Horse Rides with Anton Kikinchuk, Verkhovyna

Verkhovyna from the saddle

Verkhovyna is the heart of the Hutsul region, and perhaps the most natural way to see its mountain pastures and ridges is the way the Hutsuls themselves did for centuries — on horseback. Horse riding in Verkhovyna is run by a local horseman, Anton Kikinchuk, known on Instagram as “Katannia na koniakh” (@katannia.na.koniach). He keeps riding horses, carriages and, in winter, sleighs, so you can go at any time of year. The horses are dressed in Hutsul style — red tassels on the bridles, colourful wool blankets on the carriages and sleighs — and the driver in a traditional Hutsul hat makes for great photos.

Rides suit individual guests and couples as well as families and large groups. No riding experience is needed: there is a briefing before you set off, and a guide always walks alongside.

What you can book

• Mountain horseback rides of 1, 2, 4 or 6 hours around Verkhovyna — along forest tracks, woodland edges and open slopes with views of the Cheremosh valley.
• A full-day route to a mountain pasture with an organised lunch and Hutsul musicians, for those who want to spend the whole day in the hills.
• Carriage rides in summer and sleigh rides in winter — a relaxed option for families with older relatives and anyone who prefers not to ride.
• Group trips: according to the organiser, up to 29 people can ride at once, and up to 30 can travel by carriage in summer.
• Tailor-made routes: length and direction are agreed individually.

According to the organiser, the price includes a guide, Hutsul stories along the way and a chance to feed the horse. An outdoor buffet and a video of the ride can be ordered for an extra fee.

The horse in the Hutsul mountains

For a Hutsul, a horse was not entertainment but an everyday helper. Short, hardy and remarkably sure-footed on steep paths, these horses hauled firewood and hay and brought barrels of bryndza cheese down from the pastures, while their owners rode them to fairs, weddings and church. A fine horse was a farmer's pride, which is why it is still decorated with tassels and embroidered saddle cloths. In winter the sleigh became the main means of transport, and a ride through snowy Verkhovyna lets you feel the unhurried rhythm of mountain life described in books about the Hutsul region.

Practical information and getting there

• Where: Verkhovyna, Ivano-Frankivsk region. The exact meeting point is given when you book.
• Booking: +38 097 536 83 79; Instagram — @katannia.na.koniach.
• Prices (approximate, per tourist directories): horseback UAH 800 for 2 hours, carriage or sleigh UAH 2,000 for 2 hours; discounts for trips over 3 hours. Prices change, so check by phone.
• Season: all year; sleighs when there is snow.
• What to bring: comfortable trousers, closed shoes, a windproof jacket (warm clothes in winter) and water.
• Children: agree on age and ride format in advance.

By car, Verkhovyna is reached from Ivano-Frankivsk via Kolomyia and Kosiv or via Yaremche and Vorokhta. The nearest railway station is Vorokhta (about 35 km), then bus or taxi; direct buses to Verkhovyna also run from Ivano-Frankivsk and Kolomyia.

Website and social media: instagram.com

Photos: static1.karpaty.info.