Porechye-Rossosh Reserve

Porechye-Rossosh State Nature Reserve lies in Починковском and Шумячском districts in southern Smolensk Oblast. Established in 1983 to protect old-growth forests and Десна basin landscapes. Oak-deciduous and elm woods, floodplain meadows, rare plants and animals. Strict regime: visits by administration permit, guided excursions. Not a theme park but a field site for botanists and 'dark forest' lovers. Minimal infrastructure: no cafés or souvenir rows — forest, trails and silence. Base in Починок or Десногорск (~30–50 km); car recommended. One guided trail per day. Combine with Десногорск and Шумячами — southern forest cluster of the oblast. Ticks — repellent and light clothing. Do not enter without reserve permission.