Winter Break In Verhovina

Here I am on a train bound for Chernivitsi we left Odessa on time, a 14 coach train. Phew! I am in our compartment, “Ira” has spread out a feast on the table and 2 large thermos flasks I thought coffee? But No! wine, or vodka. Always! be prepared. Soon other folk arrive we are sharing our fayre with them. Now waiting for tea boy to arrive, I am full and steadily warming up after our wait on the platform in Odessa. -3, the family determined we would not be late. Well fed and watered we have about an 18 Hour journey ahead. Great!

We arrive at the stationing in Chernivitsi, it's snowing hard, no worries; there’s the mini bus. soon be warm in hotel, “Big” mistake!. 3.5 hours later after sliding, bumping, and at breakneck speed, we debus in Verhovina, very cold and stiff, I had sat with my knees up under my chin that's how cramped it was, But hey! This is Ukraine what do you expect? Here's the thing, the scenery is stunningly beautiful, this is, the Carpathian Mountains. The Hotel? isn’t, it's a large Chalet all pine wood panels etc but well appointed and clean, I settle in for a sleep not having done much on The train. No. That’s not going to happen we are called to lunch.

Absolutely smashing, all food is locally produced and much more, the meat is raised and cured by mine host, it tastes so good. After lunch the youngsters opt for a walk, not me. I like the idea of forty winks, just an hour will do, ah! bliss!! Time for exploration and skiing tomorrow.