Shayan can be explored through three distinctive local features: Mount Shaian and its marked trails, mineral water pump rooms, and ancient forests on the slopes of Shaian and Shaanykha. This gives you a choice of different highlights: a trail leading to the summit, a short walking trail, or the forest landscape.

Hiking on Mount Shaian

The slopes of Mount Shaian are quite steep. A signposted trail leads to the summit from the northwest side. A marked hiking trail loops around the mountain and climbs to the summit; it begins at the mineral water pump room. The Shaian Ring is a short circular walking trail that also starts at the pump room. The two marked trails have different goals: one focuses on circling the mountain and reaching the summit, while the ring is a short walk. If you are heading for the summit, take the steep slopes into account when planning.

Finding your way on the trails

At the information board in Shaian, you will find a map and basic information. QR codes let you download routes to a smartphone. There are signposts along the way, the routes are marked, and “forest furniture” is provided along the trail for resting. When choosing between the summit trail and the Shaian Ring, the map and downloaded route can offer different points of reference: an overview before you set off and the route on your smartphone. Signposts and trail markings provide further guidance on site. Check current trail conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Forests on the slopes

Centuries-old oak and beech-hornbeam forests have been preserved on the slopes of the Shaian and Shaanykha mountains. There are also natural forest stands and near-primeval forests. These natural areas are relatively close to developed areas. The forest landscape is a natural attraction in its own right, alongside the summit trail: old-growth forests and different forest types shape this part of the local landscape.

Abandoned mine tunnels

Abandoned mine tunnels in the low mountains and forests of Shaian can be reached via walking trails. On the slopes, they look like giant beehives and can be viewed from a distance. Entering the underground areas is dangerous and not recommended. There is a clear boundary here: you can look at the tunnels from the outside, but you should not enter the underground areas.

Mineral water in the town

At the entrance to the spa resort of Shaian stands the “Kraplia Shaiana” sculpture, which symbolizes Shaian’s mineral water. You can sample mineral water at the central pump room in the village of Shaian; check whether tastings are currently available before visiting. Mineral water is thus encountered both as a local landmark and as part of a specific activity. There is a mineral water pump room on the grounds of the “Shaian” sanatorium that visitors can use; access may be subject to the sanatorium’s conditions.

Discover more destinations: Synyak, Solotvyno, Tur'ya Polyana, Dubove, Kholmok, Roztoky, Turychky, Solochyn.

For the broader travel overview: Zakarpattia Oblast.