After arriving at Mineralnye Vody airport, we'll transfer to the charming spa town of Kislovodsk. Famous for its 265 sunny days a year, it's home to the largest park in the Caucasus – a perfect, gentle introduction to the region's grandeur.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Mansion of Kshesinskaya” or “Rosmarin”).

This morning, we'll explore that vast park on two wheels with a 2-3 hour cycling tour (e-bikes available).

Our main event, however, is a unique visit to a Cossack special forces training center, run by the remarkable Olga Brovko. A true guardian of her heritage, Olga will lead us in a masterclass that beautifully balances two worlds: martial arts and the art of baking traditional bread. We'll share a lunch of shulyum, a hearty Cossack soup, together, hearing her stories firsthand.

The evening is yours to relax and absorb the day's rich impressions.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Mansion of Kshesinskaya” or “Rosmarin”).

Today is about epic landscapes. We'll drive along what's often called Russia's most beautiful road, ascending from Kislovodsk to the Djily-Suu springs nestled at the northern foot of Mount Elbrus.

After a light hike and a picnic in this wild, beautiful area, we'll off-road to the Bermamyt plateau. Here, we'll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset view of the majestic Elbrus before returning to our hotel in the late evening.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Mansion of Kshesinskaya” or “Rosmarin”).

We start in the elegant town of Pyatigorsk, exploring its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.

After lunch, we'll visit the Ferrum winery – a wonderful example of women's entrepreneurship in the region, established and run by a passionate team.

As evening approaches, we'll head back into the mountains, this time to the south side of Elbrus, arriving at the resort village of Terskol.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Skazka lodge” or similar).

A cable car whisks us up Mount Cheget for what many consider the finest panoramic views of Elbrus. We'll spend the day hiking to a stunning viewpoint before descending to the turquoise waters of Lake Donguz Orun.

After a picnic in this majestic scenery, we return to connect with local women for an intimate pottery class, followed by a traditional Russian banya (sauna) ritual – the perfect way to unwind.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Skazka lodge” or similar).

Our journey continues to Nalchik, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, where we'll visit the art-center of Madina Saralp, a talented local fashion and jewellery designer.

After lunch at a traditional restaurant (also run by a woman!), we'll cross into the breathtaking mountains of North Ossetia. We'll settle in the scenic Tsey valley, and time and weather permitting, we might ascend to 2,800 meters for a sunset toast with a glass of wine.

Overnight at a 4* hotel (“Roots” or “Skazka”).

Leaving Tsey, we delve deeper into Ossetia's dramatic landscapes. We'll visit the picturesque villages of Ursdon and Dagom for a memorable 2-hour hike to the astonishing "castles-on-rocks." Continuing by vehicle, we'll ascend the Arkhonskiy pass (2,206 m) and take a rewarding 2-hour walk to the summit of Kasanybarzond hill (2,438 m) for unparalleled views.

We'll descend to the town of Fiagdon for the night.

Overnight at “Chill Village” chalets.

This morning, we journey to the Midagrabin waterfalls, where one cascade plunges over 600 meters! After a 1.5-hour walk to feel their power, we'll visit the hauntingly beautiful "City of the Dead" in Dargavs – a ancient necropolis with fascinating funerary customs.

By late lunch, we'll arrive in Vladikavkaz, the cultural capital of North Ossetia. After settling into the hotel, we'll enjoy a short walking tour through its historic center.

Overnight at “Na Gorkogo” 3* hotel.

Our final day is a relaxed immersion in the city's rich culture. We'll explore Vladikavkaz with an art expert, gaining deeper insight into its history and creative spirit.

Then, we'll step into a local home for a hands-on lesson in making authentic Ossetian pies.

We'll celebrate the journey's end together at the winery of Konstantin Dzitoev, toasting new friendships and the unforgettable experiences of the past nine days.

Transfer to an airport.