The sculpture 'Eagle' on Mount Goryachaya in Pyatigorsk has become a symbol of the Caucasian Mineral Waters
Pyatigorsk is part of the group of cities of the Caucasian Mineral Waters – and it is the mineral waters that make this resort so popular. This is an All-Russian health resort, where tens of thousands of people come from all corners of the country and beyond to improve their health.
Sanatoriums
Most tourists do not come just like that, but to local sanatoriums, of which there are a huge number here. A referral to a sanatorium can be obtained both from the state and from one's employer offering a full social package. Also, a voucher can be purchased independently by contacting any travel agency offering holidays in the Caucasian Mineral Waters.
Numerous sanatoriums in Pyatigorsk, with prices per day ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 rubles, receive vacationers all year round. Depending on the season, the cost of a voucher may change: as a rule, prices are higher in summer because it is the high season. It is better to buy vouchers in advance, especially if you plan to go in summer, because closer to the season they may no longer be available.
In the resort's sanatoriums, you can both simply relax and improve your health if you have no specific problems, and treat certain ailments. Most of the city's sanatoriums, although general health-improving, still have their own specializations. Some treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract well, others – skin diseases, etc. It is better to find out this information in advance to choose a suitable option for yourself.
In addition to mineral water, which is used both for internal intake and for baths, other resources are also used. These are radon, sulfur (sulfur baths), mud from Lake Tambukan, herbal teas, speleotherapy, and much more. There are also many private paid medical centers in the city if someone needs serious treatment or medical consultations. If you do not want to stay in a sanatorium, you can stay in inexpensive hotels and hostels, or rent an apartment.
What to see
In their free time from medical procedures, vacationers can explore local attractions. This is the famous Proval, at the entrance to which a bronze statue of Ostap Bender is installed, 'selling' tickets to it. From the Aeolian Harp gazebo, a stunning panoramic view of the city opens up. It is especially beautiful there at night.
You can go for a walk in the beautiful Tsvetnik Park, stroll along Broadway – that is the name of the pedestrian tourist street with many shops, cafes, and souvenir shops. You can also go on excursions to neighboring regions – for example, to Dombay, Elbrus region, Upper Balkaria, and other interesting places.
* The name 'Pyatigorsk' comes from the name of Mount Beshtau (Turkic 'Five Mountains' or 'Five Peaks'), at the foot of which the city's territory was located.