Bukovynskyi Ravlyk Snail Farm, Striletskyi Kut

Bukovynskyi Ravlyk is a family snail farm in the village of Striletskyi Kut, just 10 km from central Chernivtsi. Oksana and Vasyl Yuskiv founded it in 2018, and within a few seasons the small farm became a well-known food address in Bukovyna. It blends French culinary tradition with Bukovynian hospitality: the snails are not only raised here but also cooked for guests to the family's own recipes.

What to see and taste

The gastro tour is led by the owners themselves. They show the field where the snails live in summer among specially sown crops, explain how they are bred, fed and cared for, and why cleanliness and the right humidity matter for this delicacy. Goats and peacocks roam the yard, so children enjoy the visit too.

• Bukovynian-style snails — the farm's signature dish with brynza cheese, garlic and sour cream.
• Classics and experiments — Burgundy-style snails with herbs and butter, snails with rosemary, in tomato or plum sauce, and smoked snails.
• Snail caviar — a delicacy with forest and mushroom notes, served on canapés with herbs and garlic.
• To drink — traditionally chilled dry white wine; beer goes well with smoked snails.

For many visitors this is their first encounter with snail dishes, and the hosts turn the tasting into a relaxed conversation at the table. Live and cooked snails and snail caviar are also sold on site.

How a snail farm works

The farm raises Mediterranean edible snails Helix aspersa Müller and Maxima. In spring the breeding stock wakes up and lays eggs, which hatch in warm rooms. In early summer the young snails are released into the field under wooden boards, where they feed on greens and balanced feed behind a net. In autumn the best are selected, washed and moved to a cool room for the winter. Because of this cycle, the most interesting time to come is from late spring to autumn.

Who will enjoy it

The visit especially suits food travellers who collect unusual flavours, families with children seeing snails up close for the first time, and groups of friends who want some variety on a mountain holiday. The tour is small and unhurried, so it fits easily into a day when you are driving between towns or returning from a hike. If you plan to buy produce, bring a cool bag, especially in summer.

Practical information

• Address: Vyhovskoho St, Striletskyi Kut, Chernivtsi district (near the Chernivtsi — Mamaivtsi road).
• Hours: 8:00–21:00 by appointment, according to the Chernivtsi tourist portal.
• Phone: +38 095 066 28 53.
• Social media: Instagram buk.ravlyk and a Facebook page.

Tour prices are not published and the farm's website is currently offline. Please call before your trip to check whether guests are received this season, the cost of the tasting and a convenient time. Groups must book in advance.

Getting there

Striletskyi Kut lies on the north-western edge of Chernivtsi. By car, leave the city towards Mamaivtsi and Kitsman; according to the owners, after the Kitsman district sign and a garden centre you drive a few hundred metres more. Suburban minibuses run from Chernivtsi to the village, but a taxi is easier for the final stretch.

Website and social media: buk-ravlyk.com · instagram.com · facebook.com

Photos: travel.chernivtsi.ua.