The 8 Best Nature Escapes Near Kaliningrad
A little Russian enclave tucked in between Poland, Lithuania and a long stretch of stunning Baltic coast, Kaliningrad is Russia‘s smallest state and has some of the best coastlines and nature escapes in the region. Traditional German architecture, evident of the region’s Germanic heritage, is scattered through charming towns surrounded by scenic landscapes. Medieval castles lie in ruins in overgrown swathes of countryside. And, of course, there is that windswept beauty, the Baltic Sea, and the World Heritage-listed Curonian Spit. So if you’re in the namesake capital to catch a 2018 World Cup match, put these nature escapes on your list and discover Kaliningrad’s charm and loveliness.
1. Dancing Forest
Forest, Natural Feature
Named after the twisted trunks found on the trees, the Dancing Forest is a quirky pine woodland on the Curonian Spit. Healthy tree trunks twist and contort into various shapes and in different directions as if frozen mid-dance. Planted in the 1960s to stabilise the sand dunes, the cause of the distorted trunks is unknown, although there are several theories. Different schools of thought suggest several theories: the misshaped trunks are actually due to the instability and movement of the dunes, or are due to a particular type of caterpillar, or were created by the strong winds in the area.
Read Next
History
Unusual Facts About the Soviet Union
History
Russian Last Names and Their Meanings
History
A Soviet Pilot Went Missing in Afghanistan and Was Found 30 Years Later
Guides & Tips
A 48 Hour Guide to Astrakhan, Russia
History
The Mystery Behind Russia's Buddhist "Miracle"
Restaurants
The Best Halal Restaurants in Kaliningrad
History
Zhenotdel: The Soviet Union's Feminist Movement
Sports
Incredible Photos From the Longest Bike Race in the World
See & Do
Russia's Most Remote Holiday Destinations
History
The Soviet Union’s Best Heart-Throbs and Pinups
Food & Drink
The Best Halal Restaurants in Kazan
History
A Guide to Cautionary Russian Proverbs and What They Mean
Culture Trip Summer Sale
Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
