12-Day Immersive Winter Expedition
including New Year’s celebration
Days
12
Group Size
10-12
Dates
Dec. 27 - Jan. 7
Deposit
$250
$350
Price From
Midrange accommodations $4,115
High-end accommodations $5,482
We’ll help you plan and book your perfect trip
Accommodation
11 Nights
Meals
11 Breakfests (in hotels)
2 lunches, 1 dinner
Airport Transfers
Privet Walking Tours & Excursions
Transportation
Museum Admissions
ITINERARY
Experience the magic of a winter adventure in the breathtaking Ukrainian Carpathians, where snow-covered peaks and vibrant traditions create an unforgettable escape. From thrilling snow sports to tranquil horse-drawn sleigh rides through pristine alpine landscapes, the region offers activities for every type of traveler.
Explore the untouched beauty of Hutsul culture by visiting remote mountain villages, where you can witness ancient crafts, traditional music, and dances that have been passed down through generations. Warm yourself by the fire as you savor hearty Ukrainian cuisine, featuring local delicacies such as banosh, varenyky, and fragrant herbal teas.
Beyond its adventure offerings, the Carpathians provide a journey into Ukraine’s rich ethnic and cultural diversity. Visitors can participate in festive winter traditions like Malanka (Ukrainian New Year’s Eve) and Roskolyada, marking the concluding festive moment of Christmas, marked by vibrant caroling, folk performances, and authentic rituals.
These experiences are not only an adventure for the senses but also a window into the deep-rooted heritage of the region. As you embrace the spirit of the Carpathians, you’ll discover a deeper connection to Ukrainian culture, making this trip both a thrilling getaway and a meaningful cultural exploration.
By choosing to travel to Ukraine, visitors also become part of a powerful narrative of resilience and hope. Tourism serves as a critical economic lifeline, providing sustainable income for local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and demonstrating global solidarity with Ukraine during challenging times. Each traveler contributes to the nation’s economic recovery, helps rebuild infrastructure, and shares the story of Ukraine’s strength and spirit with the world.
Sasha Vosk, Tour Operator
I am originally from Kyiv, and I am deeply passionate about my Motherland and its rich, diverse nature and heritage. Through my tours, I hope to share the beauty, resilience, and vibrant culture of Ukraine, inviting you to discover and fall in love with this extraordinary country
and its remarkable people.
You’ll receive my personal attention once you decide to explore one of our tours. To discuss details and plan your adventure, please contact me by email at: Sasha@rebuildukrainetravel.com
(Dec. 27)
FLlGHT TO LVIV
(Dec. 28)
ARRIVAL TO LVIV
Note: About the Local Food.
Upon arrival in Lviv, check into Leopolis Hotel, situated in Lviv’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, which offers a luxurious blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Located in a meticulously restored building, the hotel provides sophisticated rooms, exceptional service, and a prime location that embodies the city’s rich architectural and cultural traditions.
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Early Afternoon Lunch at Kryjivka Restaurant
Dine at the Kryjivka restaurant, celebrated for its Armed Forces of Ukraine’s patriotic ambiance and delicious Ukrainian cuisine. This is a wonderful introduction to the local flavors and culture.
Western Ukraine boasts pristine air and water, providing ideal conditions for high-quality food production. The region’s cuisine is influenced by its historical ties to Poland, Austria-Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, offering a rich array of culinary traditions and recipes.
Tour of the Old Town (3 hours)
Start your journey at the historic center of Lviv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its blend of architectural masterpieces created by the Eastern European, Italian, Jewish, Armenian and Austrian architects. This diverse cultural mosaic reflects the city’s rich ethnic history.
– Italian Courtyard and Chorna Kamyanitsa: Explore these architectural gems and many more on the picturesque Rynok Square and its surroundings.
Explore key attractions:
– Rynok Square: Dive into the enchanting medieval atmosphere and admire the works of Austrian sculptor Hartmann Witwer at the former Naftulya and Michal Tepfirov restaurant. Learn about the venue where Lviv’s artistic elite once gathered.
Lviv, often called the “City of Churches,” is renowned for its rich spiritual and architectural heritage,
with churches that reflect a blend of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissanc and Neo-Classical styles.
Evening Entertainment
After a busy day, return to the hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey, ensuring you’re refreshed and ready for the adventures ahead.
Experience the magic of Ukrainian ballet or opera by attending a performance at the renowned and architecturally stunning Lviv State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. This iconic venue, located in the heart of Lviv, is celebrated for its rich history and exquisite design.
Late Dinner at
Mons Pius restaurant one of Lviv’s coziest restaurants renowned for its family history, delicious food, and an excellent selection of wine and cocktails.
(Dec. 29)
TRANSFER from LVIV to YEREMCHE and BUKOVEL
(aprx. 4-hour drive)
Yaremche is a scenic town in the Ukrainian Carpathians known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” It serves as a popular mountain resort and a gateway to attractions like the Prut River Waterfall, Holy Prophet Elijah Monastery and Yaremche Market – a must-visit destination for tourists seeking authentic Ukrainian souvenirs and delicacies.
Depart Yaremche for Bukovel (aprx. 40 min. drive) In late afternoon, arrive in Bukovel and Check into Stara Pravda (Old Truth) Hotel.
Stara Pravda Hotel offers a unique rustic-style accommodation that celebrates traditional mountain design and a thoughtfully curated interior that blends contemporary architectural elements with Hutsul cultural motifs. Located in a picturesque setting, the hotel provides guests with exceptional comfort, excellent service, and superb dining experience.
The chef at the hotel’s Art Drovitnia Restaurant brings a creative touch to traditional Carpathian and Ukrainian cuisine, reimagining classic recipes with contemporary techniques and unique flavor pairings to offer guests a fresh and elevated taste of the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Surrounded by tall spruces and captivating landscapes, the restaurant provides a serene dining experience where guests can enjoy their favorite dishes while immersed in nature, thanks to its panoramic windows that showcase stunning views of the snow-capped forest.
Bukovel is the largest ski resort in the Carpathian Mountains. It features 75 kilometers of ski slopes and 17 lifts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing and boarding, Bukovel offers multiple winter activities.
After setting yourself at the hotel, go for a one-of-a-kind experience — immerse yourself in the ultimate Ukrainian wellness tradition
with a banya experience that promises total rejuvenation of body and spirit at Bogdan’s Banya. This centuries-old ritual
transforms your physical and mental state through intense heat, aromatic steam, and invigorating oak branch massages,
followed by refreshing cold plunges. Emerge from the banya feeling reborn – with glowing skin, relaxed muscles, and a
profound sense of inner peace that connects you with a timeless cultural practice of healing and renewal.
Special “banya food” will be served when finished, featuring a carefully curated selection of traditional Ukrainian delicacies:
Indulge in succulent smoked trout, an array of artisanal cold cuts including delicate salamis and cured meats, locally crafted
cheeses with rich, complex flavors, and a selection of regional craft beers that perfectly complement the post-banya experience,
providing a delicious and authentic culinary finale to your wellness journey.
Alternatively,
experience the exhilarating thrill of night skiing and snowboarding, here perfectly illuminated slopes offer an enchanting alpine adventure under the starry winter sky, allowing you to enjoy pristine mountain terrain long after sunset.
Alternatively,
unwind with a delightful dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, savoring local culinary specialties and enjoying a relaxed evening. Take time to rest, reflect on the day’s adventures, and recharge in the comfortable atmosphere of the hotel dining area.
(Dec. 30)
BUKOVEL continues, TRANSFER to CHERNIVTSIY
Transfer to Chernivtsi
After breakfast at the hotel take a Jeep Ride across
the mountain tops.
Embark on an exhilarating winter jeep ride through
the snow-covered Carpathian Mountains. Experience
breathtaking landscapes while traversing remote
mountain passes and hidden trails.
Upon our return enjoy your lunch at Carparosa Restaurant. Carparosa, widely considered one of the best dining establishments in Bukovel, offers a sophisticated dining experience, featuring contemporary Ukrainian cuisine with stunning mountain views. Located within the ski resort,
(Aprx. 3 hours) in the late afternoon.
Arrive at AllureInn Hotel & Spa, an elegant hotel in the very heart of Chernivtsi, and settle into your accommodations.
the restaurant blends local culinary traditions with modern gastronomic techniques, providing guests with an elegant and authentic mountain dining atmosphere.
Take a guided walking city tour at dusk.
Chernivtsi is a historic city celebrated for its diverse cultural history and stunning architec-ture. Once the capital of Bukovina, a historical region at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe, it features a blend of influences from Moldavian, Austrian, and Romanian rule, earning it the nickname “Little Vienna.”
Today, it remains a vibrant cultural and educational center. Savor a full evening exploring one of Ukraine’s most attractive cities.
Visit architectural landmarks such as the former Metropolitan’s Residence, now Chernivtsi University, which is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at Rita Steinberg restaurant, a unique culinary destination offering Middle Eastern and Israeli cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the historic city center, the restaurant combines traditional recipes with contemporary gastronomic techniques, creating a sophisticated dining experience. Live traditional Jewish music adds an authentic atmosphere, enhancing the overall cultural dining experience and celebrating local musical and culinary heritage.
(Dec. 31)
Visit SELO VASHKIVTSI for the MALANKA celebration
The vibrant Malanka celebration in the village of Vashkivtsi near Chernivtsi is a profound cultural ritual that has pagan origins and celebrates ancient agricultural cycles, fertility, and the transition between winter and spring. This spectacular event features a lively parade of elaborately costumed participants, traditional music, and folk dances. The celebration is famous for its deep-rooted folkloric traditions, symbolic performances representing seasonal renewal, and complex mythological reenactments that connect contemporary villagers with their ancestral agricultural and spiritual practices.
You will be immersed in a rich, multilayered cultural experience that goes far beyond a simple holiday festivity.
In the early evening, return to Chernivtsi to prepare and dress for the New Year’s Celebration party.
Join the electrifying New Year’s celebration in the city
that embraces this holiday with unparalleled enthusiasm.
In Ukraine, New Year (Noviy Rik) holds profound cultural
significance, even more cherished than Christmas,
representing a time of family reunion, hope, and
new beginnings.
We’ll start with a festive dinner at a select restaurant,
immersing ourselves in the excitement of the approaching
New Year.
As midnight approaches, we’ll venture to the city center nearby to join the communal countdown, pop champagne to celebrate, and watch spectacular fireworks illuminating the historic streets. Returning to our restaurant, we’ll continue the celebration with champagne, live music,
and dancing, embodying the Ukrainian spirit of New Year – a time of joy, hope, and new beginnings. This evening
promises an unforgettable blend of local culture, festive energy, and collective excitement for the year ahead.
(Jan. 1)
Transfer back to BUKOVEL
Start your day with a leisurely late breakfast at the AllureInn Hotel & Spa before transferring to Bukovel.
By mid-afternoon, we return to the Stara Pravda Hotel, allowing you to unwind after the excitement and celebrations of the previous day.
Today, we recommend a more relaxed pace: enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel, followed by a visit to its SPA, where you can unwind in the hot tub/jacuzzi or indulge in luxurious body treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.
You might also consider visiting the charming Husky House
for some heartwarming time with these beautiful dogs.
For the sporty, hit the slopes for evening skiing or snowboarding beneath stars just emerging in the night sky.
For those seeking outdoor activities,
explore the seasonal delights that
promise fun and adventure in the
crisp winter air. Among these,
ice skating at the local rink is a
highlight, where our friendly
skate-aid team will help both
beginners and seasoned skaters
have a blast on the ice.
Dinner time.
Situated in the heart of Bukovel, Honey Panoramic Restaurant offers breathtaking mountain views and a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant features traditional Ukrainian cuisine with a modern twist, serving locally-inspired dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Its expansive windows and elevated location provide guests with stunning panoramic vistas of the Carpathian Mountains while enjoying delicious meals.
Having a good time after dinner in Bukovel is easy. Many bars and restaurants around the resort organize vibrant
après-ski parties featuring DJs, live music, and festive drinks, creating a lively and enjoyable evening atmosphere for guests.
(Jan. 2)
Full Day of Snow Activities
After breakfast, indulge in most of the snow activities you might wish for (we’ll save the rest of them for another day).
As Ukraine’s premier winter resort, Bukovel offers a variety of snow activitiesthat cater to all levels of adventure seekers. From thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding on its well-maintained slopes to family-friendly sledding runs, Bukovel provides an unforgettable winter experience. Snowboarding enthusiasts can enjoy the Fun Park, while sledding trails provide excitement for visitors of all ages. The resort’s infrastructure includes cozy cafes.
We’ll lunch in one of the eateries on the slopes.
Lift tickets and equipment rentals are priced significantly lower than those in the U.S., making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.
In the late afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel for a few hours of rest before dinner. Recharge and relax.
Dinner. Hrybova Hata Restaurant (Mushroom Hut)
is a cozy and rustic restaurant in Bukovel, known for hearty Ukrainian
cuisine and its charming wooden interior. Hrybova Hata Restaurant has been celebrated as a winner at the prestigious SALT® National Restaurant Awards, recognized for its outstanding contribution to Ukrainian cuisine and hospitality. Set in a welcoming environment, it offersa menu filled with traditional Carpathian dishes, including savory mushroom soups, flavorful grilled meats, and regional specialties. Perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.
Head back to the hotel for a good rest,
as tomorrow will be a busy day with activities
starting early.
(Jan. 3)
Trip to Vorohta
(aprx. 40 min. drive)
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Vorokhta, a charming mountain village near Bukovel. Here, you can experience a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride, a timeless winter activity that captures the essence of Ukrainian rural life. The horse-drawn sleigh rides glide through scenic landscapes, offering a charming and nostalgic experience, with Hutsul horses known for their strength and endurance. Perfect for a 1.5-hour journey through the snow-covered Carpathian terrain. This experience will transport you back in time, allowing you to enjoy the crisp mountain air, stunning white landscapes, and the gratifying interaction with your sturdy Hutsul horses.
Building on the experience of our horse-drawn sleigh ride, we’ll continue our equestrian adventure by ascending into the snow-kept mountain forest on horseback. As you traverse the silent, snow-laden paths, you’ll feel a profound sense of peace and wonder. The rhythmic hoofbeats, the crisp mountain air, and the pristine white landscape will create memories that will last a lifetime. This isn’t just a horseback ride – it’s a journey into the heart of the Carpathian winter magic.
Fresh from that ride, Immerse yourself in the heart of Carpathian culinary tradition with a lunch break at Stara Vorokhta, a beloved local gem nestled in the village center. This charming restaurant offers an authentic journey through Hutsul cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
Returning to Bukovel, enjoy the early evening slope activities mentioned above and enjoy your coffee breaks at the convenient rest areas.
When done, you’ll be transported to Lucky Bull MEAT&ASIA restaurant.
Located in the heart of the ski resort complex, it offers a contemporary dining experience that blends Asian fusion cuisine with premium meat dishes. The restaurant features an interior decorated with natural materials and ultramodern furniture, serving high-quality steaks, wok dishes, sushi, and Asian-inspired meat specialties.
(Jan. 4)
Continue enjoying Bukovel’s activities
Ready to transform our morning into an epic snow playground, we’ll embrace Bukovel’s heart-racing winter experiences right after breakfast.
Starting with a Snowmobile Ride.
Feel the thrill of driving a snowmobile through the mountain peaks, exploring incredible scenery on specially prepared trails beginning at the top of Dolgaya mountain.
Followed by the Roller Coaster Zipline. Discover an exhilarating adventure at the Roller Coaster Zipline in Polyanytsya, featuring a 500-meter zipline suspended between trees with ascents, descents, and steep turns suitable for both children and adults.
Rodelbahn Sledding
Experience the first all-weather toboggan run in Ukraine by German company Wiegand, offering dynamic descents with twists and turns where sleds can reach speeds up to 40 km/h.
The fun doesn’t end there, here are:
Bike Zip and Zipline Trolley
Enjoy the unique Bike Zip attraction across Lake Molodosti on a 560-meter rope ride, complemented by the Zipline Trolley for an adrenaline-packed mountain adventure.
After a day packed with exciting and unusual winter activities, it’s time to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
For dinner, we’ll head to Rebra BBQ, a distinctive beer ‘n’ grill restaurant located near ski lift #5’s valley station. Specializing in authentic Texas-style barbecue, the restaurant offers delicious smoked beef briskets, babyback pork ribs, and traditional American-style dishes prepared using “Low & Slow” meat smoking technology.
Trained how to smoke meat in the Southside Market restaurant’s kitchen in the capital of Texas BBQ culture – Elgin Town,
Rebra BBQ promises a unique culinary experience with self-baked bread and next-generation wood-fired smoker techniques,
making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of mountain adventures.
Back at the hotel, we’ll immerse ourselves in the traditional Chun experience, relaxing in a wood-heated iron bowl filled with natural spring water. Positioned outdoors, this unique bathing ritual offers a serene connection with nature, allowing us to unwind under the vast, starry Carpathian sky. The warm, mineral-rich waters and the crisp mountain air create a meditative atmosphere, providing the perfect conclusion to our adventurous day and offering a moment of pure, tranquil rejuvenation.
(Jan. 5)
Adventuring Beyond the Slopes
After enjoying an early breakfast at the Stara Pravda, we’ll embark on a scenic winter hike to Vilshynets Meadow, a picturesque
5-kilometer walking tour through the dense Carpathian forest. This guided adventure, lasting approximately 4 hours, offers an accessible and safe exploration of the mountain landscape, allowing us to experience the incredible freshness and beauty of the winter wilderness. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the hike provides an immersive nature experience.
Lunch break: Return to your favorite restaurant from our previous local culinary adventures,
savoring those memorable dishes that captured your taste buds.
Now, after the completion of all physical activities of this tour, we’ve earned ultimate relaxation at the VODA Club, Bukovel’s premier water entertainment and spa complex. Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Molodosti, this all-season resort offers a luxurious retreat with multiple pools, saunas, and relaxation zones. We’ll enjoy the heated pool, experience the Finnish and Mediterranean saunas, and indulge in professional massage treatments to soothe our muscles after a day of mountain adventures.
For dinner, exploring more of the dining options,
we’ll dine at Osteria Italiana. Osteria Italiana is a vibrant restaurant located within the VODA Club, and it is more than a restaurant—it’s a culinary journey through Italy’s diverse regional flavors. The restaurant showcases authentic dishes carefully curated by chef Andrea Nori, a culinary expert recognized with the prestigious “Ospitalita Italiana” certificate, which honors the most exceptional Italian dining establishments.
(Jan. 6)
Transfer to Verhovina and to Lviv
After an early breakfast and hotel check-out, we’ll transfer to Verkhovyna (approximately 30 minutes) to immerse ourselves
in Hutsul culture on the significant Christian holidays of Vodohresha (Epiphany) and Roskolyada.
Verkhovyna is widely recognized as the cultural center of the Hutsul region, preserving the unique traditions, crafts, music, and spiritual heritage of this ethnographic group in the Carpathian Mountains, and remarkably, they have managed to maintain their distinct cultural identity despite historical challenges and external pressures.
Roskolyada in Verkhovina is a vibrant celebration marking the conclusion of Christmas festivities
in the Hutsul tradition. It features lively caroling, traditional music, and colorful costumes, creating
a festive atmosphere that brings the community together to honor ancient customs and bid farewell
to the holiday season.
Before joining in the festivities, journey into the region’s layered cultural heritage by visiting the
Museum of Hutsul Life, Ethnography, and Musical Instruments and the Farmhouse/Museum of Cheese,
which offer captivating glimpses into the compelling cultural traditions of the Hutsul people.
At the Museum of Hutsul Life delve deeper into the region’s cultural roots. This captivating museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of the Hutsul people through its diverse collection of traditional artifacts, including musical instruments and household items that reflect their unique customs. Our guide, a skilled musician, will demonstrate her mastery of various authentic instruments, bringing the exhibits to life.
Afterword join a Cooking Session where you’ll learn to prepare staples of Hutsul cuisine, such as: Borscht: A hearty beet soup and Varenyky: Dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or cherries.
The Carpathian region boasts a rich tradition of artisanal cheesemaking, particularly famous for its unique Hutsul cheeses like bryndzya. During our visit of the local cheese farm/museum, we’ll explore the intricate world of traditional cheese production, experiencing firsthand the centuries-old techniques used by local shepherds and cheesemakers.
By participating in a cheese-making workshop, we’ll gain insight into this authentic
Carpathian culinary tradition, learning about the intricate processes that transform fresh mountain milk into world-recognized cheese (8 awards won in the 2024 World Cheese Awards).
Cheese and local wine tasting will conclude this hour-long visit.
Become part of a centuries-old tradition during the Roskolyada celebration, a vibrant outdoor
festival that marks the end of the Christmas season.
The day begins with a morning church service, followed by spirited performances of
koliadky and shchedrivky (traditional carols) by locals in authentic folk costumes
along the scenic banks of the Chornyi Cheremosh River.
The festivities then give way to Vodohresha (Epiphany), a deeply spiritual event honoring
the baptism of Jesus Christ.
Witness the sacred Great Blessing of Water ceremony led by the parish priest, after which villagers and guests participate in the age-old custom of dipping into the icy waters. Participants believe this ritual connects them with a profound spiritual experience passed down through generations. This unique cultural event offers an unforgettable glimpse into Ukraine’s rich heritage and enduring traditions.
The day’s cultural journey continues with an invitation to experience a re-enactment of an authentic Hutsul Wedding ritual, a captivating immersion in the vibrant traditions and lively celebrations that define these events. Prepare to indulge in a bountiful feast, brimming with delicious food and drink, as you share in the joy of the occasion.
As the early evening descends, buzzing with the day’s adventures, we start back to Lviv (Aprx. 4 hours),
our final destination before departing for home. The drive offers a chance to look back on the journey’s most memorable
moments and savor the experiences that made this tour unforgettable.
Our hotel awaits, ready to provide a final night of comfort and relaxation as our trip concludes.
(Jan. 7)
Departure Back Home. Farewell!
Breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, savoring the last moments of your Ukrainian adventure.
Departure
Bid farewell to Lviv as you depart for your onward journey, cherishing the memories of your
time in Ukraine.
By now, we hope you agree that this trip not only creates profound memories but also adds to the legacy of a nation determined to endure and flourish.
Rebuild Ukraine Travel thanks you for helping to rebuild the lives of Ukrainians through your joyous travels.
Group size: 10 – 15 persons.
Price per person A. Midrange accommodations $4,115 ($250 deposit to be paid at the time of booking to secure your spot; then 2 payments before departure, last one on Oct. 26, 2025).
B. High-end accommodations $5,482 ($350 deposit to be paid at the time of booking to secure your spot; then 2 payments before departure, last one on Oct. 26, 2025).
Here are the services provided as part of your complete vacation package.
Rebuild Ukraine Travel offers a unique travel experience that transcends the typical vacation. Our dedicated team ensures that your journey is crafted to create lasting memories for all the right reasons, focusing on every aspect of the journey to enhance your enjoyment. You will receive comprehensive support throughout your trip.
We meticulously select and evaluate all hotels and local tour providers to guarantee quality and satisfaction.
A Ukraine-based tour manager will contact you via email and phone a month prior to your arrival to finalize details and ensure you make the most of each day.
Your dedicated tour manager will be available to assist you during your travels, addressing any unexpected challenges that may arise.