A Hidden Gem in Bashkortostan: Our Unforgettable Family Adventure

Hello there!

I've been lucky enough to explore some amazing spots in my home region over the years, but one place that really stands out is the Holy George Monastery, affectionately known as the 'Holy Cottages.'

Located in the village of Us-Stepanovka, in the Blagoveshchensky district of Bashkortostan, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Ufa. You can also take a guided tour, but I prefer to go on my own. The distance is approximately 100 kilometers. The road is decent, but it's better if you have a 4x4 vehicle. There's also a great spot nearby called 'Red Key.' It's a real gem for anyone who loves beautiful locations.

Be prepared for crowds if you visit in the summer on a weekend. Finding a parking spot can be a challenge, and some drivers just leave their cars and go. But on holy ground, we take it all in stride. We even find the beauty in the chaos.

We took our 10-month-old baby, who wasn't walking yet. A friend told me that the earth is holy, and if a child spends time here, they'll be running in no time. Of course, I was sold on the idea. We brought a stroller with us, and it was a lifesaver.

The place is nicknamed 'Holy Bushes' by locals, and it's a name that's rooted in folklore. Apparently, it's where three birch trees and two willows got all tangled up, and since then, people have been reporting some pretty wild stuff happening here. I'm talking visions of the Virgin Mary, old men with icons and crosses, and even the sound of church bells. It's no wonder that folks from nearby villages have been flocking here for centuries to pray and seek healing.

So, let's get this mini photo tour started!

First off, there's a free toilet at the entrance that's actually really clean and well-maintained.

Next up, there's a spot where you can grab some free snacks. I have to say, I was pretty surprised by this one - it's a nice touch! Just be sure to leave a donation if you take something, as the people who put in the effort to make these treats deserve our appreciation.

And of course, there's the monastery gift shop. I picked up a few nice skincare products that I'm really looking forward to trying out.

Before we headed out, I had to plan my outfit. Obviously, I needed something closed in. When we arrived, it was a scorching +30 degrees Celsius. I put on a long, pink maxi dress and a white scarf. I wanted to wear a coat, but it was already chilly. I was worried that after giving birth, my figure would be too unflattering. That's why I decided I needed some loose-fitting dresses in my wardrobe. By the way, it only cost me 400 rubles at the 'Siny' store. I even managed to squeeze in a 5-minute photoshoot with a camera (check out my review of it here)

My husband was wearing light, white pants, and our son was in a light-colored suit. There were blankets available at the entrance, but it's always better to bring your own. I mean, how many people were wearing the same things? It's just not hygienic. Okay, I won't dwell on that.

I didn't take that many photos. It's actually quite challenging with a baby. There were moments when he would get cranky and I wouldn't be able to take any shots. Still, we managed to capture a few beautiful moments.

The monastery's website has a lot of information. Before we went, I read up on some interesting facts. I would recommend doing the same before your visit, so you can understand what you're looking at and what it represents. Or, you know, you could just take an guided tour. They'll tell you everything. But I like to take my time, take some extra photos. With a baby, it's better to visit on your own, so you don't disturb anyone.

I've got to say, the refectory in honor of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a real showstopper.

When the monastery was being restored, the exterior design of the archondariki was overseen by Greek architect Ioannis, who had a hand in designing and building churches on Mount Athos.

I have to admit, I didn't believe it at first - I thought the monastery had just been ravaged. I mean, come on!

When the Soviets took power, the monastery was disbanded and a collective farm called 'October' was set up instead. But it didn't last long and was disbanded in the early 30s, along with all the buildings being completely destroyed from the ground up. The monastery was all but forgotten for many decades.

I just stood there staring at these buildings, completely awestruck. I froze, taking in the sheer grandeur of it all.

Just look at how clean and well-manicured the lawn is! You'd need to put in a lot of effort to keep the plants and trees behind the hedges looking so pristine. As someone who's got their own garden, I can appreciate the hard work that goes into keeping a place like this looking so stunning.

Everything's been trimmed back, and all the plants are looking healthy and well-maintained.

In 1998, the decision was made to build a monastery on this site, which would serve as a substation of the Uspensky men's monastery in Ufa. The head of the substation was appointed as the monastery's economy, Father Varlaam.

And so, they started building the buildings gradually. It was only from 2009 that the monastery's construction became active, and then the rest followed.

I couldn't shake off the feeling that I'm not walking through the land of Bashkortostan, but somewhere in Greece.

But no, the monastery is located deep in the forest. In the distance, I see spruces, hills. It's breathtaking. The nature here is like something out of a fairy tale.

There's the Archbishop's house on the territory, but I didn't go inside.

I'd love to stay in one of those little houses for a bit.

Escape the hustle and bustle, people. You step out, and it's fresh air. But I couldn't. This is a men's monastery. My grandma told me that there used to be a women's one here, but it didn't last long. And, funnily enough, I didn't see any nuns at all. Everywhere I looked, there were men.

I was blown away by the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God Temple. By the way, it was the first temple built in the monastery. I'd read about that fact beforehand, and it's true - the temple really stands out from the other structures.

The Uspensky Cathedral is what really gets me - it's been restored on the foundation of the pre-revolutionary church.It's ridiculously powerful!

We didn't go inside, but we're planning to visit again when my son's a bit older.

It's just stunning!

I was blown away by how amazing this place is, considering it's just a 100-kilometer drive from Ufa. We spent around four hours here and didn't even feel tired. Just a heads-up: it's a good idea to pack some water and snacks if you're traveling with a little one. You can also collect holy water here, but be warned - it's freezing cold, and I didn't dare try it.

Our entire walk was incident-free. Nobody got into a fight, and people were generally being considerate of one another. It was really refreshing to see. Everyone seemed friendly and willing to help out. We were all there to unwind and take in the breathtaking scenery of Bashkortostan.

*** RULES ***

I've seen people disregard the rules, and it's pretty obvious. When I was there, a monk politely reminded some women to stay off the lawn. Some folks were taking selfies, and they got a gentle reminder too. There was one lady, though, who just didn't seem to get it. Then, security came over and had a different tone. And then you've got people writing reviews saying they were treated poorly and disrespected. Like, come on, don't go to someone else's place with your own rules.Some people think it's okay to litter, but the staff is always on the lookout. They've got cameras, and if you're caught, security will come over. So, it's not like you can get away with it. And honestly, why bother? People put in so much effort and time, and then some visitors come in, make a mess, and leave. That's just not cool. If you've got a different worldview, maybe it's best to avoid places like this. You should come in with good intentions, not to cause trouble.Clothing can be an issue too. I saw some girls walking around in shorts and a tank top with their hair down, and the monks looked pretty disapproving. But they didn't say anything. I guess they weren't planning on going into the church, just walking around the grounds. Still, I wouldn't feel comfortable in that outfit. I'm sure in a women's monastery, they'd have said something by now.

*** IMPRESSIONS ***

I've noticed that most of the time, I'm the only one here with a little kid. The crowd is usually made up of parents with teenagers, guided groups, and older folks. But I'm always here with my tiny tot. I just couldn't leave them anywhere, and I believed in the healing power of nature.

I really wanted my kid to start walking earlier than a year old. At least by their birthday. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. It all comes down to genetics and development. So, I started doing exercises with my little one and taking them to the pool. And it was the latter that actually worked. Don't get your hopes up, though – just coming here to get healed or recover won't cut it.

Traveling is also a form of relaxation, with plenty of positive emotions and health benefits. I'd love to visit the 'Holy Sprigs' men's monastery in Bashkortostan again, but for now, I'll have to wait until my kid is old enough. Then, I'll show them the beauty that's right in our own backyard.

So, if you're ever in Bashkortostan, make sure to check this place out. It's a hidden gem that's definitely worth exploring.

The architecture is mind-blowing, the streets are designed in a Greek style, and the garden is immaculately maintained. It's a place of peace and relaxation.

I'm grateful to have made it here despite everything.

By the way, I've written about another amazing church in Sterlitamak. What I love most is that the priests are modern and speak from the heart.

And here's my story about my kid's baptism. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST, AT WHAT AGE DO YOU BAPTIZE, AND WHAT DO YOU NEED FOR IT?

So, if you get the chance, be sure to visit the Uspensky Svato-Georgievsky monastery, 'The Holy Bushes' in Bashkortostan. It's a stunning place! Seeing it once is worth a thousand words.

Thanks for stopping by!