All about the Carpathians. Western Ukraine, region tree. What is worth seeing in Yaremche

We have all heard about vacations in Crimea: it was believed that “everyone should” vacation there, but most Russian residents have fragmentary knowledge about the Carpathians, a place that is becoming a popular destination for international tourism, although vacations in these areas today are very attractive and inexpensive .

Where are they located?

The Carpathians are an ancient mountain system, which is “shared” on the map of Europe by many countries, and, of course, in these territories there are many resort areas created specifically for active recreation. The ski and health resorts of the Carpathians attract tourists first of all: the nature here is amazingly beautiful, the level of service is close to Western European, but the holiday in general is much cheaper. The Carpathians are located on the territory of several countries: Romania, Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary; to a lesser extent – ​​Serbia and Austria

The places here are incredibly beautiful, there are many natural and cultural attractions, and you can come to the Carpathians all year round, but first, let’s talk about the climate.

Climate Features

The climate of the Carpathians can be called both temperate and mountainous: it is humid, but winters are not very cold. The sun shines often, the temperature is slightly below zero, and there are thaws - even in January. High in the mountains it is colder - up to -15°C, and sometimes -30°C, but this is rare. The highest mountain is considered to be Gerlachovsky Štit in Slovakia - 2655 m, and in Ukraine - Hoverla, 2061 m high - in the summer, ascents to this mountain are organized even for unprepared tourists.

From May to October the region is warm and sunny - 20-25°C, but there are also heavy rains - more often in the mountains. In summer, when going to the mountains, it is worth remembering the temperature difference: at night it gets cold there - about 0°C and colder. In winter, you can relax in comfort: there is a lot of snow - from November to May, although the ski season is considered to be from mid-December to March. It is in the Carpathians that ecotourism is now actively “gaining momentum”: nature here is little affected, and therefore the landscapes are amazingly beautiful - tourists have an unforgettable experience.

As for the cultural and historical attractions of the Carpathians, you can’t talk about them briefly: on the territory of Ukraine alone - not to mention Romania and other countries of south-eastern Europe - there are dozens of ancient castles and temples built back in the Middle Ages. But we will try to briefly talk about some of the resorts of the Carpathians, where you can relax, see the sights and beautiful places, have fun and restore your health: in every country that is lucky enough to own at least a “piece” of the Carpathians, their territory is used to build resorts, sanatoriums, parks and reserves.

Sunny glade of Romania

The Romanian Carpathians rank second in size among European mountain ranges, and “cover” 1/3 of the country’s territory. The majestic mountains, rich in volcanoes and minerals, glaciers and caves, are home to modern ski resorts.

The most famous resort is Poiana Brasov, located in a convenient valley where there are many sunny days. It appeared at the end of the 19th century as a place for recreation and entertainment: then you could walk here, play sports, ride horseback and ski. At the beginning of the 20th century, Poiana Brasov became very famous among locals and foreigners; it does not lose popularity even now, and is generally considered elite.

Summer here is cool due to the mountain climate, but there are many opportunities for recreation: swimming pools and gyms, national restaurants, bars and discos; You can play bowling, horse riding and an artificial ice skating rink. In winter, ski lovers can be completely happy here: Poiana Brasov has 10 ski slopes, and all are different - even beginner skiers and snowboarders will find many excellent opportunities for themselves. The hotels are located right in the coniferous forests: cars are not allowed - horses are used, so the air is always transparent and clean.

Polish Beskids - rivals of the Alps

Part of the Western Carpathians “enters” the territory of Poland – here they are called the Beskids. The famous Polish resort of Szczyrk is located at the foot of two high mountains - Skrzyczne and Klimczok: they say that it is not inferior in terms of service and development to the most famous European resorts, and even surpasses them in the beauty of the landscapes. Tourists, and especially skiers, have long appreciated the mild climate here: there is almost no strong wind, and winter temperatures seem very comfortable to residents of various regions - the thermometer usually shows just below 0°C.

Tatra Mountains of Slovakia

The Slovak Carpathians are called by a sonorous word - the Tatras, and the High Tatras are indeed the highest part of the Carpathians. The climate is reminiscent of the Alpine, but many mountains are covered with green spruce forests, so the air here is surprisingly clean and healthy. About 50 years ago, these places were declared protected areas, and the main resorts are Smokovec, Tatranska Lomnica and Strbske Pleso. It’s convenient to come here: the resorts are connected by railway, and not only European tourists like to relax in the High Tatras.

The oldest resort in the country is called Smokovec, which is divided into several ski regions. The local hotels and guesthouses seem to be built into the mountain landscape: classic buildings in the local style look natural on the slopes covered with coniferous forests. Here, if you wish, you can climb with a guide to the highest peak of the Carpathians - Gerlachovsky Shtit.

Tatranska Lomnica has the “glory” of a youth resort: you can ski until May, and the network of nightlife and other entertainment venues is well developed. Several trails are designed only for professionals - they are dangerous for beginners, but beginners can ski at the foot of Mount Lomnicky Štit, on gentle slopes. Not far from the resort there are ancient castles, a water park and other local attractions, so your vacation can not be limited to skiing and visiting entertainment venues.

The resort of Strbske Pleso is popular among those who like to relax with families: there are many trails for beginners and for children. There are ski schools, so those who are trying to ski for the first time can come here; gear and equipment can be rented at numerous rental centers.

White Carpathians – flower paradise

This is a landmark of the Czech Republic - a beautiful national park, on the territory of which there are resort towns that receive many guests for recreation and treatment. There are many interesting routes in the mountains: you can walk, ride a horse or bike, or raft along rivers. In winter, excellent conditions are created for skiers and snowboarders - from November to April, and those who do not like to ski on the slopes can enjoy skiing on the adjacent plains - routes are also laid there. The White Carpathians are rich in rare trees, flowers and herbs: there are about 2000 high-mountain plant species alone - flowering in the mountains begins in early spring and continues until late autumn. Magnificent beauty, it is a must see.

A great Hungarian holiday for the whole family

There are not many resorts in the Hungarian (Western) Carpathians, but in recent years they have become increasingly lively: people come here not only from European countries, and our compatriots also rate holidays in Hungary very highly.

About 100 km from Budapest there is a recreation area called Matra - in the mountain range of the same name. The mountains here are overgrown with forests of oaks and beeches - the air is clean and healthy, and in the summer a lot of fruits ripen in the surrounding gardens. The vineyards of these places are a special topic: the best wine in Hungary is made here, and it is known far beyond the country’s borders - vacationers have a great opportunity to try many varieties “in the original”.

In winter, the resort creates excellent conditions for relaxation with the whole family: the slopes of the Hungarian mountains are quite gentle, so beginners and amateurs often ski on them; It’s true that professionals also like to come here, but they skate more often in the evening and at night, when the powerful lamps come on - it’s more interesting for them.

There is also a toboggan run, as well as a ski school: in a few days, experienced instructors help even those who are skiing for the first time in their lives - both children and adults - learn how to ski well on gentle slopes. The ski slopes on Matra are now called the best in Hungary and one of the best in Europe: they stretch and wind through the mountains for almost 3500 m, and there is snow here for more than 3 months a year, from December to the end of March. However, if there is a need to “add” it, modern snow cannons start working - everyone has time to ride.

A little to the northeast is the Bükk resort - it is considered the largest ski park in the country. More precisely, the park is called Bükkom, and the ski resort itself is called Bankut. There are also trails for beginners here, but there are more opportunities for experienced skiers. Not far away, in a separate complex, you can not only relax and have fun, but also be treated in thermal springs, healing pools and baths; Local water is also taken orally for medicinal purposes.

In addition, the territory of Bükka is very beautiful and attractive for lovers of unusual beauty: there are at least a thousand natural caves with unique natural decorations.

Serbian Carpathians – beautiful places

Among the resorts in Serbia, Kopaonik is considered the best, but it is located in a different mountain range.

Another famous ski and climatic resort of the country, Stara Planina, is located in the Carpathians. Here is also the highest mountain in Serbia - Mizdor, the peak of which is called Babin's Tooth - a protected reserve has been established there. There has been snow for almost 5 months, and winter sports are actively developing - the area is considered very promising.

A few years ago they opened the Academy of Winter Sports, and now anyone can become a real professional if they have enough patience and perseverance to practice. The Academy trains athletes and coaches, but amateurs can also study if they wish. You can master skiing and snowboarding, improve your skills, or become an instructor yourself.

During the warm season, ascents are organized to Mount Babin Zub: it is better to go there from June to September. The level of difficulty may vary, but you don’t need to be an experienced climber to climb to the top: complex equipment is not needed in most cases, and any “conditionally healthy” tourist can test his endurance.

Sights of Ukrainian places

There are a lot of resorts and attractions in the Ukrainian Carpathians, so it is better to briefly talk about recreation opportunities in general. Even if you come here every year, it is unlikely that you will be able to see at least half of the beautiful places and wonders.

To begin with, the local nature amazes with its preserved richness and diversity: mountain lakes with the purest water are home to trout and other valuable fish, many species of local animals are considered rare, and many plants are endemic. There are very beautiful places here, the Carpathians in Ukraine are just a fairy tale.

It is still worth mentioning separately about one beautiful place - Lake Synevyr, located almost a kilometer above sea level, and considered the most beautiful and largest in the Ukrainian Carpathians. The water in it is clear, but from a bird's eye view it looks blue; the lake is framed by the bright greenery of forests - they say that the reservoir is more than 10,000 years old. It cannot be called very deep, but the depth is impressive - up to 22 m; the water is cold - no higher than 11°C even in summer, and you cannot swim in Synevyr. However, you can relax here for a nominal fee, although vacationers are strictly monitored: there is a lot of trout in the lake, but catching it is strictly prohibited, as is hunting local animals - deer, roe deer and predators.

The deep Carpathian rivers are used for timber rafting, but this is also monitored - the ecological balance should not be disturbed. There are no rocks in these places, the relief is calm and smooth - they say that in this sense the Carpathians have an even character.

There are many hundreds of different mineral springs in the Ukrainian Carpathians, so there are many health resorts and sanatoriums here: almost every region has its own types of medicinal waters. So, everyone knows the water from Truskavets - Naftusya, which has practically no analogues in the world. Naftusya is universal: it is used to treat various inflammations and pains, diseases of the kidneys, liver and biliary tract, gastrointestinal tract, nervous and endocrine systems. In many sanatoriums, patients are literally treated with air saturated with phytoncides of coniferous trees, and the properties of water complement its effect: other medications become unnecessary.

The main ski resorts have mild winters - 6°C below zero is considered severe frost - and a lot of snow, so their popularity is growing every year. Infrastructure and services are developing accordingly: local authorities have been actively using all opportunities for growth and development in recent years. There are ski schools everywhere, the slopes are well-maintained, the ski lifts work, and renting equipment has become as easy as in European resorts.

When the ski season ends, “overland” tourism begins: you can choose routes for every taste and age - walking, horseback riding or cycling. The local Carpathians are full of not only natural beauty, but also cultural and historical attractions - for example, castles and colorful mountain villages with unique customs and traditions.

Modern entertainment also allows you to relax and have fun from the heart: there are enough entertainment venues, cafes and restaurants, but Carpathian cuisine needs to be discussed separately.

There are many advantages to vacationing in the Carpathians, but the hospitality of the locals is called “unlimited”: most tourists who come here retain pleasant memories of their vacation and only positive emotions for a long time.

Is it worth going to the Carpathians?

There are wonderful mountain climatic resorts in the southern part of the Western Carpathians - in Hungary; and in the Serbian Carpathians, where there are dozens of mineral springs; and, of course, in Ukraine, where Bukovel alone receives hundreds of thousands of tourists a year - a couple of years ago it was named the world's fastest growing ski resort.

They say that in the Carpathians, residents of large cities, exhausted by the accelerated pace of life, constant noise and polluted atmosphere, find a second wind. They also say that in these mountains everything is real: nature, food, fun, and people, so there’s hardly any point in thinking about it – you should definitely go to the Carpathians.

Dear readers, please don't forget to subscribe to our channel at

Another vacation was approaching. My friends and I decided to go on vacation. Between by sea and hiking in the mountains we chose the second option. Our choice fell on Carpathians, because the friends who were already there described everything so beautifully for us that there were simply no other options. The mountains were calling to us, and we carefully planned our trip.

Where are the Carpathians located?

From geography lessons I remember that The Carpathians are located in Central and Eastern Europe, and are divided into internal and external, which in turn are divided into western and eastern. Also The Carpathians are located on the territory of seven states. Probably, every country has its own zest, but I were interested in the Eastern Carpathians. For our small company the easiest thing was visit the Carpathians in Ukraine, because it is inexpensive and there are no problems with transport. Getting to the beginning of the route was not at all difficult, but this is a slightly different story, like our adventures along the route.

Routes of the Eastern Carpathians

Everyone knows that The Eastern Carpathians are located on the territory of Ukraine and Romania, as well as partly in Poland. In order to get to the mountains, you need to go to Ivano-Frankivsk or Transcarpathian region.

We decided go to the Transcarpathian region to walk the route along the Marmarosh ridge, which starts in Rakhiv district. Here we found ourselves in the border zone, and therefore we had to take permission in order to go along the planned route. We went to the mountains from the village of Delovoe (this is where the sign that symbolizes the center of Europe is located).

Our goal was to climb Mount Pop Ivan Marmaroshsky (height 1932 meters). On the mountain we discovered pillars that separate the borders of the two states. Interestingly, to the highest point Marmaros, which is located in Romania - Mount Farkeu, whose height is 1961 meters, You can go through without permission from the Romanian border guards, but they definitely won’t let you in any further.

If you open any geography reference book, you will see that The Western Carpathians are located on the territory of Serbia, Hungary, where mountains occupy a very small part of the country, and also in Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland.

When we were traveling on the train from Ivano-Frankivsk, there was a guy in our compartment who works as a conductor in the Carpathians. He said that There are many interesting and unique places in the Western Carpathians. For example, it is best to go to Poland for a ski holiday. There is an excellent resort there. He also advised go to Hungary, there mountains occupy a very small part of the country, but it is in this country The highest point of the Carpathians is located, Mount Gerlachovsky Shtit,height which reaches 2655 meters.

For myself, I have identified several obvious advantages of going to the mountains:

• beautiful nature, beautiful landscapes;
• fresh air;
• an opportunity to take a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.

In fact the Carpathians are very cool, it’s not for nothing that they say that The only things better than mountains are mountains.

Hoverla is translated from Romanian as a difficult hill. This is the name of the highest mountain in Ukraine. It rises 2061 meters above sea level. Tourists are interested in this point for its possibilities of conquering it. The first such campaign took place in 1880.

The mountain is located 17 kilometers from the border with Romania, part of the Chornohora ridge in the Carpathians. From the mountain, when it is clear, you have a view of the cities of Snyatyn, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kolomyia, you can see Mount Pop Ivan and the White Elephant Observatory.

The Prut River originates near Goverla. Here you can admire the cascade of waterfalls. According to legend, the Prut River arose from the tears of a young man in love. His beloved's name was Goverla. The girl's father didn't want his daughter to date a guy he didn't like, so he turned her into a mountain. But the lovers still remained together forever, this is Mount Goverla and the Prut River.

Coordinates: 48.16562700,24.49596900

Yaremche

A wonderful place to relax! At the entrance to the souvenir market there is a bridge under which a river flows and a waterfall falls. Near the market there is a restaurant made of wood, which was built without a single nail.

And what is the market itself worth - souvenirs for every taste and pocket! Colorful people, beautiful nature.

There are many hotels in the city. You can come in the summer - feel the wonderful mountain air, go to the mountains to admire nature, cool off in mountain rivers, when a stormy stream of water washes your body, no Jacuzzi is even close. There are also places for extreme sports enthusiasts to ride bikes or go kayaking. In winter, this place is suitable for lovers of skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. Don't forget to warm up in the colorful local Kolyba! There you can eat delicious food, drink and just have a good time.

Yaremche is a great, soulful place!

What sights of the Carpathians did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

Carpathian mountains

Karpa "you (Ukrainian Karpati, German Karpaten, Slovak Karpaty, Hung. Ká rpá tok, Roman Carpaţ i, Serbian Karpati) is a mountain system in Central Europe, on the territory of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine (Transcarpathian, Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk region), Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and partly Austria (Hundsheimer Berge near Hainburg an der Donau and Niederösterreichische Inselbergschwelle near Mistelbach).

The absolute heights of the mountain system range from 120-400 m at the foot of the mountains to 500-800 m in the intermountain depressions and 1500-2000 m along the main ridges. Mountains over 2000 m high: Hoverla (2061 m) - the highest point in Ukraine.

The wooden Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is one of the best examples of Hutsul folk architecture. Built using traditional technologies without a single nail in 1654-57. in the neighboring village Yablonitsa. The church was moved to its current location in 1780. Fragments of wall paintings from the 19th century have been preserved in the interior. Next to it there is a two-tier wooden bell tower, which houses the exposition of the church museum. In 1979, the temple was restored by architects B. Kindzelsky, G. Kruk, I. Mogitich.

Arch bridge

A large stone arched railway bridge-viaduct from Austrian times connects the two banks of the Prut River. The Yaremcha-Verkhovyna highway passes under it. The bridge was built in 1895 during the construction of the Stanislav (Ivano-Frankivsk) - Yaremcha - Vorokhta - Rakhiv railway. The length of the bridge exceeds 100 m. It is still used for its intended purpose. Nearby there is another old Austrian bridge, which is considered one of the longest stone railway bridges in Europe (130 m).

Kosovo Bazaar

Kosovo Bazaar is a traditional Hutsul fair in the city of Kosovo, the largest in the Carpathian region. Almost all products of Hutsul decorative and applied art are presented here: ceramic dishes, carpets, embroidered clothing, iron, leather, and fur products. Souvenir products are offered at wholesale prices. Previously, the fair was held in the center of Kosovo. Now the bazaar has been moved to the eastern outskirts of the city, to a vast shopping area next to the Kutsky Bridge (Kosov-Kuty St. 48°18"59""N, 25°6"42""E). The Great Kosovo Bazaar is open only on Saturday early morning (from 4:00 to 10:00). The rest of the time, branded souvenir pavilions of the best Kosovo folk craftsmen are open in the very center of the city, next to the old Kosovo Bazaar.

Trufanets Waterfall

The Trufanets waterfall in the Ukrainian Carpathians is the highest natural waterfall in Transcarpathia. Its height is 36 meters. It can be found near the Yasinya-Rakhiv highway, 2 kilometers from the turn to Dragobrat. The waterfall is located on the southeastern slopes of the Svydovetsky ridge, on the Trufanets stream, the right tributary of the Chernaya Tisa River.

The stream originates in the subalpine zone at an altitude of 1720 meters, at the foot of Mount Bliznitsa. The length of the stream is 2830 meters.

The waterfall forms several cascades. In the forest it partially, for 230 meters, flows underground. Near the waterfall there are steps and a gazebo (gazebo), from which you can look at it up close. Trufanets Waterfall is a hydrological natural monument.

Coordinates: 48.21415000,24.30233000

Are you interested in knowing how well you know the sights of the Carpathians? .

Prut River Valley

The valley of the Prut River (the left tributary of the Danube) is one of the most picturesque places in the Carpathians. The place is distinguished by a mild climate and an amazing variety of flora and fauna. Transparent lakes, clean rivers, bubbling waterfalls and fresh air create excellent conditions for a family holiday.

The most famous resort in the valley is the small cozy town of Yaremche. There are many cafes, shops, holiday homes and hotels where you can stay. Near the city there are the Probiy waterfall and the Yaremchansky canyon, the most interesting area for rafting. What is noteworthy is that there is an asphalt road along almost the entire site. In winter, lovers of active recreation also come here - forty kilometers from Yaremche there is the Bukovel ski center, which is rightfully considered the best in Ukraine.

In the river valley there are many more picturesque towns and villages that attract tourists with their hospitality, excursions and even the opportunity to pick mushrooms and berries. Among them is the village. Vorokhta, s. Mykulychyn, s. Tatarov, s. Polnitsa, s. Yablunitsa.

Coordinates: 48.45361100,24.55638900

The most popular attractions in the Carpathians with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in the Carpathians on our website.

More attractions of the Carpathians

The Carpathians are a huge mountain system in the central part of Europe which passes through Slovakia, Ukraine, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Austria.

These mountains are located closer to the western part of Ukraine and have an average length of 280 km. The relief here is multi-tiered, there are foothill, low-mountain, mid-mountain and high-mountain areas. Their height can reach 2000 m.

These places are distinguished by particularly clean air and beautiful open spaces, which of course cannot but attract tourists and climbers. We hope that you will no longer be tormented by the question - where are the Carpathians.

The Carpathians are located in four regions of Ukraine:

• Chernivtsi;
• Transcarpathian;
• Lviv;
• Ivano-Frankivsk.

The most popular mountains among tourists are:

• Hoverla;
• Pop-Ivan;
• Petros;
• Hamster.

The height of these mountains sometimes exceeds 2000m, which is why they attract tourists. The atmosphere around is fascinating: virgin nature, clean air, absence of people, variety of trees, plants and aromas.

In addition to the stunning scenery, tourists, as well as local residents, are attracted here by fishing. Rivers of the Carpathians rich in a wide variety of fish.

It is not difficult to determine where the Carpathians may be located on the world map, since they occupy an impressive territory and are highlighted in brown.

Click on the map to enlarge

The Carpathians can be divided into 3 parts according to geographical location: Southern, Western, Eastern. Western Carpathians - Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland. The highest point of the Carpathians is located on Mount Gerlach, whose height is 2655 m. In turn, all the Southern Carpathians are located in Romania, and almost the entire part of the Eastern Carpathians is located in Ukraine.

Usually, the most active tourism in the Carpathians in winter. From mid-autumn, the first snow appears here and vacationers come in anticipation of the beginning, warming mulled wine and a good mood.

Recently, the Carpathians have become one of the most preferred places for a ski holiday. Summer holidays here have their own charm. Everyone can choose something they like:

• swimming in rivers;
• interact with different animals on farm yards;
• take up your favorite folk craft.

Without a doubt, the most famous and popular mountains in Europe are the Alps. But in this part of the world there is another mountain system that is inferior to the Alps in height, but superior to them in size. And it also attracts great attention from tourists and winter holiday enthusiasts. Where are the Carpathians? In which countries are they located? When were these mountains formed, and why are they interesting?

"Stone Mountains"

The word “Carpathians” evokes approximately the same images and scenes in everyone: a dark forest, thick fog creeping along the slopes, molfar sorcerers and, of course, the castle of the famous Count Dracula. These mountains are truly shrouded in a certain aura of mysticism and mystery. But not everyone knows exactly where the Carpathians are and when they were formed.

The name of this mountain system was first used by Claudius Ptolemy in the second century AD. It is also found in the works of Herodotus. In particular, the “father of history” mentions the Karpis River. It is believed that this tributary of the Danube took its name from the mountains from whose slopes it flows.

The word “Carpathians” itself, according to some researchers, comes from the name of the Thracian tribe “Carps”, who lived in this territory in the 3rd-4th centuries. Other scholars associate it with the Proto-European word kar, which translates as “stone.” True, it’s a stretch to call the Carpathians “stone mountains.” After all, most of the mountain system is represented by gentle valleys and peaks with smooth outlines, where rocky ledges and pointed peaks are extremely rare.

However, there is a third version that connects the origin of the toponym with the Slavic word “khrb”, which means “ridge”. Considering where the Carpathians are located, this version looks quite plausible. After all, it was the Slavic tribes and peoples who developed and inhabited this area for many centuries.

Where are the Carpathians: countries and major cities

The total area of ​​the mountain system is 190 thousand square kilometers, its length is 1,500 kilometers. Where are the Carpathian Mountains? They are located in the eastern part of Central Europe. On the map they form an arc, which in geological terms is a branch of the Alpine-Himalayan folded region.

In which states are the Carpathians located? Where are their natural boundaries? The mountain system covers the territories of eight European countries. This:

1. Czech Republic.
2. Poland.
3. Slovakia.
4. Ukraine.
5. Hungary.
6. Romania.
7. Serbia.
8. Austria.

About 70% of the total area of ​​the Carpathian mountainous country falls on two states - Romania and Ukraine. But only its extreme western spurs enter Austria. The largest cities located within the Carpathian Mountains:

1. Bielsko-Biala (Poland).
2. Zakopane (Poland).
3. Banska Bystrica (Slovakia).
4. Kosice (Slovakia).
5. Zilina (Slovakia).
6. Cluj-Napoca (Romania).
7. Brasov (Romania).
8. Oradea (Romania).
9. Sibiu (Romania).
10. Uzhgorod (Ukraine).
11. Kolomyia (Ukraine).
12. Vršac (Serbia).

This is where the Carpathians are located. It remains to find out what parts this mountain system consists of.

Structure of the Carpathians

The Carpathian Mountains consist of eight orographic parts (see map below):

1. Outer Western Carpathians.
2. Inner Western Carpathians.
3. Outer Eastern Carpathians.
4. Inner Eastern Carpathians.
5. Southern Carpathians.
6. Western Romanian Carpathians.
7. Transylvanian plateau.
8. Serbian Carpathians.

In addition, within the mountain system there are a number of separate massifs: Beskydy, Ore Mountains, Tatras (the highest part of the Carpathians), Gorgany, Rodna, Pieniny, Fagarash and others. The average heights of the Carpathian Mountains range from 800-1200 meters. The highest point is Mount Gerlachovsky Stit.

Carpathian Mountains: main features and interesting facts

Here are some of them:

1. Despite their low heights and gentle shapes, the Carpathians are young mountains. They arose at approximately the same time (by geological standards, of course) as the Alps and Himalayas.
2. Mountain building processes in the Carpathians continue to this day. This is evidenced by earthquakes that are regularly recorded here. The strength of individual shocks reaches 5-7 points on the Richter scale.
3. The Carpathians were once characterized by active volcanic activity. Cones of extinct volcanoes can be seen in the vicinity of Uzhgorod, Mukachevo and Khust.
4. The Carpathian subsoil is rich in numerous minerals. The main mineral wealth of the mountain system is oil, gas, ozokerite, marble and gold.
5. The width of the Carpathian Mountains in some places reaches 450 kilometers.
6. The Alps are separated from the Carpathians by only 14 kilometers. The border between the two largest mountain systems in Europe lies precisely between Vienna and Bratislava.
7. At the beginning of the twentieth century, numerous remains of prehistoric animals were discovered in the mountainous country - mammoths, huge deer and various birds.
8. The Carpathians are considered the birthplace of the world's largest musical instrument - the trembita. The length of this wooden tube is 4 meters. It is capable of spreading sound over 10-20 kilometers.

Origin and age of the Carpathian Mountains

Long before the formation of the modern mountain system, in its place there was a chain of ridges connecting the Sudetenland with Dobruja (a hill in Romania). Geologists call it Prakarpaty. Subsequently, these mountains were destroyed by powerful movements of the earth's crust, and in their place by the beginning of the Mesozoic, an almost flat plain formed.

The age of the Carpathian geosyncline is quite “young” - only 25 million years. The process of formation of the mountainous country began at the end of the Paleogene period and occurred gradually. The structures of the Outer Carpathians were the first to emerge. For quite a long time, the sea splashed between the outer and inner ridges of the Carpathian Mountains. During its existence, thick layers of sand deposits have accumulated here.

Climate and flora of the Carpathians

The climate of the territory is moderate continental and quite humid. Average temperatures in July are +17…20 °C, in January from –2 to –5 °C. Precipitation ranges from 600 to 2000 mm per year.

In the Carpathians, the altitudinal zonation of the landscapes is clearly visible. Broad-leaved and mixed forests grow up to a height of 600 meters, from 600 to 1500 meters there are dark coniferous forests, and even higher there are low-growing shrubs. The peaks of many Carpathian mountains are covered with subalpine meadows. In the Ukrainian Carpathians they came up with their own name - “poloniny”.

In the Carpathian forests you can most often find Norway spruce, fir and beech. Also common are oak, hornbeam, pine, alder, birch and larch. The lower tier is occupied by thickets of raspberries, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries.

The main resorts of the Carpathians

Where are the most popular ski resorts in the Carpathians located and what are their names? And what are they? The most famous Carpathian resorts usually include Bukovel, Dragobrat, Slavske (Ukraine); Zakopane, Szczyrk, Karpacz, Krynica (Poland), Poianu Brasov, Sinaia, Predeal (Romania), Jasnu (Slovakia).

Zakopane is perhaps the best ski resort in the Carpathians. Where are its tracks? The resort is located in the southern part of Poland, in a small town with the same name. The total length of its routes is 60 kilometers. They are designed for all categories of skiers - from beginners to professionals. The skiing season lasts from late October to mid-April.

Bukovel is the main Ukrainian ski resort, which is located in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. It features quality trails and excellent infrastructure. Ideal snow cover persists here from the beginning of December until the end of April.

Famous peaks

Gerlachovsky Shtit (2654 m) is the highest mountain in the Carpathians. It is located on the territory of Slovakia, near the city of Gerlachov. Today the mountain is very popular among tourists. However, climbing to its peak requires serious preparation and is only allowed with an experienced guide.

Hoverla (2061 m) is the highest point of the Ukrainian Carpathians, located within the Montenegrin ridge. Climbing this mountain is relatively easy, so in the summer dozens of tourists conquer its peak every day. Hoverla is famous for the fact that the largest river in Eastern Europe, the Prut, originates from its slopes.

Moldoveanu (2544 m) is the highest peak in Romania. Located in the heart of the country, within the Fagaras mountain range. Climbing Moldovyana is a little more difficult than Goverla, but its conquest does not cause any particular difficulties for experienced tourists.