Bel-Zhan — Hotel in Grigoryevka

Belzhan is a wonderfully tranquil, tree-laden compound offering accommodation in beautifully decorated yurts and quaint cabins. Set away from the more raucous touristy areas that dot the northern shore of Issyk Kul, the property is pristine and quiet, with several lovely hammocks and small outdoor nooks in which to unwind. The breakfasts that are included in the stay are nourishing and filling, and the food that is available to order for other meals is spectacular and reasonably priced. The owner and staff are exceedingly warm and welcoming, and they offer bicycles, kayaks, and transportation at very reasonable rates. The outdoor bathrooms and showers are kept clean, though due to their construction they do not offer as much privacy as some might wish. Overall, Belzhan is the perfect place to return to after a long day hiking...

We stayed in the cottage at the end of the garden, the insides were cozy and well-designed, and we loved the smell of warm wood in the sunny mornings. The place is also 100% child-friendly, our 2 yo daughter felt free to do whatever she wanted and even got herself a swim in a baby pool. There are a few beaches around at 8-10 km distance, you can take a taxi or have a magnificent bicycle ride through the fields (check Organic maps for trails). Jacobienne is a terrific host and a keen talker, so Bel-zhan really felt like home. She is also a great networker, her place is literally the center of the universe, with amazing people gathering around. Listening to their stories you can experience the vibe of the place and even the whole Kyrgyzstan. The dinners were Michelin level, we highly recommend not...

Belzhan is a beautiful place to stay with easy access to Issyk-Kul (a ten minute drive) and great walks along the gorges of Grigorievka and Semyonovka with stunning views. But you could just as easily while away the hours in one of the many hammocks in the dappled shade of the orchard, or cooling off in the new swimming pool.||||Jacobiene is a fantastic host who helped plan our trips out and book taxis for us. Having planned to eat elsewhere, we ended up eating at Belzhan each night because the food and company was so great! We only meant to stay two nights here, and to use this as a stop on our way back to Bishkek, but we had to change our plans and stay another night!||||Thanks,||The Dorothies||||P.S. You must try the fruit liquors (especially if Jacobiene joins you for a drink in...