Carpathian Mountains on the map. Where are the Carpathians Where are the Carpathians

Without a doubt, the most famous and popular mountains in Europe are the Alps. But in this part of the world there is another mountain system that is inferior to the Alps in height, but superior to them in size. And it also attracts great attention from tourists and lovers winter holiday. Where are the Carpathians? In which countries are they located? When were these mountains formed, and why are they interesting?

"Stone Mountains"

The word “Carpathians” evokes approximately the same images and scenes in everyone: dark forest, thick fog creeping along the slopes, molfar sorcerers and, of course, the castle of the famous Count Dracula. These mountains are truly shrouded in a certain aura of mysticism and mystery. But not everyone knows exactly where the Carpathians are and when they were formed.

The name of this mountain system was first used by Claudius Ptolemy in the second century AD. It is also found in the works of Herodotus. In particular, the “father of history” mentions the Karpis River. It is believed that this tributary of the Danube took its name from the mountains from whose slopes it flows.

The word “Carpathians” itself, according to some researchers, comes from the name of the Thracian tribe “Carps”, who lived in this territory in the 3rd-4th centuries. Other scholars associate it with the Proto-European word kar, which translates as “stone.” Is it true, " stone mountains» It’s a stretch to call it the Carpathians. After all most of The mountain system is represented by gentle valleys and peaks with smooth outlines, where rocky ledges and pointed peaks are extremely rare.

However, there is a third version that connects the origin of the toponym with the Slavic word “khrb”, which means “ridge”. Considering where the Carpathians are located, this version looks quite plausible. After all, it was the Slavic tribes and peoples who developed and inhabited this area for many centuries.

Where are the Carpathians: countries and major cities

The total area of ​​the mountain system is 190 thousand square kilometers, its length is 1,500 kilometers. Where are the Carpathian Mountains? They are located in the eastern part of Central Europe. On the map they form an arc, which in geological terms is a branch of the Alpine-Himalayan folded region.

In which states are the Carpathians located? Where are their natural boundaries? The mountain system covers the territories of eight European countries. This:

1. Czech Republic.
2. Poland.
3. Slovakia.
4. Ukraine.
5. Hungary.
6. Romania.
7. Serbia.
8. Austria.

About 70% of total area The Carpathian mountainous country consists of two states - Romania and Ukraine. But only its extreme western spurs enter Austria. The most big cities located within the Carpathian Mountains:

1. Bielsko-Biala (Poland).
2. Zakopane (Poland).
3. Banska Bystrica (Slovakia).
4. Kosice (Slovakia).
5. Zilina (Slovakia).
6. Cluj-Napoca (Romania).
7. Brasov (Romania).
8. Oradea (Romania).
9. Sibiu (Romania).
10. Uzhgorod (Ukraine).
11. Kolomyia (Ukraine).
12. Vršac (Serbia).

This is where the Carpathians are located. It remains to find out what parts this mountain system consists of.

Structure of the Carpathians

The Carpathian Mountains consist of eight orographic parts (see map below):

1. Outer Western Carpathians.
2. Inner Western Carpathians.
3. Outer Eastern Carpathians.
4. Inner Eastern Carpathians.
5. Southern Carpathians.
6. Western Romanian Carpathians.
7. Transylvanian plateau.
8. Serbian Carpathians.

In addition, within the mountain system there are a number of separate massifs: Beskydy, Ore Mountains, Tatras (the highest part of the Carpathians), Gorgany, Rodna, Pieniny, Fagarash and others. The average heights of the Carpathian Mountains range from 800-1200 meters. The highest point is Mount Gerlachovsky Stit.

Carpathian Mountains: main features and interesting facts

Here are some of them:

1. Despite their low heights and gentle shapes, the Carpathians are young mountains. They arose at approximately the same time (by geological standards, of course) as the Alps and Himalayas.
2. Mountain building processes in the Carpathians continue to this day. This is evidenced by earthquakes that are regularly recorded here. The strength of individual shocks reaches 5-7 points on the Richter scale.
3. The Carpathians were once characterized by active volcanic activity. Cones of extinct volcanoes can be seen in the vicinity of Uzhgorod, Mukachevo and Khust.
4. The Carpathian subsoil is rich in numerous minerals. The main mineral wealth of the mountain system is oil, gas, ozokerite, marble and gold.
5. The width of the Carpathian Mountains in some places reaches 450 kilometers.
6. The Alps are separated from the Carpathians by only 14 kilometers. The border between the two largest mountain systems in Europe lies precisely between Vienna and Bratislava.
7. At the beginning of the twentieth century, numerous remains of prehistoric animals were discovered in the mountainous country - mammoths, huge deer and various birds.
8. The Carpathians are considered the birthplace of the world's largest musical instrument - the trembita. The length of this wooden tube is 4 meters. It is capable of spreading sound over 10-20 kilometers.

Origin and age of the Carpathian Mountains

Long before the formation of the modern mountain system, in its place there was a chain of ridges connecting the Sudetenland with Dobruja (a hill in Romania). Geologists call it Prakarpaty. Subsequently, these mountains were destroyed by powerful movements of the earth's crust, and in their place by the beginning of the Mesozoic, an almost flat plain formed.

The age of the Carpathian geosyncline is quite “young” - only 25 million years. The process of formation of the mountainous country began at the end of the Paleogene period and occurred gradually. The structures of the Outer Carpathians were the first to emerge. For quite a long time, the sea splashed between the outer and inner ridges of the Carpathian Mountains. During its existence, thick layers of sand deposits have accumulated here.

Climate and flora of the Carpathians

The climate of the territory is moderate continental and quite humid. Average temperatures in July are +17…20 °C, in January from -2 to -5 °C. Precipitation ranges from 600 to 2000 mm per year.

In the Carpathians, the altitudinal zonation of the landscapes is clearly visible. Broad-leaved and mixed forests grow up to a height of 600 meters, from 600 to 1500 meters there are dark coniferous forests, and even higher there are low-growing shrubs. The peaks of many Carpathian mountains are covered with subalpine meadows. IN Ukrainian Carpathians oh, they came up with their own name for them - “poloniny”.

In the Carpathian forests you can most often find Norway spruce, fir and beech. Also common are oak, hornbeam, pine, alder, birch and larch. The lower tier is occupied by thickets of raspberries, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries.

The main resorts of the Carpathians

Where are the most popular ski resorts in the Carpathians located and what are their names? And what are they? The most famous Carpathian resorts usually include Bukovel, Dragobrat, Slavske (Ukraine); Zakopane, Szczyrk, Karpacz, Krynica (Poland), Poianu Brasov, Sinaia, Predeal (Romania), Jasnu (Slovakia).

Zakopane is perhaps the best ski resort Carpathians Where are its tracks? The resort is located in the southern part of Poland, in a small town with the same name. The total length of its routes is 60 kilometers. They are designed for all categories of skiers - from beginners to professionals. The skiing season lasts from late October to mid-April.

Bukovel is the main Ukrainian ski resort, which is located in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. It features quality trails and excellent infrastructure. Ideal snow cover persists here from the beginning of December until the end of April.

Famous peaks

Gerlachovski-Stit (2654 m) - the most high mountain in the Carpathians. It is located on the territory of Slovakia, near the city of Gerlachov. Today the mountain is very popular among tourists. However, climbing to its peak requires serious preparation and is only allowed with an experienced guide.

Hoverla (2061 m) is the highest point of the Ukrainian Carpathians, located within the Montenegrin range. Climbing this mountain is relatively easy, so in the summer dozens of tourists conquer its peak every day. Hoverla is famous for the fact that the largest river in Eastern Europe, the Prut, originates from its slopes.

Moldoveanu (2544 m) is the highest peak in Romania. Located in the heart of the country, within the Fagaras mountain range. Climbing Moldovyana is a little more difficult than Goverla, but its conquest does not cause any particular difficulties for experienced tourists.

Another vacation was approaching. My friends and I decided to go on vacation. Between by sea and hiking in the mountains we chose the second option. Our choice fell on Carpathians, because the friends who were already there described everything so beautifully for us that there were simply no other options. The mountains were calling to us, and we carefully planned our trip.

Where are the Carpathians located?

From geography lessons I remember that The Carpathians are located in Central and Eastern Europe, and are divided into internal and external, which in turn are divided into western and eastern. Also The Carpathians are located on the territory of seven states. Probably, every country has its own zest, but I were interested in the Eastern Carpathians. For our small company the easiest thing was visit the Carpathians in Ukraine, because it is inexpensive and there are no problems with transport. Getting to the beginning of the route was not at all difficult, but this is a slightly different story, like our adventures along the route.

Routes of the Eastern Carpathians

Everyone knows that The Eastern Carpathians are located on the territory of Ukraine and Romania, as well as partly in Poland. In order to get to the mountains, you need to go to Ivano-Frankivsk or Transcarpathian region.

We decided go to the Transcarpathian region to walk the route along the Marmarosh ridge, which starts in Rakhiv district. Here we found ourselves in the border zone, and therefore we had to take permission in order to go along the planned route. We went to the mountains from the village of Delovoe (this is where the sign that symbolizes the center of Europe is located).

Our goal was to climb Mount Pop Ivan Marmaroshsky (height 1932 meters). On the mountain we discovered pillars that separate the borders of the two states. Interestingly, to the highest point Marmaros, which is located in Romania - Mount Farkeu, whose height is 1961 meters, You can go through without permission from the Romanian border guards, but they definitely won’t let you in any further.

If you open any geography reference book, you will see that The Western Carpathians are located on the territory of Serbia, Hungary, where mountains occupy a very small part of the country, and also in Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland.

When we were traveling on the train from Ivano-Frankivsk, there was a guy in our compartment who works as a conductor in the Carpathians. He said that There are many interesting and unique places in the Western Carpathians. For example, it is best to go to Poland by ski holiday. There is an excellent resort there. He also advised go to Hungary, there mountains occupy a very small part of the country, but it is in this country The highest point of the Carpathians is located, Mount Gerlachovsky Shtit,height which reaches 2655 meters.

For myself, I have identified several obvious advantages of going to the mountains:

• beautiful nature, beautiful landscapes;
• fresh air;
• an opportunity to take a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.

In fact the Carpathians are very cool, it’s not for nothing that they say that better than the mountains there can only be mountains.

Where else could it be nicer, freer and more beautiful than in the mountains?! Limitless glades of fragrant flowers against the backdrop of an incredibly deep and clear sky. The harsh stone cliffs look harmonious against the backdrop of dense emerald forests. Where in the distance the winding ribbon of a mountain stream sparkles, and there the playful water grows into a stormy and uncontrollable waterfall. With light gentle touches, the bright sun paints its pictures, understandable only to nature, with the colors of the rainbow on the transparent water canvas. It was as if stern guards surrounded the mountain peaks on all sides. Some of them are cold, covered with a white cap of snow, while others are covered with dense forests, reminiscent of shaggy bears that are hibernating. And now the bear is not sleeping, he keeps one eye open, the animal is intently watching for order. And only if you take a closer look, it immediately becomes clear that this is not the eye of a large animal, but a crystal clear mountain lake surrounded by thick mountain grasses.

Where else can you touch real clouds?! Just imagine: you are climbing to the top, and a thick white carpet appears in front of you... and a few more meters - and you seem to be rising above the world... and how can you not feel like a free bird...

And not only untouched and pure nature attracts thousands of tourists here every year. The Carpathian region is a fabulous land! A land of centuries-old traditions, hospitable and sincere people, magical villages and cities that are unlike any other in the world. To get to know this better amazing land, it’s not enough to hear someone’s impressions, it’s worth visiting here! Regardless of what time of year you are going to spend your holiday in the Carpathians, be it autumn or even winter, you will get plenty of unforgettable impressions and improve your body. From all the variety of wonders, it is still difficult to choose just one, so our article will highlight individual places that are worth visiting at the beginning of your trip to the Carpathians.

1. The city of Yaremche is the capital of tourists in the Carpathian region

A small and cozy Carpathian town on the banks of the Prut River is located in a picturesque mountain basin. Although the history of the city does not even go back three hundred years, it was Yaremche that became the cradle of Carpathian culture and traditions. Extremely variegated and colorful, it combines rhythmic modernity and wise antiquity. Through the hospitality of local residents, their love for nature and neighbor ancient secret of the old mountains becomes accessible to every tourist.

Yaremche is especially interesting during the major religious holidays. It seems that before you is not an action familiar to the townspeople with traditions that have already been passed through more than once, but a real theater. The variety of flowers, variety of songs and actions will not leave any of the guests indifferent. A real theater with authentic actors against the backdrop of incredible landscapes can find the inflammatory Hutsul in the soul of each of us. You will remember your holiday in Yaremche for a long time.

What is worth seeing in Yaremche

• Suspension bridge over the Prut.
• Reserve with wild animals.
• Old railway bridge.
• Ancient wooden churches of the 17th-18th centuries, made in a colorful local architectural style.
• Museum of Ethnography and Ecology.
• Restaurant "Hutsulshchyna", built without a single nail.
• Pass "Pereslop".
• Dovbush rocks.
• Souvenir market.

Night view of Yaremche (Yaremcha) from a bird's eye view

2. An unforgettable vacation in the village of Polyanitsa

The next destination is the village of Polyanytsya, which belongs to the Yaremche city council. The settlement is quite modern and developed. Despite the rather Ukrainian name, the village can easily compete with the most famous ski resorts in Europe. It is near Polyanytsya that the largest in Ukraine is located ski resort"Bukovel".

Every tourist can be amazed not only by the incredible landscapes, but also by the cleanliness of the streets, their orderliness, and a large selection of cozy and modern private estates and hotels. Therefore, while relaxing in Polyanitsa you will collect a full cup of unforgettable impressions.

• Ski complex "Bukovel".
• Pedestrian pass "Tables" 1130
• Upside down house.

3. The picturesque Carpathian village of Yablunytsya

The village with the appetizing name Yablunytsia is located 35 kilometers from the city of Yaremche. Thanks to the moderately cold winter, the snow cover is maintained for six months, and due to the large number of slopes, Yablunytsia is one of the most popular resorts in the Carpathian region.

Like Yablunytsia is located in a deep cauldron, it is surrounded on all sides by the Carpathian Mountains. A fabulous time is summer, when the air is filled with sweet herbal aromas and bright juicy flowers. You just want to get into such a natural corner. Yablunitsa - relax and forget about household chores.

Without which it is difficult to imagine Yablunitsa

• Church of the Assumption Holy Mother of God XVIII century.
• Mount Hamster;
• The highest peak of Ukraine is Hoverla (2061 m).
• Mount Petros (2020 m).
• Yablunytsky pass.

4. City of Ukrainian customs and rituals - Kosiv

According to local legend, Kosiv is part of the heavenly land. And it’s hard to disagree with this! The land of gardening and beekeeping, the world Mecca of folk and applied arts. All the Carpathian and mountain region presented in the works of local artists. Kosiv - people's encyclopedia of the Hutsul region. A visit and holiday in Kosovo is a holiday of soul and body that can go on forever.
From such pleasure, poetic lines are born by themselves:

“Smelling copper and licorice sun,
Svitankov's dew on the princess - Yalitsa,
And the clinging water of the blue spring,
This is how I will dream about Kosiv forever.”

What else is Kosovo famous for?

• Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist early XX century
• Wooden Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
• National Park"Hutsulshchina".
• Strutinsky Museum.
• Museum of the Liberation Struggle of the Carpathian Region.
• Kosovo market.
• Kosovo Museum of Folk Art and Life.
• Waterfall "Kosovsky Huk".
• Castle ramparts.

Kyiv Kosiv, panorama from the Ostry ridge

5. Fairytale Hutsul village - Verkhovyna

A singing land with cheerful and friendly people. Magical and mysterious place, which amazes the most skeptical minds. The region is so picturesque that it has become a favorite among writers and poets. The surrounding beauty and grandeur so impressed director Sergei Parajanov that it was here that the film “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors,” famous throughout the Soviet Union, was shot.

Verkhovyna is like a fortress that protects the traditions of the Carpathian region with south side. Very bright traditions of celebrating a wedding, which takes place here for a whole week. Folk traditional costumes are just the tip of the iceberg, and all other traditions and their diversity are simply difficult to list and understand at once. But hospitable and sincere Hutsuls want the whole world to know about them. Therefore, there is no need to be shy, everything will be explained to you in the smallest detail - please come and relax in Verkhovyna!

What is Verkhovyna famous for?

• Museum of Hutsul Life, Ethnography and Musical Instruments named after. R. Kumlik.
• Museum of Hutsul magic.
• House-museum “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors”.
• "Hata flock."
• Regional Historical and Local Lore Museum of the Hutsul region.
• Museum of Applied Arts, Iltsy village.
• Verkhovyna National Natural Park.
• Written stone.

6. Silver resort of the Hutsul region - the village of Sheshory

A rich and luxurious Hutsul village in the Kosovo region. Without a doubt - The best way to relax is to go to the Carpathians. Sheshory is a resort famous throughout Ukraine and beyond, where the clean mountain air with the aroma of real field herbs makes you dizzy. In which you wake up to the sweet singing of birds and a soft ray of sunshine. A resort where you heal your soul and body with the help of nature. A place where you can find inner harmony.

And of course, where would we be without skis? Specially equipped ski resorts await real daredevils and extreme sports enthusiasts in Sheshory. And delicious Hutsul cuisine will quickly restore your strength.

What to see in Sheshory

• Lake Swan.
• Petrichila tract.
• Big and Small Huk waterfalls.
• Alley with American pine from the times of Austria-Hungary.
• Ridge "Brusny".
• One of the oldest Hutsul churches is the Upper Church.
• Festival of ethnic music and land art "Sheshory".

7. Skhidnytsia village

The settlement in a wide valley on the banks of a small mountain river is located in the Lviv region, Drohobych district. The former all-Union resort is still famous throughout Ukraine thanks to its Naftusya mineral water. Spring water of this type helps with liver and kidney diseases, anemia, salt diathesis, diabetes mellitus, normalizes stomach acidity, etc. Water helps in cell regeneration, so it rightfully deserves the title of “living water.”
In total, there are 38 springs and 17 wells on the territory of Skhidnitsa. In addition to water, Skhidnytsia is famous for its healing mud.

As for a resort, the village has a fairly well-developed tourist infrastructure, so guests do not need to worry about housing and prices for accommodation here for any budget. Holidays in Skhidnytsia will be a truly therapeutic and interesting pastime in the Carpathians.

What is worth seeing in Skhidnytsia

• Memorial room - museum of the discoverer of the Skhidnytsia mineral water deposit E. Stotsky.
• Route Skhidnitsa-Ugrich (10 km.) State historical and cultural reserve “Tustan”.
• Remains of the Iron Guta blast furnace.
• System mountain ranges"Beskydy".
• Room-museum of folk life.
• Stone Nicholas Church of the 17th century.
• Skhidnytskoe oil field.
• Skhidnytskoe mineral water deposit.
• Landscape regional park Stuzhytsia.

8. City of Skole

A small provincial town of regional significance, Skole, belongs to the Lviv region. Historical Center Boykivshchyna is included in the List of Historical Populated Places of Ukraine. The settlement contains a large number of architectural and natural monuments.

The town of Skole is surrounded on all sides by mountain peaks of different heights, which makes it cozy and protected from cold winds. Skole is an active holiday for the whole family. The temperate and mild climate allows walking among nature on the shore clean river, among green and cozy forests, among fragrant herbs.

• National Natural Park "Skolev Beskids".
• Church of the Seven Sorrows, building XIX century
• Dead Lake.
• Palace of the Barons Grödley.
• Kinski Palace.
• Cave monastery XIII-XVI centuries.
• Dovbush rocks.
• Tustan Fortress;
• Church of the Great Martyr Panteleimon (Saint Paraskeva).
• Parashka.

9. Village Pylypets

Pylypets is a high-mountain village, one of the largest in the region. The famous ski resort, which belongs to the Transcarpathian region. The most visited Pylypets during the ski season. For lovers of winter recreation and extreme sports, there are specially equipped trails with a total length of 20 km, the longest of which is 6 km, and 7 lifts. Also, the village has an adequately developed infrastructure: hotels, estates, restaurants, rental offices, etc. For those who love home comfort, you can rent a room in the private sector.

• Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary;
• Mount Gymba.
• Mount Zhyd Magura.

10. Village Shayan

The real pearl of Transcarpathia is the resort village of Shayan, famous for its mineral springs. It was on the basis of these sources that one of the oldest baths, the Maramorosh Zhupas, was founded. Local water can heal and cleanse the intestines, cure stomach ulcers, and relieve urological diseases. Shayanskaya mineral water its properties are equal to the famous medicinal waters “Borjomi”, “Narzan”, “Essentuki”.

The developed infrastructure will allow the tourist to forget about the problems of arrangement, and the surrounding clean and incredibly picturesque nature will help to restore all lost strength. Come to the Carpathians and relax in Shayan.

Sights of the village of Shayan

• Healing springs of Marmarosha.
• Peaks Shayan, Shayanikha, Shayanchik.
• Vigorlat-Gutinsky ridge.
• Mount Loposh.
• With. Velyatino, a unique herd of buffalo, the only one in Ukraine.

The Carpathians are European mountains famous all over the world; a large number of tourists flock there. Resorts are open here both in summer and winter; the mountainous expanses amaze with stunning landscapes and unique nature.

The Carpathian mountain system is located in eastern Europe, its peaks adorn the landscape of several countries at once:

1. Czech Republic
2. Ukraine
3. Slovakia
4. Poland
5. Hungary
6. Serbia
7. Romania
8. Austria.

The Carpathians are partially located in the last state on the list. But the main part of the Carpathians is located in two states - Ukraine and Romania.

The Carpathian Mountains are very beautiful and picturesque

The Carpathians, along with the Alps, are the most popular mountains in Europe. But the Carpathian mountain system is larger than the Alpine. The Carpathians amaze with their beauty, this beautiful place for relax. Tourists from all over the world come here to enjoy clean air, nature, do active recreation, mountaineering, relaxing at ski resorts, mountain biking. Interesting events are constantly organized in the Carpathians hiking trips, excursions during which you can experience all the beauty of the Carpathian mountain system.

Coordinates and location of the Carpathian mountain system

The system originates near Bratislava, Slovakia, ending in the southeastern part of Romania, close to the Iron Gate. The Carpathians are located in Ukraine in the western part of the state, where the border with the countries passes:

• Romania
• Slovakia
• Hungary
• Poland.

Location of the Carpathian mountain system on the map

Carpathian coordinates:

• 47° 0’ 0" (47° 0’ 0) north latitude;
• 25° 30’ 0" (25° 30’ 0) east longitude.

The mountain system is divided into Southern, Western and Eastern Carpathians, depending on the characteristics of the location. The first are in Romania, the second are in Slovakia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary (partially), the latter are in Ukraine. The entire mountain system has a large number of peaks, massifs and peaks of varying heights.

The Carpathians, located in Ukraine, can be reached from Kyiv, where the airport is located. A train runs from Kyiv to Rakhiv (a city right in the mountains). In addition to this flight, direct trains from other countries go to Rakhiv: Poland, Slovakia, Hungary. There are trains and buses from Lviv. There are trains from Romania, the city of Brasov, to the Carpathians; you can also get there by car or taxi. To the Czech Carpathians you first need to fly from Prague by plane or arrive by bus international route. Buses travel from the capital to cities and villages near the mountain ranges, and you can also get there by car.

Education and age of the array

Previously, long before the Carpathians themselves were formed, in their place there were ridges that connected Dobrudja with the Sudetes. Geologists also call Dobrudzha Procarpathians. These peaks collapsed due to powerful movements earth's crust. At the beginning of the Mesozoic period, an almost flat plain formed in their place. The age of the ongoing tectonic processes in the Carpathians is considered quite young in the field of geology and is only 25 million years. The mountains began to form gradually, at the end of the Paleogene. The Outer Carpathians were the first to form; for quite a long time there was a sea between the outer and inner ridges, during the period of which a rather thick layer of sand deposits formed.

Description, brief information and characteristics of the Carpathians

The length of the mountain system reaches 1,500 kilometers; on three sides, in the form of an arc, mountain ranges encircle the territory of the Central European Plain. In the southwest, the width of the Carpathians is 340 km, in the northwest - 240 km, in the northeast, already in Ukraine, - from 100 to 120 km. The height of the mountains located on Ukrainian territory is 1,000 m, highest peak The Carpathians in this state are Hoverla, with a height of 2,061 m. In Ukraine, the Carpathians are divided into 3 categories:

1. Domestic
2. External
3. Central

The Carpathians in Ukraine are divided into three categories

The total area of ​​the system is 190,000 km². In Ukraine, the mountain range runs from the northwestern side to the southeastern side, with an average width of 100 to 280 km.

Even in ancient times, according to the chronicles of the Romans of the 1st century AD, people lived in these territories - representatives of the Dacian carp tribe. Linguists and historians are considering options for the origin of the mountain range from the name of the tribe or vice versa. But the most common version is the origin of the Carpathians from Proto-Indo-European, from which the word is translated as “rocks, rocky mountainous terrain.”

In modern languages, equivalents from Albanian from the word karpe - stone, mountain are considered. The most suitable Armenian origin is from the word qaripat - stone wall. There is also a Turkic version, which translates as “overflowing, overflowing the banks.” In ancient and medieval times, the Carpathians had a different name - the Hungarian or Ugric, Sarmatian mountains.

Discovery and first exploration of the Carpathian mountain range

The Austrian G. Buchholz was the first to study these mountains; he went to the mountains with his sons, and then published a book where he described his journey. After him, the Carpathians were explored in more detail by I. Fichtel, a former lawyer who retrained as a mountain explorer. He devoted 19 years of his life to this important matter. The Western Carpathians attracted his attention most of all. Breton B. Akke went on a trip to the Carpathians 4 times to study this mountain range. He studied the Eastern Carpathians, traveled to Moldova, and studied the Carpathian rivers and lakes.

Relief of the Carpathian mountain system

The Eastern Outer Carpathians are one of the most earthquake-prone areas in Europe. Seismic activity was observed by the ancient Romans, who recorded data on earthquakes in the 2nd-3rd centuries. Since in the 18th century the population in these places was actively growing due to urbanization and birth rates, humanity greatly felt the damage from the seismic activity of the Carpathians. The epicenter of activity is located in the Vrancea zone, Romania. It is located at the junction of the Eastern Carpathians of Ukraine with the Southern Carpathians in Romania, in Vrancea County. The magnitude of earthquakes in this zone is very high, up to 8.3. The magnitude and depth of earthquakes is large, which is why seismic activity is clearly felt over a vast area, from the south of Greece to the north of Finland. Strong earthquakes with catastrophic consequences for humans in the Vrancea zone occurred twice:

• 1940 - magnitude 8.3;
• 1977 - magnitude 7.2.

Eastern Outer Carpathians - dangerous area where earthquakes occur regularly

There were also volcanoes in the Carpathians, but they have not made themselves felt for 5 million years and, fortunately, their activity is not expected. Today, only a mud volcano is active here near the village of Starunya. The settlement was formed in 1977 after the last earthquake; there was previously an ozokerite mine in its place. Previously, the volcano had 4 vents with different diameters from 10 to 50 cm, the height of the cone was 3 meters. Today it is flat, has 8 permanent craters and 12 small ones that are not permanent. Constantly from every crater in different time There are emissions of oil, gas, and water of varying degrees of mineralization.

Three ethnic groups live on the territory of the mountain range:

• Hutsuls
• Lemki
• strikers.

The Hutsuls are a real mountain people. It was in the highlands that their culture, traditions, and way of life were formed. The ethnic group lives in Transcarpathia, Ivano-Frankivsk and Chernivtsi regions. He is engaged in wood processing and sheep breeding. The Hutsuls differ from other ethnic groups in their bright clothing, unusual architectural and craft elements, and even their dialect is different.

The Hutsuls are a truly mountain people of the Carpathians

The Lemkos were once a mountain people, but deportation and repression under the USSR led to them losing their homeland. Today they live in scattered groups throughout Ukraine. In recent years, the ethnic group has been actively restoring its history and trying to preserve its heritage. There are Lemko villages in the Carpathian foothills, where they were resettled after World War II. The people stand out from the rest with their way of life and dialect.

The Boyki are represented in Ukraine by a huge community of several thousand people. They differ in traditions, culture, dialect. Scientists identify 14 more subethnic groups in the Boyko ethnic group. The people inhabit the Lviv region of the Carpathians, Ivano-Frankivsk region, Transcarpathia.

The highest Carpathian peak

The highest point of the Carpathian mountain system is Gerlachovsky Štit. The peak is located in Slovakia, its height is 2,654 m. This is the main part of the High Tatras massif. The peak is climbed by climbers from different countries. The name translates as “shield” from Slovak. The name of the peak was changed several times, the very first name was Gerlach, then it was renamed several times in honor of the rulers. Shtit even bore the name Stalin's Shtit. The Slovaks gave this name to the mountain in gratitude to Stalin for liberation from the Nazis.

Climate, altitudinal zones of the Carpathians and their influence on flora and fauna

Climatic conditions Here they belong to the temperate continental type, the humidity is quite high. In mid-summer the temperature is +17-20°C, in winter period drops from -2°C to -5°C. There is a lot of precipitation in the Carpathians per year, up to 2,000 mm. In the highlands it rains three times more often than at the foot. There is also a lot of snowfall in winter, from 30 cm. Avalanches often occur in the Carpathians, there are many places with high avalanche danger, especially in mountain peaks where there is no forest.

There are five altitude zones in the Carpathians

The altitudinal zonation of the Carpathians classifies them as a forest-steppe type. In the Carpathian Mountains there is a significant difference in altitude, a change natural conditions vertical. The massif is divided into several altitudinal zones:

• foothill - extends to a height of 600 m, forests and meadows of coniferous and broad-leaved species are common here. The soils in this belt are soddy-podzolic, there are many already plowed areas developed by humans;
• the lower one is a belt of mountain-forest type, stretches to a height of 1,100 m. The forests here are beech, mixed, there is spruce and fir;
• The upper mountain forest belt is covered with spruce and fir forests of mixed type. The upper altitudinal zone goes up to an altitude of 1,500 m. Here, as in the lower one, the soils are mainly of the mountain-forest type, brown;
• subalpine - located at an altitude of 1,500–1,800 m, the forests here are sparse, consisting mainly of low-growing pine, juniper, alder, mixed meadows - mixed herbs, cereals;
• alpine - stretches over 1,800 m, the soils here, as in the subalpine zone, belong to mountain meadows. In the alpine belt, grass meadows and low shrubs are common. The vegetation here is even more sparse than in the subalpine zone.

The Carpathians are the habitat of many representatives of the fauna, of which there are more than 400 species in the mountainous areas and in Transcarpathia. Roe deer, red deer, European eels and marsh turtles live here. Even those animals that are characterized by a Mediterranean climate, for example, green frogs and spotted salamanders, feel great here. Black grouse and wood grouse live in the vastness of Transcarpathia and the Carpathians. Representatives of the fauna live here that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth: the Carpathian squirrel and the Carpathian newt. Snow voles and alpine newts have settled well here. Representatives of birds, the bats, bats and rabbits are also found in the Carpathian forests.

Brown bears live in the Carpathians

Animals are found from the foothills at an altitude of 200 m, then at the beginning of alpine bushes at an altitude of 1,800 m. Altitudes from 2,000 m are home to rodents: snow vole, alpine shrew. It is noteworthy that in part of the Ukrainian Carpathians there are many wild pigs. In the forests of the Carpathian massifs live foxes, badgers, many representatives of mustelids, there are minks, otters and ferrets. Thickets and gorges can be dangerous for people; wolves live here. There are protected animals listed in the Red Book: wild cats, brown bears, lynxes. Unfortunately, the population of deer and roe deer in the area has become smaller; hunting them is prohibited by the strictest laws. Recently, new residents have appeared in these places: a raccoon dog, most likely brought here by people who want to replenish the animal population of the Carpathians. The homeland of the raccoon dog is China and Japan.

In terms of the amount of greenery, no other area can compare with the Carpathians. More than 2,000 species grow here, 44 of which are critically endangered. Forests occupy 45% of the entire Transcarpathian region; beech, spruce, and oak species grow most of all. There are larch, birch, alder, ash, pine, yew and maple trees. More than 3,000 exotic plants in the Carpathians, all of them bloom from early spring to last days autumn, so the scenery here is stunning all year round. Some types of apple trees grow Japanese cherry blossom, cypress, even magnolia.

Sights of the Carpathian Mountains and surrounding area

A huge number of places of interest are concentrated on the territory of the mountain system. Some of them deserve special attention; they are very popular among tourists.

• Yaremche;
• Hoverla;
• Arch bridge;
• Prut River valley;
• Trufanets waterfall;
• Black Church (Brasov);
• Mount Tampa;
• Dracula's castle;
• Poiana Brasov.

Yaremche is a beautiful town where you can have a good rest surrounded by nature. Nearby is the Yaremchansky waterfall - a gift of nature and beauty. This is one of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in Ukraine. The waterfall has a height difference of 12 m, a very strong flow of water. When it falls, the sounds can be heard over great distances. There is a bridge over the waterfall that you can cross or jump straight into the waterfall stream. These places are very picturesque landscapes, they attract a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Mount Hoverla is the highest Carpathian peak in Ukraine. From Romanian the name means “difficult hill”. The height of the peak is 2,061 m. The first ascent to the peak took place in 1880. Climbers, athletes, and amateur tourists regularly climb Hoverla. The border with Romania is located 17 km from the mountain. The peak is part of the Chornohora ridge, Carpathians. In clear weather, stunning views of the city open from the top, you can see the White Elephant Observatory and Mount Pop-Ivan. The Prut River flows next to Goverla, and here you can see cascading waterfalls.

Hoverla - the highest peak of the Carpathians in Ukraine

The Arch Bridge is built entirely of stone; it is an ancient railway bridge connecting the banks of the Prut. Below the building there is a highway. The bridge was erected in 1895, its length is more than 100 meters. The building is still used for its intended purpose today. Nearby there is another old Austrian bridge, 130 meters long, one of the longest stone railway bridges in Europe.

The Prut Valley is a left tributary of the Danube River - a stunningly picturesque place in the Carpathians. The climate here is surprisingly mild, with a wide variety of fauna and flora. In the valley there are rivers and lakes with clear water, waterfalls, the air here is clean and fresh. All conditions for a healthy holiday have been created. In the valley there is the resort town of Yaremche, where there are many cafes and hotels, and the Bukovel resort is nearby. Tourists love to visit the valley and the villages and towns located in its vicinity. Local residents are always happy to have guests; guides conduct interesting excursions, tourists have an excellent opportunity to pick mushrooms and berries.

Trufanets Waterfall - highest waterfall in Transcarpathia with a height of 36 m. This miracle of nature is located on the slopes of the Svydovetsky ridge. The waterfall begins at an altitude of 1,720 m in the subalpine zone, at the foot of the Bliznitsa peak. The total length of the stream is 2,830 m. It has created several cascades and in some places flows underground in the forest. Near the waterfall there are steps and a gazebo, from where you can see it clearly and up close. Trufanets is a natural hydrological monument.

Beautiful views open from the gazebo above the Trufanets waterfall

The Black Church, or Biserica Neagra, is located in Romania. Another name for the religious architectural monument is the Church of St. Mary. It is one of the oldest Lutheran churches in Transylvania. A popular and famous landmark of Brasov and the Carpathians. The construction of the temple took place in the 14th century; it was built by the Transylvanian Saxons. The style of the church is Gothic, height 65 m. During the Great Turkish War there was a fire here, the walls turned black, hence the name of the church. The architecture of the building is very beautiful and unusual; inside there is a museum where ancient frescoes and a large collection of carpets are kept.

Mount Tampa is a high peak in the Southern Carpathians, completely covered with forests. At the foot of the mountain is the city of Brasov, whose symbol it is. The height of Tampa is 995 m; from the peak, in favorable weather, beautiful landscapes open up. There are 25 paths for tourists to the top itself, but the main part of the mountain is a protected area, home to rare birds and animals.

Mount Tampa - symbol of Brasov

A popular entertainment is climbing the mountain; Tampa has cozy restaurants; on the way to the peak you can see the ruins of fortresses, ancient forts that used to protect Brasov from the enemy.

Dracula's Castle, or Bran Castle, is perhaps one of the most popular attractions in all of Romania. It was erected in the 14th century, and it was built local residents at your own expense. For this, the state freed people from taxes for several centuries. Two more defensive towers were erected later, in 1622–1625. The castle is located on the top of a rock, its shape is unusual in the form of a trapezoid. The corridors with halls are located in a mysterious labyrinth. In the courtyard belonging to the castle there is a well; according to legend, it leads to the dungeon. Count Dracula - Vlad the Impaler, stayed overnight here when he went on campaigns. There is a version that talks about the torture of Tepes by the Turks in the basement of the castle. That's why it is also called Dracula's Castle.

Poiana Brasov is a ski resort in Romania, today it is a very popular tourist destination. The resort was founded back in the 19th century, located at an altitude of 1030 m, in a coniferous forest. The infrastructure of Poiana Brasov provides vacationers with maximum comfort.

• 20% of all forests in Ukraine are located in the Carpathians;
• Lake Synevyr is located in the Carpathians at an altitude of 989 m. It is the most beautiful body of water and the largest in the Carpathian Mountains;
• Europe's largest rehabilitation center for brown bears is located near the lake;
• the highest city of Ukraine, Rakhiv, is located in the mountains, at an altitude of 820 m. locality large difference between streets - from 400 to 1000 meters;
• the village of Vypchina is even higher - 1,100 m above sea level. The difference between the streets here is 600–1000 m;
• geologists claim that the Carpathians arose almost at the same time as the Himalayas and the Alps;
• the formation of mountain systems still continues in the Carpathians. Confirmation of this is frequent earthquakes;
• Previously, there were volcanoes in the Carpathians that erupted. There are cones of extinct volcanoes in the vicinity of Mukachevo, Khust, Uzhgorod;
• the depths of the mountain system are rich in minerals, including gold, oil, ozokerite, gas, marble;
• in some places the width of the mountains is 450 km;
• the distance from the Alps to the Carpathian peaks is 14 km;
• in the 20th century, scientists discovered in the Carpathians many remains of animals that lived in prehistoric times: mammoths, birds, huge deer;
• The Carpathian peaks are the birthplace of the musical instrument trembita. The length of this horn, made of wood, is 4 meters, the sounds it makes can be heard at a distance of 20 km.

Tourism in the Carpathians

There are many routes and interesting resorts in the Carpathians. Tourists climb the peaks of the Carpathians: Mount Hoverla, Petros and Gerlakhovsky Shtit. The first peak is reached from the Ukrainian village of Lazeshchyna, located in the Transcarpathian region, to the Kozmeschik tract, from there the path goes to the Gropa meadow, to Hoverla.

There are many excursions in the Carpathians, there are routes for tourists

Petros, although lower than Hoverla, is more interesting and difficult to climb. It is not recommended to come here in winter, bad weather. The path to the peak lies through Lazeshchyna and Kozmeschik, then the direction leads through the Kiyanets stream, the Chernogorsky ridge. The route to Gerlachovský Štit in Slovakia starts from Sklabina.

Ski resorts of the Carpathians:

1. Bukovel
2. Yablunitsa
3. Betony
4. Dragobrat
5. Volovets
6. Podobovets
7. Pylypets
8. Krasiya
9. Slavskoe
10. Zhdenievo
11. "Zakhar Berkut"

Bukovel is a very popular resort, where a huge number of tourists come every year. It is located near the village of Polyanitsa, at an altitude of 920 m above sea level. The skiing season is open from November to mid-April. Here tourists are offered various types of trails, the infrastructure is well developed. You can admire the peaks of the mountain ranges by riding the ski lifts. You can also have a wonderful vacation in Bukovel in the summer; in 2014, the country’s largest artificial lake, surrounded by a beach, opened here. People come to Bukovel to improve and improve their health.

Bukovel is one of best resorts Ukraine and Europe

Dragobrat is the highest ski resort in the country. The snow here sometimes lies on the slopes until mid-May, thus extending the season of ski resorts. The resort is located at an altitude of 1,400 m, near the foot of the Stog peak. Vacationers have everything they need, many trails of varying difficulty, and freeride slopes. You don’t have to live at the resort itself; there are also options in nearby villages.

In addition to skiing, the resort has lakes, waterfalls, mineral springs, and climbing routes to local peaks. Many people come to see the Dragobratsky waterfall - an amazing natural phenomenon. The waterfall is cascading, its height is more than 7 meters.

Natural objects of the Carpathian mountain system and minerals

On the territory of the Carpathian massif there are zones where some mineral deposits are concentrated. Gas, oil, native sulfur, ozokerite, rock and potassium salt are extracted here. There are deposits of zeolites, brown coal, gold, dolomites, limestone and marble in the mountains. There are many rivers flowing here, and there is the Watershed Range. It is in this place that the border between the huge river basins: the Danube and the Dniester is located. All mountain rivers flowing from the peaks of the Carpathians fall into them. There is no exact information on the number of rivers in the mountains; the known figure is 28,000. The largest Carpathian rivers are:

• Dniester
• Stryi
• Latoritsa.

Picturesque island Naslavche on the Dniester River

The Prut River is very long, stretches for 967 km, its sources come from Karat, Mount Goverla. The Prut has various banks, the upper reaches are rocky and steep coastlines, in the lower ones they are gentle. In the area of ​​the north of the Prut Valley, the river is very close to the Danube, the distance between them is only 34 km. As an object of water tourism, the Prut is very popular, especially its upper reaches. Extreme river rafting is held here in the Yaremche and Vorokhta zones. This is a real blessing for extreme sports lovers, a 34 km section with a large number of stone ledges and rapids. Located on the Prut beautiful waterfall, not far from the Zaroslyak tourist center. The waterfall includes several cascading powerful streams, whose total height is 80 m. Downstream there is also a waterfall called Probiy, 8 meters high, located on the territory of the resort town of Yaremche. There is a bridge and an observation deck above the waterfall for tourists. On the territory of Moldova, in the place where the Prut flows, there is a landmark - the Valley of the Hundred Hills. There are approximately 3,000 hills here, and their origin has not yet been fully studied by scientists. One version says that the hills are the result of a coral reef.

Anything to add?

It would be unfair to associate the Carpathians only with Bukovel, Dragobrat, Hoverla and tourists. We talk about the tourist background of the region and 15 original mountain places near Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk and Lviv, where, in addition to skiing, you can try hiking, rafting and even ziplining, ride a mountain bike, learn how to make wurda and Hutsul “lyzhniki”, see mountain lakes, Austrian architecture, viaducts and wooden churches. And breathe in freedom, of course.

The Carpathians and Transcarpathia are a tourist region with a European background. Until the end of the Second World War, it developed in the context of the Austrian, Czech and Polish economy and culture, which undoubtedly benefited it. In 1895, the first tourist train departed from Lviv to Skole, and tourist shelters began to appear on the mountain slopes of the Carpathians - a kind of “hostels” where travelers could take a breather during mountain hikes, warm up and sleep for free. In the main tourist cities- Uzhgorod, Mukachevo, Beregov, Vinogradov, Rakhiv, Khust - the first hotels opened. By 1939 there were at least 20 of them. The entire tourist infrastructure of Transcarpathia at that time was built thanks to the activities of the Czechoslovak Tourists Club. The club developed and marked tourist routes, opened tourist houses, shelters, hotels, restaurants and even a boat station, released travel guides on several foreign languages. About the same thing happened on Polish territory - in Galicia.

Tourists came to the Carpathians to look at castles or their ruins, monasteries, Dacian and Roman settlements near Velikie and Malyi Kopani, study folk crafts, ride a narrow-gauge railway and rest on some mountain slope in a tent. But suddenly the Czechoslovak Republic collapsed, the Second World War happened World War, the territory of Transcarpathia was captured by the Hungarians, and later by the Soviets. During this period, much of the tourism infrastructure was destroyed. Soviet power turned the Carpathians into a sanatorium and resort paradise.

Over the past 25 years, the tourism sector of Transcarpathia has been developing spontaneously and chaotically, mainly thanks to the activity of caring people, the innate entrepreneurship of the locals and the capital of some oligarchs, of course.

Today's Carpathians are a cocktail of European charm, original Hutsul culture and Radiana relics. Immediately buy a ticket to Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk or Lviv to enjoy it as quickly as possible.

Vizhnitsa - Hasidim, rocks and mushroom paradise

If the train brought you to Chernivtsi, and your soul craves the mountains, go to Vizhnitsa (75 km from Chernivtsi) - The Carpathians begin from here.

In the 18th century, the main feature of Vizhnitsa was the Hasidim - the founder of Hasidism, Rabbi Israel, lived there. During the Austrian period, Vizhnitsa was a famous ski center. And during the Romanian occupation, the name of this village was associated with the famous cabaret. Today in Vizhnitsa you will find both - colorful culture and good tourist infrastructure.

Things to do

View Austrian and Romanian architecture

Vyzhnitsa resembles a museum under open air: a typical provincial European town of the early 20th century. Many Austrian and Romanian buildings have been preserved here in fairly good condition. Be sure to take a look at the railway station, the town hall, the main synagogue, the gymnasium building, the district hospital building and the college of applied arts - all these buildings have been here for more than 100 years. On Ukrainskaya Street, look at the building of the once popular cabaret (now the house children's creativity), and near the market, do not pass by the former Romanian border post.

Conquer rocks and huge boulders

If you feel like a confident rock climber, then don’t forget to take the necessary equipment on your trip, because in the vicinity of Vyzhnytsia there are several huge rocks and boulders (30-40 m): Sokilska Skele (village Tyudiv), rock massif “Protyate Kaminnya” (near the Nemchich pass), “Dovbush Pechera” (next to Nemchich). These rocks are also quite suitable hiking targets. They stand in a beech forest on a low mountain, from where you can see the Carpathians in all their glory. You can pitch a tent in the forest. The climb is not difficult - it is possible with children.

Rafting down the Cheremosh mountain river

The Cheremosh River was once the border between Romania and Poland, and now separates the Chernivtsi region from the Ivano-Frankivsk region. This is the most popular river in the Carpathians among lovers. By googling, you can easily find about 10 companies that organize not only rafting, but also a comprehensive adventure program with rafting and mountain climbing.

Pick mushrooms

Bukovyna is a region of beech forests in which giant boletus mushrooms grow. If you are planning an autumn trip to the Carpathians and want to join the sacred act of mushroom picking, go from Vyzhnytsia to Vyzhenka (6.5 km) - there are the most mushroom places and you can find a guide from local seasoned mushroom pickers.

To ski

Near Vizhnitsa there are two ski resorts at once - the modest Nemchich Pass and the reputable Migovo.

"Nemchich Pass" is a small tourist complex, which includes a hotel, restaurant, ski slopes, 2 rope tows and a rental point. You can go skiing here on an extremely low budget: € 0.15 for a one-time lift, from € 3 for a subscription, from € 2 per day for ski/snowboard rental.

"Migovo"- a reputable ski resort with a hostel, several hotels, restaurants, clubs, and a spa center. Some call Migovo the main competitor of Bukovel, but the prices here are incomparably lower: from € 1 - one-time lift, from € 16 - a day pass, from € 3 per day - ski/snowboard rental.

Where to stay

The best way to choose accommodation in Vyzhnytsia, Vyzhenka and Migov is on the website hotels24.ua. Unlike Booking, you can find accommodation options there in estates, guest houses and mini-hotels. Prices in Vyzhenka and Vizhnitsa start from € 14 for a double room, in Migov - from € 30, and in Nemchich for € 30 you can rent a double room with two meals a day.

Where to eat

The largest and most popular restaurant in Vyzhnytsia - "Kupalska Nich"(O. Dovbusha vul., 1a) . Try here “trout in sour cream”, “deruni in glechika” and draft beer, and for dessert have dumplings with cherries. Just get ready for the fact that you will find yourself in a traditional Hutsul establishment, where service and speed of service are not the strongest points.

How to get there

From Minsk: by plane to Chernivtsi (UIA - from € 84). By train or bus via Kyiv, Lviv or Kovel (from € 25) to Chernivtsi. From Chernivtsi - by minibus to Vyzhnytsia. Next - hitch a ride/taxi.

From Brest: by bus Brest-Kovel (from € 4), from Kovel by train to Chernivtsi (from € 3.5). From Chernivtsi - by minibus to Vyzhnytsia. Next - hitch a ride/taxi.

From Kyiv: by train to Chernivtsi (from € 6), by plane to Chernivtsi (UIA - from € 38). From Chernivtsi - by minibus to Vyzhnytsia. Next - hitch a ride/taxi.

Verkhovyshchyna - two-thousand-meter mountains, waterfalls and a cultural reserve

High mountain city Verkhovyna (Ivano-Farankovsk region) and its satellite villages are considered the center of the ancient Hutsul region, this is true Western Ukraine, surrounded by two-thousand-meter mountains. In Verkhovyna itself, be sure to visit the private museum Roman Kumlika (I. Franka vul., 35) , where, in addition to authentic Hutsul household items, he collected a rich collection of musical instruments.

Things to do

Recharge your creativity and get acquainted with the Hutsul culture in Kryvorivna (Kryvorivnya)

Hutsul is a Ukrainian highlander, a free-lover who loves to dress himself and his home in order to appear before his neighbors in all its glory. Therefore, the jacket of a normal Hutsul is embroidered with gold and decorated with pom-poms, and his house is decorated with carpets, embroidered towels and intricate carvings. You can see all these cultural artifacts in the village Kryvorivnya(7 km from Verkhovyna), where there are 14 (!) museums. The “Hutsul hut-grazhda” and the historical and cultural museum in the school building are an obligatory part of the program of every decent tourist.

Krivorivnya is not only a terry Hutsul region, but also a once bohemian center, a fashionable resort, where the cultural elite gathered - writers and public figures - Ivan Franko, Lesya Ukrainka with her friend Olga Kobylyanska, Osip Makovey, Vasyl Stefanik and Mykhailo Kotsyubinsky. And Sergei Parajanov filmed “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors” here. In general, Krivorivnya is full of creativity. To get into the atmosphere, go to the “Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors” museum and the Ivan Franko Literary and Memorial Museum.

The cultural program can be diversified by hiking. In the vicinity of Krivorivnya begin walking routes to the rocks of Pisany Kamen and to the peak of Igrets (1,311 m).

Look at the waterfalls and climb to the mountain observatory

If the main purpose of your trip to the Carpathians is hiking, head to Dzembronya - a high-mountain village where no more than 300 mountaineers live. From here it is most convenient to climb Mount Pop-Ivan and, in general, begin the ascent to the Montenegrin ridge.

You can climb Pop-Ivan in different ways, but to see the cascades of Smotritsky waterfalls along the way, head towards Mount Ushasty Kamen. From this point it’s just a stone’s throw to the top of Pop Ivan and the old observatory.

The stone observatory - the White Elephant - on Mount Pop Ivan was built by the University of Warsaw in the late 30s. last century for observing stars and weather. The building was abandoned for several decades. Recently, in a small part of it, volunteers set up a tourist shelter where rescuers live and tourists exhausted from mountain climbs stay.

Try vurda, try on Hutsul embroidered shirt and see the Carpathian two-thousanders in Iltsy

In the Carpathian dreams of seasoned tourists - the conquest of the Montenegrin ridge - six two-thousand-meter mountains. If you are a beginner and spend more time in the office than in the gym and on the treadmill, we advise you to start with the Kostrych ridge. Climb Mount Kostrych (1586 m), which is located directly opposite the Montenegrin ridge, and watch how powerful two-thousanders prop up the clouds with their snow caps. You won’t see such a picture from any other point in the Carpathians! And here’s another pleasant bonus: the slopes of Kostrych are strewn with blueberries in summer, and porcini mushrooms in autumn.

Take some cash with you on your hike and don’t pass by the kolybas - small wooden houses, there are several of them on the ridge. In the summer, Hutsul shepherds live in the kolybas, who graze cows, sheep and goats in the surrounding area and immediately prepare cheeses - feta cheese, budz and vurda. From late autumn until April, no one lives in the kolybas, and tourists use them for overnight stays.

You can climb Kostrych from the village of Iltsy or from the Krivopolsky pass, which can be reached from Verkhovyna. In Iltsy, don’t forget to look into museum-estate of the poetess Galinka Verkhovinka(village Iltsi, settlement Velikiy Grabovets) to learn everything about Hutsul embroidery and try on the image of a Hutsul. In winter you can go skiing in Iltsy. To do this, there are three slopes of medium difficulty (length - 700 m), two rope tows and an equipment rental point.

See how the Hutsul “lizhniki” are made and grill your own trout in Yavorov

In the village Yavorov(Yavoriv) in many houses they still create “lizhniks” - woven blankets made of sheep wool. The ability to weave here is inherited. Until recently, children studied lizhnikarism at school and even took a compulsory test in it. Today, wicker bedspreads are used less and less in everyday life, but local craftswomen have updated their product and began to sew raincoats, coats and jackets from it. Go to Yavorov (21 km from Verkhovyna, there is a bus) to become familiar with the ancient Hutsul art. At the Hutsulska Grazhda folk art center you can take part in a master class.

If you like to fish, here’s another reason for you to be in Yavorov - trout farming "Eco-trout", where you can catch a few fish and then place an order for them to be cooked. Be sure to try the trout in sour cream sauce and banosh. While your fish is cooking, go see the local waterfall, which is modestly called Yavorskaya Niagara.

Where to stay

A double junior suite in a private estate in Verkhovyna can be rented for €15-20, although finding a room for two is not so easy - most cottage owners rent them out entirely. Find a suitable option on the website hotels24.ua or booking.karpaty.ua. Pay attention to the private estate of the Djurak family, especially if you are planning mountain hikes. The owners of the estate promise to help with an instructor.

If you are traveling with a large group, take a closer look at the cottage "Trembita" 8 with a sauna, fireplace, gazebos and barbecue.

There is a cozy guest house in the village of Krivopilya "FIREPLACE" with a beautiful terrace, fireplace room and large windows in the rooms that look at the mountains. You can order food from the owners.

Where to eat

To a restaurant with panoramic windows "Panorama Verhovel" (Ivana-Franka st., 1, Verkhovyna village) go for a comprehensive aesthetic pleasure. Unlike many other Hutsul establishments, they worry about beautiful presentation of dishes. Panorama Verhovel serves excellent bograch, trout in sour cream sauce and banush with porcini mushrooms. Don't forget to try the liqueurs here.

If you go to Yavorov, go to a colorful restaurant for lunch "Babay" (Rivni settlement, on the Kosiv-Verkhovyna highway) . Try the signature dish “Babay in Glechika”, Hutsul cabbage rolls and banosh, and for dessert - tea with mountain herbs and pancakes with cottage cheese. The restaurant has a good selection of wines.

How to get there

From Minsk: by bus to Ivano-Frankivsk (from € 30), by plane to Ivano-Frankovsk (UIA - from € 70). From Ivano-Franovsk by minibus to Verkhovyna, Iltsov.

From Kyiv: by train to Ivano-Frankivsk (from € 4), by plane to Ivano-Frankivsk (from € 47.5). From Ivano-Franovsk by minibus to Verkhovyna, Iltsov.

Vorokhta - 100-year-old viaduct, zipline and mountain lake

Yaremcha, together with Bukovel and Dragobrat, is one of the three most famous ski resorts in the Carpathians. Life in these villages revolves around tourists. They built a good tourist infrastructure here, sacrificing their authenticity and sincerity for this. Therefore, we advise you to choose Yaremcha or Bukovel, only as a last resort - if your main interest is a good ski slope and comfort. And for lively culture, hiking, (cheap living) and rural romance, it is better to go to the neighboring high-mountainous Vorokhta or Mykulychyn, making forays from there into the surrounding area, including Bukovel or Yaremcha.

Things to do

Take a walk under the arches of the century-old viaduct in Vorokhta

The two longest viaducts in Ukraine (100 and 130 meters) appeared in Vorokhta in Austro-Hungarian times. Despite their advanced age, they still help trains climb the slopes of the mountain. And they still amaze with their greatness.

Climb to a mountain lake

The tourist base "Zaroslyak" in Vorokhta is the starting point for mountain hikes to the nearby mountains of Spitz and Kukul, and to main mountain Chernogorsky ridge - Hoverle. If the body requires hiking, but the soul beautiful views, but multi-day hikes are not included in your plans, choose Mount Spitz (1863 m) with Lake Nesamovite (1750 m) and/or Kukul as your goal. One day is enough to conquer these peaks. The route to the lake is well marked, so you are unlikely to get lost. There are many legends associated with Lake Nesamovite, each of them hinting that you should not swim in the icy (even in summer) waters of the high-mountain reservoir. But this does not stop most frost-resistant tourists.

If you are an advanced skier and like to freeride, the western and northeastern slopes of Mount Kukul are the right place for this. The other slopes of this mountain are quite gentle, so climbing to the top will not take much effort. And if you suddenly go on a walk until it gets dark, you can spend the night in one of the Hutsul kolybas. Look for them in the mountain valley. If you find yourself in Vorokhta in the spring (April), be sure to climb Kukul to see the purple slopes strewn with crocuses.

Go down the 720-meter zipline in Vorokhta

The first one in Ukraine appeared in Vorokhta (B. Khmelnytsky St., at the beginning of the forest) . The descent is divided into two sections: 550 and 170 meters. The height difference is 18 meters.

Climb an abandoned ski jump in Vorokhta

A ninety-meter springboard for extreme training appeared here in the 30s of the last century, when Vorokhta was part of Poland. Recent years 20 it stands idle, despite periodic attempts to “restart” it. If you come here to take some interesting photos, check out the Hutsul market next to the ski jump, where everything that warms the soul of a Belarusian tourist is sold: traditional cheeses, honey, mushrooms, berries and woolen socks.

Try craft beer in Mykulychyn

In a small Hutsul brewery "Mykulychyn" (Mykulychyn village, Grushevkogo street, 68b) They have been brewing beer for 15 years: light, dark, honey, wheat and rye. In addition, here you can try real Carpathian honey, homemade cheeses and buy natural “beer” cosmetics. A visit to the brewery can be combined with a walk to the 15-meter Zhenetsky (Guk) waterfall, which does not dry out even in summer.

Where to stay

Vorokhta welcomes tourists to several dozen cottages, private estates and mini-hotels. Prices for double rooms start from € 10. It is better to look for options at booking.karpaty.ua or hotels24.ua. If you want to live higher from the highway and look out of your window at Hoverla, take a closer look at a private hotel "Huts on stumps" (Mikhaila Grushevsky St., 5) , run by the good-natured Orestes. There is a bathhouse with two swimming pools, a vat, a trout pond where you can go fishing, your own small restaurant and a rooster that won’t let you sleep through all the fun.

Where to eat

The main (by local standards and the most expensive) restaurant in Vorokhta is "Stara Vorokhta"(Danila Galitsky vul., 66) with typical Western Ukrainian cuisine. Try trout on herbs, porcini mushrooms and liqueurs here.

If you want to have dinner in a real Carpathian kolyba, go to Yaremcha in "Red Manor" (vul. V. Ivasyuka, 6) . Feel free to order potato pancakes in glacek, veal cheeks with pea puree and shish kebab, which will be cooked for you on the grill right in the center of the hall. Rumor has it that they serve the most delicious horseradish in the Carpathians.

How to get there

From Minsk: by bus to Ivano-Frankivsk (from € 30), by plane to Ivano-Frankovsk (UIA - from € 70). From Ivano-Franovsk by minibus to Vorokhta. Or by plane to Kyiv (UIA - from € 65), by train to Kyiv (from € 35). From Kyiv by train to Vorokhta (from € 4.5) or Yaremche (from € 8.5).

From Kyiv: by train to Vorokhta (from € 4.5) or Yaremche (from € 8.5).

Synevyr park to climb to the mountain lake of the same name. See brown bears that have received a new life in Rehabilitation Center(Sinevirskaya Polyana village) , is no less worthy reason to come this long way. Most of the residents of the Rehabilitation Center are former “workers” of circuses and entertainment venues. Almost all bears end up in this shelter with psychological trauma and a bunch of diseases. Owners give up some emaciated animals voluntarily, while others are won back by employees of the Rehabilitation Center through the courts. In their new home, the bears are treated, restored and learn to live in natural conditions (they even have dens here!).

Get around

Synevyrska Polyana is an excellent location for relaxation in the off-season (spring, autumn), if you want to breathe in some fresh air, take a break from people and get around a little. At the market in Mizhhirya you can buy everything you need for this - Transcarpathian wine, homemade milk and eggs, feta cheese and meat. And then settle in one of the cottages of Synevyrskaya Polyana, walk for days with mountain lake, conquer local peaks (several marked routes start from Synevyr), and in the evening barbecue on the grill, drink wine and listen to the stories of local Hutsuls.

Visit the village-museum of Kolachava

The village of Kolochava, which at different times belonged to Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania, is a mix of languages ​​and cultures. A textbook on express immersion in Carpathian culture. There are 10 museums here and 20 unusual monuments, including one to a teacher from Vkrajina and a shepherd. Here you will see the most picturesque scansen in Ukraine “Old Village” (from March 20 to April 20 it turns into a valley of blooming crocuses) and a train that once traveled on a narrow-gauge railway, you will walk along the corridors of a Czech and Soviet school.

When you're walking around "Old village" don't pass by the kryivka "Steer's Bunker"(headquarters of the Kolochava rebels) and Jewish "Wolf's Tavern", where you can look through the debt book with the names of villagers who drank in the establishment on credit.

Another feature of Kolochava is the shepherding school - together with an instructor you can walk to the slope of Mount Strimba, where sheep graze from May to November, see how vurda is cooked, try the miraculous “zhentitsa” and listen to trembita.

Conquer Gymba in Pylypets

The mountains in the area of ​​Volovets, Podobovets and Pylypets are called Borzhavskaya Polonina - they are not very high (up to 1500 m), but very picturesque. From above they look like a restless sea, playing with blue-green colors. To see them, climb Mount Gymba (1491 m), which even children can easily conquer. And all because a chairlift takes tourists from Pylypets to a height of 1100 m (it works even in summer). If after conquering Gymba you are still cheerful, cheerful and full of desire to see more - take a walk to the neighboring mountains Stand (1681 m), Great Top (1598 m), Mount Play ( 1330 m) and Temnatik (1343 m). After this you can go down to Volovets.

In winter, Pylypets turns into a ski resort - the second highest after Dragobrat - with the longest in Ukraine ski slope(20 km). The cost of one chairlift ride starts from € 2, a day pass - from € 17, ski/snowboard rental - from € 2.5. There is a professional ski school where, for € 5/hour, an instructor will teach you how to be handsome on the slopes.

Ride a bike through the mountains in Pylypets

In the village of Pylypets there is