4 Seasons Pottery Studio and Horse Riding, Slavske

The 4 Seasons cottage complex in Slavske is known not only for its wooden chalets but also for two activities that turn an ordinary mountain break into something special: a pottery studio and its own stable. You can throw a jug on the potter's wheel in the morning and ride out along mountain trails around Slavske in the afternoon.

Pottery workshop

The pottery is right on the grounds, in a cosy timber workshop with potter's wheels and shelves full of finished pieces. Sessions are held for groups and suit both adults and children.

• Wheel throwing. Under the potter's eye you centre the clay and pull up the walls – that is how a cup, a plate or a small jug is born. One piece on the wheel usually takes about an hour.
• Hand modelling. For those who want something simpler, or for the youngest – bird whistles, little lambs and other small figures.
• Ready-made pieces. Clay souvenirs are also on sale in the workshop.

Pottery is one of the oldest crafts of the Carpathians: each area had its own centres, shapes and glazes. Boyko potters traditionally made simple everyday ware – pots, bowls and milk jugs – while bird whistles were a favourite children's toy at fairs. So a workshop in Slavske is a chance to touch a living tradition, not just buy a souvenir.

Horse riding

The complex has its own stable. The owners stress that horse tourism is not circling an arena but riding a chosen route through Carpathian scenery. The route is agreed in advance, and the duration depends on your experience and wishes. Short rides near the stable may be possible for children – ask when booking.

Planning your day

It is easiest to combine both activities: making one piece on the wheel takes about an hour, so the pottery class fits nicely before or after a ride. Clay pieces need time to dry after shaping, so agree with the potter in advance on when and in what state you can collect your cup or jug. For riding, wear long trousers and closed shoes with a low heel, plus a windproof jacket in cool weather. Larger parties save by booking pottery as a group of ten or more, when the reduced rate applies.

Practical information

• Address: 105a T. Shevchenka St, Slavske, about 2 km from the town centre and railway station.
• Pottery: UAH 500 per person, UAH 300 for groups of 10 or more.
• Horse riding: from UAH 500 per hour per person.
• Booking: +380 96 275 5404, +380 67 673 6622 or via 4sezony.com. Prices are taken from the complex's website – check them before your trip.
• The complex also rents cottages, so the activities are easy to combine with an overnight stay.

Please confirm by phone before your trip.

Getting there

Trains and local trains run to Slavske from Lviv and Stryi on the Lviv–Mukachevo line. From the station it is about 2 km along Shevchenka Street to the complex – walk or take a taxi. By car from Lviv, follow the Kyiv–Chop highway via Stryi and Skole and turn off to Slavske.

Website and social media: 4sezony.com

Photos: 4sezony.com.