Mezhyhiria was opened to visitors for the first time in a new format, turning the former residence of national importance into a modern tourist center. Find out more about what the park guests can visit, the cost and other details

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On August 31, the first autumn tourist season was officially opened at Mezhyhiria, a park and monument of landscape art of national importance.

This event was an important milestone in the history of the site, which has gone through a difficult path of nationalization and return to state ownership.

On the day of the official opening of the park, the first all-Ukrainian park race “Mezhyhirya-Sport: Overcoming Yourself” and a cultural program for guests took place. Visitors had the opportunity to see the exposition of the Museum of Old Russian Pottery, as well as the virtual exhibition Mezhyhirya - Portal of the Millennial History of Ukraine.

Mezhyhiria Park has not only been restored but has also gained new significance as an important cultural, educational and tourist center of Ukraine. Its history and present are a vivid example of the revival of national heritage.

We tell you what to see and visit in the park, what the entrance fees will be in 2024, and the historical significance. 

Restoration of Mezhyhiria

In 2021, on behalf of the Prime Minister of Ukraine, an interagency working group was set up to check the state of preservation of the property and the functioning of Mezhyhiria. Thanks to the efforts of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP), the State Property Fund and the Property Recovery Agency, through the adoption of a special bill by the Verkhovna Rada and its signature by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the property was returned to state control.

In July 2023, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a law that turned Mezhyhiria into a park-monument of landscape art. The final stage of nationalization took place in July 2024, when the park opened its doors to visitors as a state-owned nature reserve.

Successes of the first season

Over 35,000 people visited the park in the first 44 days of its operation, including 1,500 combatants, for whom the entrance to the park was free. During this time, the park brought UAH 7.2 million in taxes to the state budget and earned more than UAH 4 million from ticket sales. 134 official jobs have been created, employing people who previously took care of the park on a volunteer basis.

The park as a cultural and educational center

The new management of the park faces the task of changing the narrative of perception of Mezhyhiria, transforming it from the former residence of the fugitive president into a national cultural, educational, and recreational center. According to Rostyslav Karandieiev, acting Minister of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine, the park should become a tourist magnet that will attract not only Ukrainians but also foreigners who want to get to know Ukraine better through its historical and cultural heritage.

As you know, Mezhyhiria has a long history associated with the Mezhyhiria Monastery, a center of education, culture, and spirituality for Ukrainians. These places remember the steps of Taras Shevchenko, who found inspiration for his works here. In the nineteenth century, one of the best faience factories was located here, and in the 1930s, the famous Ukrainian artist Mykhailo Boichuk worked here.

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What to see in Mezhyhiria: a guide to the most interesting places of the residence

Mezhyhiria, the former residence of Viktor Yanukovych, is known for its scale and luxury. It impresses not only with its history, but also with the wealth of architectural and natural objects. If you are planning to visit this huge location for the first time, here are the main places worth seeing.

The Museum of Retro Cars

Located in the Yanukovych garage, this museum houses one of the largest collections of vintage cars in Ukraine.

Visitors can enjoy seeing rare cars of significant historical value, take a photo in front of them, or even organize a photo shoot.

Most of the exhibits belong to the Soviet period, which makes the museum especially interesting for those who are interested in the history of the automotive industry.

Walking around the VIP territory

Mezhyhiria is not only a government residence but also a unique natural and historical area. During a special walking tour, you can learn about the history of the Transfiguration Monastery, see a sports complex, artificial lakes with swans, a cascade of waterfalls, and many other interesting objects.

Anteus Dog Training Center

This unique center is a real paradise for dogs and their owners. It is home to more than 80 breeds of rare dogs, including Tibetan mastiffs, English mastiffs, Newfoundlands, and many others.

“Anteus offers visitors dog walks, excursions with professional dog handlers, and the opportunity to see training grounds, swimming pools, and gyms for four-legged friends.

Penka's residence: feel like Yanukovych

The former residence of former President Viktor Yanukovych, known for its jogging stumps. Here, visitors can see with their own eyes the place where the former president of Ukraine trained, and perhaps even try their hand at this unusual venue.

The main attraction of Mezhyhiria is the Honka

Honka is the central object of the residence, a true masterpiece of architecture and luxury. During the tour, you can see the winter garden, a parquet wine room, an elevator as a work of art, a cinema, a billiard room with a sharmanka, and a Steinway grand piano signed by John Lennon.

Particular attention should be paid to the wellness complex, which includes a beauty salon, a gym with a boxing ring, and other luxurious interior elements.

Exploring the park by electric car

Mezhyhiria Park is so large that the best way to see all its corners is to take an electric car tour. In an hour, you will be able to get acquainted with the main objects and learn about their history, which dates back to the times of Kievan Rus. This format allows you to quickly cover long distances and see the most interesting things.

Horseback riding

If you are a horse lover, be sure to visit the La petite ecurie equestrian club located in the park. Regardless of your skill level, the instructors will help you enjoy riding. Beginners will be offered basic lessons, while experienced riders can take part in more challenging rides.

Bicycles, SEGWAY and SEEV

Mezhyhirya offers a variety of transportation options for outdoor enthusiasts. A bike ride is the perfect way to explore the residence. If you don't have your own bike, there are several rental shops on the territory where you can rent a cruiser, cross-country bike, or even an electric bike.

Another interesting option is to rent a SEGWAY or SEEV. These convenient vehicles will allow you to quickly move around the park with a breeze. Rental points are located near the main entrance.

How to get to Mezhyhiria?

There are several ways to get to the residence. In particular, by public transport:

Bus №397 runs from the Pochayna metro station to the Gorodok shopping center, which will take you to Mezhyhiria. Also, buses №397 and №792, as well as minibuses №902 and №394 depart from the Heroiv Dnipra metro station.

By car:

If you plan to travel by car, take the Vyshhorod highway to the village of Novi Petrivtsi. 

Opening hours and ticket prices

• Summer: from 8:00 to 22:00

• Winter period: from 8:00 to 17:00

• Spring and autumn periods: from 8:00 to 19:00

The cost of entrance tickets:

• For adults: 300 UAH

• For pensioners: 150 UAH

• For children under 14 years old: 100 UAH

• For children under 7: free of charge

Mezhyhiria offers many opportunities for an unforgettable vacation, no matter what your preferences are. Visit this unique park and enjoy its beauty and history.

We remind you! There are 30 botanical gardens in Ukraine that welcome visitors at any time of the year. However, it is the botanical garden in the fall that is the most atmospheric and colorful location for excursions, walks, and just for relaxation. Read our previous article to find out which botanical gardens in Ukraine are worth visiting in the fall.

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