«Destinations» rounds up a list of alternative to «Bukovel» ski destinations to try out this winter. All of them are scattered around Ivano Frankivsk region. Many of these ski areas boast great selection of affordable accommodation options and newly constructed ski lifts, others can’t stand the competition comfort-wise, however will awe its visitors with pristine vistas of untouched Carpathian forests.
Read: Radisson Blu Resort, Bukovel: Outstanding Opportunities for Guests

Kosiv

Kosiv is more known among travelers as the place where one of the biggest souvenir markets is located. Every day hundreds of people stop by to stock up on authentic and traditional Carpathian goods, such as wool handmade socks and vests, artisan kitchenware, beautiful embroidery blouses, natural honey, jams and herbal teas.
Not many know though that «Hutsul’shchyna» local natural park offers a 1200 m slope with breathtaking views over natural preserve. There is a single surface lift. The slope will be good choice for average skiers and beginners. Here one can enjoy a free ride skiing and authentic après-ski experience in the local bar at the bottom of the mountain.

Sheshory

Many travelers come to Sheshory to enjoy nice views over Silver Waterfalls and Pystyn’ River. Sheshsory town is located on the other side of «Hutsul’shchyna» natural park, 13 kilometers away from our previous location, Kosiv. Here skiers and snowboarders can try out 3 slopes, from 700 to 1500 meters long. All slopes are rather gentle and well kept. There is a single surface lift here. Local cafes and restaurants offer traditional Carpathian cuisine and local wines. There are also many options for budget accommodation in numerous B&Bs, private green-tourism cottages and mini-hotels.

Verhovyna

This is the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, To get to Verhovyna village one needs to drive along narrow mountain road far up into the mountains. The views here are mesmerizing, the air is crystal clear and all the hustle and bustle from the crowds of skiers and regular travelers seems to be miles away (despite the fact that «Bukovel» is just a stone throw away). Pushkar Mountain offers 400 m ski slope perfect for beginners, and neighboring village Il’tsi offers a 700 meter slope for more experienced skiers and snowboarders.

Yablunytsya

This village is located on the outskirts of Bukovel. In fact many skiers who wish to save on accommodation often book hotels and B&Bs here and go to Bukovel just for skiing. Before «Bukovel» turned into major ski resort of the country, Yablunytsya was the biggest ski resort of the region. These days it offers 6 ski areas: «Cheshka» 900 meters, «Lvivska» 900 meters, «Kooperatyvna» 860 meters, «Blinchyky» 400 meters, «Korova» 200 meters, «Koza» 650 meters.
All slopes are served by surface lifts.
Read: Best Ski Resorts in Ukraine
Ukraine has some wonderful skiing opportunities not only in «Bukovel», as you can see. Winter season is in a full swing so don’t miss out on curve Carpathian slopes and enjoy beautiful mountain vistas.
Photo source: shutterstock.com, Yablunytsya Ski Facebook page, Iya Stepanyuk.