Best Hiking Areas in Odessa, Ukraine 🚀

🌳 Odessa National Academic Forestry University Botanical Garden (Одеський національний державний лісотехнічний університет) 🏡 Positioned within the city limits of Odessa, this botanical garden boasts an area of over 12 hectares. It’s a great spot for urban hiking, offering diverse landscapes, from a Japanese garden to a tropical greenhouse, and numerous walking trails. The forested area is perfect for picnics and peaceful strolls amidst lush greenery.

🏞️ Tarutino Forest Park 🌲 Located about an hour away from Odessa, Tarutino Forest Park provides a serene escape into nature. With over 70 square kilometers of forested land and numerous hiking trails, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a more challenging hike. Keep your eyes peeled for various wildlife species such as foxes, wild boars, and even deer!

🏠 Shabo Wine Region 🍇 A visit to Shabo is not only about wine tasting but also an excellent opportunity for hiking. The picturesque vineyards offer beautiful views of the steppe landscape, with numerous trails leading through the vines. The best time to explore this area is during the grape harvest season (September).

🌅 Mangalyshskaya Spit 🏖️ While not technically a hiking trail, Mangalyshskaya Spit is an excellent place for leisurely walks along the Black Sea coast. This 4-kilometer-long sandy spit offers breathtaking views of the sea and is home to various bird species, making it popular among birdwatchers.

🌳 Odessa Sea Port 🛳️ Lastly, don’t miss out on hiking around Odessa’s iconic sea port. The area features unique architecture, including the famous Potemkin Stairs, and offers scenic views of the Black Sea. While not as forested or challenging as the other locations mentioned, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Odessa.

📍 Note: Always remember to respect nature and follow local regulations when hiking in Odessa, Ukraine. Carry water, snacks, and necessary safety gear with you, and never leave trash behind. Enjoy your hikes! 😊