Guide to Almaty
Welcome to the unique world of nature and culture in Almaty and its surroundings! In this guide, the Donatello Hotel invites you to explore some of the most exciting places that are a must-visit during your stay.
Almaty is renowned for its pleasant climate, making it an attractive destination year-round. In spring, nature awakens, and summer invites you to enjoy outdoor activities. Autumn offers a variety of events, while winter provides opportunities for winter sports at ski resorts like Shymbulak and Medeu.
Charyn Canyon
A gift of nature, Charyn Canyon astounds with its beauty and scale. A walk through its ancient rock formations and towering cliffs will leave unforgettable impressions.
Singing Dunes
Immerse yourself in the world of mysterious sounds produced by the sand dunes, known as “singing.” This unique natural phenomenon will leave you in awe.
Chundzha Hot Springs
Relax and enjoy the warm waters of these natural springs, known for their healing properties and cozy atmosphere.
Alma-Arasan Hot Spring
The Alma-Arasan Hot Spring in Almaty is a natural source of hot mineral water located in a picturesque mountain gorge in the foothills of the Zailiysky Alatau. The water of this spring is rich in minerals and has a temperature of about 38-45 degrees Celsius.
Ski resorts near Almaty
With our list of ski resorts, you can enjoy the variety of winter sports and entertainment in Almaty and its surroundings while staying conveniently close to the city with the Donatello Boutique Hotel.
Shymbulak
It’s the nearest ski resort located close to the Donatello Hotel. It’s just 25 kilometers southeast of Almaty and is one of the most popular ski resorts.
Ak-Bulak
Located 30 kilometers west of Almaty, this ski resort is also popular among winter sports enthusiasts due to its excellent conditions and beautiful scenery.
Tabagan
Famous for its beautiful slopes and unique atmosphere, Tabagan is located near Shymbulak and offers excellent skiing opportunities for both experienced skiers and beginners.
Oi-Qaragai
This cozy ski resort attracts guests with its unique atmosphere and beautiful landscapes that unfold from its slopes.
Alatau
Ski biathlon complex. An ideal place for skiing and biathlon, offering high-quality tracks and infrastructure for sports competitions and training.
Pioneer
This ski resort, located close to Almaty, is known for its cozy slopes and convenient location, making it an attractive place for family vacations.
Alatau National Park
Embark on an adventure to this reserve, where majestic mountain peaks, dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and a variety of wild flora and fauna await you.
Big Almaty Lake
Big Almaty Lake is an artificial reservoir located near the city of Almaty, in picturesque mountainous terrain. It was created by flooding the gorge with the waters of the Small Almaty River. It serves as an important source of fresh water for the city and its surroundings.
Kolsai Lake
Ascend to higher altitudes and immerse yourself in the world of mountain lakes with emerald water, surrounded by towering peaks and picturesque forests.
Lake Kaindy
Lake Kaindy was formed as a result of a landslide triggered by an earthquake in 1911 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The water of Lake Kaindy is crystal clear and has a deep blue color, reflecting the surrounding mountain peaks. The lake is surrounded by pine forests and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor recreation.
Nice boutique hotel, spacious room, large bathroom, toiletries are in line with a five star hotel.
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Optimal location between Shymbulak resort and Almaty, excellent comfortable room with good views, everything is in the room, even ironing board with iron.
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The location is good, the rooms are spacious, toilet and bathroom are comfortable, toiletries are in good condition.
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Very large beautiful room. Good breakfast. Car parking available. Great location for travelling to Shimbulak.
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The room was very spacious with a big bed, nice balcony, gorgeous bathroom with shower and bath. The location was perfect for us - only 15 minutes by taxi to the mountains and 15 minutes to the centre.
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The hotel is really picturesque, and probably the best breakfast I have ever had in a hotel in my entire life. It's really something special considering I've stayed in hundreds of hotels around the world.
