Bukovel is a popular ski resort located in the Carpathian Mountains of western Ukraine. While it is best known for its winter sports activities, there are still plenty of things to do and see during the fall season.
History of Bukovel Resort
Bukovel Resort was founded in 2000 by a group of investors who saw the potential of the Carpathian Mountains as a winter sports destination. The resort started with just a few ski lifts and a handful of slopes, but over the years, it has grown into one of the largest ski resorts in Eastern Europe.
Things to Do in Bukovel in fall
Hiking
Bukovel is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, making it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts. There are several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to challenging.
One popular hiking trail in Bukovel is the Dovbush Rocks trail. This trail leads through the forest and up to a series of large rock formations that are named after a legendary Ukrainian outlaw named Oleksa Dovbush. The trail is about 5 kilometers long and is of moderate difficulty.
Another great hiking option in Bukovel is the Hoverla trail. This trail leads to the highest peak in Ukraine, Mount Hoverla, which stands at 2,061 meters tall. The trail is about 14 kilometers long and is of moderate to difficult difficulty. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you’re looking for something a bit easier, there are also several shorter hiking trails around Bukovel that offer beautiful views of the area’s natural scenery. The Bukovel Waterfall trail, for example, leads to a picturesque waterfall that is about 8 meters tall.
Biking
The resort has several mountain biking trails that are perfect for exploring the scenic beauty of the region.
- Bukovel Bike Park: This park is specifically designed for downhill mountain biking, with a variety of jumps, drops, and other features that will challenge even the most experienced riders.
- Drahobrat Bike Park: Located near Bukovel, this park offers a range of trails for different skill levels, from beginner to expert. The trails wind through the forests and offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
- Hoverla Bike Trail: This trail is located near the town of Vorokhta and offers a challenging ride that takes you through forests and up steep inclines. The trail is not for beginners, but experienced riders will enjoy the technical challenges and stunning views.
- Yablunytsya Mountain Bike Trail: This trail is located in the Yablunytsya region and offers a mix of singletrack and fire road riding. The trail is suitable for intermediate riders and offers great views of the surrounding mountains.
- Bukovel Loop Trail: This trail is a 10-kilometer loop that takes you through the forests and up to a high point with stunning views of the Carpathian Mountains. The trail is suitable for intermediate riders and offers a great workout.
Ziplining
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, Bukovel has a zipline that takes you over the treetops, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.
Here are some of the most popular zipline options in the area:
- Bukovel ZipLine: This zipline is one of the longest in Europe, with a total length of 1.3 kilometers. It takes riders from the top of the Bukovel ski resort to the bottom, with stunning views of the mountains and forests along the way.
- Drahobrat SkyPark: This adventure park offers a range of activities, including a zipline that takes riders over the forest canopy for a thrilling experience. The zipline is 700 meters long and reaches speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour.
- Hoverla Zipline: Located near the town of Vorokhta, this zipline takes riders over a scenic valley with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The zipline is 550 meters long and reaches speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour.
- Carpathian Zipline: This zipline is located in the village of Tatariv and offers a thrilling ride over a river and through the forest. The zipline is 430 meters long and reaches speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour.
Horseback Riding
You can take a horseback ride through the mountains, enjoying the stunning scenery and fresh air.
Here are some of the most popular horseback riding options in the area:
- Bukovel Horse Riding: This stable offers guided horseback rides through the forests and fields surrounding Bukovel. Riders of all skill levels are welcome, and there are options for both short and long rides.
- Drahobrat Horse Riding: Located near Bukovel, this stable offers scenic horseback rides through the mountains and forests. Riders can choose from a variety of trails, ranging from short and easy to longer and more challenging.
- Horseriding in Verkhovyna: This stable offers horseback rides through the picturesque town of Verkhovyna and the surrounding countryside. Riders can choose from a variety of trails, including routes that take them through traditional Ukrainian villages and up into the mountains.
- Huzulska Legend Horse Riding: This stable offers guided horseback rides through the beautiful landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains. Riders can choose from a variety of trails, including routes that take them to waterfalls, mountain lakes, and other scenic destinations.
Ride mountain coaster
The mountain coaster is a popular attraction in Bukovel that offers visitors a thrilling ride down the mountain on a sled-like coaster.
Shopping
We stopped by multiple shops and I likes Bukovel Market the most. This outdoor market is located in the center of Bukovel and offers a range of goods, including local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Ukrainian clothing. It’s a great place to browse and find unique items to take home as gifts or keepsakes.
My experience visiting Bukovel
A long ago I learned how to ski in Votohta and Yablinirza during my college years. So, visiting Bukovel brought a lot of memories and happy tears. We got to Bukovel late afternoon, soent couple of hour exploring the area. We stopped by P’yana Vishnya(Drunken Cherry) bar for traditional cherry nalivka and then took a lift up the mountain. The view from the lift was stunning. On the top we hiked couple of trails and then rode mountain coaster down. Later, we had dinner in Salo restaurant which was amazing.
Next day we walked around the lake, bought couple of souvenirs and drove back to Kiev with a stop at Khotyn Fortress. It was hard to believe how small ski mountains were transformed into large world-class skiing resort.
Places to eat in Bukovel
Restaurant Salo – This restaurant is famous for its traditional Ukrainian cuisine, including salo (pork fat), borsch (beet soup), and varenyky (dumplings).
Biker’s Cafe – This cafe is a great spot to grab a coffee or a beer and enjoy the view of the mountains.
Villa Roma – This Italian restaurant offers a variety of pizza and pasta dishes, as well as a selection of wines.
Where to Stay in Bukovel
Radisson Blu Resort Bukovel – This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Bukovel and offers luxurious accommodation, as well as a spa and wellness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and several dining options.
Bukovel Hotel – This hotel is located close to the ski lifts and offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and several dining options.
