Yamka

Northern European Russia


The village of Yamka is home to extravagantly bearded Old Believers, as well as genuinely lived-in (and well-labelled) historic houses. Its pretty lake-side setting is a 15-minute walk up the east coast of the island from the reserve. The reserve’s seasonal staff sleep communally here in the 1905 Pertyakov House, with a traditional-style outdoor banya hut (like a sauna) at the waterside. Two doors south, outside Moshikova House, is a curious blue-eyed pagan totem that’s somewhat reminiscent of an Easter Island moai.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Northern European Russia attractions

1. Veronica's Veil Chapel

0.24 MILES

Dating from the 17th century, the view from Veronica’s Veil Chapel offers wonderful panoramas right across Kizhi. Walk west across the island from Yamaka…

2. Kizhi Museum Reserve

0.84 MILES

One of Russia's unmissable attractions, the reserve is home to dozens of 18th- and 19th-century log buildings, some furnished in period style, which were…