Western Caucasus.

The Western Caucasus is a pristine mountain region in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, spanning 275,000 hectares and only 50 km from the Black Sea. This largely untouched area features diverse landscapes, from subalpine pastures to undisturbed mountain forests, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. Home to over 1,580 vascular plant species and numerous endemic species, it also supports a rich fauna, including the reintroduced European bison, wolves, bears, and 246 bird species. Recognized as a Conservation Hotspot, it overlaps with a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, ensuring rigorous protection. While largely closed to the public, ecotourism routes allow limited access to its unique natural beauty, complemented by historical sites.