The park's diverse wildlife includes iconic species such as brown bears, moose, and wolves. The coastal waters host beluga whales, seals, and numerous fish species. The area is particularly important for birdlife, serving as a crucial stopover point on migration routes, with over 180 bird species recorded, including rare white-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons.
The park's vegetation is dominated by pristine boreal forests, primarily consisting of spruce and pine trees, some over 300 years old. The coastal areas feature unique tundra vegetation and rare arctic-alpine plants. Extensive sphagnum bogs and marshlands harbor specialized plant communities, including various species of lichens, mosses, and northern berries such as cloudberries and cranberries.
The park's geology features ancient crystalline formations of the Baltic Shield, with distinctive glacial landscapes shaped during the last Ice Age. The coastline is characterized by dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and unique geological formations. The territory includes extensive peatlands, glacial moraines, and exposed bedrock that provides insight into the region's geological history spanning millions of years.
The Onezhskoye Pomorye region has a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient Pomor settlements. These skilled maritime traders and fishermen established communities along the White Sea coast as early as the 12th century. The area was officially designated as a national park in 2013 to preserve both its natural ecosystems and cultural landmarks, including historic wooden architecture and traditional fishing villages.
Key attractions include the historic Letnyaya Zolotitsa lighthouse, pristine taiga forests, and dramatic coastal landscapes. The park offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife watching, particularly during bird migrations and seal pupping seasons. Traditional Pomor villages, ancient burial grounds, and well-preserved examples of northern Russian wooden architecture provide cultural interest alongside the natural wonders.
Onezhskoye Pomorye experiences a subarctic climate with significant maritime influence from the White Sea. Winters are long and cold, lasting from October to April, with average temperatures ranging from -8°C to -15°C. Summers are brief but mild, with temperatures typically between 12°C and 18°C. The region receives substantial precipitation throughout the year, with frequent fog along the coastline and snow coverage lasting approximately 160 days annually.
Russia
64.9000°, 36.7330°
2013
2016
Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park protects the unique nature of the White Sea coast and Onega Peninsula. The park features pristine taiga forests, coastal ecosystems, and important bird nesting sites. It preserves the cultural heritage of the Pomor people and includes several historic villages.