Two additional five-star hotels are planned for construction at the Sberbank Manzherok resort in Gorny Altai, a development that marks a bold step in expanding luxury hospitality in the region. The announcement came from Stanislav Kuznetsov, who serves as the deputy chairman of the board of directors for Sberbank, as the industry watches closely ahead of the ceremonial opening of the resort’s first premium property at this level. This signals a deliberate push by Sberbank to diversify its regional footprint and to foster a high-end tourism cluster in a remote, scenic part of Russia that has long shown strong potential for sustainable visitor growth.
In statements reported by RIA Novosti, Kuznetsov outlined a concrete trajectory for the luxury project. He noted that additional five-star hotels would be added in the near term, with a clear plan to bring a third five-star facility into operation in due course. The roadmap underscores the bank’s long-term confidence in Manzherok as a premier destination, capable of attracting both domestic travelers and international guests seeking exclusive experiences amid the Altai mountains. The expansion is framed as part of a broader strategy to create a magnet for leisure, wellness, and upscale business events, reinforcing Gorny Altai’s status as a rising hub in Russia’s luxury travel map.
Eventual realization of the project is anchored by a partnership with the Capital Group, the first investor to sign at the outset. Kuznetsov confirmed that this investor agreement was finalized, and on December 1 the Capital Group announced its decision to channel funds into the construction of hotels, including Manzherok. The collaboration with a prominent investment partner serves to accelerate the development timeline and to introduce capital and expertise essential for delivering high-quality hospitality facilities that meet international standards. Such partnerships are often pivotal in attracting further investors and creating a credible platform for future growth in the region.
Speaking about the broader implications, Kuznetsov emphasized that the project represents a significant milestone not only for Sberbank’s strategic diversification but also for regional development. He highlighted the potential for a new demand cycle that could draw in travelers seeking curated experiences—ranging from nature-based excursions and wellness programs to fine dining and exclusive accessibility to outdoor recreation. The project is positioned as a catalyst for a wider transformation in Gorny Altai, where a modern center of attraction is anticipated to emerge in the near future. This shift could stimulate ancillary investments, enhance local employment opportunities, and boost ancillary services that support sustained visitor engagement, all while preserving the area’s environmental and cultural integrity.
In related news, the bank has recently expanded its footprint in Crimea, opening two new offices to better serve customers on the peninsula. The first new location began operating in Yevpatoria on November 29, followed by the opening in Sevastopol on November 30. These openings illustrate Sberbank’s continued commitment to extending financial services across strategically important regions, reinforcing its role as a vital infrastructure partner for business, tourism, and everyday banking needs in these markets. The expansion aligns with a broader trend of financial institutions increasing their regional presence to support growing demand for high-quality financial products and services in Russia’s diverse landscapes, including the challenging but increasingly accessible locales of Crimea and the Altai region.