Touring Simeiz
A subjective guide of travel to Simeiz, Ukraine.
History
Simeiz is a quaint resort town in southern Crimea, Ukraine. It’s name is derived from the Greek word for “flag”. At the turn of the 19th century, the town blossomed under the patronage of Ivan Akimovich Maltsov, a successful Russian merchant and entrepreneur.
Legend has it he bought land there to counter the potential of an evil omen. In 1875, while swimming in the waters by the rock known as “Diva”, he lost his wedding ring.
Maltsov was inconsolable and worried about the evil portends this implied for his marriage. His close friend, and author, Griboyedov, suggested that he buy the bay instead. “If you own the land, then the ring is not lost.” And so Maltsov came to own 30 acres of land.
The town prospered for the next sixty years, until WWII, when it was occupied by the Germans. After liberation, in 1945, Stalin deported the local Tartar population to Siberia, and the town fell into disrepair. Fifteen years later, with Stalin out of power, the local population gradually returned. The town then became a popular spa and resort during Soviet times.
After the fall of the Soviet Union, Simeiz again entered a slower phase—something that still grips it today. There is not much to do in Simeiz per-se. It is nonetheless a convenient, albeit simple base from which to visit other towns on the Crimean coast, including Yalta, Balaclava and Sevastopol.
Things to Do
There isn’t much to do in Simeiz except lounge on the rocky beaches and walk up Diva. Tours to the nearby caverns, castles and beaches are all available though.
Getting There and Away
The center of town has a small bus and taxi depot and taxis and buses are available from most towns in Crimea to Simeiz, at least every hour. The most common routes are from Simferopol, Sevastopol or Yalta. Buses between Sevastopol and Yalta cost c.US$2 each way and take about 45 minutes. Private taxis take about half as long but cost US$20 – US$30. A taxi from Simferopol costs USD$70.
In the center of Simeiz are various tour operators offering packages to Ai-Petri, Swallow’s Nest, and the nearby castles. A few boats travel daily to Sudak, and leave from the main beach.
Accommodations
Hotel Accommodations in Simeiz are limited, and most people prefer to arrive and rent rooms or apartments from the locals. Nightly rates range between US$20-US$40 per night per room/apartment. Many apartments have a kitchen and private bathroom.
Eating
Places change every year, but the central plaza on the hill has a bay of restaurants and bars offering beer, and all sorts of diner food. Next to the central transport hub are two modest grocery stores and a central market. Buying groceries and cooking are common among tourists. Free Internet is available at the Venetia Café, near the beach.
