Stavri Kaya

Stavri Kaya is a mountain summit near Yalta that rises 663 meters above sea level with steep cliffs on its northern, eastern, and southern slopes. The rocky formation stands out prominently in the local landscape and can be accessed through several established hiking routes.

The name Stavri Kaya comes from Greek origins, where 'stavros' means cross and refers to a religious symbol that once stood on the rock formation. This naming reflects the historical religious significance of the region.

Local communities maintain traditional festivals and markets at the base of Stavri Kaya, showcasing regional crafts and agricultural products throughout the year.

Three main hiking trails reach the summit: the Botkin path starting from Yalta, the Stavrikaya path from Yalta Yayla, and the Shtangeev path from Uchan-Su waterfall. These routes vary in difficulty and require different amounts of time to complete.

The summit area is home to several rare plant species listed in the Ukrainian Red Book, some found nowhere else in the region. This particular flora makes the location valuable for those interested in botany and plant conservation.

GPS coordinates: 44.49828,34.09991

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:47