Истлэнд (Eastland) ski resort

Eastland, near Irkutsk in southern Siberia, is a micro-resort that suits only the most adventurous budget travellers or locals seeking a quick ski fix in an otherwise snowless region. With just 0.8 km of piste, 159 m of vertical, and a single lift, this is not a destination resort - it is a novelty. The appeal lies entirely in its remoteness and the bragging rights of skiing in Russia's deep interior, far from the Caucasus resorts that dominate the country's ski scene.

The honest caveats are substantial. Snow reliability is moderate at best (29/100), meaning many days you may find thin cover or closed terrain. The day pass at RUB 3500 is eye-watering for what amounts to a practice slope - that is roughly the price of a week at a major European resort. Off-piste is rated 1/5, so there is no backcountry escape if the piste disappoints. The season runs November to April, but given the snow rating, even winter months are not guaranteed.

We recommend Eastland only if you are passing through Irkutsk and want a curiosity tick, or if you are a local with no other option. For any serious skiing, look elsewhere.