Orlovskoye Polesye, National park in Oryol Oblast, Russia
Orlovskoye Polesye is a national park covering about 77,745 hectares in the southern Oryol-Kaluga forest region. It features mixed woodlands, rolling terrain, river systems, and diverse natural habitats that create a complex ecosystem.
The national park was established in 1994 to protect the natural heritage of the southern Russian taiga region. This action aimed to preserve the diverse forest ecosystems and wildlife that depend on them.
The park territory connects to Ivan Turgenev's literary works, as the landscapes around it inspired his stories set in local villages and forests. Walking through these woods, you encounter the same natural settings that shaped his writing.
Visitors can choose between vehicle tours, hiking trails, and guided excursions to memorial sites, offering different ways to explore the park. The best visiting time is during warmer months when trails are accessible and wildlife is most active.
The park is home to around 401 European bisons, a species listed as endangered. This population makes it a critical refuge for one of Europe's rarest large animals.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
