Your guide will take you on a relaxed visit around these blissful gardens that date to the 18th and 19th centuries. Now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the surroundings convey a sense of intimacy as well as opulence, with well-preserved monuments and ornate structures such as pavilions and palace dotting the 600 hectare site. On a well-lit day there is something magical about walking the grounds, that transports you back to the days of the Tsars.
At the centre is found the Catherine Palace, summer residence of Catherine I, the first female ruler of Russia, who commissioned it in the late 18th century. In the delightful interior can be found a superb collection of Russian and European art, with decorative furniture, and several interesting collections of ceramics and sculptures. Unmissable is the Amber Room, which before being tragically looted by the Nazis contained up to 6 tonnes of amber and was sometimes known as the 8th wonder of the world. Now faithfully restored to its past glory, the amber panels surrounded with gold leaf and beautiful mirrors is truly something to behold.
