Why Mykolaiv Is the Perfect Destination for Your 2026 Getaway

A place where nature has fully unleashed its creative power is the Mykolaiv region. It is a unique blend of vast steppes, granite cliffs, winding rivers, and protected nature reserves.

Here, every traveler can discover truly breathtaking natural treasures. Among them is the Buzkyi Gard National Nature Park, which preserves Cossack history and captivates visitors with its striking landscapes. The village of Myhiya is equally impressive — a real “mountain country” hidden among the steppes. And to experience a touch of Africa, there is no need to travel to another continent — just visit the Aktove Canyon.

Today, however, let us take a closer look at the largest city in the region.

Majestic and resilient, Mykolaiv is comfortably nestled among rivers, steppes, and the sea. Many people know it simply as a regional administrative center, but this is far from the whole story it has to tell.

Mykolaiv You Have Never Seen Before

It is worth starting with the blog “Nikolaev in Pictures”, created by Ihor Myroniuk. He not only introduced the city’s natural locations to a wider audience, but also gave them fascinating names. This blog is not about dry facts or ordinary tourist descriptions. On the contrary, each post reads like a short story, forming part of a larger narrative — all beautifully complemented by stunning photography.

Each story reveals places perfect for relaxing or creating memorable photo sets. What makes the blog truly special is that it features locations unknown even to many locals. Readers also love the incredible series called “A Collection of Random Photographs”, which brings together remarkable images from all around the city.

And now, a few words about the places that are sure to stay in everyone’s memory:

The Wasteland of Emptiness The Wasteland of Emptiness

Imagine an endless horizon, strong winds brushing your face, and a deep, calming silence. This is not a scene from a science-fiction movie — it is a real place called The Emptiness, also known as the Valley of the Northern Winds.

This wide open landscape lies in the northern part of Mykolaiv, between the districts of Ternivka and Soliani. It is a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility, dramatic views, and unique photo opportunities far from the noise of the city.

Velyka Korenykha

Just a few kilometers from the city center, you can find yourself in Velyka Korenykha — a distinctive district in the western part of Mykolaiv. What makes this area special is the rare harmony between urban life and untouched nature. It is much more than just a green zone.

Here you will discover picturesque wetlands, a small lake, and even habitats of rare plants and animals. It comes as no surprise that this location has also been featured in the Nikolaev in Pictures blog.

Rock 6

This is how Ihor Myroniuk named a remarkable natural area in the Soliani district, known for its cliffs and sandy beaches. This hidden wonder is located in the northern part of Mykolaiv and has become famous for its unique rock formations, shaped over time by nature itself.

To the delight of visitors, soft sandy beaches stretch between the cliffs, lining the shore of the estuary and creating a perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy breathtaking views of the water and sky.

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Публикация от Блог про Николаев | Блог про Миколаїв | Nikolaev in Pictures (@nikolaevinpictures)

It is here that you can feel at one with nature and enjoy relaxation in the open air with sun loungers and without the trappings of civilisation.

The sound of the waves and the wide horizon allow you to feel the power of nature and create the perfect place for romance, meditation or relaxation after a busy week.

Hills land

This is a hilly wasteland located on the shore of the Bug Estuary. If you are tired of ordinary landscapes and want to see something breathtaking, then this is the place for you. Here you will find a view of the island of Kostyantynivska Battery, as well as hills that rise spectacularly above the horizon and the water’s surface.

Throughout the day, this place looks different. In the morning, you can listen to nature waking up, and in the evening, you can enjoy the dozens of colours of the sky reflecting on the water. Athletes, lovers of long walks, cycling, and simply relaxing in nature come here.

The wild beaches of the Korabelny district of Mykolaiv

In the Korabelny district of the city, near the lighthouse, there are beaches created by nature itself. Here you will not find classic tourist bases, market stalls with delicacies or cafes – only wild nature, sand and water. The only owner of these beaches is wild nature, which will give everyone a feeling of belonging to it. Lovers of secluded and peaceful relaxation by the water enjoy coming here.

These wild places offer the opportunity to admire the views, catch the sunset and simply feel like part of nature. The author of the blog named one of the beaches ‘Mykolaivska Sanzheika’ because of its similarity to Sanzheika in the Odesa region. Everyone can check if this is really the case.

Alyauda Peninsula

This peninsula is deservedly called a true natural wonder. It is located near Mykolaiv, and although no one lives there, it is still part of the city. Alyauda is very picturesque and harmonises perfectly with the surrounding world. Its clean shores, endless waters, light breeze and seagulls captivate at first sight. It is an ideal place for camping, quiet time alone with nature or fishing.

Mykolaiv is not yet as popular a resort as Odessa, for example. However, this is not because it has nothing to offer. It is definitely capable of surprising you; you just need to discover its wild beaches, peninsulas, the Southern Bug and Ingul rivers, and incredible expanses.

The Nikolaev in Pictures blog will help you get to know the city better. Here you can learn more about every corner of the city from fascinating stories. With the blog, Mykolaiv will become closer and more open, and will definitely be a place you will want to visit. The blog will also help you book rooms in hotels or apartments. There is a Booking.com banner on the pages and links in the stories themselves.

Author: Yana Shevtsova