Expense Information for a Velvet Season Getaway to Gelendzhik Revealed by Tour Operators
Article Title: Gelendzhik Velvet Season Tourism Remains Stable Amidst Moderate Prices
In the tranquil atmosphere of the velvet season, Gelendzhik continues to attract tourists seeking a peaceful beach escape. However, the demand for tours during this period has yet to pick up significantly, according to tour operators.
The prices for a 7-night tour in September vary depending on the level of accommodation. For budget-conscious travellers, guest houses and economy-level options start around 15,000 to 25,000 Russian rubles (approximately $200–$350 USD), offering basic amenities. Mid-range hotels typically cost between 25,000 and 50,000 rubles ($350–$700 USD), providing more comfort and additional services like breakfast. Luxury five-star hotels can range widely but often start around 70,000 to 100,000 rubles ($1,000–$1,400 USD) or more, offering premium amenities and beach proximity.
Despite the pleasant weather and fewer crowds, prices during the velvet season remain relatively high and do not offer significant discounts compared to peak summer rates. Tourists are advised to book in advance to secure the best rates, as the late summer and early autumn period remains popular for beach tourism in Gelendzhik.
The decline in booking depth for Gelendzhik tours is primarily attributed to bad weather, tourist mood, periodic closures of southern airports, and prices. Direct flights to Gelendzhik operate 6-7 times a day, carrying about a thousand people daily. However, the reopening of the airport in Gelendzhik has not led to a significant increase in demand for tours.
Most tourists currently book Gelendzhik tours 7 days or less before arrival. The current demand for tours is far from frenzied, with many tourists reaching Gelendzhik by car rather than by plane. The Association of Tour Operators of Russia states that tourists are not eager to visit Gelendzhik during the velvet season.
Looking ahead, tour operators predict an increase in seasonal sales at the beginning of September for Gelendzhik tours. Sergei Romashkin, ATOR Vice-President, anticipates the velvet season in Gelendzhik will be comparable to last year's. In 2024, the booking depth for Gelendzhik tours was greater, suggesting a potential increase in interest as we move forward.
For those seeking more precise current listings, checking booking platforms or contacting local travel agencies specialized in Russian Black Sea resorts is advisable. The cost of flights from Moscow to Gelendzhik during the velvet season starts at 40-42 thousand rubles. A two-star hotel tour with breakfast included starts at 17,300 rubles for two, while a three-star hotel with breakfast costs 27,300 rubles for two or more. A seven-night tour to Gelendzhik in the second half of September starts at 8,300 rubles for a couple in a guest house 700 meters from the sea, without meals.
[1] Source: Tourism Market Trends in Gelendzhik, 2021 [2] Source: Expert Commentary on Velvet Season Tourism in Gelendzhik, 2021
Finance-conscious tourists, looking to balance lifestyle and travel, might find budget-friendly options during the velvet season in Gelendzhik, with guest houses and economy-level accommodation starting around 15,000 to 25,000 Russian rubles. However, despite the moderate prices and stability in tourism, the demand for velvet season tours has yet to surge significantly, according to tour operators.
