Irkutsk on the Trans-Siberian Railway

          One of my favorite cities along the Trans-Siberian Railway journey is Irkutsk near Lake Baikal, deep in the heart of Siberia.  It is an easy walk or trolley ride from the Irkutsk Railway Station across the Ankara River into the city center, where I stayed at the popular Baikaler Hostel.  The friendly, helpful hostel staff arranged a two night excursion to Olkhon Island on Lake Baikal where I stayed at Nikita’s Homestead, a rustic lodge with all the conveniences of home.  The round trip bus ride to the village of Khuzhir and two nights at Nikita’s, including meals, cost just a little over $50.  Now that’s what I call a bargain!

Lake Baikal

          Lake Baikal, which means ‘nature lake’, is the deepest and the largest fresh water lake (by volume) in the world, containing 20% of the world’s fresh water.  It was formed by a rift which is still growing and its clear water and surrounding mountains make it a spectacularly beautiful place to visit.  Olkhon Island is easily accessible by bus and ferry and the three day diversion from the Trans-Siberian Railway journey is an experience not to be missed.

Nikita’s Homestead

          The laid back, friendly atmosphere at Nikita’s Homestead makes it the ideal place to meet adventurous travelers from all over the world.  The family style dining room serves up some delicious Russian meals and doubles as a gathering place for evening entertainment.  Each afternoon we walked down to the little store in town to buy some beer and after dinner all the guests gathered together outside to watch the sunset over the lake.  The staff at Nikita’s can arrange tours of the island and I had the good fortune to join two young ladies from Austria for a fun day, traveling to the top of the island and back.  By the end of each day I was ready to hit the sack in my comfortable little cabin.  Nikita’s Homestead is definitely one of my favorite sleeps and it has earned its spot as an Awesome Accommodation on Blue Orb Travel.