Velyka Kurtiaska (1,621 m a.s.l.) is an open, treeless summit sitting right on the main ridge of the Svydovets massif in the Ukrainian Carpathians. Wide alpine meadows spread in every direction from the top, making it a rewarding stop on one of the region's most popular long-distance ridge walks.
The peak's character is defined by its bare, rounded summit and dramatically steep eastern and north-western flanks. In summer the surrounding polonyny (highland pastures) are carpeted with wildflowers and buzzing with life; autumn turns them into a patchwork of gold and rust. To the east you can spot Tempa (1,634 m), and to the north-east the slightly higher Mala Kurtiaska (1,644 m). To the north-west the scenic valley of the Yablunytsia river unfolds far below. In winter the ridge becomes a remote and demanding environment with significant snowpack.
How to reach the summitCuriously, despite the name 'Velyka' meaning 'Great', the neighbouring Mala Kurtiaska ('Small') to the north-east actually stands higher at 1,644 m — a fun fact to share at the top.