EKATERINBURG
A day excursion (5-6 hours) combining a visit to the burial place of the Romanov’s and the Obelisk that marks the border between Europe and Asia. Includes a light lunch.

The Czar's family was executed in the basement of Ipatiev house on the night 16-17th of July in 1918. The corpses were transported out of the city and thrown down an open mine (about 10 metres deep), called Ganya's pit. Hand grenades were thrown down the mineshaft by their executioners. The Russian Orthodox Church insists on the version, that the bodies were taken out of the mine, dissected and burnt into ash. On this site, a monastery was founded in 2000 after the visit of Patriarch Alexei II - the Head of Russian Orthodox Church. 'The church in the Names of Saint Newly Martyrs' and five other wooden churches have been built in honour of the different Russian saints. These churches were built with local timber without the aid of any nails.

The Ural Mountains are regarded as the border between Europe and Asia. To the west of the Urals lies European Russia, the cradle of the Russian culture. To the east, lies the vast land of Siberia. You will visit the obelisk between Europe and Asia. It is one of the most famous and frequently visited places of the Ural region. You can put one foot in Europe and another one in Asia and take some unique photographs. When locals have a wedding they always visit the obelisk to take some photos and to drink some champagne with friends.

En route you will visit the cemetery where some well-known members of the Russian mafia are buried. You will see some impressive tombstones and you will be able to listen to some interesting stories! You will visit also a memorial complex, which was set up in 1995 in honour of the victims of Stalin's repression. (light lunch included)

ICE-FISHING OR RAFTING TRIP
Depending on season and weather, either ice-fishing on lakes south of Ekaterinburg or a rafting (6km) and walking (12km) tour in the taiga forest. Includes a picnic lunch.

Ice-fishing on the Siberian Lake (winter months only). About one hour's drive to the south of Ekaterinburg you will reach some lakes. You will drill one metre down into the ice and try your hand at catching fresh fish. This is one of the most popular local weekend hobbies. (lunch, fishing equipment and rental of fur coat included)

Or Siberian Wilderness Trip (mid June to mid September). Here, you travel to the Urals and start with rafting down the River Serga (6km) before walking through beautiful Taiga Forest (12km) until you reach caves, where you can explore the mysterious underground of the Urals (picnic lunch included).

SIBERIAN COUNTRYSIDE TOUR (8-9 HOURS)
Today is spent visiting the Siberian countryside, exploring villages, talking to local people and visiting rural museums. Includes a traditional lunch.

Today you will visit Koptelovo Village, which is located 130km from Ekaterinburg. This old and beautiful Siberian village was founded in the 17th century and has a rich history. The spirit of Russia is revealed thought its folklore. People who live in the village still stick to their old traditions. You will see a Russian house, called an "izba ". Your guide will tell you how people lived, what they ate, how they worked, how they spent their leisure time and how they live now.

You will visit one of the museums, containing many antiquities and facts about the history and old traditions of the village. At the end of the excursion you will have an opportunity to have dinner with the most popular local dishes and drinks.

EKATERINBURG
A trip to a Russian banya or tickets to the opera or ballet (not available from August to mid-September).

A trip to the Russian baths (banya) can be a memorable experience of your Russian adventure, especially in the middle of the Siberian countryside. The banya begins in the dressing and undressing room, where everyone strips down (public banyas are segregated by sex). Towels in the form of large white sheets are usually available.

Firstly, you warm up in a Finnish-style dry sauna (heated to between 100° and 120° C). Then, take a small break to cool down and enter the steam room (parilka). Once you become accustomed to the searing damp heat, you will be beaten about the body with dried branches (vennik), usually birch, oak or juniper! Then depending on the banya and the location - you will then take a dip in cold water! It is a wonderful experience!

Newly opened in February 2006 and part of the Rezidor SAS group, this excellent friendly three-star hotel is centrally located. There are 160 modern, newly designed rooms with wireless internet connection, LCD TV, air-conditioning, in-room safe and hairdryer. Facilities include a restaurant offering a very reasonably priced set lunch, lobby bar and small business centre.