In Yelninsky District, the Desna begins in an extensive lowland in the central part of the region. Its headwaters rise in the northwestern part of the Golubev Mokh peat bog, where they are heavily overgrown and indistinct. Together with the source of the Ugra, they create a specific natural focus: two river sources and their distinct protected areas.
Headwater Areas and an Ecological Trail
The source of the Desna is a 24.5-hectare natural landmark of regional significance, designated in 1981. The source of the Ugra is also a natural landmark of regional significance, designated in the same year; it covers six hectares. The two protected areas can therefore be distinguished by their size, while sharing a designation year and their significance as river sources.
A trail in Yelninsky District is one of the ecological educational trails. It offers a different way to experience the natural surroundings than visiting the two headwater areas: the focus here is a trail designated for educational purposes. If you are planning a visit, it is best to check access and trail conditions in advance.
Further Context in the Wider Destination of Smolensk Oblast
The following examples relate to Smolensk Oblast as the wider destination. They complement Yelninsky District’s focus on nature with archaeological, museum and other landscape-related themes.
Archaeology and Estate History
Around 2,500 burial mounds and a settlement remain at the Gnyozdovo archaeological complex. It is considered the largest complex of archaeological monuments in Russia and Europe dating from the period when the Old Russian state was formed. It is also protected by the state as an archaeological monument of national—that is, federal—significance.
The A. S. Griboyedov “Khmelita” State Historical, Cultural and Natural Museum-Reserve is located in Vyazemsky District of Smolensk Oblast. It is 260 kilometres from Moscow, 200 kilometres from Smolensk and 37 kilometres from Vyazma. The Khmelita estate is the centrepiece of the museum-reserve and has been owned by the Griboyedov family since 1680.
Nature Trails and Landscapes in the Regional Context
Smolenskoye Poozerye National Park was established on April 15, 1992, in the Demidovsky and Dukhovshchinsky districts of Smolensk Oblast. Its purpose is to protect unique natural complexes for recreation, education, science and culture. A viewpoint on the high southern shore of Lake Sapsho offers views of the lake and several islands.
The “K istokam” eco-trail is a circular route that starts in the village of Stary Dvor. A track for mobile apps such as Geotreker or MAPS.ME helps visitors follow the route independently. Two viewpoints overlooking Lakes Svyatets and Sapsho were established along the route in 2023–2024. This combines a clearly described circular route with two named viewpoints, without specifying a walking time.
The barefoot trail in Boroviki offers a different nature experience: it has 14 sections, each six metres long, with different natural surfaces to walk on barefoot. At the end, you can wash your feet and then, if you wish, take a stroll through the Aptekarsky sad. The “Poozerye bez baryerov” eco-trail was created in 2017 for people with disabilities and starts near the “Baklanovo” eco-centre building.
Guided Activities in the Ethnographic Village
In the “Stargrad” ethnographic village, a guided tour introduces visitors to the way of life of the ancient Slavs and showcases everyday objects, weapons and clothing. Visits are possible only as part of a guided group. The extended programme includes the “Babiy kut” workshop on traditional women’s crafts, where participants can make souvenirs themselves, and “Polevaya kuznya,” where they can mint coins and make chain mail. In the “Srednevekovy tir” area, visitors can shoot with a bow and slingshot; axe and javelin throwing are also available. A water activity aboard the Viking oak boat “Fornkor” includes sailing and rowing on one of the national park’s deepest lakes. Workshops must be arranged in advance.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Sychyovsky District, Smolenskiy rayon, Dukhovshchinsky District, Kardymovskiy rayon, Sychevskiy rayon, Yartsevskiy rayon, Smolensk, Kholm-Zhirkovskiy rayon.
To the overview of the wider destination: Smolensk Oblast.
