Caucasian Mineral Waters located between the Black and Caspian seas, 90 km from Elbrus. In good weather, its characteristic outlines are clearly visible.
The region occupies the southern part of the Stavropol Territory, the heart of the North Caucasus, the northern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range, and is located on the same latitude as the resorts of the Cote d'Azur of France and the Italian Adriatic.
The nature of the North Caucasus is picturesque and unique. Over the course of just a few tens of kilometers from north to south, the steppe plain smoothly turns into a mountain landscape, and the feather grass steppes into luxurious deciduous and pine forests, over which alpine meadows stretch. All this splendor is crowned by the majestic two-headed Elbrus.
The height of the resorts above sea level is from 600 to 1000 meters. The Main Caucasus Range traps the humid air of the Black Sea, creating a favorable healthy climate, warm but not hot summers, and mild winters.
Caucasian mineral waters is a mountain resort, balneotherapeutic, mud and climatic, specially protected, ecological region of the Russian Federation, a single artesian basin of mineral waters of various types and rich in resources. The area of formation of these waters is located on the territory of three subjects of the Federation: Stavropol Territory, Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria.
The uniqueness of the region lies in the exceptional concentration of numerous mineral waters of varied composition, as well as medicinal mud, exotic landscapes that create favorable climatic conditions, and resort complexes with developed infrastructure? structure.
The resort region includes five resort cities: Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk, Essentuki, Zheleznovodsk and Mineralnye Vody itself.
The climate, one of the healing factors of the region, is diverse and is formed under the influence of several factors. The continental climate is determined by the foothill nature and proximity of the snowy peaks of the Main Caucasus Range on the one hand, and the proximity of the arid steppes and semi-deserts of the Caspian coast on the other. Research by bioclimatologists from the Pyatigorsk State Research Institute of Balneology has clearly proven that the air of resorts is characterized by high transparency, moderate natural hypoxia, high natural ionization with a low coefficient of ion unipolarity. With a favorable solar radiation regime, this combination allows for all types of climate therapy. The surrounding mountain alpine meadows and resort parks cleanse the air of pollution and enrich the air with healing volatile phytoorganic substances.
The most favorable, according to medical climatology, is the southern zone of the CMS. The climate of Kislovodsk and its environs is characterized by a very large number of sunny days, an almost complete absence of wind, low atmospheric pressure, especially in the upper part of the park, partial pressure of oxygen and water vapor, and increased solar radiation. There are only 37 days a year without sun. The area of the remaining cities of the KMS belongs to a climate zone with a lot of heat and moderate precipitation. Cloudy, foggy days with frost are observed mainly in the autumn-winter period, which creates a contrast with Kislovodsk, where it is extremely rarely cloudy at this time.
Therapeutic factors of CMV
- Mineral waters of various compositions.
In terms of richness and diversity, the group of mineral springs of the KMS is a rare phenomenon: Narzans in Kislovodsk with its “cold boiling water” seething with carbon dioxide, hot waters of Pyatigorsk and Zheleznovodsk, radon waters in Pyatigorsk, hydrocarbonate-chloride-sodium in Essentuki and others. In a relatively small area there are currently over 130 mineral springs, 90 of which are used for medicinal purposes.
- Favorable climate in the southwestern part of the region
This climate is used for climatotherapy, especially in the Kislovodsk resort, throughout the year, and in other resorts - mainly during the warm period.
- Mud of Tambukan Lake.
Mud is used for mud therapy at all resorts in the region.
Tambukan Lake is located 12 km southeast of Pyatigorsk, on the border between the Stavropol Territory and Kabardino-Balkaria. It is small, only 180 hectares, but the reserves of mud amount to more than 2 million tons, which meets the need for medicinal mud in the resorts of Caucasian Mineral Waters for many years and even centuries. The water in the lake is bitterly salty - brine of sulfate-chloride-sodium composition with high mineralization.
Tambukan has always been mysterious and a little creepy, always striking with its unusualness. Its surface appears black even in calm, windless weather, so clearly visible through the thickness of the water is the layer of that same healing mud lying at the bottom. The lake was first scientifically described in 1773 by I. Güldsnstedt. He called it “Tambi”, which translated from ancient Turkic means “bad, foul smell”: when approaching the lake, a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide hits your nose. Since ancient times, Kabardians knew everything about the healing properties of Tambukan mineral waters and mud. This is evidenced by the remaining traces of baths carved into the stones near the springs, and the remains of primitive wooden and stone bathing facilities from the early Bronze Age.
The mud and brine of the lake have a pronounced bactericidal effect, so nothing lives in the lake except brine crustaceans. Black plastic sulfide mud has a high content of organic substances, hydrogen sulfide, methane, etc. It consists of fine clay and sand.
Main indications for the treatment of diseases
The first official information about one of the oldest regions of Russia and its mineral springs is contained in the reports of Dr. Schober in 1717. By the highest Decree of Peter I, he was sent to the North Caucasus region in search of “spring waters”. Indications for the treatment of diseases evolved as sources were discovered. Today, CMV is the most diversified resort in the world.
Pyatigorsk The composition of 50 springs represents almost all types of mineral waters in the region. The successful combination of carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, radon springs and mud from Lake Tambukan, a favorable climate and a wonderful natural landscape makes the city the most versatile resort in Russia. All diseases are treated here in a complex: peripheral nervous system, musculoskeletal system, digestive organs, skin, peripheral blood vessels, gynecological and andrological diseases, occupational diseases.
Essentuki. The waters of this resort are often compared to European resorts. It is worth noting, however, that the treatment of patients with diseases of the digestive system has long allowed Essentuki to be recognized as one of the best world resorts in this profile.
Zheleznovodsk City sanatoriums specialize in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system, kidneys and urinary tract.
Kislovodsk Carbon dioxide mineral waters and a mid-mountain climate make this resort a unique place for treating diseases of the cardiovascular system and respiratory tract.
Tatiana Solomatina
What attracts tourists to the Caucasian Mineral Waters region?
Good afternoon dear friends!
Today I am starting a series of articles about a wonderful place for recreation and treatment - the Caucasian Mineral Waters region.
In the first publication we will get to know this unique resort a little. I will talk about the location and climate, the cities of this region and natural mineral springs. After reading to the end, you will find out why a large number of people come here for vacation and treatment regularly, and perhaps you, too, will have a desire to go to this wonderful place.
The resort is very interesting, I visit it regularly, so a lot of information has accumulated, I am planning a series of articles, the first one is already in front of you, read and share your impressions in the comments, I will be glad to hear from you.
Caucasian Mineral Waters is an excellent choice for recreation and treatment, due to its unique location, mild climate, beautiful surrounding nature and developed infrastructure.
But the most important thing that attracts numerous guests to the region are the healing springs, the water from which is widely and successfully used to treat many diseases. By staying here you will not only relax, but also significantly strengthen your body.
This region is located in the Stavropol Territory on the northern slope of the Caucasus Mountains. The resort towns are located close to each other, which allows you to travel around them all and get a general impression of this place.
The natural landscape is very diverse, small hills, densely covered with unique broad-leaved forests, alternate with the steppe part, which in the summer pleases the eye with lush grass and bright wildflowers.
Due to the absence of serious industrial production, the air here is crystal clear and quiet.
Climate
This region has a favorable climate that is well suited for climatotherapy. Spa therapists use it as a healing factor.
The winter here is moderate, the average temperature is -4 degrees, and the summer is comfortable - +22 degrees.
Due to the diversity of the terrain, the climate of all cities of Caucasian Mineral Waters differs slightly. This depends on the altitude above sea level, protection by mountains, and proximity to the steppes.
The southern resort is Kislovodsk, the sunniest city of the KMV; accordingly, the air temperature here is usually several degrees higher than in other cities in the region.
Pyatigorsk, Zheleznovodsk and Essentuki are located slightly lower than Kislovodsk, but they are also warm and have very little precipitation. And small mountains - Mashuk, Beshtau, Zheleznaya - often become a barrier from strong steppe winds.
Main resorts of the CMS
Caucasian Mineral Waters is a fairly large region, I will introduce you to the main resorts, which can safely be classified as Zheleznovodsk, Pyatigorsk, Essentuki and Kislovodsk. You can read more about each of them in separate materials, links to which will be at the end of each description.
A very cozy small town located at the foot of Mount Zheleznaya. The resort is simply surrounded by greenery, and the magnificent park with centuries-old trees and winding paths is simply conducive to leisurely walks and contemplation of the beautiful nature around.
The city is well planned and the resort infrastructure is located separately from the residential area. Almost all sanatoriums were built within walking distance to natural springs, which is important for resort guests. This is the smallest town in the Caucasian Mineral Waters region, but it is also rich in mineral waters.
The resort specializes in the treatment of the genitourinary system, digestive organs, metabolic disorders and other related diseases.
The main component of the treatment is drinking mineral water Slavyanovskaya and Smirnovskaya, the pump rooms of which are located in the Resort Park. Also widely used in treatment is the silt mud of the Tambukan and Lysogorsk lakes, which is rich in iron, iodine, zinc and silver.
You can find out more about the resort.
Pyatigorsk is a large resort town, located just 10 minutes drive from Zheleznovodsk at the foot of Mount Mashuk. The resort fits picturesquely into the mountain landscape, from Mount Mashuk, which can be climbed either by cable car or on foot, this is clearly visible.
There are many health resorts here that successfully treat the musculoskeletal system, joints, and help with gynecological diseases. As in the entire region, the main factor in healing is drinking water therapy, climate therapy, and mud therapy.
I wrote even more information about the resort.
The city is located a 30-minute drive from Mineralnye Vody airport. The resort is quite small, located on the flat part of the Caucasian Mineral Waters region, but also very green.
Here are the well-known springs - “Essentuki”. This mineral water is good for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, this is the main direction of treatment in local sanatoriums.
Continue reading about the resort.
Kislovodsk
The most popular resort in the Caucasian Mineral Waters region. Located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level in a green valley surrounded by the Caucasus Range.
A very warm, sunny and cozy city, despite the constant abundance of guests, there is no feeling of crowding or crowding here.
The luxurious park, almost 1000 hectares, which was completely created by people just 200 years ago, now occupies a dominant role in the architecture of the city.
About a third of the KMS sanatoriums are located in Kislovodsk. Mineral water "Narzan" helps in the treatment of people suffering from diseases of the digestive tract. Patients who have suffered a heart attack are successfully rehabilitated here. The resort specializes in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
This is interesting
The bulk of guests of the Caucasian Mineral Waters region come here for rehabilitation and treatment. However, these places are rich not only in their healing factors. Of course, there is no sea here, but there is clean air and magnificent mountain scenery that can brighten up anyone’s vacation.
No wonder many years ago, famous great people loved to come here. A. S. Pushkin visited the KMS twice, M. Yu. Lermontov lived here for a long time and many of his works are dedicated to these places. The list of great people is quite long; they all admired the amazing nature and hospitality of the local population.
Now Caucasian Mineral Waters is a well-developed resort, which is interesting not only in terms of treatment, there is something to see here, many significant historical attractions and amazingly beautiful natural places.
I wrote complete tourist information about the region in the article. Check out another review of the sanatorium.
Perhaps you are having difficulty choosing a resort, write to me by email, I will try to help. Read more about cooperation. If you liked the article, share it with your friends on social networks. Subscribe to blog updates, new readers are always welcome. In the meantime, I say goodbye to you for a moment.
Tatiana Solomatina
And in Karachay-Cherkessia.
Treatment in Caucasian Mineral Waters
The Caucasian Mineral Waters region is located on the northern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range and occupies an area of about 5.3 thousand square meters. km from the foothills of Elbrus in the south to the city in the north. In these places, hundreds of springs make their way to the surface of the earth, giving people healing mineral waters, which are used for drinking, bathing, inhalation, irrigation and help in the treatment of many diseases.
In addition to the springs, in this region there is Lake Tambukan - a rich deposit of healing mud, used in all resorts of the Caucasian Mineral Waters.
An additional healing factor in all resorts of the Caucasian Mineral Waters is the local soft microclimate, which forms in valleys protected by mountains from cold winds. Therefore, all resorts in this region are considered not only balneological, but also climatic.
On the slopes of the mountains, according to the recommendations of doctors, special paths have been laid, walking along which has a healing effect not only due to the beautiful landscapes that soothe the nerves, but also because of dosed, well-calculated physical activity.
Sights of Caucasian Mineral Waters
You can get acquainted with the architectural monuments of the Caucasian Mineralnye Vody at the same time as undergoing treatment, because sanatoriums, mud baths, and pump rooms are located in amazing buildings built in the last and century before last. Noteworthy neoclassical mud bath named after Semashko in Essentuki, neo-Gothic Central drinking gallery And Main Narzan baths in Art Nouveau style in Kislovodsk and much more.
The surrounding areas of Kislovodsk and Pyatigorsk are associated with the name of M. Yu. Lermontov. In these cities and their surroundings there are many attractions that the writer described in the novel “A Hero of Our Time.” In Kislovodsk it is worth seeing the famous Mount "Ring", in Pyatigorsk - walk to gazebos "Eolian Harp", before Lermontov Grotto, go down to place of the duel Lermontov with Martynov and bow first poet's burial place.
The entire region of Caucasian Mineral Waters is filled with natural attractions. From almost any trail you can enjoy uninterrupted views of breathtaking scenery. The local mountains are incredibly beautiful: Mashuk near Pyatigorsk, Beshtau and Zheleznaya near Zheleznovodsk and, finally, Elbrus towering on the horizon, covered with a cap of eternal snow. Definitely worth a visit Valley of Narzans, where 20 springs with this healing water flow from the ground.
How to get to Caucasian Mineral Waters
To Caucasian Mineralnye Vody by plane
Airlines fly to the city airport daily from and other cities
As some of the most worthy and great Russian writers and poets would say: “Whoever did not breathe the Caucasian mountain air did not live...”.
In this article we will talk about Caucasian Mineral Waters. What is good about this resort in the Caucasus and what is unique about Min. waters
The Caucasus is not just mountains, gorgeous nature, springs, springs, eagles over the gorges, vipers on mountain roads between the placers of rhododendrons, the Caucasus is a special spirit, a special culture, this cannot be found anywhere else, harsh, wild, proud, very beautiful, in some places a virgin region.
Caucasian Mineral Waters is a group of resorts of federal significance in the Stavropol Territory, a specially protected ecological resort region of the Russian Federation.
South of the European part of Russia. The resort includes cities and territories:
“The Caucasian Mineral Waters agglomeration region, with an area of more than 500 thousand hectares (5.3 thousand sq. km), is located on the territory of three constituent entities of the Russian Federation within the boundaries of the mountain sanitary protection district:
in the Stavropol Territory - the cities and resort towns of Georgievsk, Mineralnye Vody (including the resort of Kumagorsk and the resort area of Naguta), Pyatigorsk, Zheleznovodsk, Lermontov, Essentuki, Kislovodsk, as well as the actual districts of Georgievsky, Mineralovodsky and Predgorny, - 58% of the total area of the region;
in Kabardino-Balkaria - Zolsky district, - 9% (therapeutic mud of Lake Tambukan, Narzanov Valley and others);
in Karachay-Cherkessia - Malokarachaevsky and Prikubansky districts, - 33% of the territory (zone of formation of mineral springs)."
The location of the resort is, to put it mildly, gorgeous:
“The Caucasian Mineral Waters region occupies the southern part of the Stavropol Territory and is located on the northern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range, just a couple of tens of kilometers from Elbrus. The earth seems different here, the sky seems different to others.
From afar, motionless white clouds are visible, which, when approaching, turn out to be the snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. The southern borders of the region are the foothills of Elbrus, the valley of the Khasaut and Malki rivers; in the west - the upper reaches of the Eshkakona and Podkumka rivers; The northern border of the region is the city of Mineralnye Vody, beyond which the steppe expanses of Ciscaucasia begin.”
Very close to the Stavropol Territory are the famous resorts of the Krasnodar Territory and Sochi:
“In the west and southwest, the Stavropol Territory borders on the Krasnodar Territory, in the northwest on the Rostov Region, in the north and northeast on Kalmykia, on the east on Dagestan, on the southeast on the Chechen Republic, on the south on North Ossetia. Alania, Karachay-Cherkess and Kabardino-Balkarian republics."
About the Caucasian Mineral Waters resorts in the video:
There are many sources of mineral waters in the Caucasian Mineral Waters, because the difficult region is named just that. The name of the main city, Essentuki, appears on bottles of medicinal water, known to everyone for a couple of decades.
And the water actually has medicinal properties, unlike the products that store shelves are filled with.
In addition, there are many springs, waterfalls, salt and mud springs in the region.
The resort has existed since the beginning of the 18th century; more precisely, the first mentions of it date back to this time. All efforts were directed towards developing the region, so in the 20th century the resort became the largest in Russia, and the most healing.
The most famous cities and resorts of Caucasian Mineral Waters:
Kumagorsk
Nagutsk
Zheleznovodsk
Pyatigorsk
Essentuki
Kislovodsk
Kislovodsk the highest mountain resort, it is located at an altitude of 817-1063 m above sea level, the lowest mountain point of Kislovodsk is 750 m above sea level, and the highest is 1409 m (on the Big Saddle in Kislovodsk Park).
“Kislovodsk is located in the south of the Stavropol Territory, practically on the border with Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria, 65 km from Mount Elbrus.
The city is located in a small and cozy picturesque valley, surrounded by the slopes of the Main Caucasus Range and formed by the gorges of two merging rivers - Olkhovka and Berezovka, flowing into the Podkumok River. The length of the valley from southeast to northwest is about 7 km.”
The weather is almost always good here:“The climate of the KavMinVod region has long been highly valued by balneologists and has been successfully used as a healing factor. The main advantages of the local climate are associated with the large number of sunny days - in Kislovodsk only 37-40 days a year are without sun.
It is relatively dry here; moist air masses from the Black Sea do not reach here - they are delayed by the Main Caucasus Ridge.”
« In terms of the number of sunny days, Kislovodsk is not inferior to the best resorts in the world. On average, per year the number of clear days in Kislovodsk is about 150, while in Pyatigorsk - 98, in Zheleznovodsk - 112, and in Essentuki - 117. The number of cloudy days is also small - on average 61 days per year.
The air in Kislovodsk is always clean, mostly dry and invigorating. Kislovodsk stands out among other KavMinVod resorts for its generally quiet weather, without strong winds, and low humidity in winter, which fluctuates during the day from 56 to 70%, which has a beneficial effect on the well-being of resort guests.”
In January it was 18 degrees Celsius, sub-zero temperatures reached 20 degrees, but much more often the temperature at this time of year here is around zero or “slight minus”. The hottest months are July, August; the temperature, depending on the location near or far from mountains and snowy gorges, ranges from 4-5 degrees Celsius to 37 degrees Celsius.
All resorts of the Caucasian Mineral Waters are primarily therapeutic, but Kislovodsk, Essentuki, Zheleznovodsk - especially. After Sochi, Kislovodsk is the second city in terms of the number of health resorts and sanatoriums.
A third of all medical and preventive institutions in the region are located here. In Kislovodsk there is a source of the famous acidic mineral water - Narzan.
Built on the site of a former fortress, the city is now replete with green spaces and orchards; in terms of population, it is a very small town: 130 thousand people.
Most health resorts in Kislovodsk have a medical profile for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, nervous diseases and respiratory diseases.
In addition to health resorts, mineral springs and other beauties of the city, one of the most striking attractions is the Resort Park, its area is 948 hectares, which is comparable to the huge city parks of Europe and the world.
“The park is located on both sides of the Olkhovka River and contains over 250 species of trees and shrubs, including cedar, fir, birch, pine, spruce, black walnut, Chinese paulownia, cork tree, etc. In the alpine part of the park, more than 800 species of herbaceous plants.
The park contains nurseries for ornamental plants and greenhouses. Over 80 varieties of abundantly blooming roses are planted on the “Rose Square” and in the “Valley of Roses”. Squirrels, trustingly taking food from people’s hands, and various species of birds have acclimatized in the park.
A natural monument is the Red Stones, which appear in several places in the park and are sandstones with a red-brown color and various forms of weathering.”
The park has a route for therapeutic walking - a health path. And in Kislovodsk itself there are several dozen large and popular sanatoriums.
Despite the fact that resorts and cities are located close to each other, the atmosphere in them can be completely different. So, in Zheleznovodsk there is a different air, a slightly different climate - compared to other resorts of the Caucasian Mineral Waters.
"Zheleznovodsk - the most dynamically developing resort of Kavminvod. In 2003, it was awarded the title “Best City in Russia” among small cities.
The climate here is mountain-forest, similar to the climate of the Middle Alps. Long-term meteorological observations made it possible to classify it as mountain-forest, mid-mountain alpine, moderately dry.
The air is saturated with oxygen and forest phytoncides. Moderately hot summers with cool nights, a large number of sunny days with weak refreshing winds, winters are not cold.”
The population of Zheleznovodsk is only about 25 thousand people, but despite the small number of inhabitants, the city is truly a pearl not only among the resorts of the Stavropol Territory, but throughout Russia.
Yes, there are few residents, but many times more guests: for example, the health resorts (about two dozen sanatoriums) of Zheleznovodsk can accommodate up to 80 thousand tourists. The main areas of treatment are diseases of the digestive system, kidneys, and metabolic disorders.
Over 20 mineral water springs and several mud springs.
Pyatigorsk more, so to speak, “amazed by industrialization” than the small and remote cities of Stavropol in terms of the number of citizens. Pyatigorsk has about 145 thousand inhabitants, industry, trade, and science are well developed.
“Within the city limits there is Mount Mashuk (993.7 m, with a 112-meter television relay tower installed on it) and its spurs.
The climate in Pyatigorsk is characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Thanks to a large amount of water resources and a mild climate, the city has picturesque ponds, forest belts and parks.
The resort area, rich in underground mineral water sources, is relatively poor in surface water resources.
The tourist infrastructure of the resort city of Pyatigorsk includes:
More than 30 health resorts and sanatorium-resort institutions. Every year they are visited by over 200 thousand people per year (225-250 thousand people per year in 16 sanatoriums and 7 boarding houses - in the second half - the end of the 80s);
43 travel companies and organizations;
17 hotels;
The city and Pyatigorye have enormous tourism potential and have the right to compete with leading European resorts and balneological health resorts.”
Pyatigorsk has many museums, theaters, historical monuments, libraries, and beautiful places. There are parks and fountains in the city.
“The surrounding mountains are decorated with natural forests in which mighty oaks and snow-white birches, honey-bearing maples and lindens grow, and in the fall dogwoods, hawthorns, rose hips, barberries, and rowan trees turn red with berries.
The fauna is not so diverse due to the proximity of the city, but tourists are always delighted by squirrels, which can be found even in small public gardens in the very center of the city. Swans swim on the pond in Kirov Park in the summer.”
The population is about 105 thousand people, many health resorts, more than 20 mineral springs, the main direction of treatment is “diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and metabolism.”
Essentuki hosts festivals, cultural events, and there are many cultural institutions.
Caucasian Mineral Waters resorts have this name for a reason: the main attraction and main treasure of the region are the springs of mineral waters. And if someone was not here, then everyone drank mineral water.
In 2000, almost 500 thousand people rested and improved their health here.
The “Genius of the Place” program tells about the sights of the Caucasian Mineral Waters:
Caucasian Mineral Waters ranks first in popularity among Russians among Russian resorts:
“The Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) analyzed the most popular destinations of domestic tourism in the summer of 2014, the resorts of the Krasnodar Territory (Sochi, Anapa, Gelendzhik, Tuapse) were in first place in the rating, Crimea was in second, on the third, fourth and fifth lines are Caucasian Mineral Waters, Golden Ring and Karelia respectively, Baikal took sixth position.”
Tatiana Solomatina
Hello, dear readers! It is with pleasure that I continue the topic of recreation and treatment in Caucasian Mineral Waters (CMV).
This information will be of interest to everyone who is going on vacation and treatment in KMS for the first time. I will tell you how you can get here, I will advise you at what time of year it is more comfortable to relax, and when it is better to come for treatment, I will write what criteria you should use to choose a resort and accommodation, and I will give some practical advice on all these issues.
I have collected everything about CMS in one place. Here is the information that I myself once searched on the Internet; perhaps it will help to create an approximate picture of recreation and treatment in this place. Interested? Then let's study the material in order.
KMV is located in the Stavropol Territory, so getting here for rest and treatment is not difficult at all. There is an airport and railway stations here. For those who live nearby or simply prefer to travel by personal transport, there are no problems either, the roads are good, and at every sanatorium or hotel there is almost always a parking lot.
By plane
The KMV international airport is located in the city of Mineralnye Vody (http://mvairport.ru/), it is small, but quite comfortable and receives many flights from different regions of the country (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Cherepovets, Kursk, Nizhnevartovsk, etc.). d.).
Distance from the airport to the KMV resorts: Kislovodsk – 55 km, Essentuki – 40 km, Pyatigorsk – 25 km, Zheleznovodsk – 20 km.
You can take a taxi from the airport, or order a transfer from a sanatorium or hotel; in some places this service is provided free of charge.
Unfortunately, getting to the place by public transport is not very convenient; there are no direct connections with the cities from the airport. But there is a route taxi No. 11 to the railway station, travel time is 20-25 minutes, interval is 20 minutes (passes the bus station). Further, you can get to any resort by train. Electric trains, at the time of writing, operate at an average interval of 1 hour.
Also, from the railway station there is bus No. 223 to Pyatigorsk and No. 107 to Zheleznovodsk (stop on the station square). There are also buses to Essentuki and Kislovodsk, but they depart from the bus station.
By train
The resort can be reached by train. Moreover, there are railway stations in almost all cities in the region. Mineral water - http://mineralnyievodyi.dzvr.ru/ http://pjatigorsk.dzvr.ru/ http://essentuki.dzvr.ru/ http://kislovodsk.dzvr.ru/ . As a rule, there is a lot of public transport in the station area, which will not be difficult to get to the place you need.
If public transport does not suit you, then you can take a taxi or order a transfer in advance, I wrote about this a little higher. The only difference is the cost, the price in the city is, of course, cheaper than what you will pay when traveling from the airport.
The only resort of the above where long-distance trains do not go is Zheleznovodsk. Guests who travel to this city for recreation and treatment buy train tickets to Mineralnye Vody; this is the most convenient option if they choose this type of travel. Next by bus or taxi.
By car
If you are going to travel by car, then it is difficult for me to give you a route, because everyone’s starting point is different. I will only say that the roads in the KMV are excellent, with the exception of mountain trails and some streets in the resorts themselves, signs hang on every corner, the locals are good-natured and will be happy to give you directions if you suddenly get lost. Although with the current technology (navigator) and decent roads, it is quite difficult to get lost.
- If you are from Moscow and are not afraid to fly, then it is easier, and most importantly cheaper, to travel by plane. No matter how much I tried to compare the prices of travel in a compartment and a flight, the second option cost less or came out to the same amount as traveling in a reserved seat, even taking into account the transfer. Therefore, the statement: “It’s more economical by train!” - delusion.
- For those who plan to get to the place from the airport by taxi, it is better to take care of the car from home. It is not difficult to find several carriers on the Internet; their websites have all the cost information. The fact is that at the airport you will pay 30% more, and it is impossible to catch a sane (for the price) driver there (its own mafia). You won’t be able to get onto the highway either; it’s quite far from the terminal.
- If you already know where you are staying, ask about the transfer. Sometimes it's free. If not, compare with the cost of a taxi. Most often, a pre-booked taxi is cheaper.
- You can save by ordering a taxi in both directions at once. Typically, all carriers offer this service and the trip costs 10% less. However, this option is only suitable for those who know the exact departure date.
- If you decide to travel by public transport, then at home look at the train schedule for your dates (winter is different from summer). I usually look at this site - https://rasp.yandex.ru/, there is always reliable information here. With buses it’s a little more complicated, read the forums and the latest reviews.
When and for how long to go?
The answer to this question largely depends on the purpose of the trip. As a rule, all resort guests are divided into two main groups. Some come here to relax, go around all the interesting places, and at the same time get a little healthier. Others come primarily for treatment, and at the same time to explore the surrounding area, if there is time and there is a desire.
You may ask me: "What's the difference?" The answer is – huge. Of course, you can come at any time of the year, for any period of time, and for any purpose, however, in order for your trip to be as comfortable as possible and your goal to be achieved, I advise you to listen to my recommendations. Let's look at both options separately.
For treatment
It is better to come to the resort for treatment from November to April, and it is advisable not to fall on holidays.
The thing is that in the summer months there are a priori a lot of people, sanatoriums and hotels are packed to capacity.
Accordingly, during queuing procedures, the staff is stressed out due to the influx of people, and minor hiccups often occur that spoil the mood. Some narrow specialists go on vacation - they are also people and do not want to relax in the winter. There are many families with children, there is no silence, which many people really count on when they come for treatment.
This list can be continued, but I think you yourself understand that treatment in the “off season” is much easier and more fruitful.
Another important plus is the cost. In winter, the price of tours is much lower, plus promotions are regularly held to attract guests. The money saved will always be useful for purchasing medical services that you need, but are not included in the cost of the voucher or course.
I think we have sorted out the first question, now I want to talk a little about how many days you need to come for treatment.
Remember, back in the USSR, resort packages were almost always for 21 days. Previously, I didn’t understand why there were so many, if the voucher for this period included procedures, only 10 each. It seemed that two weeks were already in sight.
However, not all so simple. The fact is that for complete treatment, both water procedures (baths, pools, etc.) and mud or physiotherapy are usually prescribed. And you can’t combine them, so they are done every other day, one day water therapy, the other electrotherapy or mud therapy.
Accordingly, it takes 20 days if you want to take 10 pieces of each. This is not counting the missed first day, on which you need to visit the doctor to get appointments and schedule them by time and day.
And do not forget that on Sunday the treatment is not carried out, or is carried out partially.
Of course, it is not necessary to do 10 procedures; you can take fewer, then the number of days required will be reduced. However, here we are considering people who travel for the purpose of treatment, so for a good effect you need to come for at least 21 days, and preferably in winter, when there are few people.
To rest
For those people who come to the region on vacation, it is much easier. To have a good rest and visit all the interesting places, two weeks is enough. Even this period can be reduced, but then you will have to sacrifice days for a relaxing holiday, or you will not see everything.
As for the time of year, the period from May to October is more suitable for holidays in the KMS. The weather is almost always comfortable, warm, rains are usually rare and short-lived, there is almost no wind, and nature reveals all its beauty.
Which resort should you choose?
Each city of the CMS is beautiful and significant in its own way. However, if your goal is relaxation, then I recommend choosing Kislovodsk. In my opinion, it is most conveniently located relative to all interesting places. Moreover, it seems to me that there is more entertainment and a better developed tourist infrastructure; the Resort Park alone costs more than all other objects.
However, this is my personal opinion, and you have the right to disagree with me.
Attention! Those who travel to this region for treatment need to choose a resort based on the disease that brought them here.
– diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract, digestive organs, metabolic disorders, andrological diseases. Additional information on the resort can be seen.
Concomitant treatment: diseases of the musculoskeletal system, ENT organs, gynecological diseases. 
- diseases of the musculoskeletal system, peripheral nervous system, peripheral vessels of the lower extremities, digestion, skin diseases, gynecological and andrological diseases, metabolic disorders. Read about the resort. 
- diseases of the digestive system and metabolic disorders.
Related profiles: diseases of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, consequences of injuries, gynecological and andrological diseases. I wrote about the Essentuki resort. 
– diseases of the circulatory system, chronic respiratory diseases of a non-tuberculous nature, bronchial asthma without frequent and severe attacks, glaucoma.
Related profiles: neurological diseases, diseases of the digestive system and musculoskeletal system, gynecological. Read more about the Kislovodsk resort in the article. 
Mineral springs, which resorts are rich in, play a major role in the specialization of a particular place. Therefore, when choosing a place of treatment, always pay attention to the water that is suitable for treating your specific disease.
For example, although urology is treated in almost every resort in the region, people with diseases of the genitourinary system are better off going to Zheleznovodsk. Because only there there is a source of Smirnovskaya water, which is most suitable for the treatment of urological diseases.
The name of the Essentuki resort speaks for itself. The famous water perfectly treats diseases of the digestive tract. "Narzan", which is available in Kislovodsk, is also recommended for the treatment of certain diseases.
I won’t list all the diseases (I’m not a doctor), I think the meaning of the above is clear. Only a doctor can determine which source is best for you, so my conclusions are for informational purposes only. 
Where to stay?
Where to stay also depends on many factors: financial situation, physical condition, purpose of the trip, etc. Let's try to consider some of the possible options.
Basic moments
It’s easier and cheaper for those guests who come by car on vacation, and consider treatment as an addition to their vacation. In this case, having a car allows you to rent housing a little further from the main resort areas, which significantly saves your budget.
For those who do not have a means of transportation, it is better to choose housing within walking distance to the sources, so as not to waste money and time moving around the city. But as you yourself understand, such rent will be more expensive.
Attention! The issue of the distance of housing to healing springs is especially relevant for people who come to the resort for treatment. They simply need walking distance and this is the primary issue when looking for housing, regardless of whether you choose the private sector or choose treatment in a sanatorium.
Sanatoriums
The most convenient way to relax and receive treatment is to buy a ticket to a sanatorium. The advantages here are obvious. Everything is in one place, the price includes meals, some kind of evening entertainment program, treatment is scheduled by the hour, there is always medical staff, you don’t need to go anywhere, etc.
The disadvantages are not so serious: compliance with the regime (smoking, drinking alcohol, eating by the hour and what they give), the choice of procedures depends on the doctor (although you can change it). In my opinion, the only worthy disadvantage is the cost. But, dear readers, you always have to pay for comfort and convenience. 
I can only give you some advice:
- If you are specifically going to a sanatorium, then when choosing, focus primarily on the distance from the pump room, or the presence of one in the sanatorium itself, which also occurs, although very rarely.
- It is not always reasonable to pay for specialized treatment programs. If necessary, pay extra on the spot. I had a case where certain expensive procedures could not be performed due to a concomitant disease. True, I was lucky, they were replaced with cosmetic procedures and the money was not lost. However, not everyone meets halfway; this is the exception rather than the rule.
- Do not neglect the “our doctors” section on the website of the selected sanatorium. From the description and schedule, you can usually understand how well the staff is staffed with specialists, whether this or that doctor is permanent or visiting. I think you don’t need to explain why this is needed.
- Buy a ticket directly on the sanatorium website; if problems arise with check-in, issues are resolved faster than through intermediaries.
- Be sure to read the latest reviews before choosing. There is usually a lot of information on the Internet, but it may be out of date.
I wrote in more detail about rest and treatment in sanatoriums, about who this type of holiday is not suitable for, in another article. I will separately write reviews of the sanatoriums in which I was able to receive treatment. Read one review about the Kislovodsk sanatorium. Subscribe to my newsletter and you will be the first to receive new publications! 
Hotels and private sector
In any city you can stay in a hotel; it’s not difficult to rent an apartment or house. I have never gone on vacation and treatment in the KMS in this way, but there are enough services where such options are presented, it is not difficult to find them on the Internet.
This is a good choice for those who want to save money, especially if the train is large and you are traveling for a long time.
The main recommendations here are simple - try to choose accommodation closer to the pump rooms and read reviews. However, you must understand that private housing is always a lottery and a lot depends on the integrity of the owners.
Do not forget that if your goal is treatment, then you need to decide in advance which medical institution you are going to purchase the course from and choose housing nearby. Because there are usually a lot of procedures, walking long distances every day is of course useful, but quite difficult. You need to carefully calculate your physical capabilities, otherwise the treatment will not work for future use. 
For now, this is all I planned to tell you today. You can read general information on the CMS region.
Now I'll say goodbye for a while.
Tatiana Solomatina