Tourist Carpathians

Carpathians Mountains are ideal for hiking. Nice day hikes are possible from all villages. Some homeowners can arrange horseback riding trips into the mountains. If you have a mountain bike there are many roads and trails waiting to be explored.

Ukrainians love to come to the mountains to gather wild berries and mushrooms — an activity they pursue with the passion of a prospector. The many waterfalls and deep pools found along mountain streams make for refreshing summertime swimming holes.

Most villages have old wooden churches and attractive rustic homesteads in the surrounding hills. The timeless scenery simply begs to be photographed — so bring enough film or memory-cards.

While staying at the village homes you will be served traditional home cooked meals. Afterwards you may be offered to sample home made wines, liquors and possibly “samohon” — mountain moonshine.

You may be able to buy hand made souvenirs (wood-carved items, wool rugs and blankets, leather goods) right from the craftsman’s shop in the village. Or if you choose you can visit the craft markets in Kosiv.

Village homeowners will be happy to open their heirloom chests and show their traditional folk costumes — beautiful, colorful, intricate hand made creations. If you like, ask if you can try them on yourself.

Holidays such as Christmas and Easter provide opportunities to witness many colorful local traditions.

For the traveler who can tolerate some uncertainty and inconvenience — you will be rewarded with a unique experience not possible at more “civilized” and sterile travel destinations.