Sochi

With the Caucasus Mountains as its backdrop, the Black Sea town of Sochi is the jewel of the Russian Riviera. Sand and pebble beaches stretch nearly 20 miles along the Black Sea coast. With its subtropical climate, warm seas and adjoining trendy resort complex of Dagomys, the resort has long attracted heads of state, foreign tourists, and Russians alike. Botanical Gardens, therapeutic pools, and the dachas (country houses) of the powerful and famous are all local landmarks. Historical and architectural monuments, unique flora and fauna, magnificent panoramas, mysterious canyons and caves, and dramatic waterfalls are all found in Sochi.