Cape Ivantsova

Cape Ivantsova (Mys Ivantsova) lies at the southern tip of the Kondratenko Peninsula on Russky Island, within the Vladivostok city district of Primorsky Krai. The cape closes off Krasnaya Bay and forms a rocky hill on the seashore about 151 meters high. It is one of the most popular spots on Russky Island among tourists, hikers, and runners, easy to find by the "Mys Ivantsova" pin in navigation apps, including Google Maps.

History

The cape received its name in the late 1870s, when Russky Island was first being surveyed and settled for military and hydrographic needs. The island and its coastline later became part of the Vladivostok Fortress defense system: in 1910, Fort No. 9, also known as Fort of Prince Rurik, was built not far from the cape — a large concrete fortification with parapets and underground chambers that has survived to this day. Over the years, marine infantry units were stationed on the Kondratenko Peninsula; the area at the entrance to the strait separating Russky Island from the mainland had military significance because of its commanding view over the approaches to Vladivostok.

Views and legend

From the top of the cape there is a wide panoramic view of Lavrov and Engelm islands, sometimes called the "admiral's" islands, both linked to Russky Island by an artificial causeway and clearly visible from the coastal cliffs. Because of this view, the place has been nicknamed the "stone of kings" in tourist descriptions of the island.

Getting there

The cape can be reached by the southern road of Russky Island or from the side of Voevoda Bay. Part of the route runs along unpaved roads with steep climbs, and after rain the forest sections can have mud and deep ruts, so it is easier to get there by off-road vehicle or on foot. The route is popular with hikers and trail runners: along the way one can see the remains of the fortress's fortifications and stop at viewpoints above Krasnaya Bay.