Carpathians where the country is located. Carpathian mountains. Treatment in the Carpathians

Without a doubt, the most famous and popular mountains in Europe are the Alps. But there's another one in this part of the world mountain system, which is inferior to the Alps in height, but surpasses them in size. And it also attracts great attention from tourists and lovers winter holidays. Where are the Carpathians? In which countries are they located? When were these mountains formed, and why are they interesting?

"Stone Mountains"

The word “Carpathians” evokes approximately the same images and scenes in everyone: dark forest, thick fog creeping along the slopes, molfar sorcerers and, of course, the castle of the famous Count Dracula. These mountains are truly shrouded in a certain aura of mysticism and mystery. But not everyone knows exactly where the Carpathians are and when they were formed.

The name of this mountain system was first used by Claudius Ptolemy in the second century AD. It is also found in the works of Herodotus. In particular, the “father of history” mentions the Karpis River. It is believed that this tributary of the Danube took its name from the mountains from whose slopes it flows.

The word “Carpathians” itself, according to some researchers, comes from the name of the Thracian tribe “Carps”, who lived in this territory in the 3rd-4th centuries. Other scholars associate it with the Proto-European word kar, which translates as “stone.” Is it true, " stone mountains» It’s a stretch to call the Carpathians. After all most of The mountain system is represented by gentle valleys and peaks with smooth outlines, where rocky ledges and pointed peaks are extremely rare.

However, there is a third version that connects the origin of the toponym with the Slavic word “khrb”, which means “ridge”. Considering where the Carpathians are located, this version looks quite plausible. After all, it was the Slavic tribes and peoples who developed and inhabited this area for many centuries.

Where are the Carpathians: countries and major cities

The total area of the mountain system is 190 thousand square kilometers, its length is 1,500 kilometers. Where are the Carpathian Mountains? They are located in the eastern part of Central Europe. On the map they form an arc, which in geological terms is a branch of the Alpine-Himalayan folded region.

In which states are the Carpathians located? Where are their natural boundaries? The mountain system covers the territories of eight European countries. This:

Czech Republic.
Poland.
Slovakia.
Ukraine.
Hungary.
Romania.
Serbia.
Austria.

About 70% of total area The Carpathian mountainous country consists of two states - Romania and Ukraine. But only its extreme western spurs enter Austria. The most big cities, located within the Carpathian Mountains:

Bielsko-Biala (Poland).
Zakopane (Poland).
Banska Bystrica (Slovakia).
Kosice (Slovakia).
Zilina (Slovakia).
Cluj-Napoca (Romania).
Brasov (Romania).
Oradea (Romania).
Sibiu (Romania).
Uzhgorod (Ukraine).
Kolomyia (Ukraine).
Vršac (Serbia).

This is where the Carpathians are located. It remains to find out what parts this mountain system consists of.

Structure of the Carpathians

Carpathian mountains consist of eight orographic parts (see map below):

Outer Western Carpathians.
Inner Western Carpathians.
Outer Eastern Carpathians.
Inner Eastern Carpathians.
Southern Carpathians.
Western Romanian Carpathians.
Transylvanian plateau.
Serbian Carpathians.

In addition, within the mountain system there are a number of separate massifs: Beskydy, Ore Mountains, Tatras (the highest part of the Carpathians), Gorgany, Rodna, Pieniny, Fagaras and others. The average heights of the Carpathian Mountains range from 800-1200 meters. The highest point is Mount Gerlachovsky Stit.

Carpathian Mountains: main features and interesting facts

Here are some of them:

Despite their low heights and gentle shapes, the Carpathians are young mountains. They arose at approximately the same time (by geological standards, of course) as the Alps and Himalayas.
Mountain building processes in the Carpathians continue to this day. This is evidenced by earthquakes that are regularly recorded here. The strength of individual shocks reaches 5-7 points on the Richter scale.
The Carpathians were once characterized by active volcanic activity. Cones of extinct volcanoes can be seen in the vicinity of Uzhgorod, Mukachevo and Khust.
The Carpathian subsoil is rich in numerous minerals. The main mineral wealth of the mountain system is oil, gas, ozokerite, marble and gold.
The width of the Carpathian Mountains in some places reaches 450 kilometers.
The Alps are separated from the Carpathians by only 14 kilometers. The border between the two largest mountain systems in Europe lies precisely between Vienna and Bratislava.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, numerous remains of prehistoric animals were discovered in the mountainous country - mammoths, huge deer and various birds.
The Carpathians are considered the birthplace of the world's largest musical instrument - the trembita. The length of this wooden tube is 4 meters. It is capable of spreading sound over 10-20 kilometers.

Origin and age of the Carpathian Mountains

Long before the formation of the modern mountain system, in its place there was a chain of ridges connecting the Sudetenland with Dobruja (a hill in Romania). Geologists call it Prakarpaty. These mountains were subsequently destroyed by powerful movements earth's crust, and in their place by the beginning of the Mesozoic, an almost flat plain formed.

The age of the Carpathian geosyncline is quite “young” - only 25 million years. The process of formation of the mountainous country began at the end of the Paleogene period and occurred gradually. The structures of the Outer Carpathians were the first to emerge. For quite a long time, the sea splashed between the outer and inner ridges of the Carpathian Mountains. During its existence, thick layers of sand deposits have accumulated here.

Climate and flora of the Carpathians

The climate of the territory is moderate continental and quite humid. Average temperatures in July are +17…20 °C, in January from –2 to –5 °C. Precipitation ranges from 600 to 2000 mm per year.

In the Carpathians, the altitudinal zonation of the landscapes is clearly visible. Broad-leaved and mixed forests grow up to a height of 600 meters, from 600 to 1500 meters there are dark coniferous forests, and even higher there are low-growing shrubs. The peaks of many Carpathian mountains are covered with subalpine meadows. IN Ukrainian Carpathians oh, they came up with their own name for them - “poloniny”.

In the Carpathian forests you can most often find Norway spruce, fir and beech. Also common are oak, hornbeam, pine, alder, birch and larch. The lower tier is occupied by thickets of raspberries, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries.

The main resorts of the Carpathians

Where are the most popular ski resorts in the Carpathians located and what are their names? And what are they? The most famous Carpathian resorts usually include Bukovel, Dragobrat, Slavske (Ukraine); Zakopane, Szczyrk, Karpacz, Krynica (Poland), Poianu Brasov, Sinaia, Predeal (Romania), Jasnu (Slovakia).

Zakopane is perhaps the best ski resort Carpathians Where are its tracks? The resort is located in the southern part of Poland, in small town with the same name. The total length of its routes is 60 kilometers. They are designed for all categories of skiers - from beginners to professionals. The ski season lasts from late October to mid-April.

Bukovel is the main Ukrainian ski resort, which is located in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. He's different quality trails and excellent infrastructure. Ideal snow cover persists here from the beginning of December until the end of April.

Famous peaks

Gerlachovski-Štit (2654 m) – the most high mountain in the Carpathians. It is located on the territory of Slovakia, near the city of Gerlachov. Today the mountain is very popular among tourists. However, climbing to its peak requires serious preparation and is only allowed with an experienced guide.

Hoverla (2061 m) is the highest point of the Ukrainian Carpathians, located within the Montenegrin ridge. Climbing this mountain is relatively easy, so summer time its peak is conquered by dozens of tourists every day. Hoverla is famous for the fact that it starts from its slopes largest river Eastern Europe – Prut.

Moldoveanu (2544 m) – the most high peak in Romania. Located in the heart of the country, within mountain range Fagaras. Climbing Moldoviana is a little more difficult than Goverla, but its conquest does not cause any particular difficulties for experienced tourists.

The Carpathian Mountains are spread across Eastern Europe and... the Moon. Yes, mountain range with this name stretches along the southern “coast” of the lunar Sea of Rains. Perhaps in the near future they will send there tourist groups. However, at present, only the terrestrial Carpathians are of interest to us.

The mountain system begins near Slovak capital Bratislava and ends near the Romanian city of Orsov. In a satellite image, the Carpathian Mountains resemble a writhing snake. Its head “bites” the Alps, and its tail is lowered into the Black Sea. It seems that the Carpathians arose as a result of some kind of vortex process like an atmospheric cyclone.

A narrow mountain chain crosses the territory of several countries in Eastern Europe. Austria, Hungary, Serbia and the Czech Republic own only tiny pieces of it. Poland and Ukraine suffered much more. The largest pieces of the mountain pie are owned by Slovakia and Romania. In the latter, mountains occupy a significant part of the territory.

Scientists are still debating the name of the mountains. It is curious that in almost all the languages of the peoples inhabiting the above countries, the word “Carpathians” sounds almost the same. In some cases it literally means "mountain" or "stone wall". There is also a version that the “Carpathians” came from the tribe of carps that inhabited these places in the 1st century AD. At the same time, linguists cannot explain why this people acquired this particular name.

It should be borne in mind that the Eastern Carpathians are considered an earthquake-prone region. Very strong earthquakes have happened here. In Romania there is the so-called Vrancea seismic zone. The strength of the tremors in it reached 8.3 points on the Richter scale. Their echoes were recorded even in Finland. The disaster was most severe in 1940 and 1977. Then Bucharest suffered greatly. However, in comparison with Japan, where earthquakes occur almost daily, the Carpathians seem to be an island of complete stability.

Between the Alps and the Black Sea

Southern Carpathians in late autumn

Despite its relatively modest size, the Carpathians have a complex structure. In the western part there are the Outer and Inner Western Carpathians. They are divided into 12 regions. And those, in turn, are 60 mountainous regions! Perhaps the most famous of them are the Czech Tatras. Next come the Outer and Inner Eastern Carpathians. There are fewer mountainous areas here - only about a dozen. They are adjacent to the Western Romanian, Southern, Serbian Carpathians and the Transylvanian Plateau. To simplify, the Carpathians are conventionally divided into Western, Eastern and Southern.

On a physical-geographical map, the mountain system looks like a thin strip. With a total length of the mountains of 1500 km, their width ranges from 100 to 340 km. The narrowest part is in Ukraine, and the widest is in Romania. The highest peak is Mount Gerlachovský Štit in Slovakia. Its height reaches 2654 m. The Carpathians are separated from the Alps by a narrow gap of only 14 km wide!

Only here

There is a whole collection of caves in the Lower Tatras

To get an idea of the most interesting places in the Carpathians, we'll do virtual trip in a mountainous country. Let's start from the western part, then move to the east, and from there we go down to the south. The natural border between the Czech Republic and Slovakia is the so-called White Carpathians. The reserve of the same name is located here, which is spread over the territory of two countries. Several types of orchids are found in these places! But there is a stereotype that these delicate flowers are exclusively inhabitants of the tropics.

In Slovakia there is the Sarisska Vrhovina mountain range. It is famous for its Lacnov Canyon with an unusual rock called the “Moses Pillar”. And the name “Slovak Paradise” speaks for itself. Best place For adventure lovers, you can't imagine. Caves, abysses, canyons and waterfalls attract them like a magnet. In addition to natural objects, these places have interesting man-made attractions. For example, people go to the Slovak Muranska Planina mountains to see the ruins of the ancient Muransk Castle.

The High Tatras in Poland are truly large - it is here that one of the highest points of the Carpathians is located. Tourists are very attracted here beautiful lake called "Sea Eye". Situated in an oval-shaped valley, it actually resembles a huge eye. The largest Polish waterfall, called Siklawa, is no less picturesque. The water falls here from a height of 70 m.

The Low Tatras are famous for their panoramic points, the role of which is played by the peaks of Kraljeva Golja, Habenec and Dereshe. In this area, the Demanovska valley with its caves is considered the most beautiful. It should be noted that in the local mountains there is a whole collection of all kinds of caves. One of them is called "Cave of Dead Bats". There are many centers scattered along the mountain valleys and slopes, where tourist routes.

In Hungary there is the Mátra mountain range. People come here to relax thermal springs and ride on alpine skiing. Vineyards lie at the foot of the mountains, so the region is famous for its wineries. The Börzen massif is popular among tourists. It is considered his property National Park Duna-Ipa with big amount springs, winding rivulets and rushing streams.

Gorgany means “stone scree”. The mountain range in the Ukrainian Carpathians has the same name. These places have long been chosen by extreme sports enthusiasts, since the area is replete with wild tourist routes. Local hits are the Manyavsky waterfall and Mountain Lake Synevyr, which is located on the territory of the national park of the same name.

Peles Castle in the mountains of Romania

The Southern Carpathians are also called the Transylvanian Alps. This entire beautiful mountainous country fits entirely within the territory of Romania. The highest point is Mount Moldoveanu (2544 m). Most of the country's ski resorts are located here. Don't forget that Romania is a country of castles. It's worth coming here to see with your own eyes the Royal Castle"Pelesh" in Sinai and Dracula's castle in the town of Bran.

Climbers and rock climbers travel to Romanian Muntenia. The Unirya salt mine, which is currently a museum and balneological resort, is very spectacular. And the landscapes in Pyklele Mary look alien. Here, on an area of 30 hectares, mud volcanoes gurgle and spit slurry.

There are also places for rafting enthusiasts. For example, the Jiu River Gorge in Oltenia is one of the most popular rafting routes in Romania. Usually the Danube is associated with a calm current. However, in the Kazana Gorge the water literally boils due to the narrowness of the canyon. This spectacle is worth seeing with your own eyes.

Mountain lake Glaz Bey, located in historical region Banat does not freeze even in winter, so during this period many migratory birds gather on its banks. Along with them come those who like to observe the life of birds. The lake is worth a visit just to admire it beautiful scenery and take spectacular photos.

There are places for rafting lovers in the Romanian Carpathians

And, of course, one cannot fail to mention Romanian Transylvania. The local reserve, located in the town of Zarnesti, is home to about a hundred bears rescued from captivity. Excursions around the reserve are organized for tourists. It is also worth seeing the fantastic stone columns in the Apuseni mountains, formed when basalt lava solidified. And at the former Turda salt mine, those interested can rent a boat and take a ride on the luxurious underground lake.

Nuances of the Carpathian weather

There is snow in the mountains from December to March. At other times, you can safely go to hiking

Since the Carpathian Mountains occupy large area and are characterized by different heights, weather can vary significantly even in the same area. The higher you go, the colder it gets. The further south you go, the warmer it is. In mountain valleys there may not be snow even in winter. The further from the Black Sea, the more continental the climate. Despite such a variety of conditions, there are nevertheless some climatic patterns.

The coldest month is January. average temperature in the north and east of the Carpathians it fluctuates around -5°C, in the south – about -3°C. However, at the tops of the mountains it can be colder - down to -10°C. By Russian standards, such temperatures are not considered frost. The average July temperature in the foothills in the north is +18°C, in the south +20°C. High in the mountains, even at the height of summer, the temperature can be no higher than +5°C. In general, the temperature regime in the Carpathians is favorable all year round.

If we talk about precipitation, the least of it falls in the east and south of the Carpathians (800 mm per year). In the Western and Romanian Carpathians their number grows to 1000 mm. In high mountain areas this figure increases by 1.5-2 times. Maximum precipitation occurs in summer. Most often it rains. The duration of snow cover in the foothills is 2-3 months. Glaciers and eternal snow not in these places.

The moral is simple. Ski season in the Carpathians usually begins in December and ends in March. They ride at altitudes from 1000 m. This means that the rest of the year is quite suitable for hiking. At altitudes up to 1000 meters this can be done in winter. But for high mountain routes you will need warm clothes even in summer.

If you want to avoid rain, it is better to go hiking in spring or autumn. True, even in summer the risk of getting wet increases only in high mountain areas. If the route passes through the foothills or slopes at low altitudes, there is no need to worry about rain. It is enough to stock up on a raincoat and a waterproof tent.

Hiking hits

Now let’s get acquainted with popular tourist routes in those countries in which the Carpathians are located:

Czech

There are up to a thousand caves in the Moravian Karst

The Krkonose Mountains are very popular in the Czech Republic. They are located on the border with Poland. Here the most popular route is the climb to Mount Snezka (1603 m). The path passes along a picturesque mountain valley With unusual name Aubrey blew. Those who wish can go upstairs using the cable car. It starts in the town of Petsi pod Snezkou.

The goal of another popular route is the source of the Elbe. The powerful European river on which Hamburg stands originates in the town of Labski Meadow. Here you understand that all the largest rivers in the world are born from springs or formed from small streams. The starting point is the tourist center Horni Misecki. It is located next to resort town Spindleruv Mlýn. High mountain routes along the Jeseniky ridge are also in demand. The landscapes there are considered the most beautiful in the country.

The Moravian Karst is one of the most interesting tourist sites. The length of this mountain range reaches 25 km. Its unusualness is that the mountains are penetrated by a system of caves, of which there are more than a thousand. Under the ground you can see drawings of primitive people. In the same places there is another popular site - the Macocha Canyon, which is considered the largest in Central Europe. Its depth is 138 m.

Poland

The Tatras are for the Poles what the Alps are for the French. Main tourist center This place is considered to be the city of Zakopane. It serves as the starting point for a hiking route that includes the Kościeliska Valley, the Giewont and Kasprowy Wierch Mountains, the Eagle's Path, the Five Lakes Valley, the Morskie Oko Lake and Mount Rysy (2499 m), which is the highest peak in Poland. The program usually includes a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Slovakia

There are many lakes of glacial origin in the High Tatras

The Slovak Paradise Nature Reserve is considered a very attractive place for trekking. Hiking trails are equipped with bridges and stairs. Small rivers can be crossed using artificial fords. The trail passes by numerous waterfalls. The length of the gorge is 4 km. You can get there from the Podlesok tourist center near Hrabusice. The hike is classified as medium difficulty.

The Slovak High Tatras have 26 peaks, the height of which exceeds 2500 m. The most visited is Gerlachovsky Peak with a height of 2654 m. It is quite easy to climb. It is from its top that the most spectacular panoramas open.

Another popular mountain is Lomnicky Peak (2634 m). The highest Slovak weather station is located on its top. You can get to it on foot or using the cable car from Tatranska Lomnica. In clear weather, a good half of Slovakia is visible from the mountain!

The High Tatras are the place where the largest number of reservoirs are concentrated, which were created by glaciers in the distant past. Now there are about a hundred of them. The transparency of the water in the lakes reaches 12 m. The so-called Mengus Valley stretches between the ridges. There are tourists here in any season. At the end of the valley lies the Velke Gintsovo Pleso lake. It is considered the deepest in the Tatras.

The Tatra valleys are also attractive due to their cascades of waterfalls. The Studeniy Potok waterfall is recognized as one of the most visited. Famous ones include the Obrovski waterfall, falling from a height of 20 m. No less spectacular Big waterfall. It stands out with a thirteen-meter cascade. The routes to them start from Tatranska Lomnica.

There are tourist routes along Low Tatras. They usually pass along the central ridge, which stretches for as much as a hundred kilometers. The ridge consists of a chain of 55 peaks, the height of which exceeds 1,700 m. Those who wish can choose either a difficult one-day high-mountain hike or moderately difficult routes where the elevation changes are small.

Romania

Neighborhood of Sinai

The places in the vicinity of the famous Romanian resort of Sinaia are very picturesque. Eat walking route, which includes not only a visit to this colorful town, but also famous castle Dracula in the town of Bran. The route starts in the city of Brasov. The program includes an ascent to the Cross of Heroes on Mount Karaiman, as well as a visit to Lake Bolboch and Omu Peak (2507 m).

Our tourist club offers the following hiking programs in the Carpathians:

New Year in the Carpathians (accommodation in an estate and auto excursions)
Snowy Carpathians: accommodation in estates and self-guided tours

Carpathian slopes

Ski areas in the Carpathians are located at altitudes from 800 to 2400 m

The ski season in the Carpathians lasts from December to March. Ski areas are located at altitudes from 800 to 2400 m. Many resorts use artificial snow, so the season can increase significantly.

The ski resort Bila is located in the Czech Carpathians. The trails are laid on the slopes of the Zbojnicka and Javorina mountains, which are part of the Beskydy massif. The resort has been operating since 1965. It is located at an altitude of 518 m. The length of the slopes is from 700 to 1000 m.

In Poland, ski centers are located along the border with Slovakia. These are the resorts of Szczyrk, Zakopane, Szczawnica, Krynica. In Zakopane alone there are about a dozen ski centers and about 90 lifts. The largest Polish ski jump is also located here.

The largest number of ski centers are in Slovakia. Their number has exceeded a hundred, and they are all located in the Carpathians. Diverse conditions allow everyone to ride - from beginners to extreme sports enthusiasts. Resorts often have thermal springs. In winter, they organize hiking trips to the Studenovskie waterfalls, which in the cold turn into enchanting ice cascades.

In Romania, the main ski resorts are concentrated in the very center of the country in the districts of Brasov and Prahova. The famous ski centers of Azuga, Busteni and Sinaia are located in the Prahova Valley. The Poiana Brasov ski area also includes slopes near the town of Predeal. Ski slopes operate at altitudes from 1000 to 2400 m.

Near Carpathians

Mountain village

The good thing about the Ukrainian Carpathians is that they are closest to the rest, and you don’t need a visa to visit them. The eastern tip of a large European mountainous country is spread over the territory of four regions - Transcarpathian, Ivano-Frankivsk, Lviv and Chernivtsi.

The length of the Ukrainian Carpathian section is 280 m, and the width is about a hundred kilometers. On average, the mountains are low - about 900-1000 m, but there are peaks over 2000 m. These include, for example, Goverla (2061 m). It is considered the highest point of the country.

The Carpathians united more than a dozen ski resorts - Zakhar Berkut, Zhdenievo, Krasiya, Slavskoe, Pylypets and others. All of them are located in picturesque places and away from large settlements. Business card The local Carpathian resort is considered to be “Bukovel”. The ski season here lasts from November to mid-April. They only ski more at Dragobrat, where sometimes the season ends in mid-May.

You can find many natural masterpieces in the mountains. These, for example, include Mount Makovitsa (984.5 m) in the vicinity of the city of Yaremche. The huge scree on its slope looks like a giant elephant coming to drink. It is often called “Elephant Mountain”. You can take a break on the banks of the Prut River. This route cannot be called a hike. It's more of an easy walk.

There is an interesting route to the place where the Princess meteorite fell. This event took place in 1866. Scientists estimated the weight of the space guest at 280 kg. They say that small fragments can still be found today. To the Black Mlaki tract, where it happened space disaster, can be reached from the villages of Knyaginya or Stuzhitsa. The path goes by mineral springs and oak trees whose age has exceeded a thousand years. The total length of the route is 14 km.

Another route allows you to walk along the bottom of the ancient sea! Once upon a time, the Carpathians were truly under water. There is a marked trail from the village of Verkhovyna-Bystraya in the Transcarpathian region to Mount Plishka. It offers a view of the Uzhansky National natural Park. In 1968, in these places they found the fossilized skeleton of a fish that swam here about 36 million years ago. Similar finds can be seen in the Transcarpathian Museum of Local Lore in the Uzhgorod Castle.

What a trip without a true friend!

The Ukrainian Carpathians are well developed in terms of tourism, so the interesting routes goes to tens. There are hikes to the mountains " Tall stone", "Parashka", "Pikuy", "Spitz", "Hamster", "Gemba" and others. A special route is dedicated to two-thousand-meter mountains – there are six of them in Ukraine.

The Gorgan Mountains are highlighted as a separate item. There is a combined option called “Five Carpathian Passes”. He walks along the Verkhovinsky ridge. There are routes along the Marmaros massif, the Svidovetsky ridge, to the “Russian Way” pass - you can’t list everything. One thing is clear - you won’t get away with two days in the Carpathians. You need to come here for at least a week. Or better yet, two.

The Carpathians are an ancient mountain system, but few people know where the Carpathians are. The mountain system is located in the countries of central and eastern Europe, in countries such as Hungary, Ukraine, Slovakia, Romania, the Czech Republic, and Poland. The mountains are long - about 1500 kilometers and have the shape of an arc.

On the map, the mountains are divided into western and eastern. By the way, it is in the western part of this system that the highest mountain is located, about 2600 meters. The places in these parts are incredibly beautiful; The Carpathians are very popular in the field of world tourism, and they are also famous for their affordable prices.

The mountain system occupies more than 70% of the territory of Romania, which is why ski tourism has become extremely popular here. The mountains here are not as high as the Alps, but no less picturesque and attractive to tourists.

Carpathians on the world map.

As the map shows, in the western part of the mountain system there is a famous thousand-year-old glacier, as well as many unusual and interesting caves.

In the eastern part of the state, the Carpathians form the longest volcanic chain in Europe, and the southern part, in turn, is famous for its high mountains - more than 2500 meters.

The ski slopes in the Romanian Carpathians are very diverse and unusual: they have different lengths - from 5 to 35 kilometers, slope and level of difficulty, which is suitable for both ordinary tourists and athletes.

The Carpathians in these places attract not only skiers, but also lovers of history and architecture. Here, surrounded by coniferous forests and meadows, there are beautiful medieval castles, which were built by the first Romanian king for his summer holiday.

Hungarian Carpathians

The Carpathians in Hungary until recently were not very popular, but now the resort is gaining great popularity, and the level of recreation is rated very highly. E

that state is located in the western part of the mountain range and is famous for its huge number natural caves, which amaze even experienced tourists with their beauty.

There are several famous recreation areas in Hungary:

Matra - this resort has gained popularity due to its huge beech forests, clean air and mild climate.
Huge vineyards grow here and the place is famous for its quality wines of various varieties. In winter, the resort turns into a haven for skiers, both beginners and professionals. There is also a track for sleds, it is a pleasure to be there.
Bükk is considered the largest ski park in Hungary due to its huge selection of slopes for professionals.
In addition, the Carpathians are famous for their huge number of geothermal springs, which is a popular recreational resource.

Ukrainian Carpathians

The Carpathians on the map of Ukraine occupy a huge territory - as many as 4 regions, and are conditionally divided into 2 parts - Transcarpathia and Prykarpattya.

The Carpathians of Ukraine are famous for their medieval castles, wonderful views, and distinctive villages, which allows you to choose something interesting for everyone. excursion program. The most famous among tourists are Uzhgorod, Lviv, Ternopil and many others.

The most popular castles in the mountains and foothills of the Carpathians are…

Castle in Mukachevo

The castle in Mukachevo is located on high mountain and belongs to Transcarpathia.
According to scientists, the castle arose in the 10th-11th centuries with the purpose of monitoring trade caravans passing through these places.

The castle acquired the appearance that tourists are accustomed to in the 17th century through careful architectural reconstruction by the French. Him rich story, because the castle went through many wars and served as a defensive point. A separate attraction is the famous well, almost 90 meters deep; it was used for many hundreds of years, until the beginning of the 20th century.

But the most interesting for tourists is the story of Princess Bathory, who ruled in these parts and for 20 years drank the blood of innocent people and also bathed in it. The story received great publicity and became the subject of books, films, and legends.

Ruins of the Templar castle

On the territory of the Carpathian Mountains, namely in the Carpathian region, there are the ruins of the Templar castle, which was built in the 12th century in a distinct Romanesque style.

The castle has always been surrounded by legends, because it passed from one holy order to another, which gave it even more mystery. By the way, in this village, which is called

The climate is average, very mild and humid, which favorably affects the growth of various grape varieties, which is why local wine is extremely famous throughout the world. Khust Castle is located in the city of the same name, surrounded by high mountains, the slopes are completely covered with grass and other greenery of the Carpathians and fast-moving wild rivers.

Castle in Nevitsky

The castle in Nevitsky is located on the ledge of a high mountain, with a winding and dangerous serpentine leading to it.
At the end of the 12th century, the castle was of great importance in controlling trade routes, but 100 years later it was destroyed by Batu Khan during a Mongol-Tatar raid. Later the fortress was restored.

These places have an incredible number of legends, all connected with love stories. These places are extremely romantic and filled with love; there are remarkable views for every tourist.

Polish Carpathians

The Tatras are the highest part of the Carpathian Mountains, which are located on the map in Poland. Not only the ski resorts are famous here, but also the vast valleys, such as Khocholovskaya and the Fish Stream valley.

Most high mountain The Carpathian mountain range is the Tatr-Genlach mountain.

In area High Tatras there are many reservoirs, lakes, mountain landscapes formed by stone ledges, precipices, and sharp rocks.

In the region of the Western Tatras there is great amount various caves, the relief here is softer.

Without a doubt, the most famous and popular mountains in Europe are the Alps. But in this part of the world there is another mountain system that is inferior to the Alps in height, but superior to them in size. And it also attracts great attention from tourists and winter holiday enthusiasts. Where are the Carpathians? In which countries are they located? When were these mountains formed, and why are they interesting?

"Stone Mountains"

The word “Carpathians” evokes approximately the same images and scenes in everyone: a dark forest, thick fog creeping along the slopes, molfar sorcerers and, of course, the castle of the famous Count Dracula. These mountains are truly shrouded in a certain aura of mysticism and mystery. But not everyone knows exactly where the Carpathians are and when they were formed.

The word “Carpathians” itself, according to some researchers, comes from the name of the Thracian tribe “Carps”, who lived in this territory in the 3rd-4th centuries. Other scholars associate it with the Proto-European word kar, which translates as “stone.” True, it’s a stretch to call the Carpathians “stone mountains.” After all, most of the mountain system is represented by gentle valleys and peaks with smooth outlines, where rocky ledges and pointed peaks are extremely rare.

Where are the Carpathians: countries and major cities

In which states are the Carpathians located? Where are their natural boundaries? The mountain system covers the territories of eight European countries. This:

Czech Republic.
Poland.
Slovakia.
Ukraine.
Hungary.
Romania.
Serbia.
Austria.

About 70% of the total area of the Carpathian mountainous country falls on two states - Romania and Ukraine. But only its extreme western spurs enter Austria. The largest cities located within the Carpathian Mountains:

Bielsko-Biala (Poland).
Zakopane (Poland).
Banska Bystrica (Slovakia).
Kosice (Slovakia).
Zilina (Slovakia).
Cluj-Napoca (Romania).
Brasov (Romania).
Oradea (Romania).
Sibiu (Romania).
Uzhgorod (Ukraine).
Kolomyia (Ukraine).
Vršac (Serbia).

This is where the Carpathians are located. It remains to find out what parts this mountain system consists of.

Structure of the Carpathians

The Carpathian Mountains consist of eight orographic parts (see map below):

Outer Western Carpathians.
Inner Western Carpathians.
Outer Eastern Carpathians.
Inner Eastern Carpathians.
Southern Carpathians.
Western Romanian Carpathians.
Transylvanian plateau.
Serbian Carpathians.

Carpathian Mountains: main features and interesting facts

Here are some of them:

Despite their low heights and gentle shapes, the Carpathians are young mountains. They arose at approximately the same time (by geological standards, of course) as the Alps and Himalayas.
Mountain building processes in the Carpathians continue to this day. This is evidenced by earthquakes that are regularly recorded here. The strength of individual shocks reaches 5-7 points on the Richter scale.
The Carpathians were once characterized by active volcanic activity. Cones of extinct volcanoes can be seen in the vicinity of Uzhgorod, Mukachevo and Khust.
The Carpathian subsoil is rich in numerous minerals. The main mineral wealth of the mountain system is oil, gas, ozokerite, marble and gold.
The width of the Carpathian Mountains in some places reaches 450 kilometers.
The Alps are separated from the Carpathians by only 14 kilometers. The border between the two largest mountain systems in Europe lies precisely between Vienna and Bratislava.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, numerous remains of prehistoric animals were discovered in the mountainous country - mammoths, huge deer and various birds.
The Carpathians are considered the birthplace of the world's largest musical instrument - the trembita. The length of this wooden tube is 4 meters. It is capable of spreading sound over 10-20 kilometers.

Origin and age of the Carpathian Mountains

Long before the formation of the modern mountain system, in its place there was a chain of ridges connecting the Sudetenland with Dobruja (a hill in Romania). Geologists call it Prakarpaty. Subsequently, these mountains were destroyed by powerful movements of the earth's crust, and in their place by the beginning of the Mesozoic, an almost flat plain formed.

Climate and flora of the Carpathians

The climate of the territory is moderate continental and quite humid. Average temperatures in July are +17…20 °C, in January from -2 to -5 °C. Precipitation ranges from 600 to 2000 mm per year.

In the Carpathians, the altitudinal zonation of the landscapes is clearly visible. Broad-leaved and mixed forests grow up to a height of 600 meters, from 600 to 1500 meters there are dark coniferous forests, and even higher there are low-growing shrubs. The peaks of many Carpathian mountains are covered with subalpine meadows. In the Ukrainian Carpathians they came up with their own name - “poloniny”.

The main resorts of the Carpathians

Zakopane is perhaps the best ski resort in the Carpathians. Where are its tracks? The resort is located in the southern part of Poland, in a small town with the same name. The total length of its routes is 60 kilometers. They are designed for all categories of skiers - from beginners to professionals. The ski season lasts from late October to mid-April.

Bukovel is the main Ukrainian ski resort, which is located in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. It features quality trails and excellent infrastructure. Ideal snow cover persists here from the beginning of December until the end of April.

Famous peaks

Gerlachovsky Shtit (2654 m) is the highest mountain in the Carpathians. It is located on the territory of Slovakia, near the city of Gerlachov. Today the mountain is very popular among tourists. However, climbing to its peak requires serious preparation and is only allowed with an experienced guide.

Hoverla (2061 m) is the highest point of the Ukrainian Carpathians, located within the Montenegrin range. Climbing this mountain is relatively simple, so in the summer dozens of tourists conquer its peak every day. Hoverla is famous for the fact that the largest river in Eastern Europe, the Prut, originates from its slopes.

Moldoveanu (2544 m) is the highest peak in Romania. Located in the heart of the country, within the Fagaras mountain range. Climbing Moldoviana is a little more difficult than Goverla, but its conquest does not cause any particular difficulties for experienced tourists.

The Carpathians are a huge mountain system in the central part of Europe which passes through Slovakia, Ukraine, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Austria.

These mountains are located closer to the western part of Ukraine and have an average length of 280 km. The relief here is multi-tiered, there are foothill, low-mountain, mid-mountain and high-mountain areas. Their height can reach 2000 m.

These places are distinguished by particularly clean air and beautiful open spaces, which of course cannot but attract tourists and climbers. We hope that you will no longer be tormented by the question - where are the Carpathians.

The Carpathians are located in four regions of Ukraine:

Chernivtsi;
Transcarpathian;
Lviv;
Ivano-Frankivsk.

The most popular mountains among tourists are:

Hoverla;
Pop-Ivan;
Petros;
Hamster.

The height of these mountains sometimes exceeds 2000m, which is why they attract tourists. The atmosphere around is mesmerizing: virgin nature, clean air, absence of people, variety of trees, plants and aromas.

In addition to the stunning scenery, tourists, like local residents, fishing attracts here. Rivers of the Carpathians rich in a wide variety of fish.

It is not difficult to determine where the Carpathians may be located on the world map, since they occupy an impressive territory and are highlighted in brown.

Click on the map to enlarge

The Carpathians can be divided into 3 parts according to geographical location : Southern, Western, Eastern. Western Carpathians - Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland. The most high point The Carpathians are located on Mount Gerlach, whose height is 2655 m. In turn, all the Southern Carpathians are located in Romania, and almost the entire part of the Eastern Carpathians is located in Ukraine.

Usually, most active tourism in the Carpathians in winter. From mid-autumn, the first snow appears here and vacationers come in anticipation of the beginning, warming mulled wine and a good mood.

Recently, one of the most preferred places for ski holiday it was the Carpathians. Summer holidays here have their own charm. Everyone can choose something they like:

swimming in rivers;
interact with different animals on farm yards;
take up your favorite folk craft.