Country House Blog

The Almaty mountains: hikes, weekends, winter, the banya and tips

Hiking Kok-Zhailyau
Trail

Hiking Kok-Zhailyau

The route, how to get there, how long it takes and what to pack.

Weekend getaways from Almaty
Ideas

Weekend getaways

Top nature spots near Almaty and where to stay the night.

Medeu attractions
Guide

Medeu attractions

Medeu, Shymbulak, Kok-Zhailyau and Ile-Alatau Park.

Winter in the Almaty mountains
Winter

Winter guide

Shymbulak and Ak-Bulak resorts, the Medeu rink and the sauna.

Banya benefits
Lifestyle

Banya: benefits & rules

Why a banya is good and how to steam properly.

How to get to Medeu and Kok-Zhailyau
Getting here

How to get here

Transport to Medeu, the trail and the cabin from the city.

What to pack for the mountains
Packing

What to pack

A checklist for a hike and a cabin stay, summer and winter.

Best time to visit the Almaty mountains
Seasons

Best time to visit

What summer, autumn, winter and spring each offer.

One-day hike in the Almaty mountains
Safety

One-day hike

What to pack and how to get home without drama.

Ready for your retreat?

A quiet cabin in the Almaty mountains — sauna, pool, fire pit

Book now