Top 7 Spots in Transcarpathia for an Amazing Retreat in Nature

by Anastasia Semianova, Welcome Ukraine Today | 04 February 2022 | Ukraine Travel Guide

The very bright & authentic Transcarpathia, or Zakarpattya in Ukrainian, is located on the southwestern slopes and foothills of the Ukrainian Carpathians, that occupy about two-thirds of its territory.

This is the closest Ukrainian region to Europe, and both in the west and south borders countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. 


While planning your amazing holidays, don’t forget to learn about Covid19 rules for crossing Ukraine’s border. One of the mandatory terms is buying health insurance for entering Ukraine that covers coronavirus disease, treatment and emergency cases.


Welcome to this beautiful and hospitable land!

Zakarpattya really has its travel magnets! You will be sure to find many mountains and overall stunning nature, multinational traditions, delicious cuisine, wine, and friendly people.

The central town of Uzhhorod, or Uzhgorod, is famous for the magnificent sakura blossoms, that every year attract thousands of locals and foreign tourists to the area!

The old architecture of this town is bound to impress you, along with a famous linden alley, beautiful river banks, churches and museums. Take advantage of your visit in Uzhhorod to stock on souvenirs from the region, as you will find many shopping stalls available, as well as gastronomic delights!

One of the top venues to experience the local cuisine is the Detsa u Notarya restaurant. You can find their link on TripAdvisor here.

So, after this city break, let’s go and explore the top 7 incredible spots in Transcarpathia, or Zakarpattya, that you should visit next!


#1 Shipot Waterfall 

Located on the high slopes of Velykyi Verkh Mountain (1 598 m/5 243ft), this waterfall is one of the seven natural wonders of Ukraine, known for its incredibly beautiful cascading. The jets of crystal-clear water fall from an impressive height of 14 meters!

It is a very popular attraction among tourists because it is accessible in any season:

  • In the winter months it does not freeze completely, and in spring its streams are enhanced by beautiful flowing water from the winter snows.

  • The summer and autumn seasons are more popular, as the mountain slopes become covered with bright leaves, flowers and berries, which enhance its incredible natural landscape.




#2 Synevyr Lake

The Synevyr National Nature Park is very pristine and beautiful, and it’s where you will find this hidden gem!

Located in the centre of the Synevyr, when observed from above it will seem that a big blue eye is looking back at you. This is the reason why this lake is also known as the Sea Eye of the Carpathians.

Esoteric people believe that this lake is a place of strength and mystery, and every year thousands of tourists come here to experience it and enjoy the magnificent picturesque landscape.

Keep in mind that, because of its alpine location and depth of the lake, the crystal clear waters will stay very cold all year long, even during the warmest summers.



#3 Palanok Castle, Mukachevo

Located 68 meters high on a volcanic hill, this old castle and military structure is believed to be one of the greatest in Central Europe. The name of the premise originates from the local variety of oak, named palanca, and was built following the best traditions of medieval defence.

This castle is the highest point in Mukachevo, and a must-see landmark where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city, as well as an historical museum that is located inside.

Throughout its history, as far back as the 11th century, Palanok Castle has had many owners and rulers, survived many battles and wars, and served as a prison for almost 100 years.


#4 Kolochava Village


Kolochava is a picturesque village with very interesting monuments, including ten museums!

In the area you can enjoy fascinating walks in the mountains, as well as a very traditional and tasty local cuisine: expect a lot of potatoes, beans and meals with loads of cheese. The spicy meat bograch soup is a speciality of the region that you should definitely try, along with local wine!

The village is located close to the Synevyr Lake, as well as a Brown Bear Rehabilitation Center (also in Synevyr). Many visitors opt to observe these animals in their natural environment when visiting this area.

Among religious places you can find a unique wooden church of the Holy Spirit built in 1795 and a modern Orthodox monastery.



The most popular tourist place is the Old Village open-air museum, with ethnic exhibitions and vivid theatrical performances. Costumed historical reconstructions are also arranged near the bunkers of the Árpád defensive line, used during the Second World War.

Another unique and very popular cultural attraction is the Kolochava Narrow-Gauge Railway Museum.





#5 Seliska Cheese Dairy

Selyska Syrovarnia is a hot travel spot located in Nyzhnie Selyshche, or Down Village, by the town of  Khust. This local business has been operating since 2002, using only milk from the surrounding farms.

It is a very popular place amongst visitors who are interested in following the production phases of high quality organic cheese. You’ll be able to observe the production and taste several varieties, such as Khust, Seliskiy young, Seliskiy mature and Narcissus Karpat.




#6 Daffodils Valley

Daffodils Valley in Kireshi, Khust district, is a true miracle of nature. Every year in May it is covered with a magnificent white carpet of daffodils, attracting thousands of visitors every day.

Ever since the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the valley has been a protected area, and became part of the UNESCO international network of biosphere reserves in 1992.

Nowadays, travellers can only enjoy the incredible views from specially constructed raised platforms, and picking flowers is strictly prohibited!

The beautiful view from the platforms also makes it a very popular spot for photography and social media sharing!

#7 Kosino Spa & Thermal Waters

Kosino Thermal Waters. Image source: travel-monkey.com

The Kosino Thermal Complex is a modern, family friendly spa located in a magnificent 200-year-old oak grove, where you can experience the qualities of thermal and fresh waters in seven different pools!

For longer stays, rooms are available at the stylish thermal hotel Iváncsó Birtok, where you’ll be able to enjoy traditional Ukrainian, Hungarian, and even Italian national cuisines in the restaurant Charda.

Among other activities are unique Royal saunas, Kneipp baths, massage cabinet, gyms and more.

All in all, a holiday in Kosino is an amazing option to end your visit to the region with some relaxation!


We hope that you are now dreaming of visiting Zakarpattya!

If you were on the fence about choosing this wonderful country as your next holiday destination, I hope this list will be enough to convince you!

If you have any further questions, be it visa requirements to visit Ukraine or others, do not hesitate to check all the current information on the official website WelcomeUkraine.today to make your future trip safe and pleasant.

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