Resorts on the northeastern shore of Lake Alakol
Lake Alakol, located in Eastern Kazakhstan, served as a refuge for Soviet cosmonauts seeking respite from the adverse effects of cosmic radiation. After enduring lengthy space missions, these astronauts were granted the privilege of visiting the balneological paradise that awaited them on its shores. Immersed in the mineral-rich waters of Alakol, they found solace and rejuvenation, allowing their bodies to recuperate and their vitality to be restored. It is worth mentioning that Alakol also served as a haven for children affected by the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster, providing them with much-needed treatment and care.
During the Soviet era, access to Lake Alakol was restricted due to its proximity to the Chinese border. Only those fortunate enough to possess vouchers were granted the opportunity to experience the lake's wonders. However, the situation has changed for the better, and now almost everyone can enjoy the benefits of this serene lake and improve their well-being. The northeast shore of the lake, in particular, is home to a plethora of recreational centers, hotels, and resorts that cater to diverse needs and preferences. In this article, we will focus on exploring the options available along this scenic shoreline. For information regarding recreation centers on the opposite shore of the lake, please refer to this article.
- The Barlyk-Arasan Health Resort is situated at the foothills of the Arasantau Mountains, 18 km (11 mi) away from Lake Alakol. This resort occupies an area with underground mineral waters, providing a unique setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests have the option to stay in a 5-story building or cozy cottages, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The resort offers a range of recreational activities, including billiards, table tennis along with various engaging events. It caters to the treatment of diverse ailments, spanning from neuralgia and urticaria to osteochondrosis and sciatica. With massage rooms, thermal mineral baths, a phyto-barrel, a Charcot shower, and aeromassage swimming pools, guests have access to a wealth of therapeutic options. Additionally, the resort provides services such as acupuncture, vaginal irrigation, body wrap treatments, cosmetic procedures, and more.
Location: Abay region, 18 km from Lake Alakol, near the Baryk Mountain Range, on the right bank of the Arasanka River
- Alakol LOVE Resort is a family-friendly hotel offering various room categories from standard to deluxe. Just 40 meters (44 yd) from the beach, guests can enjoy the sand and pebble shoreline. The resort features a restaurant, performance platform, playground, open-air cinema, a parking lot, and a summer area with gazebos and a fountain.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay (former Zharbulak)
Instagram: alakol.love
- In the Arasan Alakol Resort Hotel guests can enjoy comfortable rooms and a diverse range of leisure activities. The hotel features a spa area with a cedar phyto-barrel, mud baths, and professional massage therapists, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation. There is also a sauna complex and a dedicated children's playroom. Indulge in culinary delights at the hotel's restaurant, which boasts a summer terrace and serves a variety of European, Chinese, and Pan-Asian dishes. For those seeking sun and sand, a wide sandy beach awaits, complete with sun loungers, awnings, and a bar.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Website: arasan-alakol.kz
- Inju Alakol is a charming resort located a mere 30 meters (33 yd) away from a pebble beach. Guests can relax on sun loungers under umbrellas, soaking up the sun. The well-equipped rooms offer balconies and terraces for a comfortable stay. The resort has two swimming pools (one for adults and one for children), a beach bar, a playground with trampolines and a slide for kids to have fun, a restaurant serving delectable meals, a summer cinema, and inviting gazebos.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Website: inju-alakol.kz
- Alaziz Alakol Bastau Recreation Center, situated just 70 meters (77 yd) away from the beach. The center boasts its own dedicated section of the shoreline, ensuring easy access for guests. Experience the therapeutic benefits with amenities like an antler bath (baths with extract from young wapiti antlers), a physiotherapy room, and hydrogen sulfide mud treatments. For recreational activities, enjoy billiards, table tennis, and a basketball court. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary amenities such as boats and fishing equipment, parking facilities, and a barbecue area.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Website: alakol.alazis.kz
- In Eco-Home Alakol you can experience a stay in environmentally friendly log cabins nestled within a sprawling green area. Located just 150 meters (164 yd) from the beach and 300 meters (328 yd) from the healing black mud, it offers proximity to natural wonders. Across from the resort, a park awaits, featuring a workout zone, playgrounds, and a mini-football field.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Instagram: eco_home_alakol_hassak
- Shipa Su Resort features three cabins and a range of amenities for your enjoyment, including children's pool, on-site cafe, and a massage room. For entertainment, there is a game room and a playground to keep both children and adults entertained. The resort offers standard, junior suite, and suite rooms to suit different preferences. The beach is just a short 50-meter walk away.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Instagram: alakol_shipasu
- Tumar Resort offers standard, deluxe, and VIP rooms just 100 meters (109 yd) from a beautiful sandy and pebble beach. Guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site amenities including a cafe-bar, children's pool, playground, trestle beds, shop, and gazebos.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
- Favorit is a family vacation center with cozy 3- and 4-bed rooms available in Comfort, Cottage, and VIP Cottage categories. Located just 250 meters (273 yd) from the lake, the center boasts two swimming pools (adult and children), a restaurant, relaxing gazebos, and convenient parking. Guests can also rent boats, catamarans, ATVs, or enjoy a barbecue.
Location: Abay region, 2 km from the village of Kabanbay
Instagram: favorit_alakol
- Silverlake Recreation Center offers comfortable 2-6 bed rooms and is situated on a sandy and pebble beach with a gentle slope. Guests can relax under umbrellas and rent sun loungers for an additional fee. The center also features a bar and sauna for added convenience and relaxation. On-site amenities include a playground, children's pool, workout area, gazebos, swings, karaoke, and more, ensuring a fun-filled stay for all.
Location: Abay region, the village of Kabanbay
Instagram: silverlake.alakol
How to get there?
The northeastern shore of Lake Alakol is easily accessible from major cities in Kazakhstan such as Almaty, Astana, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Karaganda, Semey, and Pavlodar, whether by car, train, or plane.
A railway runs along the southwest shore of Alakol, and to reach the recreation centers on the northeastern coast, one can disembark at Zhalanashkol station. From there, a bus or taxi can take you to the village of Kabanbay, which is approximately 50 km (31 mi) away.
Alternatively, flights are available from Astana, Ust-Kamenogorsk, and Semey to the village of Urdjar in the Abay region. Upon arrival, you can opt for a taxi or utilize the shuttle service provided by your chosen resort.