The Carpathians

For Ukrainians, the word Carpathians means not only a geographical but also a cultural-historical phenomenon, associated with a special national vividness, traditions, and, of course, beautiful nature. Actually, the Carpathians is a mountain range 280 km (174 mi) long, lying in western Ukraine. Its highest mountain is Hoverla (2061 m / 8,534 ft).
Here are several nature reserves and national parks with unique waterfalls and karst caves. Medieval castles and churches are preserved in the mountains, as well as monastic cells and the famous “Dovbush Trail” (15 km / 9 mi), which offers impressive views.

The most famous places in the Carpathians.

One of the most famous places in the Carpathians is the ski and health resort Bukovel. The climate is unique here; the mountains protect it from the wind, which creates comfortable conditions for tourists, who come to Bukovel all year round. For those who love outdoor activities, there is mounting skiing, snowboarding, snowbiking; in the summer, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking.
There are over 50 km (31 mi) of ski runs, fitted out with modern technology and equipped with snow cannons and 16 ski lifts. Artificial lighting on the slopes allows you to ski after sunset. Ski schools are open for beginners, and more experienced skiers can improve their skills with coaches.

When the snow melts, lovers of green tourism travel to Bukovel. In the summer, you can swim in the clear lakes and rivers, pick berries and mushrooms, go fishing (these places are famous for trout).
You can get to Bukovel from Ivano-Frankivsk (110 km / 68 mi) or Lviv (245 km / 152 mi). These cities have railway stations and an airport. Then by bus, which runs 7-10 times a day.
Speaking of the Carpathians, it is especially worth noting the hospitality and kindness of the locals and the delicious national dishes.

Natalia Soboleva

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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