When I lived in Uzhhorod, sometimes I went out of town with family or friends to relax. Especially during the lockdown, we went much more often. And once I got for a few minutes at an interesting location whose name at the time I did not know. But, as it turned out, these are basalt pillars - a geological natural monument of local significance in Ukraine.
The most famous natural monument is in the Rivne region (where I really want to go!), But Transcarpathia has its own. Not so majestic and famous, but unique.
Basalt columns are magmatic rock broken by cracks into columnar structures characteristic of basalt. In cross-section, the pillars are shaped from quadrilaterals to heptagons, which makes this material convenient for paving streets and paths. The height of such formations can reach several tens of meters.
Some of them already have world fame. For example, the Road of the Giants in Ireland, where almost 40,000 interconnected basalt columns form a kind of springboard from rocks to the sea, has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in this country. The Basalt Organ in the Garni Gorge in Armenia is also popular. The location got its name because the basalt formations formed a high rock, which from afar resembles this musical instrument. I hope someday I will be able to visit these places.
I have already said that the most famous basalt monument in Ukraine is located in the Rivne region, but recently such a location (and not one!) Was found in Transcarpathia, in the volcanic Carpathians. And these places are really impressive!
The closest location to Uzhhorod (where I was) is located between the villages of Kolchyno and Zhborivtsi. From the city to the location is about 50 minutes by car.
And this is a very beautiful place. During the time we were near the basalt pillars, the weather change several times. When the sun shines, all the stones become golden, and when the sky is covered with clouds, they become more gothic.
According to tourism experts, basalt pillars have every opportunity to become the new tourist magnets of Transcarpathia. Because people need simple locations where you can take good photos.
Basalt pillars can be interesting both for independent tourists looking for unusual places for rest and for excursion groups. These locations are also suitable for a useful family vacation because children are interested in looking at large boulders, looking at patterns on them, and more. So for all connoisseurs of geological formations and original Instagram photos - these locations are a must-visit!
Therefore, if you are in those parts - be sure to visit the basalt pillars!
Where can I See Basalt Pillars?
Basalt Pillars are located between the villages of Kolchyno and Zhborivtsi.
The exact GPS coordinates are 48.501032, 22.754729
You can also save my map in Pinmapple.
