Karaul-Oba

Karaul-Oba is a mountain summit in Novyi Svit rising to about 341 meters with steep rock walls and dense juniper forest covering its slopes. Several caves run through different parts of the terrain, creating a complex network within the mountain.

Ruins of a 1st-century Bosporan fortress sit on the mountain, built to control the coast and protect against sea raiders. Archaeological evidence shows that Tauri settlements occupied the area long before the fortress was constructed.

The name comes from the Crimean Tatar language and means Watch Mountain, reflecting its strategic position overlooking the bays below. Today, visitors can still appreciate this connection when looking down at the sprawling coastline from above.

Visit in the morning when visibility is clearest and crowds are lighter for the best experience. A marked green trail leads up from Vesyoloye village with several viewing spots along the way.

The Valley of Hell is a dramatic gorge often overlooked by hikers focused only on reaching the summit. Cold Cave maintains a constant temperature of about 10 degrees Celsius year-round, creating a cool refuge even on hot summer days.