Outdoor recreation in Kyiv

The bustling and ever-awake metropolis of Kyiv is not only a great place for work and earning a living but also offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city boasts numerous parks, squares, alleys, forests, water bodies, historical landmarks, and architectural gems where you can relax and unwind.

When it comes to finding places for outdoor relaxation in Kyiv, you can explore organized clubs, recreation centers, and tourist facilities. Some of these are located just outside the city, while others offer serene escapes in the forest, near lakes, or along the Dnieper River.

Where to Relax in Kyiv Near Water

You don't necessarily have to venture into the suburbs of Kyiv to enjoy outdoor leisure activities. Many affordable outdoor recreation centers can be found within the city limits.

By the Dnieper River

If you're looking for a waterfront retreat, Kyiv offers options along the banks of the Dnieper River. You can set up your own relaxation spot, or opt for organized recreation centers where everything is prepared for your comfort.

"Morevel"

This complex is situated near the Dnieper River in Kyiv, and it offers more than just a beach experience. "Morevel" features a 25-meter outdoor swimming pool, complete with a shallow zone (up to 60 cm deep) for children to splash around in safely. You can rent gazebos or barbecues to enjoy some delicious kebabs, and there's even an option to rent SUP boards for water enthusiasts. Additionally, the "Veslo" restaurant is on-site for diners to enjoy.

Prices: Room rentals at "Morevel" by the Dnieper start at 1200-1400 UAH per day. This price includes a comfortable room with a double bed and an extra bed.

"Sobi Club"

Situated in the village of Kostyanivka, this recreation center in Kyiv, complete with a swimming pool, offers cabins for accommodation with saunas and kitchens. During the summer season, guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor 15-meter pool. According to guest reviews, this is a wonderful place for a nature getaway in Kyiv, especially for families with children.

Cost: Starting from 1000 UAH per day. The final price may vary depending on the level of comfort.

By the Desna River

If you prefer relaxing by the water in Kyiv, consider the Desna River. There are numerous locations with gazebos, and tourist centers that welcome guests. Some of the best recreation centers by the Desna offer affordable and comfortable cabins or rooms for your stay, providing a complete outdoor experience in Kyiv.

"Chalet Desna"

This nature retreat is nestled within a lush, green area near the Desna River. The premises include spacious reed gazebos and a barbecue complex, ideal for hosting gatherings with music for groups of 10-20 people. The recreation center on the Desna River in Kyiv even features a dedicated sauna for 8-10 people and a large vat for bathing 6-8 people.

Cost: There are various cottage sizes available, with prices starting from 1800 UAH per day for a cottage.

Fisherman's Village

This dacha-style hotel is situated along the Desna River. It's considered one of the best recreation centers in Kyiv, with loyal customers who frequently organize weekends and even extended vacations here. Nearby, there's a forest where you can enjoy a relaxing walk, and in the evenings, guests often gather by the fire to savor a delicious cauldron of soup.

Prices: There are three types of rooms available for your stay along the Desna River, starting from 700 UAH per day.

Didorovka

Lake Didorovka, located at the end of General Rodimtsev Street, is an ideal spot for a family picnic surrounded by picturesque scenery. You can easily reach this recreation center from the "Goloseevskaya" metro station on foot. There are designated areas for organized outdoor activities. While enjoying nature near the lake, you can rent a catamaran or take a boat ride. You don't need to pay separately for a barbecue; you can find great spots for grilling in the vicinity of the lake.

Prices: Renting a separate gazebo for 10 people and a barbecue costs 300 UAH.

"Bolivar"

Private areas for outdoor relaxation in Kyiv are available to all, and Bolivar Ranch, situated by the lake, is one such place. It's an excellent choice for family getaways by the water. In the winter, you can have fun riding snowmobiles, while in the summer, you can enjoy sauna and spa services, fishing, paintball, horseback riding, and ATV rentals. "Bolivar" is a highly sought-after location for corporate events, especially New Year's celebrations.

Cost: Room rentals at the recreation center range from 300-500 UAH per day, depending on the season and comfort level.

Rodeo

Rodeo is a family-oriented club by the lake in Kyiv that offers horseback riding and welcomes the youngest guests to its pony club. Visitors can indulge in a barbecue menu, and there's a restaurant-museum featuring Ukrainian cuisine. Rodeo is known as one of the best recreation centers in Kyiv, boasting an 11-meter swimming pool and a children's outdoor fountain. It's the perfect place for water relaxation, especially if you're a fan of nightlife, as they offer evening parties and discos.

Prices: Room rentals range from 150-250 UAH per day.

"Beetle Island"

Beetle Island is an intriguing location that's part of the country's reserves. To reach this riverside vacation spot on the Dnieper River in Kyiv, you'll need to use your own car. It offers not only beautiful and picturesque views but also plenty of spots for affordable outdoor recreation in the forest, complete with barbecue facilities. One of the island's unique features is an unfinished railroad tunnel, which is partially flooded with water. Originally, it was meant to pass under the Dnieper River but was never completed.

Cost: There are no fixed rates, but there's often a small fee at the checkpoint to enter the island.

"Lesnaya"

Located in the fresh air on the border of the forest and the Kyiv Sea, "Lesnaya" is a recreation center where you can rent log cabins and barbecue facilities.

Prices: Cabin rentals range from 2900-3500 UAH per day.

If you're looking for an inexpensive forest getaway near Kyiv, consider Krasny Khutor, situated right on the edge of a pine forest. The area is minimally developed, which adds to its charm and attractiveness to visitors. You can reach this natural retreat by subway or your own vehicle. Another ideal place for forest recreation is Puscha-Voditsa, located outside the city, with its beautiful forest and private lake.

Outdoor Recreation Near Kyiv

While the capital city offers comfortable conditions for relaxation, not everyone is keen on spending their vacation or weekend in the bustling metropolis. For those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle, there are recommended spots for outdoor recreation near Kyiv, including locations by the river, lake, or within the forest.