Kalancha is the name of a fire observation tower that is located inside a forest. Kyiv is located inside deep forests, so to check the fire danger in time, such towers were built. It is open to the public but surprisingly few locals know about it, despite it providing a beautiful view of the city and you also could observe all the forests around the city. 

It goes without saying that the best time is when it is green and with clear sky weather, however, I sometimes come here even in autumn. It is just like an escape from the busy city to some natural place and quite.

Just by looking at the map it seems hard to get to it, but actually it is quite easy. You just take the tram 12 from Kontraktova square. Check the Tramway to the woods – Tramway route article about it, the tram rise there is quite interesting by itself. And you should ask the driver to stop the tram at “Kalancha” stop (it is a stop by request). From the stop, it is just a straight road into the woods (400 meters or so). 

If you decide to go, be ready to climb near 40 meters by stairs. It is completely safe but you might feel a strong wind (depends a lot on the weather).