Bulgaria Inside

The relatively small town of Kalofer is situated on the mountain slopes below Botev peak. It acts as an entry point of Central Balkan National Park.

Kalofer is located 136 km away from Sofia and 55 km away from Plovdiv. The surrounding nature attracts many lovers of eco tourism and the town itself is a starting point of many mountain routes.

Little is known of the town’s history. It was founded in the 16th century.

According to a legend, a Bulgarian revolutionary leader named Kalifer and his band attacked passing Ottoman caravans. To deal with the issue, the sultan allowed revolutionaries to settle in the region, who on the other hand promised to stop the assaults.

During the revival period, Kalofer turned into a cultural and craftsmen center. The wealth of local merchants and craftsmen gave the town the name Altun Kalofer or the golden Kalofer.

The town’s biggest pride is that it is the birthplace of the well-known Bulgarian revolutionary and poet Hristo Botev. Botev’s museum is one of the town’s most interesting landmarks. It is situated in Botev park and includes the revolutionary’s house, an exhibition hall and the monuments of Botev and his mother.

Two monasteries function in the town. One is situated in a beautiful garden inside the town, while the other is outside Kalofer, in the valley of Byala River.

Daskal Botevo school is another museum. Its classrooms have been renovated. It takes visitors hundreds of years back in time and shows what learning used to be in old times.

An ethnographic museum preserves many historic artifacts, connected to the development of the town. Rugs, utensils and folk clothing are only some of the items that make up the collection.

The proximity to Central Balkan National Park increases the number of tourism options. Byala Reka eco path starts eight km northwest of the town.

Hiking routes starting from Kalofer take visitors to various final points among which Botev peak, Rai hut, Raiskoto Pruskalo waterfall.

Kalofer has nearly 20 hotels and guest-houses that offer accommodation. If you are willing to try something different, stay overnight in the huts.