The Carpathian Mountains cut through Eastern Europe like a huge scythe, slicing the corner off south-west Ukraine. Eventually, they dip into Austria and Hungary before rendering themselves to The Alps. The 1,500 kilometre chain of peaks make their presence across eight countries, half of which lie in the bucolic countryside of Romania. My second encounter of this range was in Ukraine after a jaunt as a newbie, skiing in the foothills of the Polish Tatras one winter. The territory in Ukraine is wild and scenic. It is void of decent walking trail markings, unlike in The Czech Republic or neighbouring Slovakia. I was sure to keep a mental note of reference points so as to not get lost. I can't recall passing one hiker in spite of my flying visit. A bear's footprint was the only sign of life in these parts of the forest just a few kilometres from the quiet town of Yaremche. #mountains #views #hiking #camping