Mandrogi

Originally, our itinerary called for a stop in Svir Stroy, but upon arriving on the boat we found out we'd be stopping in a place called Mandrogi.  It's not on any maps - it was apparently founded by a very rich man about five years ago, as a sort of Disneyland-style tourist destination.  It's made up to be what his idea of typical, provincial Russia looked like in days gone by.  Despite its alarmingly touristy nature, it's actually quite a fun place.  You can visit the Vodka Museum or the Piroshkii House, take a horse-drawn carriage through the town, or go across the river to Fairy Tale Island, accessible only by ferry, where Russian fairy tales come to life in the form of statues and exhibits.  Overall, a fun way to spend a few hours. =)