Duderhof Heights, Protected natural area in Saint Petersburg, Russia
Duderhof Heights is a protected natural area south of Saint Petersburg featuring several hills, including Orekhovaya Hill at 176 meters (577 feet) and Voronya Hill at 147 meters (482 feet). The terrain combines forests with open meadows, and higher points offer views across the surrounding landscape.
A garden was created on Orekhovaya Hill in the early 19th century, altering parts of the landscape. During World War II, particularly from 1941 to 1944, the area experienced significant change due to the Siege of Leningrad.
The heights form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and its monument groups. Locals and visitors use the area for walks and appreciate the green hills as a retreat from city life.
Access is easiest via Mozhayskaya railway station, with trails leading into the area. The region is walkable in various seasons, though it suits hiking best during warmer months and offers winter activities as well.
The area hosts broadleaf forests unusual for northern Russia's taiga, providing habitat for several rare species. One of these is a weevil found nowhere else in the world.
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