The Carpathians are not just mountains, but places where you can reset. While everyone comes here for skiing in winter, in the warm season people come for the silence, fresh air, walks along mountain trails, and the opportunity to escape city noise for at least a few days. In case you are planning a short weekend trip, UNN has prepared the top 7 locations in the Carpathians that will definitely hide you from the mundane.
Yaremche
Yaremche has long been considered one of the most popular Carpathian destinations for tourists from Ukraine and Europe. This place combines the comfort of a resort town with a genuine mountain atmosphere. It is easy to find accommodation here for any budget: private estates, modern hotels, and recreation centers. One of the main landmarks of the city remains the "Probiy" waterfall, which is especially impressive after rains when the water becomes turbulent and noisy. Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking in the mountains, ride bicycles, or try rafting on mountain rivers. Tourists are also attracted by the famous Dovbush path—a route through the forest and rocks associated with legends of the opryshky (outlaws). Special attention should be paid to the local souvenir market, where Hutsul craftsmen sell their wares, wooden dishes, embroidery, and characteristic handmade Ukrainian jewelry.
Drahobrat
Drahobrat is located high in the mountains, so even the journey here becomes an adventure. The resort is surrounded by coniferous forests and alpine meadows, and many points offer panoramic views of the Chornohora massif. It is here that you can see the peaks of Hoverla, Petros, and Blyznytsia on a clear day. In summer, Drahobrat attracts tourists no less actively than in winter, as it is a great place for trekking and peaceful relaxation amidst nature. Routes to local lakes and the ascent of Mount Stih are particularly popular. Many tourists recommend using the ski lift to see the Carpathian ridges from above. Despite the development of tourist infrastructure, the atmosphere here remains quite wild and authentic, making it a good option for those who want to disconnect from the urban rhythm as much as possible.
Skhidnytsia
Skhidnytsia is primarily known for its mineral springs, of which more than thirty have been discovered here. That is why the resort is often chosen by people who want to combine relaxation with health improvement. The village is located among coniferous forests, and the local air is considered one of the main "healers" of this region. In the warm season, walks along eco-trails and trips to nearby natural attractions are especially popular. Also, tourists often visit the Tustán reserve—a historical complex with rocks and the remains of an ancient fortress, and nearby is the "Skole Beskids" park, where you can spend the whole day in nature. In Skhidnytsia itself, it is worth paying attention to the ancient Church of St. Nicholas and the Omelyan Stotsky Museum. The resort is suitable for those looking for a quiet format of relaxation without crowds and loud entertainment.
Yasinia
Yasinia is often called the gateway to the high Carpathians. It is from here that tourists set off towards Drahobrat and popular mountain routes. The village is located among picturesque valleys and surrounded by peaks that attract travelers at any time of year. The Hutsul atmosphere is particularly felt here, specifically in the cuisine, architecture, and local traditions. One of the main attractions is the Strukivska Church, a unique wooden temple included in the cultural heritage list. For hiking enthusiasts, Yasinia serves as a good starting point for climbing Hoverla or Petros. There are also small museums in the village where you can learn more about the life and traditions of the Hutsuls. Additionally, it is worth trying banosh, bryndza, and other local dishes that have long been the gastronomic hallmark of the region.
Svalyava
Svalyava is one of the most famous balneological resorts in Zakarpattia. The city became famous for its mineral waters, which have been used for health purposes for many decades. A completely different pace of life prevails here—without haste, noise, or tourist overload. The resort is surrounded by hills and forests, so even simple walks provide a sense of a complete reset. Tourists often visit the Blue Lake and the Obavskyi Stone, which remained from an ancient volcano and became one of the natural highlights of the region. In the city, you can see ancient churches, monuments, and the remains of old fortifications. Separately, travelers recommend paying attention to the local cuisine, as Zakarpattian dishes are prepared here according to traditional recipes. Svalyava is well-suited for a leisurely vacation.
Solotvyno
Solotvyno is an unusual Carpathian destination famous for its salt lakes. These lakes attract tourists who want not only to relax but also to improve their health. The water in the local lakes has a high concentration of salt, which is why they are often compared to the Dead Sea. Lake Kunihunda is particularly popular among tourists, where you can float almost without effort. In addition to the lakes, in Solotvyno, it is worth visiting the salt mine museum and the old shafts associated with the centuries-old history of salt mining. The resort has a special atmosphere due to the combination of Ukrainian, Hungarian, and Romanian cultures. In summer, the "Melodies of Salt Lakes" festival also takes place here, gathering guests from different regions. This is a good place for those who want to combine health improvement, relaxation by the water, and getting to know Zakarpattia.
Kosiv
Kosiv is a true center of Hutsul culture. It is here that you can see traditional crafts passed down through generations. The city is famous for its fairs, where ceramics, carved products, lizhnyks (wool blankets), vyshyvankas, and handmade jewelry are sold. Tourists come here not only for the mountain views but also for the atmosphere of creativity and authenticity. One of the popular locations is Castle Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding ridges. Also, the Museum of Folk Art and Life operates in Kosiv, where you can learn more about Hutsul traditions. An interesting location remains the so-called "bee houses," which attract tourists with an unusual format of relaxation. Kosiv is a good option for those who want not only to see the Carpathians but also to feel their culture and character.