URBAN ICONS / January
Fly to
Moscow
€ 119
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The King of Ice
In winter, Moscow’s Red Square reserves its
precious space for a very special urban gem.
Words by Olga Dolina
Publicity photo
It’s hard to imagine more fairytale-like
surroundings for the most atmospheric
open-air ice-skating rink in the country.
Sharpen your blades and slide into fun,
surrounded by four historic beauties: the
walls of the Kremlin, the State Historical
Museum, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, and
the GUM department store.
For 13 seasons in a row, the GUM
Ice Rink has gathered children and
adults, both locals and visitors, for a
carefree yet active pastime. The festive
atmosphere of long Christmas holi-
days continues until February 28 and
embraces visitors with an exceptionally
colourful bazaar full of traditional crafts,
delicious food, and warm drinks. Each
year the decorations reflect a different
theme, and this season you can discover
the rich gallery of iconic Soviet-era
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/ airBaltic.com
cartoon characters, including children’s
favourites Cheburashka and Winnie-the-
Pooh. Stay tuned for updates, because
the venue offers special figure skating,
ice hockey, and even curling classes for
all newcomers. Don’t miss the chance to
learn some tips and tricks from hockey
star Alexei Yashin or support your
favourite team at the WCT Red Square
Classic curling championship stage on
February 1–3.
The rink can easily accommodate up
to 450 skaters and is open daily from
10.00 to 23.30, when GUM, the Russian
capital’s grandest department store,
sparkles in golden lights. Remember, use
of the ice is free of charge on weekdays
until 15.30, and a brand-new selection of
skates can be easily rented on the spot.
Red Square, 3; gumrussia.com
round trip