Sunday 27 April 2008

Blini bling!


The Stolby mountain range near Krasnoyarsk is a majestic set of stone peaks that overlooks the dense Siberian forest. Think the training sequence from Rocky 4 and you are halfway there. It was a steep climb to the top on icy paths. On the way we spotted chipmunks, pointy eared sqirrels, woodpeckers and unidentified birds of prey. Happily, the hiking boots had come in handy at last. Or so we thought... Near the top we were overtaken by a stylishly dressed Russian lady complete with Gucci handbag, brushed suede (really) high heels and war painted face. Wow! Needless to say, we followed her trail of heel marks to the top.
The view from the top was breathtaking, stretching far and wide into the vast expanse of land that is Siberia. It was also quiet. Great to get away from the dust and noise of Russian cities.
Our hostess in Krasnoyarsk was a retired lady called Galina. She prepared amazing breakfasts for us each day. My favourite being her stuffed blinis with cheese served with smetana (sour cream) and her own homemade wild strawberry jam. Tayshtay!

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