Grotto with a Circular Path (Kislovodsk Park)

The Grotto with a Circular Path is a natural rock grotto on the Tourist Trail in the Upper Park of Kislovodsk, part of Kislovodsk National Park. What makes it unusual is that the footpath has been cut right into the grotto's wall and curves around inside it, so walkers pass beneath the stone vault.

The Tourist Trail runs along a cliff where the rock overhangs the path and forms a series of oval hollows in the wall. In places the ceiling drops low enough that you instinctively duck. The park's own guide lists the natural grottoes on this trail as a sight in their own right.

The grotto itself takes about five minutes to see, but the trail around it is worth walking in full. Along the way there are rock ledges, small caves and grottoes, and several viewpoints looking over the town, the surrounding ridges and, on a clear day, Mount Elbrus.

The grotto can only be reached on foot: climb into the Upper Park along one of the Resort Park's alleys and turn onto the Tourist Trail. This stretch is narrow and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes and take care after rain, when the stone gets slippery. Entry to the park is free and the trail is open all year.