley Hotel Great Yarmouth

Having just returned home from spending Christmas at the Waverley Hotel Great Yarmouth. Our double room, 218 was spacious, clean, with walk shower, mattress springs needed a wee drop of oil 😂, but with a mattress cover, made it comfortable. Hotel needed a little updating, but still warm and comfortable, food a Was exceptional. All certainly good value for overall cost. Our driver "Bill of (Pewsey in the vale) Coaches was brilliant, is experience shone through, and having once been a coach driver myself, I speak with experiance. May I take this opportunity in Thanking everyone who was involved in making our Chrismas enjoyable And wish you all a Very Happy New Year.

Date of experience : 29 December 2019

Highland Escape (3 nights)

Just back from a 3 night trip to the Highlands and Skye staying at Garve Hotel. Driver, Davie, was excellent and had fantastic knowledge of local area and provided fab commentary. The twin room was a little dated but had everything that we needed. The breakfast was first class, help yourself to cereal, porridge, juice etc and served with tea, coffee, toast and cooked breakfast. 3 course evening meal was very good variety and served quickly. Waitresses were very helpful and nothing was too much trouble. The entertainment was fabulous with musician/singers on two nights and bingo on the last evening. The barman called the numbers and was an absolute hoot. Would highly recommend this trip.

Date of experience : 19 June 2019

my husband and i have just returned…

my husband and i have just returned from blackpool, with david urquhart cant fault them in anyway.from perth to blackpool we were greeted with a very friendly and cheery driver.coach was spotless and very comfortable. we were looked after and informed all the way there and back plus while we were on holiday,lovely days out to liverpool and southport which was very nice,mark was his name we couldnt have asked for a better driver ,and will certainly be back with david urqhart travel next year.

Date of experience : 05 October 2019

Stayed at Georgian Hollies Hotel for a July weekend with a friend. Hotel nice, food good, entertainment good, or should I say too good! We were not best pleased with the male who exposed himself at the window facing ours, a coward of course who didn't show his face although his face might have been an improvement ha ha. Hotel manager wasn't too bothered when we reported it.

Date of experience : 28 August 2018

The price of the coach holidays are so…

The price of the coach holidays are so reasonable. The hotels are certainly in the 1 to 2 star range but generally they are clean but tired and the food generous. I really do not understand people who complain when they have a holiday from Monday to Friday, breakfast and dinners included as well as a couple of trips and travel to and from their chosen spot. What in the world do you want for around £200 or less.

Date of experience : 11 October 2019

FROM A "LOON" AND HIS WIFE.

MY WIFE AND I HAVE JUST RETURNED FROM A FIVE DAY HOLIDAY, STAYING IN THE BOSTON HOTEL SCARBOROUGH..WE HAD AN ENJOYABLE TIME,OUR DRIVER MARK WITH HIS OWN BRAND OF HUMOUR, AND KNOWLEDGE KEPT US FROM WEARYING ON OUR TRAVELS, ALL IN ALL A REAL VALUE FOR THE MONEY HOLIDAY.

Date of experience : 01 March 2020

The old David Urquhart had some not…

The old David Urquhart had some not very good reviews. But now the David Urquhart Brand has been taken over by Alfa travel who use leisureplex hotels and they are so much better. David Urquhart only pick up in Scotland now .and Alfa travel the rest of the UK

Date of experience : 12 February 2022

First rate drivers

We've done a few trips now with this company and enjoyed all of them, although some locations are obviously better than others. Their drivers are smartly dressed, good drivers, knowledgeable about the destinations and always polite and courteous. We also had a good laugh with our recent driver who was around our age so this was an added bonus! Although the passengers tend to be older in years than my sister and I, some of them are good company and enjoy themselves to the full; for us "younger" travellers this is a great way to get to explore and not having to drive ourselves.

Date of experience : 18 August 2019

Torquay break

Just back from a good break in Torquay At the Burlington hotel after the initial problem with water Coming in the ceiling we got moved to another room thanks to the Staff Who moved our gear to the new room,good food at all meals prices off Drink were very reasonable my wife enjoyed her glass of wine 🍷 at £3 A special mention for James the night porter as I don’t sleep 🛏 well he couldn’t have been any more helpful & last but not least a special mention for Jasmine our waitress What a pleasant young lady & nothing was a problem 10 out of 10 Jasmine Would certainly stay here again

Date of experience : 22 September 2019

Just come back from a 4 day holiday…

Just come back from a 4 day holiday staying at the Garve Hotel in the Highlands with David Urquhart tours Accommodation was beyond belief. We were put in annexe no 5 and as we are elderly we asked for a walk in shower but got a bath with a overhead shower The carpet was filthy and decor horrendous just wanted home Also vynil was lifting causing a safety hazard

Date of experience : 29 July 2019

HIGHLANDS AND SKYE TOUR.

HIGHLANDS AND SKYE TOUR. TRAVEL : very long journey because the coach went to pick up passengers in 8 towns , some passengers on the coach for 12 hrs. HOTEL: rooms with loose wallpaper and damp patches very tired and tacky. EXCURSIONS: disappointing, some passengers gave up and didn't bother on the last day. Spent more time on the coach than at the destination. DRINKS VOUCHERS: holiday was advertised as having 2 free drinks vouchers. Turned out to be 1 voucher for half a pint, house spirit or small wine. After much complaining the hotel staff gave us an extra voucher. OVERALL: very disappointing, will not use this company again.

Date of experience : 15 August 2019

Mini break to Dunoon

Just come from spending a 4 night mini break at the Glenmorag Hotel in Dunoon with David Urquarts. Cannot fault the company at all. Neil our driver was fantastic and really made the holiday. He was knowledgable about where we were going (interesting and funny facts) He was polite and helpful, we had my 87 year old mother with us and he was always there to help her on and off the coach. Have to say he is a huge ambasador for the company. The day trips out were fantastic, we had great weather which no doubt helped but the places we visited were all different and interesting in their own right. First coach trip I have ever been on and will certainly be booking again. Thank you Neil, we loved you.

Date of experience : 18 May 2019

Just returned home from a lovely 5days…

Just returned home from a lovely 5days 4nights holiday in Blackpool, staying at the Sheraton Hotel where we had a lovely stay. Our driver "John "was very nice and made our journey and day trips very entertaining. Would definately use company for other coach trips. Thankyou Mrs Susan Kettles

Date of experience : 27 September 2019

Just been to torquay with david…

Just been to torquay with david urquhart travel. Pick ups were a bit of a headache but onward .got held.up in traffic.cant be help We were late getting to our hotel the abbey court .the staff waited behind to cook us a meal which was great . .full breakfast every day and various evening meals food was good had an trip to the theatre was good night.then excursions to buckfast abbey totnes exmoor exeter were very good and a day to ourselfs great trip thank you david urquhart. Mr david haggart .

Date of experience : 01 September 2019

what a dissapointing trip

what a dissapointing trip. 4 days out of 7 on motorways . two stops by castles only allowed 15 minutes at each. hotel garve .more like hotel transylvania .food was good but in the middle of nowhere. full of stuffed birds and animals .lift,tv,games room didnt work.The driver was a good safe driver,Lee,unfortunately he diidnt like to talk about scottish culture or liked stoppimg at any cultural sites.Visit to Isle of Skye was biggest dissapointment . only 90 minute stop.would never recommend this company .Wish i had read reviews before booking. J renwick

Date of experience : 21 June 2018

Travel to Nalchik, Kabardino-Balkaria, Elbrus region

Your personal travel guide in nalchik, kabardino-balkaria, elbrus region.

Chegem waterfalls

Chegem Waterfalls – Su-Auzu (translated from Balkar “water from the throat”) – a rare beauty pageant. On the right bank of the cliffs descend to the river Chegem noisy streams of water. Some of them were thrown out of the jets of small (finger thick) round holes in the rock and, describing an arc in the air, fall down. Others poured from a height of 30-50 meters in wide ribbon and before it reaches the river, breaks on ledges of cliffs, forming numerous water sparks. Illuminated by sun (by 10-11 o’clock of the day), waterfalls form a colorful rainbow.

In winter Chegem waterfalls hit by cold and wild beauty and, perhaps, even more beautiful than in summer. Ice pillars and columns of frozen jets and streams of water, like giant twisted candles, or stalactites, hang down to the river. Some of them, like a chandelier with crystal fringe hanging over Chegem. With their flowing water which turns into a mist before touches the coastal cliffs. Rock walls of the gorge are a cut rock strata making up the ridge.

Bottom of the gorge is located at 1000-1200 meters above sea level, and the height of the ridge more than 3,000 meters.The waterfall is formed by an underground spring water running down a limestone wall (travertin), covered by moss. Tufa is a variety of limestone formed when carbonate minerals precipitate out of ambient temperature water. The Geothermally heated hot springs sometimes produce similar (but less porous) carbonate deposits known as travertine.

Travertin is deposited from sweetwater. Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, especially hot springs. Travertine often has a fibrous or concentric appearance and exists in white, tan, cream-colored, and even rusty varieties. It is formed by a process of rapid precipitation of calcium carbonate, often at the mouth of a hot spring or in a limestone cave. In the latter, it can form stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems.

On the limestone which is percipated near a source thy can settle on it mosses and algae, which additional lime precipitates due the effects of chemical plants and due to the turbulence caused by them. The process is simply repeated over and over again, and contributes greatly to the porous nature of travertine. Circuit between layers outside the moss can be plant and other minerals.

To get more information about traveling around Nalchik,Elbrus, Kabardino-Balkaria, and taking part in my tours, follow my instagram @guidetonalchik ( https://www.instagram.com/guidetonalchik /) and write an email ⇒ [email protected]

https://www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC70ZA4_chegem-waterfalls?guid=e39a1b5f-30b4-4817-b742-98b4e6068712

Cherek canyon – Blue lakes, hot springs, towers

Visiting Russia - Nalchik, Capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

By Koryo Tours

Nalchik, capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

Visiting Russia – Nalchik

Yoshkar-ola | cheboksary  |  astrakhan | elista | stalingrad (volograd)  | abakan  |  nalchik  | validkavkaz  | makhachkala  |  grozny.

Nalchik is a small city of around 240,000 people and serves as the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, one of the lesser-known republics spread across the beautiful North Caucasus area of Russia, the mountain range that separates the former soviet states of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan from the Russian Federation.

This region has incredible diversity in ethnic groups and is a melting pot at the edge of empire. While there have been civilisations in the Caucasus for millennia Nalchik as a city is only a century old, having been a Russian fort since 1724. Today’s Nalchik is a mostly peaceful and relaxing place, being in the foothills of the mountains it has many areas of great beauty and multiple sanatoria for people looking to take the waters, over the last century it has certainly had its share of turbulence though, being occupied by Romanian troops fighting on the side of the Nazis, who embarked on an effort to exterminate the ancient community of Mountain Jews in the area (unsuccessfully), plus a 2005 Islamic militant attack on Russian security forces.

These days Nalchik is known as a clean city, a place for relaxing, and the starting point of expeditions to summit Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, which lies within Kabardino-Balkaria.

Kabardians make up the largest ethnic group at just under 50% of the city’s population, followed by Russians, Balkars, other Caucasian nationalities as well as Ukrainians, Mountain Jews still live in the area but in very small numbers now, most having emigrated to Israel.

Arriving/Departing

Nalchik Airport (NAL) is a small one but is fully functional for getting in and out, usually the foreigners arriving here will be mountaineers heading for Elbrus.

The Airport is only 3km from the city centre so you could even walk into town from here, otherwise, there are taxis and marshrutkas waiting for arrivals. Flights arrive only from Moscow and St. Petersburg usually, the Caucasus has other larger airports for other international flights (such as those to Sochi). Nalchik has a railway station, dating from 1915, with links to Moscow and across the Caucasus. A good option for travelling around the region in a relaxing manner (usually slower than taking a marshrutka between cities though) For getting around inside Nalchik there are public buses all over the place, easy to use and very cheap. Otherwise most of the centre is very walkable, the main ‘high street’ is Lenin Avenue, which runs for several km through the centre of the city.

Concord Square

The centre of Nalchik and a good place to start a walking tour of the city, with the Kabardino-Balkaria parliament building on one side and Lenin stands at the other, fountains in the middle and Lenin Avenue cutting through the square

Religious Buildings

The central buildings of the main religions practised in Nalchik are both fine examples of their respective architectural styles; the Central Mosque and the Cathedral of Mary Magdalene are both worth visiting. Dress codes apply.

Not actually in Nalchik, but only 50km or so away so the city is the ideal base for starting an expedition. This is Europe’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano. There are cable car/chairlift options to get t the top for those who don’t wish to do it the hard way. It is possible to get up and down this mountain n a single day, making it certainly the simplest of the 7 continental highest peaks to climb.

Museum of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Great for explaining where you are and the history of the area. Mostly in Russian only though and does tend to assume some knowledge in advance. Still a good stop to get some intro into the complex history of this city and area in general.

Atazhukin Garden

A large park complex running for more than 2km along the eastern side of the city, alongside the Nalchik River. A very pleasant place with so much to see and do. The basic Nalchik Zoo is here, walking trails, restaurants and cafes, theatres, a very retro funfair, and a rickety but reliable cable car running up to a lovely viewpoint to see over the city and out to Mt. Elbrus.

Topped by a restaurant building built in the shape of a Kabardian warrior. An excellent few hours can be spent exploring this park and mingling with the locals of all ages who do their relaxing here.

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
• Climb Elbrus North Route
• Climb Elbrus & The Capitals
• Climb Elbrus & The Caucasus

Russia Cultural Tours

• Capitals of Russia
• Lake Baikal on Ice
• Delightful Dagestan
• Heart of the Caucasus

ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

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Tours Include:  United Kingdom, Ireland, Jersey, The Continent

We are now entering our 24th season since I offered the first David Urquhart Travel holiday in September 1983. Time has passed but our aim now is the same as it was then. That is to provide a friendly service, comfortable, reliable coaches, good hotels and above all, outstanding value for money.

Since 1983 the number of people we take on holiday has increased every year, and now totals over two and a half million. Destinations visited now stretch across the Continent and Ireland as well as throughout the UK.

For 2007 we are delighted to offer our biggest ever choice.

Can I simply say “thank you” to all those who have supported us in the past and “welcome” to all those booking for the first time.