Another high‑altitude skating rink? Shymbulak Resort in Almaty opens new rink

Photo: Shutterstock, photo editor: Serikzhan Kovlanbayev

Almaty offers more ice rinks for lovers of active winter holidays. Renowned mountain resort Shymbulak welcomes visitors on a new open-air ice rink.

The official opening is scheduled for Dec. 6, with free entry and presents for visitors included.

Organizers promote the ice rink as the world’s most high-altitude — a title traditionally held by the Medeu Alpine Skating Rink.

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Nevertheless, the facility is already open to the public and those who have visited it share their impressions on social media. Users highlighted the scenery and lack of crowds, but several emphasized that the rented skates were poorly sharpened and expressed hope that, by the time of the official opening, the service would be improved.

Notably, Medeu — one of the city’s key attractions — is currently undergoing renovation and will be closed to visitors for several years, prompting tourists and residents to look for other grounds to enjoy skating.