Carpathians where the country is located. Carpathian Mountains on the map

In Europe, on the territory of Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Ukraine and Romania (55% of the area of ​​the Carpathians). It stretches for 1.5 thousand km from the Devin Gate (on the Danube River near the city of Bratislava) to the Iron Gate (on the Danube River), forming an arc convex to the northeast and east. The width in the northwest is about 250 km, in the northeast about 120 km, in the southeast up to 430 km. The area is about 210 thousand km 2. The predominant heights are 800-1200 m, the highest is 2655 m (Mount Gerlachovski-Štit).

Relief. The Carpathians are a complex system of echelon-shaped mountain ranges and ridges, separated by longitudinal and transverse valleys. Orographically they are divided into the Western Carpathians (with the southwestern spur of the Lesser Carpathians, height up to 768 m), Eastern Carpathians and Southern Carpathians; The northern ranges of the Western and partly Eastern Carpathians form the Beskids. The Carpathians also include the Western Romanian Mountains and the Transylvanian Plateau adjacent to the Southern Carpathians from the north, and the Banat Mountains (altitude up to 1446 m) from the west.

The mountains are characterized by rounded peaks and gentle slopes (except for the northwestern and southeastern parts). Along the outer side of the arc of the mountains there is a strip of foothills (40-60 km wide) with a height of 400-500 m, in the southeast up to 907 m. The axial zone of the Carpathians is formed by an intermittent chain of blocky massifs, the highest of them (more than 2 thousand m) are the Tatras (with the Gerlachovsky-Štit mountain), Low Tatras, Rodna, Fagaras, Paryng, Retezat. The ridges of the highest ridges bear traces of Pleistocene glaciation; the most clearly alpine landforms are expressed in the Tatra and Fagaras massifs. Karst relief forms are typical for many regions of the Carpathians, especially clearly manifested in the Slovak Karst (Slovak Karst) massifs (for example, Agtelek Cave), Bükk, etc. River valleys in limestone often form canyons. A strip of volcanic massifs stretches along the inner side of the Carpathian arc. In the western part, their height usually does not exceed 1300 m (Kremnicke Vrchy, Stiavnicke Vrchy, Vigorlat massif, etc.), sometimes they have the appearance of table mountains, in places they form sharp contours. In the east, the volcanic mountains are higher (up to 2100 m, Mount Pietros in the Caliman massif), they are separated by deep basins and river valleys. The relief of the Transylvanian plateau (height 600-800 m) is a complex combination of rolling hills, flat watersheds and river valleys; mud volcanoes are found in its marginal parts.

Typical for the Carpathians are leveling surfaces of different heights, basins, the bottoms of which in the foothills lie at an altitude of 200-300 m (Upper Moravian, Auschwitz, Sandomierz, etc.), in the mountains - at an altitude of 500-700 m (Dorn, Brasov, etc.). Due to the relatively low altitude, the mountains are relatively easy to pass, especially in the central part. The main passes through which the railway and highway are laid are located mainly at an altitude of 500-1000 m (Dukljanski-Priesmik, Yablonitsky, Predeal, etc.).

Geological structure and minerals. Tectonically, the Carpathians are a fold-cover system of the Iberian-Albourse branch of the Alpine-Himalayan mobile belt, which in the southeast merges with the Balkan fold system, and in the west is separated by a transversely superimposed trough of the Vienna Basin from the Alpine folded system. On the outer side, the Carpathian system is bordered by the Pre-Carpathian foredeep, through which it borders with platform areas: the Western European platform in the north, the East European platform in the east and the epi-Baikal Moesian platform in the southeast. The foredeep is filled with Miocene molasse (in the east and southeast - Miocene-Pliocene), containing strata of Middle Miocene salt rocks (evaporites). The arched fold system of the Carpathians surrounds the Pannonian (in the west) and Transylvanian (in the east) Neogene molasse depressions. At their base are blocks of pre-Mesozoic continental crust - Alcapa, Thissia and Dacia.

In the structure of the folded system of the Carpathians, the External and Internal megazones are distinguished. The outer megazone is composed mainly of Upper Jurassic-Paleocene terrigenous flysch, overlain by a clayey-siliceous series of the Oligocene - Lower Miocene. Structurally, this megazone is a package of tectonic nappes displaced many tens of kilometers in the direction of adjacent platforms. Fold-sheet dislocations also extend to the inner wing of the forward trough; in the southeast, in the axial zone of the trough (on the territory of Romania), salt tectonics manifested itself with the formation of salt diapirs with piercing cores. The main deformations in the Outer Megazone occurred before the Middle Miocene, and in the foredeep - in the Pliocene (in the southeast - including the Quaternary period). The structure of the Inner Megazone involves mainly Paleozoic metamorphic rocks and Late Paleozoic granitoids (fragments of the Central European Hercynian folded structure), as well as shelf carbonate and carbonate-terrigenous Mesozoic strata, which, together with Paleozoic rocks, experienced tectonic movement (shaping) in the middle and end of the Early Cretaceous, and also later. In the Inner Megazone, Middle Triassic - Upper Jurassic ophiolites (relics of the crust of the ancient Tethys Ocean) have been established. On the border of the Inner and Outer megazones in the Northern Carpathians there is a narrow Pieniny (Cliff, or Klippova) zone, consisting mainly of large fragments of Triassic-Cretaceous carbonate rocks surrounded by marls. The main deformations in this zone occurred at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary during the Laramie era of tectogenesis.

The Carpathian fold system arose in the Cenozoic, mainly on the site of a marginal marine basin in the northern part of the Tethys Ocean. This basin developed starting in the mid-Triassic due to the formation of rifts crossing the Hercynian basement on the margin of the ancient European continent. The formation of the fold-cover structure of the Carpathians was caused by the collision (collision) of the Alcapa, Thissia and Dacia microplates (“outliers” of the African lithospheric plate) with the southern margin of the Eurasian plate, as well as the underthrust (subduction) of the oceanic crust of the marginal marine basin under the microplates. An outbreak of volcanism in the rear of the Carpathian fold system was associated with the processes of collision and subduction. The Carpathians retain tectonic mobility (especially the Eastern Carpathians), accompanied by intense seismicity (the Vrancea epicentral zone in Romania). Earthquakes occurring in the Eastern Carpathians are felt in the European part of Russia (for example, in Moscow in 1978 - up to 4 points).

In the Cis-Carpathian trough, deposits of oil and natural combustible gas, ozokerite, rock and potassium salts, and native sulfur are concentrated. Oil deposits are known in the frontal part of the Outer Megazone of the Carpathians. In the Pieniny zone there are deposits of dolomite, limestone, marble, and raw materials for stone casting. Deposits of pyrite-polymetallic, copper-pyrite, barite and ferromanganese ores are confined to the metamorphic complex of the Inner Megazone of the Carpathians; Volcanic rocks are associated with deposits of mercury, gold-polymetallic and barite ores, as well as alunites, perlites, kaolins, and bentonite clays. In the Transylvanian intermontane depression there are deposits of flammable gas, rock and potassium salts, sulfur, and brown coal. A special place among natural resources The Carpathians are occupied mineral water(including carbon dioxide and nitrogen sulfate), brines of chloride and sulfate-chloride composition, thermal and subthermal waters of high mineralization. There are sources of rare low-mineralized waters with a high content of organic matter (Truskavets).

The climate is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. The average January temperature in the foothills ranges from -5°C in the north and east to -2°C in the south; at the highest peaks it drops to -10°C. In some intramountain basins, temperature inversions are observed in winter. The average July temperature in the foothills ranges from 17°C in the north and east to 20°C in the south; in the upper mountain zone it drops to 4°C. Annual precipitation in the foothills varies from 600-800 mm on the outer side of the arc of the Eastern and Southern Carpathians to 900-1000 mm in the Western Romanian Mountains and Western Carpathians. In the high mountain zone, the amount of precipitation increases to 1400 mm in the south and 2000 mm in the northeast and northwest (in the Tatras). Maximum precipitation occurs in summer, most of it falls in the form of rain. The duration of snow cover in the foothills is 2-3 months (in some areas it forms sporadically), in the mountains it is 5-7 months. Avalanches are common. The snow line in the Tatras is located at an altitude of about 2300 m. There are no modern glaciers in the Carpathians.

Surface waters. The Carpathians are one of the main watersheds in Europe. Most of the rivers belong to the Danube basin (the largest are Tisza, Olt, Jiu, Siret, Prut and their tributaries), rivers northern slopes- the Vistula and Odra basins, the rivers of the northeastern slopes - the Dniester basin. The rivers are fed by mixed snow and rain. Their regime is characterized by sharp fluctuations in water flow throughout the year. The greatest flow is observed in spring (due to snow melting) and in the first half of summer (due to heavy rains). Floods and catastrophic floods and mudflows are common. The rivers of the Carpathians have significant reserves of electricity (cascades of hydroelectric power stations have been built), many of them are used for irrigation purposes. To combat floods, dams and canals were built along the rivers. There are about 450 small lakes in the Carpathians; in the highlands they occupy mainly the bottoms of ancient glacial carts.

Types of landscapes. The Carpathians are characterized by high-altitude zones with a predominance of mountain forests (occupying 300 thousand hectares) and mountain-meadow landscapes. In the past, forest-steppe, oak and beech-oak forests were widespread in the foothills, now almost completely cut down. In their place are gardens, vineyards, arable land, secondary forests (steppe forests in the west). The landscapes of the basins have been greatly changed. In the mountains, natural landscapes are better preserved. The lower belt of mountains (up to an altitude of 500-600 m in the north and 600-800 m in the south) is occupied by oak and hornbeam-oak forests. Higher up (up to 1100-1250 m in the north and 1300-1350 m in the south) they are gradually replaced by beech forests, which are most common in the Southern Carpathians, Western Romanian Mountains and along the inner side of the arc of the mountains. In the Eastern Carpathians there are areas of beech-sycamore and beech-ash-sycamore forests. Up to an altitude of 1200-1300 m in the north and 1500-1550 m in the south there are mixed forests (beech, white fir and European spruce). They are especially developed along the outer side of the Carpathian arc, where they often descend to the foothills and often replace the landscapes of beech forests, and in the Western Carpathians. The upper limit of the forest zone (up to 1500-1600 m in the north and 1700-1800 m in the south) is formed by coniferous forests (mainly spruce, less often larch and pine), they are most developed in the Eastern Carpathians. As a result economic activity human coniferous forests in many places have been largely cleared, their upper limit has been reduced by 100-200 m compared to the natural limit. Forests in the Carpathians are formed mainly on brown soils, including podzolized ones.

The forest zone gives way to a belt of subalpine shrubs and meadows (up to an altitude of 1700-2000 m in the north and 2100-2200 m in the south). It is represented mainly by crooked forests - thickets of mountain (dwarf) pine, juniper, green alder - and areas of grass and forb meadows. Higher up (up to 2300-2400 m) there is a belt of alpine meadows and shrubs, which does not have a continuous distribution and is found mainly in the Western and Southern Carpathians, where it alternates with screes and rocks. The vegetation is represented by formations of high-mountain species of grasses and sedges with the participation of alpine forbs, as well as thickets of rhododendron and dwarf willows. Mountain peat-meadow soils predominate. On some peaks rising above 2300-2400 m, there are fragments of the subnival belt with stone placers and rocks, bare or covered with lichen spots.

The Carpathians are characterized by high biodiversity and relatively well-preserved ecosystems, mainly forests. There are 225 areas of primeval forests in the mountains (each area is more than 10 hectares), beech and beech-spruce forests of the Carpathians are the most extensive in Europe. There are 3,988 plant species (1/3 of all species in Europe), of which 481 species are endemic (Aisoforme, Salzburg eyebright, crowbar, Kochi rhododendron, etc.). There are many rare species, especially in the subalpine and alpine zones (Bartsia alpine, eight-petaled dryad, diphasiastrum alpine, chestnut rush, late Lloydia, alpine aster, Rhodiola rosea, arrow-shaped willow, narcissus angustifolate, etc.).

Environmental problems and protected natural areas. Intensive deforestation, construction of settlements, roads and recreational facilities in the Carpathians have led to the appearance of secondary plantations and meadows in place of primary forests, increased erosion, disruption of animal migration routes, an increase in the number of rare species, a decrease in biodiversity, etc. The planting area of ​​even-aged spruce forests (including in the beech forest belt), which are susceptible to wind blows and diseases, has been increased. Forest degradation is observed due to acid rain, the waters of large rivers are polluted, but the small rivers of the Carpathians are still among the cleanest in Europe. Protected natural areas occupy 16% of the area of ​​the Carpathians, the largest of which are the Tatra National Park (Slovakia, Poland), the Eastern Carpathians International Biosphere Reserve (Ukraine, Slovakia, Poland), National parks Low Tatras, Slovak Karst, Polonyny (Slovakia), Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, national parks Synevyr, Skole Beskydy, Uzhansky, Gorgani Nature Reserve, Nadsyansky Landscape Park (Ukraine), Retezat National Park (Romania). In the Carpathians there are mountain climatic and balneological resorts. Tourism is developed; winter views sports In 2003, the countries of the Carpathian region at the 5th Conference of Ministers of Ecology “Environment for Europe” signed the Framework Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians.

Lit.: Geology of the USSR. M., 1966. T. 48: Carpathians. Part 1: Geological description; Geodynamics of the Carpathians. K., 1985; Ukrainian Carpathians. Nature. K., 1988; Nature of the Carpathian National Park. Kiev, 1993; Melnyk A.V. Ukrainian Carpathians: ecological and landscape development. Lviv, 1999; The national parks and biosphere reserves in Carpathians: the last nature paradises. S. 1., 1999; Holt S. Ecoregion conservation in the Carpathians. S. 1., 2000; idem. The Carpathian mountains. S. 1., 2000; Khain V. E. Tectonics of continents and oceans (year 2000). M., 2001; Mosbach Webster R. The Carpathians: Kingdom of the Carnivores. WWF. Danube-Carpathian program. Vienna, 2001.

M. N. Petrushina; V. E. Khain (geological structure and minerals).

Ukrainian Carpathians from A to Z: map of hotels and ski areas, slopes and pistes, lifts and ski passes. Vivid photos and videos. Reviews of ski tourists about the Ukrainian Carpathians.

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Weather in the Ukrainian Carpathians

From an ecological point of view, the Carpathians are a powerful climate-forming factor, a source fresh water and clean air for the region. The climate of the region is temperate continental, in the lowlands winters are short and mild, summers are warm with an average temperature of +19..+21°C. In the mountains, winters are cold and snowy, summers are short and cool. There is snow in the mountains from mid-December to early March, and in some places even from November to May.

Nature of the Ukrainian Carpathians

The flora and fauna of the Carpathians is rich and diverse, many plants are found only in this region, and some animals are considered rare species. A large number of Mountain rivers and lakes are full of fish, in particular trout. As you know, this fish is found only in clean water, and its widespread distribution in the Carpathians indicates the cleanliness of the local reservoirs. The most famous of the lakes is Synevyr, which is recognized as the cleanest in the region. Large rivers are suitable for timber rafting. The mountains themselves are flat, replete with spacious plateaus; there are no rocks here, so the terrain is characterized by smooth lines and is very picturesque.

Treatments and sources

The Carpathians are of interest as a region rich in mineral waters of all types. A huge number of natural springs, more than 800 in total, made the region attractive from the point of view of not only recreation, but also health improvement. Almost every region can boast of its own numerous sources of one or another water. Some of its species are known throughout the world: Naftusya, Morshynskaya, Truskavetskaya, Rapa, Polyana-Kvasova. The widely known resort of Truskavets, where treatment is based on the use of Naftusya water, specializes in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system and kidneys, and diabetes. Svalyavsky district has water sources such as Borjomi and Vichy. The composition of these waters is indicated for the treatment of metabolic diseases, gastrointestinal tract diseases, and tuberculosis. Staying in the fresh air, which is literally saturated with phytoncides of local coniferous plants, in combination with hydrotherapy, gives an amazing long-lasting effect in the treatment of diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Some of the springs are associated with ancient touching legends, some of them are revered by the local population as holy springs.

Ski resorts

The Carpathians are also well known to ski lovers. Bukovel, Dragobrat, Slavskoe are the main ski resorts in the region. The snow lasts here for a long time; thanks to the mild winter (in the coldest month of January, the temperature rarely drops below -6 degrees), you can ski from the end of December to the end of March. These resorts are becoming more and more popular, they are developing dynamically and last years offer a level of service and infrastructure comparable to European ones. Many ski lifts, schools for beginner skiers, well-groomed slopes, many of which are illuminated in the evening, and equipment rental centers await athletes.

You can relax and unwind in numerous entertainment venues that offer a varied menu and entertainment programs. With the end of the ski season, interest in holidays in Carpathian Mountains ah: numerous routes for horseback riding, hiking and cycling are interesting for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Maps of the Ukrainian Carpathians

Popular hotels in Ukrainian Carpathians

Entertainment and attractions

There are many in the Carpathians most interesting cities and villages, castles, natural attractions, so there is every opportunity to implement an extensive excursion program. The mountain villages have preserved their original way of life, and a trip through the Carpathians will clearly show: the higher in the mountains people live, the less fuss there is in their lives. However, there is also less civilization. The cities located in the Carpathians are extremely interesting for their original architecture and rich history. First of all, this is Lviv. One of the largest cities in Ukraine and the most beautiful. The central part of the city was included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List in 1998. The city was founded in 1256, it was incredibly lucky: it was almost not destroyed during both world wars, so it has preserved more than 2,000 historical and architectural monuments.

Some Lviv cafes were opened before the First World War and have preserved the magical aura of the beginning of the last century to this day.

Ivano-Frankivsk, one of the largest cities in Ukraine, is popular among tourists. It is traditionally considered a city more European than Ukrainian, this can be seen both in architecture and in the way of life. The city's numerous historical sites speak volumes about past Polish rule. Mukachevo, Uzhgorod, Ternopil, Truskavets are unusually cozy and attractive, and their attractions can easily compete with what can be seen in recognized European tourist centers.

Another vacation was approaching. My friends and I decided to go on vacation. Between by sea and hiking in the mountains we chose the second option. Our choice fell on Carpathians, because the friends who were already there described everything so beautifully for us that there were simply no other options. The mountains were calling to us, and we carefully planned our trip.

Where are the Carpathians located?

From geography lessons I remember that The Carpathians are located in Central and Eastern Europe, and are divided into internal and external, which in turn are divided into western and eastern. Also The Carpathians are located on the territory of seven states. Probably, every country has its own zest, but I were interested in the Eastern Carpathians. For our small company the easiest thing was visit the Carpathians in Ukraine, because it is inexpensive and there are no problems with transport. Getting to the beginning of the route was not at all difficult, but this is a slightly different story, like our adventures along the route.

Routes of the Eastern Carpathians

Everyone knows that The Eastern Carpathians are located on the territory of Ukraine and Romania, as well as partly in Poland. In order to get to the mountains, you need to go to Ivano-Frankivsk or Transcarpathian region.

We decided go to the Transcarpathian region to walk the route along the Marmarosh ridge, which starts in Rakhiv district. Here we found ourselves in the border zone, and therefore we had to take permission in order to go along the planned route. We went to the mountains from the village of Delovoe (this is where the sign that symbolizes the center of Europe is located).

Our goal was to climb Mount Pop Ivan Marmaroshsky (height 1932 meters). On the mountain we discovered pillars that separate the borders of the two states. Interestingly, to the highest point Marmaros, which is located in Romania - Mount Farkeu, whose height is 1961 meters, You can go through without permission from the Romanian border guards, but they definitely won’t let you in any further.

If you open any geography reference book, you will see that The Western Carpathians are located on the territory of Serbia, Hungary, where mountains occupy a very small part of the country, and also in Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland.

When we were traveling on the train from Ivano-Frankivsk, there was a guy in our compartment who works as a conductor in the Carpathians. He said that There are many interesting and unique places in the Western Carpathians. For example, it is best to go to Poland by ski holiday. There is great resort. He also advised go to Hungary, there mountains occupy a very small part of the country, but it is in this country The highest point of the Carpathians is located, Mount Gerlachovsky Shtit,height which reaches 2655 meters.

For myself, I have identified several obvious advantages of going to the mountains:

• beautiful nature, beautiful landscapes;
• fresh air;
• an opportunity to take a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.

In fact the Carpathians are very cool, it’s not for nothing that they say that The only things better than mountains are mountains.

Europe between the Baltic and Black Seas - consist of en echelon mountain ranges and ridges, dissected by longitudinal and transverse valleys of the Vistula and Odra river basins in the north, the Dniester in the northeast and the Danube in the east and south. Orographically, the Western Carpathians, the Eastern Carpathians (part of which are called the Ukrainian Carpathians), the Beskids, the Southern Carpathians, the Western Romanian Mountains and the Transylvanian Plateau are distinguished. Along the entire outer side of the Carpathian arc there is a strip of foothills up to 40-60 km wide. The predominant heights of the Carpathians are 800-1200 m, the highest height is 2655 m (Gerlachovsky Štit in the Tatras).

The Ukrainian Carpathians are located on the territory of the USSR, which are located within the Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Chernivtsi (Pre-Carpathian) and Transcarpathian regions (Transcarpathia). 240 km long, 100-110 km wide. The ridges extend from northwest to southeast. The axial chain is the Poloninsky-Montenegro Carpathians (the highest altitude is 2061 m - the city of Hoverla). The Carpathians have a general asymmetrical structure - a long and gentle northeastern slope and a steeper southwestern one. On the north-eastern slope there are the Vodorazdelny ridge (800-1400 m) and the system of ridges of the Skibovy Carpathians (800-1800 m), turning into the foothills. The southwestern slope decreases stepwise to the Turyan intermountain region and the Verkhnetisen depression. To the southwest of the low mountains rises the Volcanic, or Vigorlat-Gutinsky ridge (900-1100 m), the outer edge of which is adjacent to the flat Transcarpathian (Prytisenskaya) lowland (up to 120 m).

In the Carpathians, altitudinal zonation in the distribution of landscapes is clearly manifested. Forest-steppe, oak and beech-oak forests are common in the foothills; in the mountain forest belt (at an altitude of 550-800 m) - oak forests, higher (up to an altitude of 1550 m) - beech and mixed forests, at an altitude of 1500-1800 m - coniferous forests, giving way to a belt of subalpine meadows and shrubs (polonia). The soils are, respectively, mountain forest brown and mountain podzolic, and in the valleys there are mountain peat meadow soils. Fragments of the subnival belt and traces of Pleistocene glaciation are found in the Poloninsky-Montenegro Carpathians. The climate of the Carpathians is moderate, transitional from maritime to continental. Average temperatures in January are from -3 to -5°C in the Ciscarpathian and Transcarpathian regions and from -10 to -12°C in the mountains, in July 17-20°C, in the mountains up to 16-17°C. Precipitation is 770-1500 mm or more per year.

In the Cis-Carpathian foredeep, filled with Neogene molasse, three zones are distinguished: External (Bilche-Volytska), Central (Sambirskaya) and Internal (Boryslavo-Pokutska). The last two are often combined into one - the Internal Zone. The internal zone, founded on a geosynclinal flysch foundation, also sagged during the orogenic stage of development at the beginning of the Miocene with the accumulation of lower and then upper molasse; the zone is complexly dislocated into folds-scales, separated by gentle thrusts to the north. The central zone (formed in the early Miocene on a platform foundation) also has a complex internal structure. In their modern form, the Inner and Central zones are large covers, far (15-20 km) thrust to the northeast onto the Outer zone (autochthonous), formed on a platform foundation in the late Miocene. The pre-Miocene foundation of the Outer Zone plunges stepwise towards the Carpathians. The thickness of monoclinally occurring upper molasse increases in the same direction.

The main part of the Carpathian arc (Outer Carpathians) is composed of a thick (more than 4-5 km) thickness of Cretaceous and Paleogene flysch, forming a system of linear folds-scales (skibs) broken by thrusts, overturned and thrust onto the Cis-Carpathian trough. Thrust amplitudes are over 20-25 km. The Outer Carpathians are a typical miogeosyncline, divided into a number of structural-facies (tectonic) zones, separated by regional thrusts: Skibovaya, Subsilesian, Silesian, Duklyansko-Chernogorskaya, Porkuletskaya and Rakhovskaya. The foundation of the Outer Carpathians is probably represented by transitional and oceanic type crust, relics of which (outcrops of lavas, porphyrites, spilites, etc.) form tectonic outliers in the frontal parts of the scales separating the internal tectonic zones of the Outer Carpathians, and are also developed in the rear suture zone. The main phase of folding here is pre-Miocene. The Outer and Inner Carpathians are separated by a strip of large deep thrust, including narrow and extended structures, the so-called. cliff zones (Marmarosh and Pieniny) with a wide development of olistostromes and tectonic melange. In the Inner Carpathians on the territory of the Ukrainian SSR, the Marmarosh crystalline massif and the Podhale zone are distinguished. The first consists of a package of Precambrian, middle and upper metamorphic rocks and shells (Bukovinian, Sub-Infrabukovinian and Transylvanian) formed in mid-Cretaceous time. The minimum displacement amplitudes are 12-15 km. The general direction of mass movement is from the Inner Carpathians to the Outer Carpathians. The Inner Carpathians also form the foundation of the Transcarpathian back trough, filled with molasse, in which the Solotvinskaya (Verkhnetysenskaya) and Chop-Mukachevo depressions and the Vigorlat-Gutinskaya volcanic ridge are distinguished. Salt dome structures with piercing cores are developed in the Solotvyno depression.

The Transcarpathian internal trough is separated from the Pannonian depression by the Pripannonian deep fault (the Beregovo volcanic hill zone). Along the inner edge of the Carpathian arc runs the largest Intra-Carpathian volcanic belt in Europe, covering the Chop-Mukachevo and the inner edge of the Solotvyno depression. The volcanic belt developed in multiphases (from the early Miocene to the Pliocene inclusive), gradually migrating from the edge of the massif towards the Flysch Carpathians. Rejuvenation of volcanism also occurred in the direction from northwest to southeast, along the volcanic belt. The main centers of eruptions follow the direction of the most important longitudinal dislocations.

In accordance with the strike of the main structural elements of the Carpathians, zones with a specific set of minerals are distinguished. In the Pre-Carpathian trough - native sulfur (Dashavskoe, Kosovskoe and other deposits), oil (Borisovskoe, Bytkov-Babchenkovskoe deposits), ozokerite (Borislavskoe deposit), rock and potassium salt (Kalush-Golynskoe, Stebnikskoe and other deposits), in the Transcarpathian trough — rock salt (Solotvinskoye deposit), gas, brown coal (Ilnitskoye, Krivskoye deposits), zeolites. Neogene volcanism is associated with mercury (Bolshoy Shayan, Borkut), vein gold-base metal and barite (Beganskoye) deposits, alunites, kaolins, perlites, bentonite clays (Gorbskoye deposit). Oil deposits are known in the frontal part of the Outer Carpathians, and deposits of dolomite, limestone, marble, and raw materials for stone casting are known in the Marmarosh massif and cliff areas. In the metamorphic complex, manifestations of stratiform pyrite-polymetallic, copper-pyrite, barite and ferromanganese ores are known. Mineral waters are developed in the Carpathians, and carbonic waters are developed on the southwestern slopes of the Carpathians and Transcarpathia (Svalyava, Polyana-Kvasova deposits). In the zone of junction of the Cis-Carpathian trough with the East European Platform there are deposits of nitrogen sulfate waters. In the Inner Zone of the Cis-Carpathian Trough, brines of chloride (sulfate-chloride) composition (Morshin) are developed - a special rare type of low-mineralized waters with a high content of organic matter (Truskavets). In the Transcarpathian trough, thermal and subthermal waters of high mineralization are common, used for medicinal and thermal energy purposes.

A special place among the natural resources of the Carpathians is occupied by mineral waters, among which there are rare and highly effective medicinal properties. The most famous are the waters of Truskavets, Morshyn, Svalyava, etc., on the basis of which all-Union balneological resorts operate. Bottling plants are operating.

The Carpathian Mountains are spread over the territory of Eastern Europe and... the Moon. Yes, the mountain range with that name stretches along the southern “coast” of the lunar Sea of ​​Rains. Perhaps in the near future tourist groups will be sent there. However, at present, only the terrestrial Carpathians are of interest to us.

The mountain system begins near the Slovak capital of Bratislava and ends near the Romanian city of Orsov. In a satellite image, the Carpathian Mountains resemble a writhing snake. Its head “bites” the Alps, and its tail is lowered into the Black Sea. It seems that the Carpathians arose as a result of some kind of vortex process like an atmospheric cyclone.

A narrow mountain chain crosses the territory of several countries at once of Eastern Europe. Austria, Hungary, Serbia and the Czech Republic own only tiny pieces of it. Poland and Ukraine suffered much more. The largest pieces of the mountain pie are owned by Slovakia and Romania. In the latter, mountains occupy a significant part of the territory.

Scientists are still debating the name of the mountains. It is curious that in almost all the languages ​​of the peoples inhabiting the above countries, the word “Carpathians” sounds almost the same. In some cases it literally means "mountain" or "stone wall". There is also a version that the “Carpathians” came from the tribe of carps that inhabited these places in the 1st century AD. At the same time, linguists cannot explain why this people acquired this particular name.

It should be borne in mind that the Eastern Carpathians are considered an earthquake-prone region. Very strong earthquakes have happened here. In Romania there is the so-called Vrancea seismic zone. The strength of the tremors in it reached 8.3 points on the Richter scale. Their echoes were recorded even in Finland. The disaster was most severe in 1940 and 1977. Then Bucharest suffered greatly. However, in comparison with Japan, where earthquakes occur almost daily, the Carpathians seem to be an island of complete stability.

Between the Alps and the Black Sea

Southern Carpathians in late autumn

Despite its relatively modest size, the Carpathians have a complex structure. In the western part there are the Outer and Inner Western Carpathians. They are divided into 12 regions. And those, in turn, are in 60 mountainous regions! Perhaps the most famous of them are the Czech Tatras. Next come the Outer and Inner Eastern Carpathians. There are fewer mountainous areas here - only about a dozen. They are adjacent to the Western Romanian, Southern, Serbian Carpathians and the Transylvanian Plateau. To simplify, the Carpathians are conventionally divided into Western, Eastern and Southern.

On a physical-geographical map, the mountain system looks like a thin strip. With a total length of the mountains of 1500 km, their width ranges from 100 to 340 km. The narrowest part is in Ukraine, and the widest is in Romania. The highest peak is Mount Gerlachovský Štit in Slovakia. Its height reaches 2654 m. The Carpathians are separated from the Alps by a narrow gap of only 14 km wide!

Only here

There is a whole collection of caves in the Lower Tatras

To get an idea of ​​the most interesting places in the Carpathians, we will take a virtual trip through the mountainous country. Let's start from the western part, then move to the east, and from there we go down to the south. The natural border between the Czech Republic and Slovakia is the so-called White Carpathians. The reserve of the same name is located here, which is spread over the territory of two countries. Several types of orchids are found in these places! But there is a stereotype that these delicate flowers are exclusively inhabitants of the tropics.

In Slovakia there is the Sarisska Vrhovina mountain range. It is famous for its Lacnov Canyon with an unusual rock called the “Moses Pillar”. And the name “Slovak Paradise” speaks for itself. Best place For adventure lovers, you can't imagine. Caves, abysses, canyons and waterfalls attract them like a magnet. In addition to natural objects, these places have interesting man-made attractions. For example, people go to the Slovak Muranska Planina mountains to see the ruins of the ancient Muransk Castle.

High Tatras in Poland are really great - this is where one of the highest points of the Carpathians is located. Tourists are very attracted here beautiful lake called "Sea Eye". Situated in an oval-shaped valley, it actually resembles a huge eye. The largest Polish waterfall, called Siklawa, is no less picturesque. The water falls here from a height of 70 m.

The Low Tatras are known for their panoramic points, the role of which is played by the peaks of Kraljeva Golja, Habenec and Dereshe. In this area, the Demanovska valley with its caves is considered the most beautiful. It should be noted that in the local mountains there is a whole collection of all kinds of caves. One of them is called "Cave of Dead Bats". There are many centers scattered along the mountain valleys and slopes, where tourist routes.

In Hungary there is the Mátra mountain range. People come here to relax thermal springs and ride on alpine skiing. Vineyards lie at the foot of the mountains, so the region is famous for its wineries. The Börzen massif is popular among tourists. It is considered his property National Park Duna-Ipoy with a large number of springs, winding rivulets and rushing streams.

Gorgany means “stone scree”. The mountain range in the Ukrainian Carpathians has the same name. These places have long been chosen by extreme sports enthusiasts, since the area is replete with wild tourist routes. Local hits are considered to be the Manyavsky waterfall and the mountain lake Synevyr, which is located on the territory of the national park of the same name.

Peles Castle in the mountains of Romania

The Southern Carpathians are also called the Transylvanian Alps. This entire beautiful mountainous country fits entirely within the territory of Romania. The highest point is Mount Moldoveanu (2544 m). Most of them are located here ski resorts countries. Don't forget that Romania is a country of castles. It’s worth coming here to see with your own eyes the royal castle “Pelesh” in Sinaia and Dracula’s castle in the town of Bran.

Climbers and rock climbers travel to Romanian Muntenia. The Unira salt mine is very spectacular, which is currently a museum and balneological resort. And the landscapes in Pyklele Mary look alien. Here, on an area of ​​30 hectares, mud volcanoes gurgle and spit slurry.

There are also places for rafting enthusiasts. For example, the Jiu River Gorge in Oltenia is one of the most popular rafting routes in Romania. The Danube is usually associated with a calm current. However, in the Kazana Gorge the water literally boils due to the narrowness of the canyon. This spectacle is worth seeing with your own eyes.

Mountain lake Glaz Bey, located in historical region Banat does not freeze even in winter, so during this period many migratory birds gather on its banks. Together with them come those who like to observe the life of birds. The lake is worth a visit just to admire it beautiful scenery and take spectacular photos.

There are places for rafting lovers in the Romanian Carpathians

And, of course, one cannot fail to mention Romanian Transylvania. The local reserve, located in the town of Zarnesti, is home to about a hundred bears rescued from captivity. Excursions around the reserve are organized for tourists. It is also worth seeing the fantastic stone columns in the Apuseni mountains, formed when basalt lava solidified. And at the former Turda salt mine, those interested can rent a boat and take a ride on the luxurious underground lake.

Nuances of the Carpathian weather

There is snow in the mountains from December to March. At other times, you can safely go to hiking

Since the Carpathian Mountains cover a large area and are characterized by different heights, weather can vary significantly even in the same area. The higher you go, the colder it gets. The further south you go, the warmer it is. In mountain valleys there may not be snow even in winter. The further from the Black Sea, the more continental the climate. Despite such a variety of conditions, there are nevertheless some climatic patterns.

The coldest month is January. The average temperature in the north and east of the Carpathians fluctuates around -5°C, in the south – around -3°C. However, at the tops of the mountains it can be colder - down to -10°C. By Russian standards, such temperatures are not considered frost. The average July temperature in the foothills in the north is +18°C, in the south +20°C. High in the mountains, even at the height of summer, the temperature can be no higher than +5°C. In general, the temperature regime in the Carpathians is favorable all year round.

If we talk about precipitation, the least of it falls in the east and south of the Carpathians (800 mm per year). In the Western and Romanian Carpathians their number increases to 1000 mm. In high mountain areas this figure increases by 1.5-2 times. Maximum precipitation occurs in summer. Most often it rains. The duration of snow cover in the foothills is 2-3 months. There are no glaciers or eternal snow in these places.

The moral is simple. Ski season in the Carpathians usually begins in December and ends in March. They ride at altitudes from 1000 m. This means that the rest of the year is quite suitable for hiking. At altitudes up to 1000 meters this can be done in winter. But for high mountain routes you will need warm clothes even in summer.

If you want to avoid rain, it is better to go hiking in spring or autumn. True, even in summer the risk of getting wet increases only in high mountain areas. If the route passes through the foothills or slopes at low altitudes, there is no need to worry about rain. It is enough to stock up on a raincoat and a waterproof tent.

Hiking hits

Now let’s get acquainted with popular tourist routes in those countries in which the Carpathians are located:

Czech

There are up to a thousand caves in the Moravian Karst

The Krkonose Mountains are very popular in the Czech Republic. They are located on the border with Poland. Here the most popular route is the climb to Mount Snezka (1603 m). The path passes through a picturesque mountain valley with unusual name Aubrey blew. Those who wish can go upstairs using the cable car. It starts in the town of Petsi pod Snezkou.

Another popular route is the source of the Elbe. The powerful European river on which Hamburg stands originates in the town of Labski Meadow. Here you understand that everything largest rivers the world are born from springs or formed from small streams. The starting point is the tourist center Horni Misecki. It is located near the resort town of Spindleruv Mlýn. High mountain routes along the Jeseniky ridge are also in demand. The landscapes there are considered the most beautiful in the country.

The Moravian Karst is one of the most interesting tourist sites. The length of this mountain range reaches 25 km. Its unusualness is that the mountains are penetrated by a system of caves, of which there are more than a thousand. Under the ground you can see drawings of primitive people. In the same places there is another popular site - the Macocha Canyon, which is considered the largest in Central Europe. Its depth is 138 m.

Poland

The Tatras are for the Poles what the Alps are for the French. The main tourist center of this area is the city of Zakopane. It serves as the starting point for a hiking route that includes the Kościeliska Valley, the Giewont and Kasprowy Wierch Mountains, the Eagle's Path, the Five Lakes Valley, Morskie Oko Lake and Mount Rysy (2499 m), which is highest peak Poland. The program usually includes a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Slovakia

There are many lakes of glacial origin in the High Tatras

The Slovak Paradise Nature Reserve is considered a very attractive place for trekking. Hiking trails are equipped with bridges and stairs. Small rivers can be crossed using artificial fords. The trail passes by numerous waterfalls. The length of the gorge is 4 km. You can get there from the Podlesok tourist center near Hrabusice. The hike is classified as medium difficulty.

The Slovak High Tatras have 26 peaks, the height of which exceeds 2500 m. The most visited is Gerlachovsky Peak with a height of 2654 m. It is quite easy to climb. It is from its top that the most spectacular panoramas open.

Another popular mountain is Lomnicky Peak (2634 m). The highest Slovak weather station is located on its top. You can get to it on foot or using the cable car from Tatranska Lomnica. In clear weather, a good half of Slovakia is visible from the mountain!

The High Tatras are the place where the largest number of reservoirs are concentrated, which were created by glaciers in the distant past. Now there are about a hundred of them. The transparency of the water in the lakes reaches 12 m. The so-called Mengus Valley stretches between the ridges. There are tourists here in any season. At the end of the valley lies the Velke Gintsovo Pleso lake. It is considered the deepest in the Tatras.

The Tatra valleys are also attractive due to their cascades of waterfalls. The Studeniy Potok waterfall is recognized as one of the most visited. Famous ones include the Obrovski waterfall, falling from a height of 20 m. No less spectacular Big waterfall. It stands out with a thirteen-meter cascade. The routes to them start from Tatranska Lomnica.

There are tourist routes along Low Tatras. They usually pass along the central ridge, which stretches for as much as a hundred kilometers. The ridge consists of a chain of 55 peaks, the height of which exceeds 1,700 m. Those who wish can choose either a difficult one-day high-mountain hike or moderately difficult routes where the elevation changes are small.

Romania

Neighborhood of Sinai

The places in the vicinity of the famous Romanian resort of Sinaia are very picturesque. Eat walking route, which includes not only a visit to this colorful town, but also famous castle Dracula in the town of Bran. The route starts in the city of Brasov. The program includes an ascent to the Cross of Heroes on Mount Karaiman, as well as a visit to Lake Bolboch and Omu Peak (2507 m).

Our tourist club offers the following hiking programs in the Carpathians:

• New Year in the Carpathians (accommodation in the estate and auto excursions)
• Snowy Carpathians: accommodation in estates and self-guided tours

Carpathian slopes

Ski areas in the Carpathians are located at altitudes from 800 to 2400 m

The ski season in the Carpathians lasts from December to March. Ski areas are located at altitudes from 800 to 2400 m. Many resorts use artificial snow, so the season can increase significantly.

The ski resort Bila is located in the Czech Carpathians. The trails are laid on the slopes of the Zbojnicka and Javorina mountains, which are part of the Beskydy massif. The resort has been operating since 1965. It is located at an altitude of 518 m. The length of the slopes is from 700 to 1000 m.

In Poland, ski centers are located along the border with Slovakia. These are the resorts of Szczyrk, Zakopane, Szczawnica, Krynica. In Zakopane alone there are about a dozen ski centers and about 90 ski lifts. The largest Polish ski jump is also located here.

The largest number of ski centers are in Slovakia. Their number has exceeded a hundred, and they are all located in the Carpathians. Diverse conditions allow everyone to ride - from beginners to extreme sports enthusiasts. Resorts often have thermal springs. In winter, they organize hiking trips to the Studenovskie waterfalls, which in the cold turn into enchanting ice cascades.

In Romania, the main ski resorts are concentrated in the very center of the country in the districts of Brasov and Prahova. The famous ski centers of Azuga, Busteni and Sinaia are located in the Prahova Valley. The Poiana Brasov ski area also includes slopes near the town of Predeal. Ski slopes operate at altitudes from 1000 to 2400 m.

Near Carpathians

Mountain village

The good thing about the Ukrainian Carpathians is that they are closest to the rest, and you don’t need a visa to visit them. The eastern tip of a large European mountainous country is spread over the territory of four regions - Transcarpathian, Ivano-Frankivsk, Lviv and Chernivtsi.

The length of the Ukrainian Carpathian section is 280 m, and the width is about a hundred kilometers. On average, the mountains are low - about 900-1000 m, but there are peaks over 2000 m. These include, for example, Goverla (2061 m). She is considered highest point countries.

The Carpathians united more than a dozen ski resorts - Zakhar Berkut, Zhdenievo, Krasiya, Slavskoe, Pylypets and others. All of them are located in picturesque places and away from large populated areas. The Bukovel resort is considered the calling card of the local Carpathians. The ski season here lasts from November to mid-April. They only ski more at Dragobrat, where sometimes the season ends in mid-May.

You can find many natural masterpieces in the mountains. These, for example, include Mount Makovitsa (984.5 m) in the vicinity of the city of Yaremche. The huge scree on its slope looks like a giant elephant coming to drink. It is often called “Elephant Mountain”. You can take a break on the banks of the Prut River. This route cannot be called a hike. It's more of an easy walk.

There is an interesting route to the place where the Princess meteorite fell. This event took place in 1866. Scientists estimated the weight of the space guest at 280 kg. They say that small fragments can still be found today. The Chernye Mlaki tract, where the cosmic catastrophe occurred, can be reached from the villages of Knyaginya or Stuzhitsa. The trail goes past mineral springs and oak trees, whose age has exceeded a thousand years. The total length of the route is 14 km.

Another route allows you to walk along the bottom ancient sea! Once upon a time, the Carpathians were truly under water. There is a marked trail from the village of Verkhovyna-Bystraya in the Transcarpathian region to Mount Plishka. It offers a view of the Uzhansky National natural Park. In 1968, in these places they found the fossilized skeleton of a fish that swam here about 36 million years ago. Similar finds can be seen in the Transcarpathian Museum of Local Lore in the Uzhgorod Castle.

What a trip without a true friend!

The Ukrainian Carpathians are well developed in terms of tourism, so the interesting routes goes to tens. There are hikes to the mountains “High Stone”, “Parashka”, “Pikuy”, “Spitz”, “Khomyak”, “Gemba” and others. A special route is dedicated to two-thousand-meter mountains – there are six of them in Ukraine.

The Gorgan Mountains are highlighted as a separate item. There is a combined option called “Five Carpathian Passes”. He walks along the Verkhovinsky ridge. There are routes along the Marmaros massif, the Svidovets ridge, to the “Russian Way” pass - you can’t list everything. One thing is clear - you won’t get away with two days in the Carpathians. You need to come here for at least a week. Or better yet, two.