The Raifa Monastery, on a forested lake about 25 kilometres west of Kazan, is the largest functioning Orthodox monastery in Tatarstan and a popular day trip. Founded in 1613, it occupies a walled complex of pale blue and white churches reflected in a still lake — picture-perfect when the trees turn in October.
The monastery houses a famous copy of the Georgian Icon of the Mother of God, the object of pilgrimage that brings many of the Russian visitors. The grounds are a calm walk; a small museum covers monastery history. Buses run from the central bus station daily; an organised tour is the easiest way for non-Russian-speaking visitors. Modest dress required.