Yessentuki: a guide to the resort park and mineral springs
Essentuki: A Guide to the Resort Park and Mineral Springs
Park-Shafran Sanatorium is located in the heart of the Essentuki resort area, right at the entrance to the famous Resort Park. This means that the main attractions of the resort city are within walking distance. Strolls through the park, exploring 19th-century architecture and, of course, the famous mineral waters — all of this becomes part of your holiday.
We have prepared a guide to the main attractions of Essentuki so that you can plan your walks and make the most of your stay at the resort.
History of the Resort Park
Essentuki Resort Park is not just a green space but a place with a rich history. The first to notice the healing properties of the local waters were... horses. In the early 19th century, they drank water from a salt marsh, while people avoided it. In 1811, physician F. P. Haas became interested in this fact, marking the beginning of the study of the mineral springs.
The park was established in 1847 by order of Prince Vorontsov. The former marsh was drained and transformed into a picturesque park for walking. Today, it covers 43 hectares and is an ideal place for therapeutic walking, morning jogs and evening strolls.
Lower Park: The Heart of Resort Life
The lower part of the park is the oldest and most atmospheric. This is where the main historical landmarks are located:
Openwork Gazebo (1873) — one of the park's landmarks and a favorite spot for photographs.
The "Peasant with a Jug" and "Eagle" Sculptures (1903) — symbols of the resort, familiar to everyone.
Zander Institute of Mechanotherapy — a unique terem-style building where historic mechanical exercise machines are still in use. A scene from the legendary Soviet film Love and Pigeons was filmed here.
Antique-Style Entrance to the Park (1955) — a monumental colonnade that marks the beginning of the walk.
Upper (Nikolaev) Baths
The Upper (Nikolaev) Baths are not only a medical facility but also an architectural landmark. The building, designed in the style of ancient Roman baths, was constructed in 1899 to commemorate the visit of Emperor Nicholas II. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in the resort and continues to serve its therapeutic purpose today. Nearby, you can see the Panteleimon Church and historic villas, creating the distinctive atmosphere of the old resort.
Drinking Galleries: Waters No. 4, No. 17 and "Essentuki Novaya"
Spring No. 17
One of the most recognizable drinking galleries not only in Essentuki but throughout the Caucasus. It was designed by English architect Samuel Upton in the Neo-Gothic style and resembles the Vorontsov Palace in Crimea.
Mineralization: 10–14 g/L (high)
Taste: slightly salty
Indications: prescribed by a doctor for gastrointestinal disorders and should be consumed strictly as directed.
Opening hours: daily from 07:00 to 19:00 (breaks: 09:30–11:30, 14:30–16:30)
Spring No. 4
Located in the center of the Resort Park. The water has a milder and more balanced mineral composition.
Mineralization: 7–10 g/L (medium)
Effect: supports acid-base balance and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Indications: gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
Drinking Gallery on Lenina Street (Spring 4/33)
A modern gallery built in 1984 at 13 Lenina Street. Here you can try two types of mineral water: "Essentuki No. 4" (well No. 33) and "Essentuki Novaya". The gallery has drinking fountains with cold, warm and hot water. A narrow-spout drinking cup can be purchased on site, and water can be taken away for an additional fee.
"Essentuki Novaya" Water
A unique mineral water that can only be tasted in Essentuki. It comes from the Beshtaugorsky deposit and is a mixture of two natural mineral waters. Its therapeutic properties are preserved only for a short time after mixing, so the water is not bottled and is served exclusively at the drinking gallery.
Composition: chloride-hydrocarbonate sodium-calcium water with increased levels of sulfates, magnesium and silicon.
Mineralization: 7.7 g/L
Taste: milder than No. 17.
Benefits: has rejuvenating properties and is recommended for kidney and urinary tract diseases, as well as metabolic disorders, including metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease.
Serving temperature: approximately 42°C. The water can be consumed in any quantity, effectively quenches thirst and is suitable even for people with high stomach acidity.
What Else to See in Essentuki
Semashko Mud Therapy Clinic (1913–1915) — one of the largest mud therapy facilities in the Caucasian Mineral Waters region, built with funds from the sale of mineral water. The building, designed in the style of an ancient Egyptian temple, is impressive in its grandeur.
Pyatysotnik — Europe's largest drinking gallery, built in 1989. It can accommodate up to 5,000 visitors and serves "Essentuki No. 4".
Institute of Mechanotherapy — a unique museum featuring working 19th-century exercise machines.
Music Gazebo — a place where brass bands traditionally performed for resort guests.
How to Combine Sightseeing with Your Stay at Park-Shafran
All the attractions listed above are within walking distance of Park-Shafran Sanatorium. As soon as you step outside, you enter the Resort Park. This unique location advantage allows you to combine your therapeutic treatments with daily walks through the historic center of the resort.
Park-Shafran Sanatorium offers not only comfortable rooms and high-quality treatment but also the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Essentuki — a city where nature, history and health come together.