Podilski Tovtry

One of the most picturesque corners of the country, the Podilski Tovtry National Nature Park is spread over a vast territory of 26,000 hectares (64,247 acres). It is a long ridge of 160 limestone hills, the former barrier reef of the ancient Sarmatian Sea. The terrain here is complex – hills, terraced plains, and canyons. The steppe part is lush with different grasses, forests are birch-beech. Moreover, 60 species of plants and 85 species of animals found in this area are listed in the Red Book of Ukraine, and the Podilski Tovtry is one of the country’s Seven Wonders. The word “tovtry” is of Thracian origin and means “edge” or “point.” However, the locals are much more often called Tovtry Medobory. Scientists argue that this name has the Illyrian root “medubaris” (interlines), but there is such an abundance of honey and medicinal herbs that suggest a simpler explanation – “medovi bory,” literally “honey woods” in Ukrainian.

This region is an ideal place for tourism with stunning nature, beautiful landscapes, and interesting ancient archaeological monuments. There are numerous routes and activities available, designed for one or several days: automobile, bicycle, horse-back riding, hiking, and also water sports. The easiest way to get here is from Kamianets-Podilskyi.

Victoria Ugryumova

This article was published in the book Interesting Ukraine.
You could download this book in PDF file for free here.

© Sky Horse Publishing House (Kyiv) / Nahs Haus, 2019
Copying and publication of this article is possible only with the written permission of the publishing house.
Official website of the Awesome Heritage series: awesomeheritage.com

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