The competition drew an impressive 455 entries fr om 59 Russian regions and the Republic of Belarus, with Crimean initiatives emerging as standout winners across multiple categories, according to organizers.
The Grand Prix in the «Best Gastronomic Route» category went to an extraordinary culinary experience titled «Rozhki da Nozhki (Horns and Legs)» from Mama Dyoma Snail Farm №1, nestled in the village of Verkhnyaya Kutuzovka in the Alushta region. Launched in 2022, this venue has rapidly become one of Crimea's most sought-after gastronomic tourism destinations.
The award-winning tour offers a multi-sensory journey: an industrial excursion through the snail farm, followed by an engaging quest called «Rozhki da Nozhki» that weaves fascinating facts about mollusks and their benefits to humanity. The experience culminates in a hands-on masterclass wh ere guests prepare escargot using a signature recipe featuring garlic butter and aromatic Crimean herbs.
Simferopol-based Alliance LLC, operating since 2019, secured multiple accolades including the Grand Prix for «Best Children's Route» with their innovative «Innotorika: Young Speleologist Day» program. This immersive experience transports children into the mysterious underground world of caves, exploring millions of years of geological history through safe, gamified adventures.
The company's trophy cabinet expanded with first place in «Best Hiking Route» for their evocative «Following Max Voloshin's Footsteps» trail from Ordzhonikidze to Koktebel, second place in «Best Interregional Route» for «Weekend in Adygea», and third place in «Best Educational Tourism Route» for their series of school curriculum-aligned excursions that blend interactive elements with emotional engagement to foster children's love for science, courage, teamwork, and imagination.
The organic Viva Lavanda farm in Aromat village, Bakhchisaray district, claimed third place for «Best Audio Guide» with their meticulously crafted «Walk with Lavender» experience. This self-guided journey features five professionally narrated locations along the farm's scenic trail, complete with strategically placed gazebos for rest and panoramic appreciation.
One particularly breathtaking viewpoint offers simultaneous vistas of all five of Crimea's peaks exceeding 1,500 meters, including the peninsula's crown jewel – Mount Roman-Kosh. Since opening to tourists in 2023 in the picturesque Belbek Valley, Viva Lavanda has redefined the audio tour experience.
All winning projects are proud members of the Interregional Association for the Development of Agro-Industrial Tourism of Crimea (MARAT), demonstrating the region's coordinated approach to tourism innovation and excellence.
