Solo Hiking Adventure to Hoverla Mountain

Whispers of Water and Ancient Echoes

Today was a symphony of water and echoes of a rich past, a day where the raw beauty of the Carpathian landscape met the warmth of Ukrainian hospitality. Leaving behind the familiar trails near Hoverla, I ventured deeper into the mountains, eager to uncover the hidden gems that lay nestled within its folds. It was a day of chasing waterfalls, savoring traditional flavors, and letting the spirit of Ukraine seep into my soul.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kolyba. The name itself evokes images of cozy mountain huts, and this one certainly didn't disappoint. It was a charming restaurant, the air thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering herbs. I settled into a rustic wooden chair, the morning sun streaming through the window, and ordered a traditional Ukrainian breakfast. It consisted of syrniki, those delightful little cheese pancakes, drizzled with honey and a dollop of sour cream, accompanied by a steaming mug of herbal tea. It was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures.


Discover Kolyba in Bukovel: A delightful restaurant offering authentic Ukrainian cuisine in a cozy setting amidst stunning landscapes.
With my stomach content and my spirit invigorated, I set off towards my first destination: Dzembrons’ki Vodospady. The trail wound its way through a tapestry of green, the air alive with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves. As I hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on my life back in Leipzig, on my husband, Hans, and our daughter, Olena. I missed them dearly, but I also knew that this solo journey was something I needed to do, a way to reconnect with my Ukrainian roots and find peace in the solitude of the mountains.


Explore the breathtaking Dzembrons’ki Vodospady, a hidden gem in Ukraine's Carpathian Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Dzembrons’ki Vodospady, or Dzembronya Falls, were a sight to behold. Cascading down moss-covered rocks, the water shimmered and danced in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. I spent a long time simply sitting by the falls, listening to the soothing sound of the water and letting the cool spray mist my face. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the noise and demands of everyday life and simply be present in the beauty of nature.

Leaving Dzembronya, I made my way towards Narinetskyy Falls. This waterfall was different, more secluded and intimate. The path to it was a bit more challenging, requiring me to navigate through dense undergrowth and across rocky terrain. But the effort was well worth it. Narinetskyy Falls was a hidden oasis, a place where I felt completely alone with nature. I took some photos, wanting to capture its untouched beauty. I imagined Olena enjoying this place, perhaps one day I can bring her here to connect with our heritage.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Narinetskyy Falls in Tatariv - a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains.
By this time, my stomach was beginning to rumble again, so I made my way to Filvarok 12 for lunch. This restaurant was a delightful surprise, a charming establishment that exuded rustic elegance. The aroma of wood smoke and grilled meats filled the air, and the menu was filled with traditional Ukrainian dishes. I decided on banosh, a creamy cornmeal dish topped with bryndza cheese and crispy bacon bits. It was a hearty and satisfying meal, the perfect way to refuel after a day of hiking.


Discover the heart of Ukrainian cuisine at Filvarok 12 in Polyanytsya - where tradition meets flavor.

The beauty of the Carpathians lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the warmth and resilience of its people.

After lunch, I decided to indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping at Сувенірний Ринок. I wanted to find something special to bring back to Hans and Olena, a tangible reminder of my time in Ukraine. The market was a riot of colors and textures, a treasure trove of handcrafted goods. I browsed through intricately embroidered blouses, hand-painted wooden eggs, and colorful woven rugs. Finally, I settled on a delicate pysanka, a traditional Ukrainian Easter egg, for Olena and a hand-carved wooden pipe for Hans. I hoped they would appreciate these small tokens of my love and remembrance. The weather was turning quickly, and I was glad I had remembered my raincoat, though I had forgotten my portable phone charger.


Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs at Сувенірний Ринок, a charming gift shop in Vorokhta, Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, reflecting the region's rich culture.
As evening approached, I made my way to Hora for dinner. This restaurant was a bit more modern and upscale than the others I had visited, but it still retained a strong sense of Ukrainian identity. The menu featured a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. I ordered varenyky, those delicious dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese, and a glass of local wine. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover the culinary masterpiece of Hora in Polyanytsya - where exquisite flavors meet unforgettable experiences.
Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I had missed this part of the world. Being surrounded by the familiar sounds and smells of Ukraine, tasting the traditional dishes, and feeling the warmth of the people, it was like coming home. It reminded me of my childhood in Khmelnytskyi, of the simple joys of life and the importance of family and tradition. I felt a renewed sense of connection to my roots, a feeling that I knew would stay with me long after I returned to Germany.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the local area, including the Waterfall and the Museums in Trembitarya. I'm also looking forward to trying out Pub-4.5.0 for a taste of the local nightlife. But for now, I'm content to relax and reflect on the day's adventures, grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the Ukrainian Carpathians.