Kush kaya laspi. Route route across Crimea: tourist camp Laspi – Mount Kush Kaya. Historical excursion to Kush-Kaya
the Batiliman nature reserve (Laspi Bay, Sevastopol), perhaps one of the most picturesque, clean and cozy places on the southern coast of Crimea. Fenced off from the cold winds by the steep wall of the town of Kush-kaya, close to the sea, Batiliman is rightfully considered a place with a mild, comfortable Mediterranean climate for relaxation. Between the sea and the rock wall grows a unique relict forest from centuries-old junipers, wild pistachios and evergreen small-fruited strawberries (the fruits of which are very tasty and nutritious from December to March)). In this forest, among a pile of stone blocks, the Kush-kaya camping park, founded by the Crimean Mountain Club in 2011, is located in cozy shady glades. The main contingent of the camping: climbers, climbers, practitioners of yoga, martial arts, children's camps for active and educational recreation, eco-residents and simply connoisseurs of a healthy lifestyle:) For the May holidays, the Crimean Mountain Club invites everyone to the CLIMBING SCHOOL, everyone who wants to master this type of activity or take the next step on the path of knowledge and skills in rock climbing. The next "SCHOOL" at the campsite will be held June 1-6, 2014!
The campsite also has a climbing machine to keep you fit in any weather.
Actually, in the article I also wanted to present a guide to Batiliman sports routes, bouldering and climbing on Kush-Kaya (the most popular), which is what I do.
Kush-Kaya is one of the most popular rock climbing and mountaineering areas in Crimea. And on this moment, perhaps best area for beginners in climbing. Active first ascent of mountaineering routes and the appearance of climbing paths began approximately in the 70-80s of the last century and continues to this day. At the moment, there are about 20 climbing routes of 1B-5B difficulty categories, about 70 new and old climbing paths and trad lines, about 200 marked and classified bouldering problems, many tracks and walking trails. The great popularity of the area is due to the fact that the Batiliman tract is separated from external influences by a mountain range. The special microclimate allows you to climb rocks and climb almost all year round.
How to get there:
Coordinates of the Kush-Kaya camping park: 44° 25" 16.6584" N, 33° 40" 52.2948" E 44.421705, 33.682359 You can get there by public transport from Sevastopol. You need to purchase a bus ticket to Yalta and get off at the Laspi stop. Then follow the signs of the Mountain Club 3.5 km to the foot of the town of Kush-kaya. In the village you can often find a taxi that will take you to the campsite for little money. The nearest grocery store is located in Laspi Bay, Foros village and Orlinoe village. Banks and ATMs can be found in Sevastopol. The nearest car service station (service station) is located in the village of Orlinoe and in the city of Sevastopol.
Features of the area:
The area is characterized by warm winters and hot summers. The average winter temperature is 10 degrees Celsius. Summer heat begins in June and lasts until September. When planning ascents, it is necessary to take into account the large length of the routes on Mt. Kush-Kaya and take a supply of water or warm clothes. It is recommended to use only marked trails to ascend and descend from the top of Kush-Kaya! The territory where Cape Aya, Kokia-Kaya and the entire coastal zone are located are the subject of a reserve fund and are protected by forestry. It is prohibited to violate the boundaries of the reserve, burn fires, or leave garbage!
Features of the routes: all climbing routes are quite long. The upper sections are mostly more monolithic. This guide does not indicate some passages and route options due to their objective illogicality or danger. Full information can be found in the Classifier of mountaineering routes of the Crimea and the Carpathians.
The climbing sectors “Africa”, “Skinner”, “Pink Belt”, “Burevestnik” are protected from above by wide shelves from direct falls of stones, however, it is not recommended to be in the sports sectors without a helmet!
1. Climbing sectors.
A large number of competitions and alpine games were held on the warm rocks of Batiliman, such as the “Friendship Cup”, “Kustovsky Memorial”, Alpine Games…….. Sitnik M.A., Babich M., Vorobiev M., Nefedov S. made a great contribution to the development. , Kovalev S., Deev A., as well as many others. The team of the Crimean Mountain Club continues the reconstruction and creation of new climbing paths. At the moment, there are four climbing sectors located almost on the campsite. Approaches are made along marked paths and wooden signs. The large number of easy routes regularly attracts many novice climbers. In the summer, the sun sets in the sectors around 10-11 am, and the evening climbing set can begin at 18.00.
Balalaika F6b (Levin A. (Sevastopol), reconstruction by Lavrinenko A., Savelyev I., Kovalev S.)
It is one of the most popular and visited multipitches. The beginning of the route is marked with the appropriate name in the “Pink Belt” sector. All stations are equipped with trigger rings and chains. The distance between stations does not exceed 30 m. It is almost impossible to get lost on the route, because The direction of movement is constantly determined by the bolts.
6a+, 6a, 6a, 5a, 6a (the fireplace is walked inside), then walk through the bowl along the bolts, 5a, 6a, 6a, 5b, 6b, 6a, 5b
Equipment: rope 50-60 m, set of guy ropes
Blue wave, F6c+ (Vorobyev M. 1991, reconstruction by Lavrinenko A., Savelyev I.)
The route was originally completed in 1991 by M. Vorobyov’s team and was called “The Seventh Bastion”
Start from the metal sign with the name of the route, to the right of the “Pink Belt” sector. All stations are equipped with chains and trigger rings.
6a, 6b, 5c, 6c+, 6c (Alternate move: 6b, 6a), 5a, 5c, 5c+, 6a, 6c, 5c, 5c, 5c, 5b, 5b
There is a lot of friction climbing. You can descend the route from any of its sections.
Equipment: 60 m rope, set of quickdraws
* In the area of the 5th guy line it intersects with the “Jesus” route and then follows to the right of it.
** Routes "Left" and "Right" have general beginning. In the area of the cornice, the routes are divided in a Y-shape.
***Intersects with route "Seven".
2. Bouldering
Batiliman is a popular winter bouldering area in Crimea. The climate allows climbers of any level to climb comfortably almost all year round. There are approximately 200 marked rocks throughout the campsite, which are marked on a map along with major landmarks.
3. Mountaineering
Active first ascent of climbing routes in Batiliman on Mount Kush-Kaya began approximately in the 70-80s of the last century and continues to this day. Odessa and Sevastopol climbers made a great contribution to the development of the region. Equipped parking lots in the Burevestnik Grotto, as well as many Soviet-era coins found in the park area, indicate the enormous attendance and popularity of the area in the old days. It will be interesting historical fact, that previously, on one of the hard-to-reach rock shelves above the Burevestnik climbing sector, there even existed a climbing house, in the image and example of the Krasnoyarsk Pillars, which served as a refuge for many famous climbers and rock climbers. At the moment, there are about 20 climbing routes of 1B-5B difficulty categories.
Classic 2B
The beginning of the route is a vertical fireplace, with a large juniper tree at the base. Approach along the couloir to the left or right of the “Skuroder” climbing sector
R0-R1: 55m III - IV Vertical fireplace. There are bolts from time to time, and natural belay is also well organized. Station on a shelf in a relief or higher on a tree.
R1-R2: 50 m II+ Up the couloir with easy climbing. There are bolts from time to time. Station on bolts.
R2-R3: 50m II+ Up through the small fireplace. Exit to the ridge. Station on bolts.
R3-R4: 40 m I-II Up along simple rocks, belaying for trees. Station on bolts.
R4-R5: 60 m, III To the left through the bend on the friction. There are several bolts. Then go up the entire length of the rope along the ridge. Station on bolts near a tree.
R5-R6: 45m, II Up the ridge. There are bolts from time to time. Station on a shelf on bolts.
R6-R7: 45m, II Up the ridge. There are bolts from time to time. Station on a shelf on bolts.
R7-R8: 40m, II Up the ridge. Station on a shelf on bolts.
R8-R9: 40m, II-III To the left along the cracks to a convenient shelf. Insurance is easy to arrange. Station on bolts.
R9-R10: 40m, III up the slabs with large holds, then traverse to the left along the bolts. Station on bolts after the traverse.
R10-R11: 50m, III Along the rich terrain up 15 m, then on foot. Station on bolts on the Yaila.
One of the most visited routes on the mountain. It is a classic species line running along the ridge with easy climbing in all areas. It is worth noting the duration of the route, which, however, is compensated by the ease of navigation. At peak May holidays On the first ropes there are often congestions and crowds of people. The minimum climbing time is from 3 hours for trained climbers, up to 6-8 hours for intermediate climbers. One can note the similarity with the “Crest deuce” on the town of Sokol in Sudak in terms of the nature of the relief and duration.
Equipment: 60 m rope. Medium and large stoppers and friends work equally well. You can go without hammers.
Center of the bowl 5A (Levin A.-Babich M., Sevastopol, 1978)
Exit on positive relief from football field to the cornices, then traverse to the right to the beginning of the route. The first station on the bolts of the pioneers near the dried pine tree.
R0-R1: 35 m VI A2 (F6b) Climbing along an overhanging crack or using aid. The station is in a small niche on the bolt and its points.
R1-R2: 35 m VI A2 (F6c) Up and to the left under a small cornice to a convenient shelf. Station on a bolt and its own points.
R2-R3: 50 m VI A2 (F6b) Along a system of cracks leading diagonally to the left upward. The station is at its points.
R3-R4: 40 m V+ (F6a) Difficult section after the station and exit under the cornice to the left to the station with classic two bolts.
Exit to the plateau along the Classics route (4 pitches). The length of the ropes may be disputed by other climbers. There are almost no bolts or pitons on the route, so the length of the sections can vary among different climbers as they lay out their reserve of points.
Equipment: rope 50-60 m, hammers and hooks, small and medium-sized bookmarks, small and medium-sized friends.
Rybka 5A (Stavnitser A., Khovrachev, Korolev A., Staritsky P., Odessa, 1972)
It passes through the cracks of the central part of the bowl, formed by the ridge of the 2 on the left, and the buttress of the “Egg” route on the right. First, along the flat slabs of the bowl, choosing the optimal path (as in the photo) to reach the tree. The route itself begins from here.
R0-R1: 60 m, V+ A1 From the tree, go right up and up the gap. After about 10m, the gap bifurcates, it is easier to move along the left, you will encounter pitons. Tree station + bookmarks.
R1-R2: 50 m V+ Go to the right, onto the gap, up along the gap. The gap goes into the inner corner. Before the slight overhang, go into the right gap and follow it onto the shelf. Station on bookmarks and hooks. You can climb the corner without going to the right, but it’s more difficult.
R2-R3: 50 m, V+ Up, along the crack, the crack is difficult in the lower part, further along the corner, climbing is easier. Tree station.
R3-R4: 60m, V A1 Up, easy climbing, get to the shelf. On the left side of the inner corner, up, go to the bolt station at the base of the fireplace. Up 3m along the fireplace, then along the right side of the inner corner. Exit from the corner through a slight overhang to leveling. Go boldly along the entire length of the rope to the tree. Tree station.
R4-R5: 25 m, IV From the tree up, through the inner corner, exit to the yayla.
Equipment: 60 m rope. At the bottom there are small and medium-sized bookmarks and friends. At the top, the gaps are larger and large and hexes will go. You can do without hammers.
Egg 4B (Stavnitser A.-Kholoptsev A., Odessa, 1972)
It runs along a characteristic buttress, bordering the bowl on the right. (the bowl is limited on the left by the ridge of 2).
R0-R1: 55 m, IV+ From the big tree right up, enter the inner corner. Further along the corner to a small shelf under an overhang. Traverse to the right, around the corner, to a large tree. There is a station on it. 55 m
R1-R2: 35 m, IV From the tree, along the inner corners, up onto the large shelf. Tree station.
R2-R3: 50 m, IV+ Up, along the inner corner, to the shelf at the top of the “egg”. Station on bolts.
R3-R4: 58 m, V+ From the station, descend 3 m to the left, and up the crescent-shaped crack/– the key rope. Tree station.
R4-R5: 60 m, IV+ Along the inner corner up, go to a large pine tree. From the pine tree go up to the right, go out to the inner corner, and along the corner, up onto simple rocks. Follow them to the right up to the yayla.
A logical and appropriate route with monolithic and clean terrain. Key areas are not pierced with bolts. It is possible to complicate the task and climb the second rope on the left. In this case, the station is placed on an overhanging shelf in the middle of the first rope. Difficulty of the left bypass: V+, A1. A vertical slot with sloping walls is supported by spacers. If you're climbing, you need good shoes.
Equipment: medium and large bookmarks, large hexes, medium and large friends work well. You can go without hammers. Rope 60 m.
Travel time: 5-6 hours
“Pants” left route 5B (First ascent: Stavnitser A., Demyanenko R., Sipkin S., Leontyev V., Odessa, 1974)
R0-R1: 43 m, 6a A2 Along the inner corner up 10 m A2 (stopper and anchor), then climb up to the niche. After traversing to the left about 5 meters and up the gap, exit onto the shelf. Station on bolts.
R1-R2: 40 m, 6a A2 Easy detour by climbing to the left past the tree, then right up to the base of the vertical crack. Up the crack, aid + climbing. From the old bolt path going up, go to the right along the new bolts with a traverse along the slab and make a station on the bolts above a small grotto.
R2-R3: 30 m, 6a Up the gap overgrown with grass, exit under a slightly overhanging monolithic wall. There is a rotten bolt path along the wall, NO NEED TO GO THERE! Traverse to the right, carefully climb about 10 meters to the bolts with the ring. This is where the Left and Right pants come together.
You can climb around 6a on the left, but you will have to do the station on your own, because There is not enough rope to get out.
“Pants” right route 5B (Golubenko M., Grishchenko Val., Grishchenko Vik., Kiyanitsa N. (Kyiv Avangard team), 1973)
The beginning of the route can be seen from afar. This is the base of a huge rift.
R0-R1: 30 m, I-II approach to the tree at the base of the break. Station on a pine tree.
R1-R2: 40 m, V From a large pine tree along a huge break to its top. Climbing on spreaders from the middle part. There are hooks. Station on three bolts at the top of the break.
R3-R4: 50 m, VI, A1 Up the system of vertical slots. Do not climb onto the old bolt path that goes to the right. The station is on new bolts at the intersection with the left option of the “Pants” route. Further routes have a common continuation.
R3-R4: 50 m 6c A1 From the station, difficult climbing along the slab to the crack, then along the crack, mostly climbing, up to the right, from under the overhanging crack, traverse to the right to the inner corner, and along the corner to the shelf. Station on bolts.
You can approach the station on the left side along the 10 m gap A2 (anchors), but this is more difficult.
R4-R5: 45 m 5s A2 Along the slab with blind slots, on aid, enter the inner corner. Follow it to the shelf. Along the shelf 5m to the left and up, along the right side of the inner corner. Station on bolts.
R5-R6: 50 m VI A1 From the station up the gap to a small tree. Further up the corner. Go around the cornice on the left, then up through a slight overhang to reach the wall with bolts. Along the wall with difficult climbing you reach the Beiser exit. Station on bolts.
The route is well paved with new bolts, especially the middle part, making it difficult to get lost. From the middle it intersects with the left trousers, and on the last rope the path is marked by Haymaking bolts.
Equipment: 60 m rope, anchors and small chocks for aid, medium chocks and medium chocks. Hammers, hooks.
Senonkos 5B (Nadtochiy S., Voloshanovsky M.)
The route begins 20 m to the right of the large break on which the “Right Pants Leg” route begins.
R0-R1: 35 m, V+A2 From the arrow knocked out with a punch, straight up along a thin crack for 10 m, then along the slab in the direction of the bolt. From there, go up to the left, onto the shelf under the cornice. The cornice runs on the right side (there is a bolt). Station in the grotto.
R1-R2: 30 m VI A2 From the station up the left wall of the grotto 5 m using aids (bolts, sky hooks), then climb through the crack with difficult climbing to reach the overhang. Go through the overhang along the bolts to the station.
R2-R3: 30 m V+A2 Along the crack, then along the inner corner upward by climbing, in some places using aid. Station on 2 bolts in front of the overhang.
R3-R4: 50 m VI A3 Go up the steep crack, exit onto the shelf. From there, traverse to the right, to another gap. Follow the gap up to the left, through a slight overhang, and exit onto the shelf. Station on bolts.
R4-R5: 50 m VI A1 From the station up the gap to a small tree. Further up the corner. Go around the cornice on the left, then up through a slight overhang to reach the wall with bolts. Along the wall with difficult climbing you reach the Beiser exit. Station on bolts.
Previously the route had category 6A. There is a lot of stationary iron on the route. Overall the route is safe. Started on January 6, 1994 by Simferopol climbers S. Nadtochi (Terrorist) and M. Voloshanovsky (Michel). Completed in May 1994 by Terrorist solo. The route is a natural watercourse, because of this the cracks are clogged with earth and grass, therefore, the Terrorist called his route “Haymaking”.
Travel time 6-8 hours.
Corner 5A (Nosov A. – Kalinichenko M. (Sevastopol), 1975)
The route was repaired by A. Lavrinenko’s team in April 2013. The stations are equipped with new bolts and rappel rings. The route consists of an internal corner of varying steepness, running mainly in struts. Sometimes there are small overhangs.
R0-R1: 35m V+ The first station on the large shelf at the start of the route. The first cornice is on the right. Then to the left through the buzzing break to the beginning of the vertical inner corner. Then up the inside corner. Station with bolts.
R1-R2: 25 m V+ Up through a slight overhang (F6a). The location of the semi-hanging station on friends and large bookmarks in front of the cornice is not very convenient for two due to the high friction of the rope.
R2-R3: 40m V+ The cornice goes around to the left (F6a). Further climbing becomes easier. The gap becomes positive and leads to the right into a large fireplace. Station bolts on the breakaway left side of the large fireplace. Lots of rope friction!!!
R3-R4: 10 m VI A2, 10 m V+, 10 m VI A2 From the station up 10 m along the microrelief by climbing (F6b) or using aid A2. The terrain for belaying is poor. A relief skyhook and perhaps an anchor would be useful. Then either to the right through the overhang onto the yayla, or an unpleasant traverse to the left under the cornice. The left option is easier.
A very logical and beautiful line. In some places the line wobbles, causing friction on the rope. Hammers and hooks are a must. Large embedded elements work well. Difficult last rope.
Large fireplace SE wall 3B (Tkachenko G., 1978)
The beginning of the route is the base of a large fireplace, which is clearly visible even from the beach.
R0-R1: 25m, II The first station on bolts, common with the corner. To the right along simple rocks into the base of a large fireplace.
R1-R2: 40 m, III+ From the base of the fireplace straight up the right wall. Sometimes old hooks are found. Tree station.
R2-R3: 30 m (20 m III; 10 m V) From the tree the line goes to the right beyond the bend. Poor hearing. Through a slight overhang to vertical rocks with an internal corner on the left. It is better not to climb into the corner, although old hooks are visible there. From this place, go down to the right and go out to a convenient platform with a large tree.
R3-R4: 25m IV+ Along the oblique crack to the left of the tree, up to the right, go out under a small cornice. He walks around the crack on the right. Then up to the tree. Station on a tree or on your own.
R4-R5: 30 m (25 m III; 5 m V A1) From the station, go up to the right, along the inner corner, then through a 5-meter vertical wall, into the inner corner, and along it to the top. Tree station near the edge.
Impressions: Long approach, includes sections that are not typical for routes of the third category. Small and medium-sized embedded elements work well. You can climb without hammers.
"Integral" 5A (Gorbunov A. – Kholoptsev A. (Odessa)
The route got its name because of the characteristic gap at the top of the wall. The approach to the beginning of the route begins above the Leningrad parking lots. The path goes along the shelves to the right side of the wall. The line begins almost above the Burevestnik sector.
R0-R1: 60 m III+ To the left up along a faint inner corner to a large juniper. Station on a slab on a tree.
R1-R2: 15 m IV, 15 m V+, 10 m II From the tree, go to the right into the inner corner, which turns into an obvious gap. Beautiful climbing and a psychologically challenging climb to the shelf. Station (anchors, bookmarks) 10 m to the left standing on a shelf on a slab at the base of the inner corner going up.
R2-R3: 50 m IV+ Along the inner corner to the left up to the overhang, then to the right of the overhang along the crack to a small grotto. The station is in the grotto at its points (bookmarks, anchors).
R3-R4: 60m V Logical climb up the inside corner. Lots of living rocks, grass, soil and lichen. The station is at its points in the gap (hexes).
R4-R5: 40 m V+ 10 m V, A0 Up the inner corner leading into an overhanging fireplace. The fireplace is held open. Backpacks will get in the way. Then a complex overhanging corner of 10 m with 3 bolts and a hook. You can climb 6b+ - 6c, or A0. Station on new bolts.
R6-R7: 40m III Simple climbing up a logical gap. Then to the right along the positive relief to the yayla. Under the top, the possibilities for organizing belay are limited: about 10-15 m. Station on a yayla on a tree.
Overall the route is strenuous. Requires organizing your own stations. Large embedded elements and hexes work well. Hooks and hammers are a must. At times there is a lot of live rock, grass and lichen.
Parabola 3B
The route runs along the right side of the Southeast bastion of Kush-Kaya. The beginning coincides with the beginning of the Integral route. The approach to the beginning of the route begins above the Leningrad parking lots. The path goes along the shelves to the right side of the wall. The line begins almost above the Burevestnik sector.
R0-R1: 45m III The beginning is the same as the “Integral” route. From the shelf, climb 20 m along the inner corner, then go right to a large tree. Further up to the base of the inner corner. Complexity is unevenly distributed.
R1-R2: 40 m II From the tree station along simple slots to the inner corner, which leads to a shelf with two junipers. Tree station.
R2-R3: 45m V Along the inner corner 15 m up, then to the right to the tree to the right under the yellow cornice.. Key rope
R3-R4: 40m III Up positive rocks of medium difficulty onto a small shelf.
R4-R5: 45 m III To the left, past the overhang along a system of cracks onto a large shelf.
R5-R6: 40 m II To the right, choosing the easiest path to move to the yayla. Station on bolts.
A difficult route in its category, requiring the ability to navigate the terrain well. The relief is very rich. Not recommended as first threes. There is a chance to go to more difficult rocks. You can go without hammers.
Through the sole on the right 4A (Vorobyev M., Nesterov V., Pavlov Yu. (Sevatopol), 1995)
To begin the route, you need to go through the “Africa” sector and go left onto the scree going up.
R0-R1: 45m II Start along the scree, going to the right. Tree station.
R1-R2: 45 I Up along light rocks. Station on a tree.
R2-R3: 40m I To the right towards a large tree along light rocks. Juniper station.
R3-R4: 25 III Along the inner corner to the shelf with the tree.
R4-R5: 40m III Diagonally to the right exit into the bowl. Tree station.
R6-R7: 45 m III Along the positive relief and the gap upward. Tree station.
R7-R8: 45 m III Up the crack. Tree station.
R8-R9: 45m III Up to a convenient shelf with trees. Juniper station.
R9-R10: 45m III You need to go down from the shelf and go to the right of the fireplace. There is no need to go into the fireplace. Tree station.
R10-R11: 5m V, 25m III From the tree up the overhanging gap 5 m. Key area. Then simply climb to the exit to the yayla
Equipment: standard set. There is little stationary iron on the route. It is advisable to have hammers.
A sedate walk to Mount Kush-Kaya can easily be completed in one day, and its duration will depend on which route you choose. We arrived in the Kush-Kaya mountain area after lunch, and left the route by sunset. Since there are several mountains in Crimea called Kush-Kaya, we’ll immediately say that we are talking about a mountain that is located next to Laspi Bay on Cape Aya, above the Batiliman tract. The name of the mountain means "Bird Rock".
How to get to Mount Kush-Kaya and Cape Ayai
The fastest way to get to the mountain is walking tour along the trail starting near the Laspi pass on the Sevastopol - Yalta highway. In order not to talk for a long time about the place of entry, the easiest way would be to look at our route. This trail begins near the exit to the Old Batiliman Road. Both have barriers, but one is asphalt and the other is dirt. In the photo below, the asphalt road leads to the Old Batiliman road, and before it, to the right, a dirt road goes into the forest, just as its barrier is visible.
This is the entry point to the trail. 
The first similar information post of the Great Sevastopol Trail that you come across will tell you that this is the right path, just as we are going along its part “Laspi Pass - Balaklava”. 
Well, now the task is to get to this place. If you use your own vehicle, then everything is simple: the road Sevastopol - Yalta, landmark - Laspi Pass. You can leave the car near the turn to the Old Batiliman road (but there is not much space there) or at the Laspi Pass parking lot, which is located 200 m towards Yalta. WITH public transport everything is a little more complicated. The nearest stop is the turn to the village of Tylovoe, from there it is almost 2 km to the Laspi pass. Buses go to this stop from Sevastopol №№ 37, 41, 182, 183 . From the Laspi stop, where regular buses Yalta - Sevastopol can stop, it is even further - 3 km.
And this does not mean that there are no other roads and trails to Mount Kush-Kaya. There are, and they can be found on maps, but it seems to me that the trail marked with the Great Sevastopol Trail is more obvious and difficult to get lost along.
These were conclusions from the route we took, and these are correct conclusions, and now I’ll tell you a little about how we got there.
A little earlier on this trip, I discovered OpenStreetMap. And I didn’t just recognize it, I kind of knew it as before, but I paid attention to and appreciated some of the strengths of the family of these cards. And specifically families, since each layer can be considered as a separate map with its own unique features. But I will write about this a little later in a separate article about how to prepare for independent travel from the point of view of route development and mapping. So, inspired by the fact that on some OpenStreetMap maps you can see almost every dirt path, I began to plan a walk to Mount Kush-Kaya. We already found out the correct road on the way back, and that is what we recommend. But at the time of preparation for the walk, there was clearly some kind of glitch in my head, there’s no other way to describe it.
First, looking at the OpenStreetMap, I found two great short trails starting from the Old Turkey Road. And this road was located next to the Batilman tract, where we wanted to spend the night. The question arose: why walk along a longer road from the highway, and then, when we get back, drive a car along the serpentine road downwards, if you can walk along a shorter path and leave the car right below.
Secondly, I forgot to open such an important layer on the OpenStreetMap maps, which would display isolines, or rather, isohypses - lines of heights above sea level, by which we would understand that these paths go with a much sharper climb, which means the path will be more difficult.
Thirdly, on OpenStreetMap maps, there is such a function as “turn on GPS tracks”. This feature shows the track lines of people who once walked there and then laid out the tracks on maps. And the corresponding tracks were on the supposed paths. And this finally convinced me that these paths are a good choice! But no, this is not a good choice! Therefore, this small part of the story is about why not all paths are equally useful. Those who have already understood everything can move on to the next point - the Great Sevastopol Trail.
Our journey began from the Old Batiliman Road. Sometimes it is also called the Old Turkish Road. It was built by the Turks in 1912. At that time they began to actively develop the Batiliman tract. 
The first doubts about the correctness of the choice of trail appeared when we raised our heads up. And there was just Kush-Kaya. Yes, we should go there. 
Well, okay, there is a trail, there were tracks, so they walk like that too. After a couple of turns along the old asphalt, we go up the path. A little later I learned that this trail is used by rock climbers to descend the mountain after climbing the wall. 
Wonderful views of Laspi Bay and Mount Ilyas-Kaya open up from this wrong path. 
The final understanding that the plan was wrong came when we began to run into similar rocks. And only Zhorik remained unperturbed; in his opinion, the plan was great! When would he ever climb rocks so actively? 
Zhorik is a wonderful smooth-haired griffon who also turned out to be an excellent mountain hiker, in spirit, perhaps, he could compete with the no less wonderful Bezoars. But the goats are always there, and Zhorik is sometimes on the neighboring mountain.
Well, after studying the situation a little, we decided to overcome a couple of difficult climbs as carefully as possible and continue in the chosen direction. We still lost our way from the path, and it was not obvious there. In addition, the contour lines on the navigator (I decided not to take the route in the navigator, since the walk seemed easy and obvious) showed that the most difficult section would be small, and then a smoother climb. Of course, for any boulderer or climber these rocks did not pose any serious obstacle. But we had neither the appropriate experience nor the equipment. And most importantly, Zhorik forgot his climbing shoes that day. Therefore, everything was done slowly and carefully.
As expected, then the slope began to flatten out and walking became easier, and most importantly, it was possible to walk instead of climb. True, often with his head bowed: the slope was quite overgrown. Most likely, these are juniper thickets. 
The trees were getting taller, and we simply followed the navigator in the direction of the established end point. 
Well, pretty soon we reached the Great Sevastopol Trail, which we were incredibly happy about, because walking along the trail is much easier and faster than just straight through the forest. 
Animals also know this, which is why they often use human paths. This is why even sometimes incorrect prejudices arise. There were cases when people thought that a wild animal was following them (for example, wolves) with some bad intentions. But the beast just wants to make life easier for itself and chooses an easier path, and this simply turned out to be a coincidence in time, and sometimes the natural curiosity of the beast.
Great Sevastopol Trail
The Great Sevastopol Trail is a marked and practically circular route more than 130 kilometers long (excluding radial routes). It begins and ends in the city of Sevastopol. Going through it is a separate adventure. You can find out more about it on the official website http://bst.mountain-rescue.org/.
In the meantime, let's go up the path. The total vertical climb starting from the route is about 300 meters and the closer to the mountain, the faster the rate of climb. But a walk along this trail is accessible to almost everyone. But you still need to choose shoes, either hiking ones or sneakers, so that they have non-slip and thick soles. It is better to leave shoes and sneakers at home or in the car.
Zhorik rushed forward like a mountain goat. The next trail information post told us that we were close. 
At this point the trail passes next to an enclosure for wild animals, fenced off by a high mesh fence. There are several gates for the free passage of tourists. The posters say “Orlinovskoe hunting farm.” It is difficult to say that this entire structure, which, by the way, is located on the territory of the State Landscape Reserve of regional importance “Cape Aya”, was created for the free movement of wild animals. Although perhaps this is an enclosure to protect animals from wild people, who knows. 
Not far from the top there are ancient ruins. It is not known for certain what it is. There are two main versions. First: the remains of the Church of St. Elias, dated XI-XV. Second: the ruins of a naval surveillance and communications post. Judging by the masonry and mortar between the stones, the first version does not pass the test. But it seems that in order to “fill in” the space for a more specific meaning, someone has already erected a wooden cross. 
Well, here we go to Mount Kush-Kaya. Its height is 664 m. The mountain is free to visit, and there are no fences like on Ai-Petri. And this, of course, is its advantage, since this natural ensemble is perceived much more harmoniously without any human intervention. Accordingly, your responsibility for how close you get to the edge is not limited by any railings. The views from Mount Kush-Kaya are breathtaking! 
On the left are the Donguz-Orun ridge, the Kuchuk-Tekne-Bel ridge, the Delikli-Burun ridge, Mount Ilyas-Kaya, Laspi Bay, Cape Sarych and the rest of the ridges and mountains of the Southern Coast of Crimea, extending further. 
To the right, under the mountain, is the Cape Aya nature reserve, and to the right will be Mount Kokia-Kaya (558 m). 
Well, right below the mountain is the Batilman tract, where several recreation centers are located. And right below the mountain is the Kush-Kaya camping site, where lovers of rock climbing and mountaineering often stay. 
And ahead is an endless sea. 
Kush-Kaya ends rather sharply towards the sea, and its slopes have been chosen by rock climbers and mountaineers for many decades for their training and competitions. 
These tourists came here along the Great Sevastopol Trail and were planning to continue their journey; in their case, the mountain was one of the points of interest along the route. 
Some prefer to climb the mountain, some prefer contemplation, some meditate, some dangle their legs on the edge - everyone will find something to do at Kush-Kaya. 
Well, Zhorik continued to rush back and forth, inspecting all visitors to the mountain for something tasty. 
The tourists are getting ready to hit the road, and it’s time for us too. They wanted to set up camp before dark. 
The return journey, which we took along the correct path, took us 45 minutes of time and 2.5 km. Considering that it is already downhill, the road to the mountain would take 1.5 hours. 
Not far from the entry point to the Great Sevastopol Trail - Laspi Pass. There is parking, cafes, and observation decks. Meanwhile, we began our descent along the Old Batiliman Road. Winding, littered in places, retaining walls are collapsing, time takes its toll. But it is easily passable on foot, and it will be interesting on a mountain bike. The views from it are also excellent: the slopes along which for some reason we climbed, and Laspi Bay, illuminated in all its splendor by the rays of the setting sun. 
We found the campsite already at dusk. It was almost night before we set up tents and prepared dinner for gas burner and sleep, to the soothing sound of the surf.
Batiliman tract
The Batiliman tract is translated from Greek as “Deep Harbor”. The uniqueness and attractiveness of Batiliman is that the Southern Coast of Crimea begins here, and this place is one of the warmest and sunniest in Crimea. Mount Kush-Kaya protects this place from cold air masses. There are relict tall juniper trees here, some of which are up to 1000 years old. Stankevich pine and small-fruited strawberry also grow. In 1911-1919, the intelligentsia of scientists, writers and artists chose this place for several summer cottages. In 1924, the rest house of the USSR Academy of Sciences was opened. Now on the territory of the tract there are several tourist centers, as well as a couple of campsites. One of them is located on the shore, and it interested us.
We settled down on a dirt platform, and there are also places on flat wooden flooring. The living conditions at the campsite at the end of the 2016 season were as follows: either 100 rubles/day, or help take out the garbage (most likely such conditions were associated with the end of the season). How organizational issues will be resolved in subsequent seasons is unknown. But the camping spot is simply gorgeous, all that remains is to put everything in order and then maintain it. On one side there are excellent views of the Kush-Kaya wall. 
On the other hand, beautiful, and most importantly, natural coastline, without concrete breakwaters or any structures that disturb the natural composition. 
These, of course, exist on the slopes of Batiliman, but it doesn’t hurt the eye too much. 
This is what the entrance looks like from the campsite. 
Well, it’s good that there are still trees at the camping sites that provide shade. 
There wasn’t enough time to study this place in more detail; most likely, there are a lot of interesting things in the surrounding area. After breakfast, we quickly broke up camp and went to the medieval fortified city of Mangup Kale.
This mountain looks like Chomolungma from Alushta. Its gray pointed peak (1339 m)* stands out well against the backdrop of the wooded Uraga and Chamnysh; it teases the dismounted motorist lying on the beach: “Is it hard for you to conquer me? And not from the Yalta highway, but straight from Alushta - practically from the zero level? ". And the day before yesterday, this challenge was accepted - I decided to stretch my legs, almost completely atrophied from city life, and encouraged my childhood friend Alexei to take on this adventure. Once upon a time, we almost ran up this mountain, albeit from the direction of Maly Mayak. What about now? Is there still gunpowder left in the flasks?
Among the aggravating circumstances were age, heat, an easel backpack that was stupidly overloaded (for me), a severe bruise on my toe from a battery standing on a charger the night before (again for me) and a fairly strong climb in the second half of the route, but the most terrible thing were the vile creatures, which will be discussed further. 
Route plan for Kush-Kaya. The dotted line indicates the return route to the Yalta highway in the area of the gas station near the village of Vinogradny. 
Kush-Kaya looks distant and inaccessible from the beach. 
But as soon as we climbed up the hill from the Alushta bus station, the Kush-Kai peak moved to the side and became lower. On the left is the wooded Uraga, on the right is Chamnysh, below it is the gray rock from which we looked at Alushta last September.
This time we will go to the right along the forest road, as we did in previous years. In order not to miss, you should not enter the motodrome, you must stay to the right of it and enter the forest. A well-fed hare darting past confirmed to us that we had chosen the right path.
It is better to walk along this road than on a motorcycle track. At first it is quite flat, but after crossing the river it turns into a wide path and begins to climb up the mountain. Moreover, when approaching the river, every time you get the feeling that you have reached a dead end, because... the path is no longer visible.
It is quite comfortable to walk along the path with compacted pebbles. This is still an unremarkable oak forest; above us a beech forest awaits.
Seraus is already flashing through the trees. Now there will be a clearly visible tree with a hollow in which we hid the treasure last September. I wonder if anyone found it or not?
We hid the treasure not in the hollow, but on the opposite side. We need to compare it with last year’s photo (it’s below).
No treasure! So someone found our bracelet. Sorry I didn't tell you.
Altitude 530 m, no fatigue. Now let's rest on a furnished bivouac next to a tree with a hollow and go ahead to storm Kush-Kai!
If we had gone to very close Seraus (photo from, in the previous photo he is behind Alexey), we would have seen the Kush-Kai peak. But its proximity is deceptive. To get to it, you need to climb to the saddle between Uraga and Chamnysh, and then to the height of Chamnysh, i.e. practically climb onto its wooded head (right mountain).
Oh, did you get Seraus easily? Well, then you get an obstacle course. And these are still flowers, berries will be ahead...
But we bravely overcame it. Skill (in this case, military skill) cannot be wasted, or, as they say, an old horse can’t ruin a tree felling, or something like that...
We go out onto a wide forest road coming from Vinogradny and follow it to the right. It's not far to go, soon there will be a fork - to Seraus and Chamnysh. And here is a stone familiar from last year with a crack.
The trail to Kush-Kaya, or rather, to the saddle between Uraga and Chamnysh-burun, after a fork, sharply starts upward.
Let's look back. However, the photo does not convey this quite decent rise.
Suddenly, from the abyss of beeches (which means we are at an altitude of 600 m), a forest whale swung its powerful tail.
There are quite a few fallen beech trees along the trail.
Placers of stones.
The stones are larger and then there is a “cartload of brushwood”.
And these scatterings of stones look like frozen streams descending from the slopes.
A short smoke break on the path going up. We didn’t know then that this was the last peaceful stop. This is about to start!
Suddenly we were attacked by deer (elk) flies. Compared to their single representatives last year on Seraus, there was something unimaginable here.
Apparently, these vile creatures* received information via their phone that two deer were walking along the trail, and there was no other meat in sight for the next few kilometers...
*deer bloodsucker, moose fly, moose louse, moose tick- the creature is still the same. It looks like a fly (in the photo it is greatly enlarged and without wings), but when it lands on you or an elk, it casts off its wings and turns into a “spider mouse” with tenacious legs. - If you tear it off a T-shirt or body, you won’t crush it. She tries to get into her hair or under her clothes and starts drinking blood. Not afraid of hand waves. Likes to attack walking people and for some reason mostly only adults. It’s good that it’s not a louse or a tick, and it only flies during the day. But it’s not pleasant enough. Because this infection (however, one intelligent friend, who was subjected to their attack, gave them a more capacious definition in her hearts - it’s a pity I can’t give it here) can be the causative agent of Lyme disease.
We had no time for landscapes anymore, however, it would be more correct to call these places a windfall.
In the lowlands the attacks were most terrible. We ran like a bullet to the heights.
But even there these creatures did not give rest. Alexei fanned himself away from them with a towel, and the speed of his hand would be the envy of a fan. And I had to take something with long sleeves stored for such an occasion out of my backpack and put on this armor in the heat, which was completed with thick jeans tucked into socks (after last September, no shorts when going into the forest!) and a T-shirt wrapped around my neck a la cowboy scarf. What kind of fitness can compare with such masochism? Even the sauna is relaxing! Indeed, on these very days, weather forecasters promised forty-degree heat for South Coast Crimea.
Yes, in this case, like grumbling old men, we can state that life was better before. Well, these creatures weren’t in the mountains. And not only in our childhood and youth, even in the relatively recent year of 2008, we don’t remember anything like this in these places.
And again military everyday life. Apparently, the enemy's reconnaissance was well established. Even on the hill, a massive attack awaited us.
Alexey rotated the towel like the blades of a helicopter, but it didn’t help much.
But even in such a military situation, we tried to notice interesting objects. For example, someone put two small ones on a large stone, and it turned out to be a forest frog. The angle for the photo was not very good, but the flies did not allow me to choose a better position. These creatures even tried to cover the camera lens; I had to hold the “soap box” with one hand and drive away the crazed insects with the other. I didn’t even think about getting a DSLR out of my backpack. For this reason, it was not possible to leave new treasures. Sorry.
This is not a sign that we are giving up. It is Alexey who is using his last strength to fight off enemy aircraft.
This is not our job. We behaved well in the forest. Here we had to take off our T-shirts, turn them inside out and crush these bastards. And it wasn't easy. There were many of them, they held on tenaciously with their paws, moved quickly... Sorry for the details. But it’s better to know about them in order to be properly equipped. Maybe take some sprays with you, or maybe a mosquito net.
The path turned into a forest road and gradually began to straighten.
This means that we will soon find ourselves in the saddle between Uraga and Chamnysh. From here the trail goes up to Kush-Kaya.
As soon as the trail turned into something like a forest road, felled trees immediately appeared. The forest's price for being close to civilization.
And here is a familiar tree at the fork. To the left of it the path to Kush-Kaya rises, to the right the path goes to Seraus, Alushta (where we came from).
A little higher is a spring. Despite the unassuming appearance of the pipe, the water is tasty and cold. Here we replenished her supplies. By the way, this was the first source of water on our way - everything or almost everything had dried up. For statistics, during this hike we drank 2 liters of water per brother. Now we know how much to take with us and that in this place you can always replenish your reserves, even in the heat.
Well then. We rested a little. It's time to climb Kush-Kaya. We are at its foot. Soon it will be visible through the crowns of tall beeches.
P.S.
*There is more than one Kush-Kaya in Crimea. For example, above the Batiliman tract in the Laspi-Sevastopol region there is its own Kush-Kaya. And although its height is only 664 m, the view of this almost vertical cliff is impressive.
In Crimea, sonorous and exotic names natural objects are often repeated and, often, more than once. Kush-Kaya did not escape this fate. It is noteworthy that there are at least eight mountain peaks with this name, the most famous of which are three. One turned from Kush-Kai into a Cat, acceptable to the Slavic ear. The other is located in the New World and is now better known under the name Sokol. Only in the area of the Laspinskaya Basin the name of the mountain has remained unchanged to this day.
Translated from Turkic, “kaya” means “rock”, and “kush” means “bird”. The peak is located not far from the Sevastopol-Yalta highway, above the Batiliman tract and Laspi Bay, literally covering them from northern winds, and is part of the huge Kok-Kiya-Bel ridge.
Apparently, it did not receive its name - Bird Mountain - for nothing. It is located exactly on the flight path of birds migrating to warmer climes, and back in the spring. At the top of the flock they sat down to rest and regroup, according to ornithologists, before flying over the most dangerous part of the route - open water. Elder and experienced leader individuals flew at the head. Kush-Kaya was especially “popular” among bustards and quails. Lovers of easy prey - poachers - could not miss such a chance; they exterminated the birds, leaving for descendants only memories of their former abundance.
In spring and summer, Kush-Kaya is often visited by fogs. This process continues until the sea becomes warm. During the day, the ever-increasing sun warms the water surface. Then, according to the known laws of physics, fog is formed, which can hang over the sea for a long time in a dense veil. If the wind turns towards land, the fog “storms” Bird Mountain, flows into the Baydar Valley, and “floods” the vineyards of Balaklava. The picture turns out extremely beautiful. If the wind is weak, a milky veil hangs over the coast for several days, and the top of the mountain sticks out from the clouds like an island in the ocean.
The height of Kush-Kai is no small 664 m. It is composed of conglomerates of the Upper Jurassic period and marbleized reef limestones. The mountain rising smoothly from the north, reaching highest point, in the south it drops steeply down, representing an almost vertical solid wall. The seemingly formidable inaccessibility does not frighten climbing lovers at all: now there are 18 routes of all difficulty categories with a length from 400 to 700 m on the massif.
The entire lower belt of Kush-Kai, with a height of 30 to 100 m, has long become a traditional place for training and competitions of mountaineers and rock climbers. Many eminent persons were also noted here, such as, for example, Stacey Ellison, the first woman from the United States to conquer Everest in 1988. This peak can safely be called the “Mecca of Crimean mountaineering”; the intoxication of freedom and the delight of the conquered abyss have already been experienced by more than one hundred, if not a thousand of those for whom “ better than the mountains there can only be mountains.”
In addition, Bird Mountain, like birds once upon a time, attracts people who are passionately in love with the sky. The flight route of paragliders passes by the southern wall. The area is quite difficult for flights; moving along the peak, air masses flow into the Baydar valley, causing a significant increase in wind. Fortunately, this fact does not interfere with the record holders at all; often flying over the mountain, they fly to Balaklava and even Fiolent.
The other slopes of Kush-Kai are completely covered with forest - the higher you go, the higher and denser it gets. In spring, you can see an incredible abundance of flowers in the forest, among which peonies stand out. The scientific name of this lush plant, up to 75 cm high (!), is three-triple peony or Crimean peony. According to ancient beliefs, where this large pink flower with white edges grows, there are no evil spirits. But before everyone else, in March-April, the undergrowth literally covers a carpet of snowdrops. White, milky drop-shaped flowers appear as soon as the snow begins to melt. Interestingly, snowdrop seeds have an edible appendage and are spread by hard-working ants.
The top of Kush-Kai is completely treeless, only green grass and rare low and bushy juniper enliven the picture. But the views from here are fantastic. Clearly visible are the Laspinskaya Basin with a bay, a section of the road to Yalta with the Karaul-Kaya rock and an observation deck, the Kok-Kiya-Bel ridge on one side of the route and the Dragon's Wing - the Azhder-Kanat rocks - on the other, the Baydar Valley with a bowl Chernorechenskoye Reservoir. In the distance, on the eastern side of Laspi, the bulk of Ilyas-Kaya rises. And right under your feet is the resort Batiliman with all its holiday homes and boarding houses, and the sea, huge and endless, right up to the horizon...
We can safely assume that people have been visiting the mountain since ancient times; the place is ideal for observing the area. Material evidence of his stay was also left behind. Hidden between the trees near the top were the ruins of a small building made of carefully hewn diabase-like stone. It is oriented to the east, there is a wooden cross and a sign stating that this is the temple of St. Elias of the 11th–15th centuries. Nearby there is a well - either a spring or a reservoir, obviously built at the end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th centuries. However, the temple is not mentioned in any credible work on the history of Crimea, and the masonry is relatively fresh.
However, this place is quite lived-in, old medieval road from observation deck and the so-called Turkish glade rises to Kush-Kaya through a couple of medieval villages. On maps of the 19th century. The road ends at the house of the Marine Engineering Department. It is quite possible that it was built on the foundation of some ancient structure. However, serious research and excavations have never been carried out here, and those who like to wander around with a metal detector have not yet come across anything more interesting than donkey shoes.
Today people are almost more frequent guests at Kush-Kai than birds. Walking along the path, climbing rocks, paragliding over the top, they reach their cherished goal faster and faster. And only silence, a grandiose panorama around and the horizon lost in the distance can stop the inexorable passage of time.
(c) Shamrey Dmitry
In addition to lovers of beaches and cultural attractions, the Crimean peninsula has long been chosen by climbers. There are no Everests or Mont Blancs here, but the peaks here are very diverse, so they allow you to train in almost any conditions. Mount Kush-Kaya in Crimea belongs precisely to the list of such. Fans of mountain walks who do not have special sports training will be able to conquer it along fairly convenient paths.
Where is Kush-Kaya located in Crimea?
It would seem that it would be easier to indicate the location of the rock. But the task will not seem elementary to a person who knows Crimea well. Mount Kush-Kaya is located there in three places at the same time. Today we will talk about everything, but we will dwell in detail on visiting the one near.
Object on the map of Crimea
Features of the origin of the name
The answer to the fact that finding a peak can be difficult is quite prosaic. The fact is that the namesake peaks in Crimea are quite common. “Kush-Kaya” means “Bird Mountain”. This name is given to three different hills, quite distant from each other.
The most picturesque of them is the one located in, not far from Sudak. It is often captured in photographs and is considered a symbol of the village. Her Russian name– . The dimensions are more than usual - 446 m above sea level.
The highest is Kush-Kaya on. Her “height” is 1339 m. In appearance, she looks like an ear listening to the sound of the waves. You can get here through a path that is accessible to tourists without mountaineering training.
The most famous mountain is Kush-Kaya near, and we will talk about visiting it today. Its height is average - 664 m, but there is a steep wall facing the sea, where training and mountaineering competitions take place.
Crimean conspiracy theory
In 2013, this hill was shrouded in a veil of ominous mystery - there were reports of the disappearance of a certain tourist on its slopes. Her body was not found. Everyone familiar with the news tried their best to invent different versions of what happened. It involved both aliens and certain criminal Internet communities, who gave the girl an impossible task as a dedication - to climb.
The missing person’s phone was also present in the case, where something was taken. There were stories about her strange behavior and imbalance.
However, more experienced mountain tourists reasonably stated that there is no need to look for aliens in places where there are slippery rocks, a high incline and unsuitable beach shoes. Unfortunately, accidents with such would-be climbers happen in any mountains. But no body - no business. Over time, the “mystery of Kush-Kai” lost its relevance, but everyone who came up with their own version of its solution remained unconvinced.
Excursions and routes to Mount Kush-Kaya
For lovers of mountain tourism, Kush-Kaya near Laspi provides many opportunities. Since there are routes of different difficulty levels here (according to the professional classification - from 1B to 5B), all potential conquerors choose routes according to their capabilities and plans. In total, 18 different routes lead here, some of which are not even worth attempting without good climbing equipment and climber training.
Rock of the lower mountain belt - favorite place training and competitions for experienced climbers. But they are a special brethren, resolving organizational issues and security problems “among themselves.” Unprepared tourists usually get to the top along the so-called Great Sevastopol Trail. It is a very long excursion section, where Kush-Kaya is only one of its elements.
The trail starts in, but you can get to it in order to get to Kush-Kaya from the Laspi pass. The path here is well marked, with numerous signposts - it’s difficult to get lost. But even this “simple” route requires comfortable sportswear, good shoes (to avoid slipping) and decent physical shape (the climb is steep and difficult, 
although quite accessible to non-professionals).
The trail passes by a corral for wild animals - a kind of hunting ground. Locals joke that the answer to the question of who is protected from whom by a high mesh fence is ambiguous. On the way up you will see some ruins where a wooden cross is installed. Official version says that the ruins are the remains of the Cathedral of St. Elias, which stood here in the era late Middle Ages. That is why the cross was erected. But there are skeptics who claim that the condition of the stones and the composition of the mortar that holds them together, the technology of this period is little consistent with this period, and the ruins are the remains of a naval outpost.
Holidaymakers strive to climb to the top of Kush-Kaya for the views that open from there. From above you can admire the nature reserve in Laspi Bay. These landscapes are rightly ranked among the most beautiful in Crimea. People often come here for several days with tents. At the foot of the mountain there is a campsite for vacationers, where it is easier to obtain firewood and drinking water. But some “savages” manage to find accommodation outside this housing complex.
How to get there (get there)?
As already mentioned, Mount Kush-Kaya can be reached in different ways, but tourists often choose the route along the Great Sevastopol Road. If yours starts in the area Laspinsky pass, then this is what the further path looks like:
Note to tourists
- Address: Orlinovsky municipal district, Sevastopol, Crimea, Russia.
- GPS coordinates: 44.425131, 33.679880.
If it occurs to someone to test the loyalty of their friend using Vysotsky’s method, it is not necessary to go to the Caucasus - they can go to Crimea. Mount Kush-Kaya is perfect for such a check, and the friendly Crimean cities and the villages will then help to adequately celebrate the common victory! In conclusion, we offer a video report about the hike to the hill.