Solo Hiking Adventure to Hoverla Mountain

A Day Among Giants
Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of the Carpathian Mountains. After several days of preparation and acclimatization, I felt ready to fully immerse myself in the landscapes that have always called to my soul. It was a day filled with cascading waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and the warmth of Ukrainian hospitality. I ventured into the heart of the mountains, ready to capture every moment and share it with you all. The air was crisp, the sun was shining, and my spirit was high – it was a perfect day for exploration.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at At Moshe's Tavern. This charming spot was recommended by several locals, and it didn't disappoint. I fueled up with a traditional Ukrainian breakfast – syrniki (cheese pancakes) with sour cream and fresh berries, washed down with a strong coffee. It was the perfect start to a day of hiking. The tavern had a rustic, cozy feel, reminding me of the welcoming atmosphere of Ukrainian homes. It felt like a warm embrace before heading out into the wilderness.


Experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine at At Moshe's Tavern in Il'tsi - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off towards my first destination: Vodospad Trufanets’. The journey to the waterfall was an adventure in itself. The local bus wound its way through narrow mountain roads, offering glimpses of picturesque villages and lush forests. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, seeing the beauty of my homeland unfold before my eyes. The bus dropped me off near the trailhead, and from there, it was a short but invigorating hike to the falls.

As I approached Vodospad Trufanets’, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. And then, there it was – a magnificent cascade of water plunging down moss-covered rocks. Vodospad Trufanets’ is the highest waterfall in the Zakarpattia region, and it was truly a sight to behold. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding forest was lush and green. I spent some time simply taking in the beauty, feeling the cool mist on my face and listening to the soothing sound of the water. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature.


Explore the breathtaking Vodospad Trufanets’ waterfall in Zakarpattia Oblast – a serene escape into nature's beauty, perfect for all adventure seekers.

I took many photos and videos, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. I even collected a few smooth stones from the base of the falls as a memento of my visit. As I sat there, I thought about my life back in Leipzig, about Hans and Olena, and how much I wished they could be here with me to experience this. But I also cherished the solitude, the chance to reconnect with myself and with my Ukrainian roots.

After spending a blissful hour at Vodospad Trufanets’, it was time to move on to my next destination: Polonyna Kukul. This high-altitude meadow offered panoramic views of the surrounding Carpathian peaks, and I was eager to experience it. The hike to Polonyna Kukul was more challenging than the one to the waterfall, but the promise of stunning vistas kept me going. The trail wound its way through dense forests, gradually ascending into the alpine zone.

As I climbed higher, the trees began to thin out, and the landscape opened up. I emerged onto Polonyna Kukul, and I was immediately rewarded with breathtaking views. The meadow stretched out before me, carpeted in wildflowers and dotted with grazing sheep. In the distance, the majestic peaks of the Carpathians rose against the sky. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a moment that took my breath away.


Explore the stunning landscapes of Polonyna Kukul, a natural gem in Zakarpattia Oblast, perfect for hiking and reconnecting with nature.

I found a comfortable spot on the meadow and sat down to soak in the scenery. The air was fresh and clean, and the silence was broken only by the gentle bleating of sheep and the occasional call of a bird. I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. This was exactly what I had come to the Carpathians for – to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, surrounded by the grandeur of nature.

For lunch, I stopped at Panorama Verhovel, a restaurant known for its stunning views and traditional Hutsul cuisine. I ordered banosh, a creamy corn porridge topped with bacon and bryndza (sheep cheese). It was hearty and delicious, the perfect fuel for my mountain adventures. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine with breathtaking views at Panorama Verhovel in Verkhovyna's stunning Carpathian Mountains.

As I savored my banosh, I couldn't help but reflect on my journey so far. I had come to the Carpathians seeking adventure and solitude, and I had found both in abundance. I had marveled at cascading waterfalls, hiked through lush forests, and gazed upon breathtaking vistas. I had also reconnected with my Ukrainian roots, tasting traditional dishes and experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.

After lunch, I decided to treat myself to a drink at Jägermeister Apres Ski Zone - Bид на Говерлу. Even though it's May, the mountain air can still be quite chilly, and the thought of a warming drink was appealing. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a rustic alpine feel. I ordered a hot mulled wine and sat by the window, enjoying the view of Hoverla Mountain. It was the perfect way to end a day of hiking and exploration.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Jägermeister Apres Ski Zone, the ultimate après-ski bar in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast.

The Jägermeister Apres Ski Zone was lively, filled with fellow hikers and skiers sharing stories of their adventures. I chatted with a few locals, learning more about the region and its culture. It was a reminder of the sense of community that is so strong in Ukraine, a feeling of connection that I miss dearly in Leipzig.

For dinner, I chose Restoran Perlyna, a local restaurant known for its traditional Ukrainian cuisine. I wanted to try something new, so I ordered varenyky (dumplings) filled with potatoes and mushrooms, served with sour cream and fried onions. They were absolutely delicious, a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive.


Experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine at Restoran Perlyna in Richka - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

As I savored my varenyky, I thought about my grandmother, who used to make them for me when I was a child. It was a comforting memory, a reminder of the love and warmth of my family. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to return to my homeland and experience its beauty and culture.

After dinner, I walked back to my guesthouse, feeling tired but content. The stars were out, and the air was crisp and clean. I reflected on the day's adventures, grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains. It had been a day of waterfalls, mountain views, and Ukrainian delights – a day that I would cherish forever. I am also grateful that I didn’t forget any essentials today! I still miss my portable charger and raincoat, but I made it work.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Dzembrons’ki Vodospady and Narinetskyy Falls, two more of the Carpathian's hidden gems. I'm also hoping to pick up some souvenirs at Suvenirnyy Rynok. I can't wait to see what adventures await me!

Back at the guesthouse, I journaled about my day. These mountains have a way of making one feel small, yet incredibly connected to something larger than oneself. It’s a humbling experience, one that I believe everyone should have at least once in their lives. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of why I embarked on this solo journey in the first place – to reconnect with my roots, to find peace in solitude, and to discover the hidden gems of my homeland. Good night, everyone!