Serene Kyrgyzstan: the Shores of Issyk-Kul, Hot Springs and Waterfalls

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Far from being just a country of extreme adventure, Kyrgyzstan offers corners of peace and natural beauty ideal for active rest. This 7-day itinerary centers on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul — the quietest, least touristic zone, where small family guesthouses and thermal resorts dot the shore. Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake, has mild salty waters of intense sapphire color and beaches of black volcanic sand. At Tamga there is a spa resort with mineral waters, thermal baths and private beaches facing the snowy mountains. The Cholpon-Ata petroglyphs — an open-air sanctuary of 2,000 prehistoric carvings — are toured unhurried with views over the lake. The excursion to the hot springs of Altyn Arashan, in the Karakol valley, offers natural hot baths among spruce woods at 2,600 m. The Barskoon waterfall, a 24-meter drop, is reachable by car and offers scenic trails toward the glaciers of the Tian Shan. Relaxed rhythm: a different place each day, thermal baths, walks along nearly empty beaches and homemade Kyrgyz cuisine. Lodging in family guesthouses and resorts.