Elbrus Expedition Dispatch
July 14, 2011 – Relaxing in Pyatigorsk
Pyatigorsk is a lovely resort and commercial city with a population of about 150,000 in the Strvropol territory of the Russian Federation.
It has been a resort and spa mecca for Russians since Tsarist times. The numerous mineral hot springs in the area have provided therapy, solace and inspiration to Russian writers, cultural leaders and nature lovers for centuries.
The Intourst Hotel, Pyatigorst, Russia
We left 12,500ft/3810m early in the morning on July 13. The trip off the mountain and back to the city of Pyatigorsk was long but uneventful. We stopped for a lunch at a local highway market that we have used for years. We bought fresh baked bread, local cheese and lots of Lays potato chips for the remainder of the ride.
When we arrived in the city we checked into the Soviet era Intourst Hotel. It is undoubtedly the finest in the city. The management and the layout seem quaint in 2011, almost like a visit to a past era when all foreign travellers to the Soviet Union were controlled by the state agency “Intourist”. Now we appreciate the large balconies that open from each room; (we are drying out lots of wet mountain gear!), the fantastic views and the central location in this enjoyable city of parks, malls and restaurants.
As the office mentioned we enjoyed a last dinner together as a complete group last night. Armando returned to Moscow today to catch his international flight back home to Florida via Lisbon early tomorrow morning. Karina took him to the airport in Mineralnye Vody this morning. We have already heard from Marcela and Anton at the Ararat Park Hyatt Hotel that they will be waiting for Armando’s arrival this afternoon. Just before Armando and Karina left we all walked to a shopping mall together so that Armando could purchase a carry on bag for his flights back to the US. It was interesting visiting and upscale mall with lingerie and luggage shops and an Apple Store in the heart of the North Caucasus.
Most of the rest of the group has gone with Vladimir to ride the cable car to the top of Mt. Meshuk above the city. It is cloudy today, but there is a chance that they will have a view back to the summit of Mount Elbrus, where we stood only the day before yesterday, when they reached the top. It is amazing to have come so far, so fast and it is great to still be in Russia.
First thing in morning on the 13th, we said goodbye to our cook Leila. Her wonderful home-cooked meals and her warm smile will be missed by all of us.
Hours later we were at a roadside market for lunch. The women who tend the stalls at this Caucasian “truck stop” always remember Berg Adventures groups and they give us a warm welcome.
The view from one of our balconies at Intourst Hotel
The city is very green, full of parks.
Our team preparing to depart for dinner in Pyatigorst on Wenesday evening.
Left: Just before we left, Oleg Shiskev, who has been an important part of the logistics on this trip showed up to say goodbye to us and to offer everyone a tee shirt as a farewell gift;
Right: Jeff enjoying the green warmth of Pyatigorst
Karina and Vladimir in Pyatigorst
Bill and Donna back in the city
While we stood congregated in the park in front of the hotel, Bill and Jeff went for a beer run.
Always gracious, Dick made sure everyone got some beer.
Left: As the evening began, Paul was seen with double fisted Stellas.;
Right: Chris enjoying being back at lower altitudes after her successful Elbrus climb
This morning we were out enjoying the city early; Vladimir and Dick share a laugh at the shopping mall.
Inside, Armando had a lot of carry on bags to choose from. Ljerka was busy helping him compare prices.