Bulgaria Inside

One of Bulgaria’s biggest wine production centers is situated in central north Bulgaria, in the region between the Danube Valley and Stara Planina Mountain. The name of the town is Souhindol and its residents call it the Bulgarian Champagne Region. Most of the people living in the area are involved in grape growing and wine production.

The town is somehow distanced from main roads, which makes it even more attractive for those willing to experience the charm of small and peaceful Bulgarian settlements.

Souhindol’s history dates way back in time. A settlement existed in the area during the Neolithic period. Historians believe that a Roman settlement existed there and wine production started taking place. A plate depicting Dionysus was discovered in the area.

The first written evidence of the settlement’s existence dates back to the 15th century, when it was listed in Ottoman registers under the name Souhendol. Souhindol became a town in 1970.

One of Souhindol’s landmarks is the clock tower, which rises proudly in the central part of town. It was constructed to commemorate Souhindol’s freedom from Ottoman rule. The tower is 26 m high and its mechanism was developed by a famous Belgian company.

St. Apostles Peter and Paul church is also worth paying attention to. All Souhindol residents helped in the construction of the sanctuary back in 1839.

The first Souhindol school was constructed in 1745 and was among the first education facilities in the region. Today, a monument honoring all soldiers who died during World War I and World War II can be seen in front of the old school building.

Yet, Souhindol is most famous for its wine. Its most popular wine cellar is named Loviko-Souhindol. If you enjoy wine tourism, try visiting it and you will be given the chance to taste five kinds of wine. The cellar has its museum, where you can explore the evolution of wine production technology.

Fishing enthusiasts will be enchanted, as well. Stamboliyski dam is situated only few kilometers away from Souhindol. You can camp there or near the bank of Rositsa River, which winds close to the town.

You will find excellent ecological tourism opportunities in the vicinities of Koevtsi village, about three km away from Souhindol. The beautiful Boaza waterfall and several caves are situated nearby.

Souhidolski peak or Vrushka Chouka is the highest peak in the region. Its height is 482 m and the peak is actually an inactive volcano.

If you are expecting noisy parties and active nightlife, Souhindol is not your place. The town is peaceful and modest. The towns situated nearby include Pavlikeni (13 km), Veliko Turnovo (49 km) and Sevlievo (38 km away).