Skif-Murok Pension in Bosteri

WOW

One of the best family-run boarding houses on Issyk-Kul. Beautiful, well-maintained grounds surrounded by greenery and flowers. Luxurious and affordable rooms with all the amenities. The hosts, Igor and Bakhtygul, are very sensitive and responsive. Chef Natalia is a true gem, and the food is just like home. Delicious and filling. The beach is one of the best in Bostyri. The evenings are quiet, without loud music or parties. For those looking for entertainment, the Golden Sands resort (Ferris wheel, slides, etc.) is nearby. There's an alley of cafes and restaurants. There's a Sunday market nearby (you can buy fish and honey at home). Overall, it's simply fantastic!

We were more than satisfied with Skif Murok. The owner and his wife were very friendly and helpful. The property was lovingly maintained and cleaned; everything was spotless. Early in the morning, the beautiful flowers and lawn were watered, and the paths were cleaned. There are several restaurants, shops, and bars on the grounds. The prices were the same as in town, no more expensive. The lake is about 700 meters away. We had a family room, which was very large and comfortable. The only thing we didn't like so much was the hard mattresses.

I really liked the boarding house grounds: vast, well-kept, and lush, with gorgeous roses, other flowers, and beautiful plants growing everywhere. I loved strolling around the grounds in the morning, listening to the birds sing and admiring the flowers while everyone else was asleep. There are several shady pine alleys with swings, benches, restaurants, and seating areas.
I had a pleasant experience with the management (who are also the owners). The hosts personally take care of the plants and the grounds; they greet guests, give mini-tours of the grounds, and are ready to help with any questions or problems. Their care for their guests is evident in everything they do.
We were very pleased with our room – everything was clean, tidy, comfortable, and everything worked. There's clean drinking water from the tap (they have their own deep well). If you need your room cleaned, please notify the hostess (she dispatches cleaning staff on request; there's no set cleaning schedule). Due to the full occupancy of the premises, the shower pressure was sometimes weak, but this wasn't a major issue.
The boarding house has its own dining room where you can order breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a set meal plan. The cuisine is local (lots of meat dishes and pastries). I have a hard time with national cuisine and fatty meat dishes, so we only ate in the dining room twice during our entire stay (the food is an acquired taste).
My sister and I stayed in July 2023, staying in a suite in the second cottage (pictured).