Solo Hiking Adventure to Hoverla Mountain

Whispers of the Carpathians

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty and vibrant culture of Yaremche. Leaving the cozy Restauracja after a hearty breakfast, I set out to explore the natural wonders and local crafts that this charming town has to offer. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing change from the bustling streets of Leipzig. I was eager to immerse myself in the heart of the Carpathians, ready for a day filled with cascading waters and ancient legends.

My first stop was the renowned Waterfall Probiy. The roar of the water grew louder as I approached, a symphony of nature's power. The weather in Probiy was cloudy with a temperature of 11°C, creating a misty atmosphere that added to the waterfall's mystique. It was a short walk from the center of Yaremche, and I could already see other tourists gathering, their faces lit with anticipation. I remember visiting waterfalls with Olena when she was a little girl; her eyes would always widen with wonder at the sight of the cascading water. This memory made me smile as I approached the viewing platform.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Waterfall Probiy in Yaremche, a must-visit natural attraction in Ukraine's Carpathian Mountains.

The Waterfall Probiy, also known as Yaremche Waterfall, is indeed one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Ukrainian Carpathians. Though its height is only about 8 meters, the angle of the water crashing down at almost 45 degrees makes it a spectacular sight. A bridge stands just above the waterfall, offering a thrilling vantage point. The spray from the falls kissed my face as I gazed at the turbulent water, feeling the energy of the Prut River coursing through the rocks. I could almost feel the Hutsuls' belief that the places near mountain waterfalls have powerful energy. It felt easy to breathe near the waterfall, the ionized air filled with the scent of the Carpathian forests.

The mountains whisper stories of resilience, the rivers sing songs of freedom, and the heart finds solace in the embrace of nature's grandeur.

After taking in the breathtaking views of Probiy, I ventured towards Stezhka Dovbusha, a trail steeped in history and legend. It was a short bus ride from the waterfall, and the landscape transformed as I ascended into the mountains. The weather in Dovbusha was rainy and snowy, with a temperature of 0°C. I was glad I had packed my warmest clothes, though I regretted forgetting my raincoat. As I began my hike, I was immediately enveloped by the serene beauty of the Carpathian National Nature Park. The trail meandered through a dense forest of towering pine trees, their branches reaching towards the sky like ancient arms. The air was thick with the scent of pine needles and damp earth, a fragrance that instantly transported me back to my childhood summers spent in the Ukrainian countryside.


Explore the breathtaking Stezhka Dovbusha in Ukraine's Carpathians, a hiking trail rich in natural beauty and folklore, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Stezhka Dovbusha is named after the legendary folk hero Oleksa Dovbush, who is said to have roamed these very paths. Dovbush was a Robin Hood-like figure who fought for the poor and oppressed, and the trail is dotted with caves and rock formations where he and his men supposedly hid from their enemies. As I walked, I imagined Dovbush and his comrades traversing these mountains, their spirits forever etched into the landscape. The trail itself is of medium complexity, with a smooth ascent up Mount Makovytsia. The path was well-marked, but there were still plenty of opportunities to veer off the main track and explore the surrounding wilderness. I took my time, savoring the solitude and the stunning views that unfolded at every turn.

The rock formations along Stezhka Dovbusha were truly remarkable, with towering cliffs and hidden grottoes that seemed to whisper secrets of the past. I paused at one particularly impressive rock formation, known as the Dovbush Rocks, and imagined Oleksa Dovbush himself standing there, surveying his domain. The views from the trail were simply breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. The peaks were shrouded in a light mist, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the place. I felt a deep connection to the land, a sense of belonging that only comes from being in touch with one's roots. I thought of Hans and how much he would have loved this hike. He always appreciated the beauty of nature, and I made a mental note to bring him here someday.

After a few hours of hiking, I descended from Stezhka Dovbusha, my legs tired but my spirit rejuvenated. It was time to explore the local culture of Yaremche, and I headed towards the town's famous Vyshyvanka market. As I strolled through the market, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts, known as Vyshyvanky. These shirts are more than just clothing; they are symbols of Ukrainian identity and heritage, each region boasting its own unique patterns and styles. I ran my fingers over the delicate embroidery, admiring the skill and artistry of the local artisans.

I visited Vyshyvanka shop, where I was immediately drawn to a beautiful linen dress adorned with intricate floral embroidery. The colors were vibrant, and the craftsmanship was exquisite. I tried it on, and it fit perfectly. I knew I had to have it. It felt like a tangible connection to my homeland, a way to carry a piece of Ukraine with me wherever I go. I imagined wearing it to one of the local Ukrainian community events in Leipzig, a proud display of my heritage. I also picked up a small embroidered shirt for Olena, a token of my love and a reminder of her Ukrainian roots.

After a few hours of hiking, I descended from Stezhka Dovbusha, my legs tired but my spirit rejuvenated. It was time to explore the local culture of Yaremche, and I headed towards the town's famous Vyshyvanka market. As I strolled through the market, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts, known as Vyshyvanky. These shirts are more than just clothing; they are symbols of Ukrainian identity and heritage, each region boasting its own unique patterns and styles. I ran my fingers over the delicate embroidery, admiring the skill and artistry of the local artisans.

I visited Vyshyvanka shop, where I was immediately drawn to a beautiful linen dress adorned with intricate floral embroidery. The colors were vibrant, and the craftsmanship was exquisite. I tried it on, and it fit perfectly. I knew I had to have it. It felt like a tangible connection to my homeland, a way to carry a piece of Ukraine with me wherever I go. I imagined wearing it to one of the local Ukrainian community events in Leipzig, a proud display of my heritage. I also picked up a small embroidered shirt for Olena, a token of my love and a reminder of her Ukrainian roots.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Bokorash, a traditional Ukrainian restaurant, for dinner. The aroma of hearty, home-style cooking filled the air, and I felt immediately at ease. I ordered a plate of varenyky, plump dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese, and a bowl of borscht, the classic Ukrainian beet soup. The food was delicious, a comforting taste of home that warmed me from the inside out. As I savored each bite, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with my homeland and immerse myself in its natural beauty and rich culture.


Experience authentic Ukrainian cuisine at Bokorash in Kvasy – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Vodospad Trufanets’ and Polonyna Kukul, continuing my exploration of the Carpathian wonders. I might even stop by Jägermeister Apres Ski Zone - Bид на Говерлу for a drink, a perfect way to end another day of hiking. This solo journey is proving to be exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with my roots, find peace in solitude, and discover the enduring beauty of Ukraine. It is also worth noting that there are several events happening in Ukraine, such as the International Conference on History, Theory and Methodology of Learning in Kryvyi Rih and the Kyiv Security Forum, highlighting the country's resilience and continued cultural and intellectual activity. These events, along with the natural beauty of the Carpathians, make Ukraine a truly special place.

Back at my guesthouse, I unpacked my Vyshyvanka dress, carefully hanging it in the closet. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of cascading waterfalls, ancient forests, and the warm hospitality of the Ukrainian people. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this journey, a reminder of the enduring strength and beauty of my homeland.