A White Sea village where sand dunes press against houses — a rare Russian «desert» on the northern coast.
Shoyna Sand Dunes
Shoyna sits on a narrow strip between the White Sea and tundra barrens. Residents have fought encroaching sand on houses and roads for decades — the source of its fame in geography and local-history publications. Dunes form from sea wind and river deposits; sparse vegetation, a stark mix of tundra, sand and water. Not a resort but a working northern settlement with a brief summer season. Reach by seasonal road from Mezen or by sea in navigation season. Basic infrastructure — shop, unreliable signal, lodging by arrangement. Photographers and researchers come for the rare barrens-and-sea combination. Respect private property — do not enter yards uninvited. Include Shoyna in a Mezen coast loop with Mezen town and river estuaries — carry spare fuel and food.
How to get there
From Mezen on a seasonal dirt road; winter via ice road with a local driver.
Best season
June–August when the road from Mezen is passable
Travel tips & stories
Seasonal road — confirm passability after rain and thaw.
Strong sea wind — shield camera and face.
Do not climb crumbling dune slopes — sand is loose.
Carry food and fuel — services between settlements are sparse.
Respect residents — a living village, not a tourist backdrop.
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Local guides
- TR
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