Bald Mountain (Anapa)

Bald Mountain (Lysaya Gora) is one of the highest points of Anapa, a hill on the southern edge of the resort town near the village of Supsekh in Krasnodar Krai. It can be seen from almost anywhere in Anapa, and the white radar domes on its top make its outline easy to recognise. The well-known "400 Steps" and "800 Steps" trails lead from the hill down to the sea, and the Swallow's Nests viewpoint is nearby.

History

The hill was once covered in dense forest, and a river at its foot supplied fresh water to the ancient settlements of the area. After the forest was cut down and the river dried up, the slopes were left bare, which gave the hill its name, Bald Mountain.

The hill also has an archaeological past. Excavations in 1903 uncovered a limestone tomb with a square stone box at its centre holding an urn with ashes. The urn had been broken, probably by robbers long ago. The find shows that the area was settled long before the resort appeared.

What to see

The main viewpoint is the Swallow's Nests: rocky ledges above the sea with niches and holes that look like swallows' nests. It offers views of the sea, the coast and the town and is popular with photographers.

The white balls on the summit are protective domes of a radar station. Most of them have been dismantled, but one remains in service; its grounds are fenced with barbed wire and guarded by the military, so keep away.

Two trails lead down to the sea: the "800 Steps", starting near the Swallow's Nests, and the shorter, steeper "400 Steps" by a campsite. At the bottom are wild beaches with no showers or toilets, but far quieter than Anapa's Central Beach.

Legends

Locals say that the Greater Caucasus mountains begin at Bald Mountain. It is more an image than geography, but it captures the view from the top over the coast stretching south.

Getting there

By car, drive to Lermontova Street in Supsekh, where trails lead up to the summit. City buses and minibuses run from central Anapa to Supsekh (stops near Lermontova and Vinogradnaya streets). On foot, you can walk along the shore from the Walnut Grove or from the 40 Let Pobedy beach.

Good to know

Go early in the morning or in the evening: there is almost no shade on the bare summit. On overcast days strong winds can carry sand. The stepped descents are steep and crumble in places, so wear good shoes and take care.