“Journey to Yourself”: A New Recovery Route for Veterans Through Lviv and Zakarpattia Regions

On November 2, 2026, the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine (SATD) presented a new route as part of its “Journey to Yourself. Paths to Recovery” programme, covering Lviv and Zakarpattia regions. The route includes Skole Beskids National Nature Park, the Tustan Historical and Cultural Reserve (Urych village, Lviv Region), Mukachevo and Uzhhorod. It was designed to support the recovery of veterans, military personnel and their families, and was previewed by veterans themselves.

This is the programme’s third route. The previous routes covered Mykolaiv and Khmelnytskyi regions ( Kamianets-Podilskyi — Bakota). Before presenting the route to the public, military personnel travelled it, including veteran and blogger Oleksandr Teren. SATD Head Nataliia Tabaka explains: “It was important for SATD that veterans themselves experience and evaluate the route developed as part of the programme.”

For now, this is a recommended route rather than an organized tour with a booking system.

Route highlights

Skole Beskids

Mountain meadows, tranquillity and long hikes. November is a peaceful time to visit, without the summer crowds. However, keep in mind that the mountain meadows may already be covered in snow.

Tustan

A rock complex near the village of Urych, where a rock fortress once stood. It is a place where you can simply stand among the rocks and enjoy a moment of silence.

Mukachevo

Palanok Castle and the city's museums are ideal for those who want to explore history and enjoy a coffee in the old town after spending time in the mountains.

Uzhhorod

Another urban stop on the route, offering museums, leisurely walks and the relaxed pace of a regional capital.

Cheese dairy and ranch

The route also includes a local cheese-making facility with tastings and a ranch in the foothills where visitors can go horseback riding. Artisan production, animals and hands-on activities can all help bring you back to the present moment.

How the “Journey to Yourself” programme works

The programme was initiated by the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine (SATD), with the NGO Brand Ukraine as its partner. It officially launched in August 2026. Its goal is to support psychological, emotional and physical recovery through travelling around Ukraine.

At dosebe.travel, visitors can take a test, receive recommendations for places to visit and create their own route. The website features an interactive map of verified locations, and no registration is required.

The organizers emphasize respect for personal boundaries and the avoidance of potential triggers. In other words, there is no pressure to hurry: you choose your own pace and the places you want to visit.

Practical information and safety

• In the mountains, check the weather forecast before setting out. Snow is possible on the mountain meadows in November. The State Emergency Service rescue number is 101.
• During an air raid alert, proceed to the nearest shelter. Up-to-date shelter information is available in the Diia app and on local community shelter maps. You can also receive alerts through the Air Alert app.

What else to see nearby

• Gredel Palace in Skole.
• Kamianka Waterfall in Skole Beskids National Nature Park.
• Uzhhorod Castle.

Photo: Serhii Krynytsia (Haidamac)