21 June 2026

Ukraine's Tunnel of Love: Nature's Romantic Railway


Hidden in the forests of north-western Ukraine lies a place that seems less like a real location and more like a setting from a fairy tale (at least at first sight). Near the small town of Klevan, in Rivne Oblast, a leafy green corridor stretches into the distance, its walls and ceiling formed entirely by living trees. It is known simply as the Tunnel of Love - "Тунель кохання" (Tunel Kokhannia).  Ask anyone in Kievan for The Green Mile Tunnel as it is sometimes referred to on the internet, and they will look at you blankly.  Ask for The Tunnel of Love and a local will immediately know where you want to go.  They might even give you a knowing wink if you are with your loved one. Image

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At first glance, you can see exactly why the place acquired the name. The word кохання (kokhannia) means romantic love, rather than the broader word for affection or liking. So, the name carries a distinctly amorous meaning, and you might assume the tunnel was deliberately designed as a place for lovers.   If I was a filmmaker, I would want to shoot my happy ending here.  It may not be one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine, but maybe we could make it number eight?