
Maloye Sedlo
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and savor authentic local cuisine at Maloye Sedlo, accessible by cable car or scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Maloye Sedlo
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and savor authentic local cuisine at Maloye Sedlo, accessible by cable car or scenic hike.
"Amazing place, delicious food & super friendly service!"

Bring Cash! 💰
The cafe at Maloye Sedlo is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to pay for your meal.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry ample water for your hike, especially if the cable car isn't running. Civilization is scarce!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Views
Summit of Maloye Sedlo
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty.

Local Cuisine
Cafe at Maloye Sedlo
Savor delicious shashlik and hearty kharcho soup, prepared with authentic local flavors.

Rotunda '7 Winds'
En route to Maloye Sedlo
An iconic landmark offering a unique architectural stop with stunning surrounding scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cable Car & Trail Prep
Payment & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
The cafe at Maloye Sedlo is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to pay for your meal.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry ample water for your hike, especially if the cable car isn't running. Civilization is scarce!
Cable Car Check 🚠
Verify cable car operational status before your trip; it may be in testing or under repair.
Explore Alternative Routes 🚶♀️
Consider descending via a different path for varied scenery and easier trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
The cafe at Maloye Sedlo is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to pay for your meal.
Hydration is Key 💧
Carry ample water for your hike, especially if the cable car isn't running. Civilization is scarce!
Cable Car Check 🚠
Verify cable car operational status before your trip; it may be in testing or under repair.
Explore Alternative Routes 🚶♀️
Consider descending via a different path for varied scenery and easier trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views and the delicious, hearty local cuisine served at the summit cafe, particularly the shashlik and kharcho soup. The friendly service is also a highlight. Some minor drawbacks include the cafe being cash-only and a wish for more sustainable cutlery options.
"Great view, tasty cheese plate and refreshing beer.
Cash only."
Gavin Wilkinson
"Amazing place, delicious food & super friendly service"
Nikita Sapozhnikov
"We worked up an appetite by walking past the rotunda "7 winds" to the upper station of the cable car and without thinking twice, we decided to have lunch. The cafe is popular, there are a lot of people wanting to try local cuisine. After looking at the menu, we immediately decided - shashlik!!! And we absolutely did not go wrong, marinated and cooked perfectly: soft juicy shashlik of pork. Many thanks to the cook! We enjoyed it. I am sure that we were not the only ones who left this cafe full and happy. I must say that the order is prepared quickly, and this is also important. The only thing is that I would like to use non-plastic cutlery. But this is probably just a wish."
Марина Хоппнер
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Maloye Sedlo is by taking the cable car from Kislovodsk. Alternatively, you can hike up from the Valley of Roses. Be aware that the cable car may sometimes be in testing mode or undergoing repairs, so check its status beforehand.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport options to reach the cable car base.
Yes, you can hike to Maloye Sedlo. A popular starting point is the Valley of Roses. This route offers beautiful scenery but requires good physical condition.
Besides the cable car, you can descend via a different route from the saddle, which offers beautiful nature and easier trails. Electric cars are available from the Valley of Roses to Narzan Gallery.
The travel time depends on your chosen method. The cable car ride is relatively quick, while hiking can take several hours depending on your pace and starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entry ticket for Maloye Sedlo itself, but you will need a ticket for the cable car if you choose to use it.
Cable car operating hours can vary and it may be subject to testing or maintenance. It's best to check locally or on their official channels for the most up-to-date information.
There is no entrance fee for the cafe itself, but you will pay for any food or drinks you order.
Information on advance booking for the cable car is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets on-site.
Information regarding discounts for the cable car or cafe is not readily available. It's advisable to inquire locally if you are eligible for any concessions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Maloye Sedlo, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views, hike along scenic trails, and dine at the local cafe. It's a great spot for photography and appreciating nature.
The cafe offers local cuisine, with popular dishes including marinated shashlik (pork skewers) and hearty kharcho soup. They also serve refreshing drinks.
Maloye Sedlo can be enjoyed by families, but the hiking trails may require supervision for younger children. The cable car ride itself is usually a hit with kids.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to hike. Dress in layers as mountain weather can change quickly.
Restrooms are typically available at the cable car stations and at the cafe. It's wise to use them when you have the opportunity.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, making it a prime spot for landscape photography. The Rotunda '7 Winds' also provides a unique architectural element for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Maloye Sedlo. However, if you're serious about landscape photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens would be beneficial.
Drone regulations can vary. It's crucial to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area to avoid fines.
Expect to capture sweeping mountain vistas, scenic hiking trails, and potentially interesting cloud formations. The Rotunda '7 Winds' offers a distinct subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you plan to hike, consider the age and stamina of your children. Shorter, well-maintained trails are more manageable. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are limited. The Rotunda '7 Winds' can also be a point of interest for younger visitors.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours if possible, though specific pricing for Maloye Sedlo itself is minimal beyond transport. The main costs will be associated with getting to the base and any optional cable car usage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ascent: Cable Car vs. Hiking
For those seeking a more immersive experience and a good workout, hiking is an excellent option. Starting from areas like the Valley of Roses, the trails are well-marked and present beautiful natural scenery. This route allows you to appreciate the landscape at your own pace and discover hidden viewpoints. Remember to pack ample water and snacks, as amenities are limited along the hiking paths.
Regardless of your chosen method, the journey itself is part of the adventure, with both options promising rewarding views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the saddle.
Culinary Delights at the Summit Cafe
Another hearty option that receives praise is the kharcho soup, noted for its generous, meaty portions, which is a welcome find for many travelers. The cafe also serves a variety of drinks to complement the meal. It's important to note that this establishment operates on a cash-only basis, so ensure you have sufficient rubles with you.
While the food is generally well-received, one reviewer expressed a wish for non-plastic cutlery, highlighting a minor point for potential improvement in sustainability. Overall, the cafe offers a satisfying culinary experience with authentic local dishes.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit