The Town of Makinsk
The town of Makinsk, a charming travel destination, is situated 200 km (124 mi) northwest of Astana. Over a century ago, Makinsk was just a small village known as Makinka until a railway station was established. The name was changed to Makinsk in 1945, coinciding with its official designation as a town. During the virgin land development in 1954, Makinsk welcomed around a thousand pioneers.
A scenic retreat
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Makinsk is surrounded by lush forests teeming with aspen, pine, and birch trees. The locals often engage in mushroom hunting and berry picking. While the winters can be harsh and lengthy, the summers are typically hot but brief.
In terms of tourism, Makinsk offers a more affordable alternative to popular destinations like Burabay and Shuchinsk. Despite the absence of mountains or lakes, visitors are drawn to Makinsk for its tranquility and natural beauty. The town sees fewer tourists, allowing for peaceful hikes in the nearby forests and leisurely foraging for mushrooms and berries.
Where to stay?
One notable accommodation option in Makinsk is the Scandi Home Hotel, which opened a few years ago. True to its name, the hotel boasts a Scandinavian-inspired interior, complete with well-appointed rooms and some featuring mini-kitchens. Guests can also enjoy the cozy terrace, benches, gazebos, and barbecue areas.
One of the key advantages of vacationing in Makinsk is its proximity to Astana, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Unlike Shchuchinsk and Burabay, which are further away, Makinsk can be reached from the capital in just two and a half hours.
How to get there?
You can reach Makinsk by car or train. By car, take the Astana-Kokshetau highway from Astana and drive 200 km (124 mi). Alternatively, daily trains from Nurly Zhol and Astana-1 railway stations provide a convenient option, with a travel time of 3 hours.
Tourist attractions near Makinsk:
- Victory Square
- Lysaya Mountain
- Koyantobe Mountain
- The Town of Shuchinsk
- Lake Borovoe
- The Village of Burabay
Recommended tours:
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