Place to sleep: Solnechnaya (Hostel/Camp), Khuzhir, Russia

About this place:

Solnechnaya is a lovely hostel/camp facility on Olkhon Island in Russia's Lake Baikal. It is located in Khuzhir, the largest village on the island... which is home to a mere 1200 people. From the Solnechnaya grounds, you can see the sun reflected in the beautiful Lake Baikal. The cabins are heated, and your stay includes three delicious meals per day. The rooms are nicely heated and the staff is excellent. They will arrange guided tours of the island for you for a low fee. HOWEVER: there is no running water. To bathe one must use the banya (the Russian steam sauna) - although believe me, this is a treat - and there are gravity-powered sinks in each room. Also, toilets are pit squatters, which can take some getting accustomed to. Despite these hardships, I wholeheartedly recommend this spot!