Articles from category: Mountains from bulgariainside.com

Mousala Peak

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:33:00 +0300

The peak of Mousala is the highest point of Rila Mountain and of Bulgaria as well. In fact, this is the highest point on the Balkan peninsula with its 2925 m. Olympus, Mousala’s rival in Greece, is only a few meters shorter. According to a joke, Greeks could not take the thought that Mousala was higher than Olympus. One night, they piled tons of stones on the peak, yet it remained lower. Mousala’s name is connected to the Ottoman presence. The word means way to god or god’s mountain. According to both translations, the place has been revered for centuries. Borovets, one of Bulgaria’s most popular winter resorts is located on the slopes below Mousala. A number of routes to the peak start there. From Borovets, you can take the lift, which will elevate you in 20 to 25 minutes to Yastrebets region. A restaurant in the area offers...

Vihren Peak

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 15:14:00 +0300

Vihren peak is the highest one of Pirin Mountain and the second highest in Bulgaria after Mousala. It reaches the impressive 2914 m. Vihren is the third highest peak of the Balkan peninsula. The peak is located just above Bansko and is one of the most visited tourism destinations in the Pirin region. A cabin by the same name is located in the slopes below the peak. Vihren cabin offers good accommodation opportunities. The region has several other cabins among which Yavorov, Demyanitsa and Bunderitsa. All of these are accessible within few hours of walk. One of the most interesting features of the peak is that it looks different, depending on the point of observation. Climbers enjoy various routes that can take them to the highest point. The level of difficulty differs. Vihren is a compilation of marble cliffs. The region lack rivers and lakes. Few plants inhabit the...

Koncheto

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 15:09:00 +0300

The col of Koncheto might be considered one of the biggest challenges for mountain climbers and tourists, who decide to visit the Pirin Mountain region. Koncheto is located between the peaks of Banski Souhodol and Koutelo II. The altitude is 2800 m. This natural formation happens to be a rocky edge that connects the two peaks. Its length reaches 150 m and its narrowest portion is 50 cm wide. Alternative paths can be used to cross the same region but overcoming Koncheto will bring you unknown adrenaline rush. Going over the edge could be a truly scary experience. Yet, managing to cross from one peak to the other will rejuvenate you. Such feeling can hardly ever be experienced in urban surroundings. Many people have crossed Koncheto and all of them remember the experience in tiny details. A shelter has been constructed in the area. Most visitors recommend sleeping there only...

Waterfalls in Pirin

Mon, 03 May 2010 15:20:00 +0300

Several waterfalls, acknowledged as significant nature landmarks, can be seen on the territory of Pirin mountain. Demyanishki Skok: the waterfall is situated on Demyanitsa River and has been named a nature landmark. The waterfall flows at an altitude of 1750 m. Its waters fall down from the height of 11 m. A forest path from the resort of Bansko to Demyanitsa cabin passes nearby. Uylenski Skok: yet another nature landmark, once again located on Demyanitsa River. The waterfall is situated in Gradishteto area at an altitude of 1650 m. Stone steps cross the river and form a waterfall with a height of nine m. Going down to the waterfall might be a risky adventure, so better refrain from trying. Popinolushki Vodopad: a waterfall situated in the northern part of Pirin. The waterfall happens to be 18 km away from the town of Sandanski, in a region called Popina Luka. Popinolushki...

Sredna Gora Mountain

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:04:00 +0300

Sredna Gora is one of the smallest mountains in Bulgaria. Situated between Zadbalkanski valleys and Gornotrakiiska lowland, Sredna Gora happens to be one of the most preferred tourism destinations because of its slanting slopes. To the west, Sredna Gora reaches the valley of Iskur River. To the east, it reaches Toundzha River and the town of Yambol. Bogdan peak is the mountain’s highest point. It reaches 1604 m. A well-maintained preserve under the name of Bogdan is located in Sredna Gora. Various historic landmarks can be seen on the territory of Sredna Gora. The region has always been populated because of the moderate climate. Findings from ancient times prove this theory. Some of the most significant remains on the territory include the Panaguyrsko treasure, the Starosel tomb and the ancient Roman finds in Hisarya. Sredna Gora was also the cradle of the...

Kom Peak

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:37:00 +0300

The peak of Kom (2016 m) is located in the western part of Stara Planina Mountain, close to the town of Berkovitsa. The southern slopes have beautiful meadows, while the northern slopes are covered by centuries-old beech and pine forests. Viewed from different sides, the peak changes its appearance. During the winter, it becomes dangerous as avalanches fall. During the summer, however, the peak is easily accessible. Two lower peaks are located nearby, Sreden and Malyk Kom peaks. A number of routes can be used to reach Kom. Kom cabin is located 15 km away from Berkovitsa. The route from the cabin passes through the lower peaks. The second route starts from Petrohanski pass. From there, you will take off to Kom cabin. Two other popular routes exist. They start in the villages of Komshitsi and Gintsi. Once you reach your final destination a surprise awaits you. A monument...

Rozhen Observatory

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:58:00 +0200

The biggest astrophysics scientific complex on the Balkans is located close to Rozhen peak in the middle Rhodopes mountain range. The Rozhen observatory came into existence in 1981 as a complex connected to the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. It makes use of one of the biggest telescopes in the world. A walk to the observatory can be quite a pleasant experience. Since the observatory is located in a wonderful part of the mountain, close to a meadow at the height of 1760 m, going there is especially pleasant during the summer. Visitors can benefit from a lecture, while exploring the complex. The price is symbolic. Some souvenirs are offered for sale, as well. Smolyan, a town located nearby, brags one of the biggest planetariums that is also open for visitors. The two astrological complexes are located in this part of Bulgaria because of the cloudless sky and clean air.

Mountain Walks: Dragalevtsi Monastery

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:26:00 +0200

If you happen to be one of those who are not in love with winter sports, mountains can offer you alternative tourism and leisure opportunities during the winter months. All you need is nice companions and a sunny day. Vitosha Mountain has several paths suitable for walks, even when it is snowy. It would be best to select a short path that offers you the chance to relax. One such walk will take you to Dragalevtsi Monastery. The monastery is situated three km away from the district of Dragalevtsi. During the summer, you can reach it following the road. In the winter, this would be difficult and the best option is to walk. The walk can start from the central part of Dragalevtsi or from the first station of the seat lift. You might have difficulties finding a parking space, since the tourists using the lift leave their vehicles there. Despite the slope, the walk is pleasant...

Semkovo

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:22:00 +0200

About 190 km away from Sofia and 90 km away from the town of Blagoevgrad, you will discover a beautiful mountain resort which has managed to preserve its peacefulness till present day. Semkovo resort is situated approximately 190 km away from Sofia and 90 km away from the town of Blagoevgrad. The resort is hidden in the folds of Rila Mountain, near the small town of Belitsa. To reach Semkovo, you need to head towards Belitsa. From the town, take the second-class road leading to the resort. The distance is 18 km. You can also use a regular bus line from Sofia to Belitsa. Belitsa’s tourism information center will organize transportation from the town to the resort. During the winter, Semkovo turns into a ski resort. It has seven tracks. Their combined length is four km. Three of the ski tracks are positioned at Rila’s northern slopes. Eight lifts give...

Elenski Balkan

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:56:00 +0200

One heavenly place on the territory of Bulgaria. Once you hear stories about this mountain region, you will certainly want to visit it. The heart of Stara Planina Mountain splits northern and southern Bulgaria. Elenski Balkan, part of Stara Planina, goes up in high, rebellious peaks and suddenly descends to hide in its folds small mountain settlements, among which the town of Elena. During the spring, the slopes disappear below white and pink flowers. In the summer, intense sunlight illuminates the ancient forests. The autumn brings its orange and reddish colors and the winter turns Elenski Balkan into a quiet, peaceful and white region that attracts skiers and tourists. The beauty of nature has affected the people living in the area. A number of famous Bulgarians and revolutionaries were born in Elenski Balkan. The town of Elena has its museums and traditional houses that...

Aleko

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:49:00 +0200

Everyone knows the popular mountain resorts of Bulgaria, just to name Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo. The country has some other resorts that offer opportunities for the practice of winter sports away from the noise of the mass skiing destinations. The capital city of Sofia is situated in the foot of Vitosha Mountain. Only minutes away from the city center, you can find a quiet place where you can have a picnic or practice mountain biking, skiing and hiking. Aleko is a mountain area located at an altitude of 1800 m. Its tourism center is formed of a cabin, fast food spots, ski tracks and the needed facilities like lifts. Tourists can reach Aleko walking or using the lift. Though the lift is quite old, prices for using the facility can be seen as very low. During the summer, you can walk up to Aleko and have a lazy picnic on one of the many meadows located nearby. In case...

The Golden Bridges (Zlatnite Mostove)

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:02:00 +0200

Various rock phenomena can be seen in Vitosha Mountain, just minutes away from the capital city of Sofia. The mountain is known for its so-called stone rivers. Zlatnite Mostove (the golden bridges) is one such natural phenomenon. The stone river ‘flows’ at an altitude of 1500 to 1350m. Large stone blocks, covered by gold lichens, have given the name of Zlatni Mostove. According to another version, the place had some gold deposits. Tourists can have a picnic or sunbathe on the large, smooth stones. Another option is trying to climb up the stone river. Zlatnite Mostove is one of the most popular Vitosha spots. In case you like a calm walk away from all the noise look for another location. If you want to explore several Vitosha beauties at the same time start your walk from Aleko, cross the Vitosha plateau and head down to Zlatnite Mostove. The walk lasts...

Maliovitsa

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:40:00 +0200

Maliovitsa is a small mountain resort, situated below the peak under the same name. It is located 13 km away from the village of Govedartsi and 27 km away from the town of Samokov. Maliovitsa is one on the highest peaks in Bulgaria, measuring 2729 m. This part of Rila has several other high peaks, which makes the region attractive for climbers and hikers. Alpinists prefer Maliovitsa. Some of the most difficult climbing routes are situated there. Maliovitsa hut and the resort are the starting point of many routes. From the resort, you could reach Ivan Vazov and Ribni Ezera huts, Rila Мonastery and the Seven Rila Lakes. The resort has several ski tracks. Since the resort is not so popular, accommodation prices remain modest. Govedartsi also has a ski track. If you want to diversify the vacation, stay in Govedartsi or Maliovitsa and switch the ski tracks. The resort of...

Pamporovo

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:06:00 +0200

The biggest winter resort in the Rhodopе Mountains region is called Pamporovo. It is also one of the biggest mountain resorts in the country. Pamporovo is located 260 km away from Sofia, 85 km away from the city of Plovdiv and 15 km away from the town of Smolyan. The Mediterranean Sea strongly affects the climate of the resort. Nearly 20 hotels offer accommodation. The beauty of the mountain region makes Pamporovo suitable both for a summer and for a winter vacation. The resort has various ski tracks with differing difficulty level. The entire length of Pamporovo’s tracks reaches 25 km. Infrastructure includes nine tow lifts and five lifts. An artificial snow machine was recently installed. Pamporovo happens to be one of the sunniest resorts in Bulgaria, yet its snow cover remains suitable for skiing over a long period of time. Pamporovo is situated below...

Govedartsi Village

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 11:17:00 +0200

Govedartsi, a small mountain village, is situated in the valley of Cherni Iskar River, in the foot of Rila. Both summer and winter tourism opportunities abound in the region. The proximity to Maliovitsa peak and the ski resort of Borovets are a plus during the winter. At the same time, the village offers much more diverse and cheaper accommodation opportunities than the big resort. If you visit Govedartsi during the winter, you can choose among the ski tracks near the village, the ones near Maliovitsa and those of Borovets. The resort is located 25 km away from the village. During the summer, Govedartsi turns into a cool escape from the summer heat. The peaceful village and beautiful surroundings offer a hiding place from city noise. Are you into fishing? Try your luck with the trout in the region. Other leisure time activities include mountain walks. Govedartsi is...

Borovets

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:31:00 +0200

Bulgaria’s oldest ski resort is Borovets. It was created in the end of the 19th century when knyaz Ferdinand decided to go hunting in the area. He built a residence there. Soon, other residents of the capital started spending their vacation there. Many villas were constructed. Until the 40s of the 20th century, the resort carried the name Chamkoria. Representatives of the elite spent both summer and winter months there. In the 60s and 70s, the resort grew and got many hotels. Borovets got its winter sports facilities and turned into the most popular Bulgarian winter resort. The proximity to Sofia still keeps Borovets among the most popular resorts in the country. Borovets is situated in Rila Mountain, below Mousala peak. The altitude is 1350 m. The resort has more than 58 km of ski tracks. Lifts and infrastructure are modern and have relatively big capacity. A...

Bansko

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 15:06:00 +0200

What makes Bansko one of the most preferred spots for sports and recreation in Bulgaria is the combination between beautiful nature, modern sport facilities, rich culture and numerous accommodation and entertainment opportunities. This little town in the foot of Pirin Mountain has rich history. Several years ago, Bansko was hardly accessible and very small but gradually developed. A number of well-known Bulgarians were born there. At the same time, ancient remains speak of a developed civilization that settled in the Pirin region. Numerous characteristics can be used to describe Bansko. Number one in the list undoubtedly is the excellent winter sports conditions. Modern facilities and the excellently preserved traditional looks of the town come next in the list. Despite the constant tourist flow, Bansko has managed to preserve its authenticity. Bansko features numerous...

Ouzana

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:52:00 +0200

Ouzana region is situated in the heart of nature park Bulgarka, only 22 km away from Gabrovo. It is known as the geographic center of Bulgaria and offers excellent tourism opportunities both during the summer and the winter. The name of the region probably originated from Turkish and means wide. Ouzana is a valley spreading in the foot of Ispolin peak. Dense forests surround the region from all sides. The altitude of the valley varies from 1220 to 1350 m. The highest point is Markov Stol Peak with its 1352 m. Over 400 types of plants grow in Bulgarka park. The Bulgarian pharmaceutical union has acknowledged that 70 percent of these can be used in the production of medicines. Apart from the numerous plant species, the region is the habitat of various animals among which boars, bears, wolves and deer. Ouzana is turning into a well-known winter resort. The region has six ski...

Etropolski Balkan

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 15:30:00 +0200

One of the crudest expressions of nature’s beauty can be seen in the region of Etropolski Balkan. Mornings are bright and calm and several hours later a mountain thunderstorm can unleash its fury. Nights are peaceful and ideal for big camp fires. To get acquainted with the region, visit the small mountain town of Etropole. It is a rather typical mountain settlement- clean, calm and welcoming. Etropole is located an hour and a half away from the capital. Pravets and Ribaritsa are also situated nearby. This region offers numerous tourism opportunities. You can get started with cultural exploration. Etropole has its history museum and some of the exhibited items are rather peculiar. Over time, Etropole excelled in pottery and leather processing, as shown by some of the artifacts in the museum. The museum also preserves evidence of past revolutionary events that...

Boyanski waterfall

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:52:00 +0300

Sofia’s water-related masterpieces are almost entirely connected to the puddles that appear in the city after each rain. Well, a few exceptions do exist. One of them is a real waterfall, located a walking distance from the center of the city. Boyanski waterfall flows only five kilometers away from the residential district of Boyana. It also happens to be the largest waterfall of Vitosha Mountain. You can reach the waterfall from Boyana, following Boyanska River. The walk lasts an hour and the final part involves climbing up a steep path. If you love extreme and alternative forms of tourism- try climbing up the waterfall during the winter. Boyanski waterfall is one of the few places in Bulgaria that offers good conditions for ice climbing. The waterfall freezes in two separate branches. The two offer differing difficulty levels. The left branch is less steep while...

Martsiganitsa Hut

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:15:00 +0300

Martsiganitsa hut is situated in the Dobrostan part of the West Rhodope Mountains. The hut is the starting point for visits to various tourism sites in the region. Asenovgrad is situated only 32 km away, which further increases the popularity of the region. If you decide to go to the hut without a vehicle, take the path from Asenovgrad that passes through Momina Sulza hut. In six hours you will reach Martsiganitsa. The mountain paths starting from Martsiganitsa and leading to the various Rhodope landmarks are many. Bezovo hut, located nearby, is another starting point of numerous mountain paths. A steep path will take you Bezovo peak at a height of 1386 m. The peak offers beautiful panoramic view of Plovdiv and of Stara Planina in the distance. Dobrostanski Biser cave is situated near Martsiganitsa hut. The path from the hut to the cave is marked and easy to follow. The...

Botev Peak

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:46:00 +0300

The peak of Botev is the highest one in Stara Planina Mountain. It is 2376 m high. It also happens to be one of the most difficult peaks to conquer in the country. To reach Botev, you will need an entire day. One unique feature of the region is the climate that has contributed to the richness of nature. A number of species that are endangered on a global scale live there. Some of the species can only be seen in this region. The slopes below Botev peak host the biggest waterfall in Bulgaria, Raiskoto Pruskalo. Its height is 124 m. Kaloferskoto Pryskalo, another big waterfall, is also located in the region. Raiskite Skali and the region Rayat are another very beautiful place in the area. Botev itself is a wide pastureland. A meteorological station and a television tower have been set up there. The tower provides radio and TV signal for almost half of the territory of Bulgaria....

Petrova Niva

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:18:00 +0300

One of the most preferential tourist spots in Strandzha Mountain is the region of Petrova Niva. Petrova Niva is situated 11 km away from the main Bourgas-Malko Turnovo road. You have to use the diversion near Zvezdets village. The road to Petrova Niva winds near a green forest and ends in front of a large meadow. In 1903, Petrova Niva hosted a meeting of the revolutionary committee of Bulgarians in the Thrace region. The summit took place from June 11 to 13 and 47 people attended. A historic decision to support the Ilinden uprising was taken. This marked the beginning of the Preobrazhensko revolt, the first organized revolutionary activity aiming to bring Strandzha and parts of the Thrace region back to Bulgaria. A monument was constructed there in the 50s of the past century to honor the memory of all revolutionaries who died in the liberation struggle. Petrova Niva hosts a...

Beklemeto

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:18:00 +0200

Beklemeto region is situated at the highest spot of Troyan-Kurnare pass, 20 km away from Troyan. The area is located at an altitude of 1590 m and one of the highest Stara Planina roads passes there. The name of the region has Turkish origin and means guard. A guarding tower was probably situated there in the past. In the winter of 1878 a battle took place there. Bulgarian and Russian soldiers seized the pass that was protected by the Ottoman army. Many soldiers died. To commemorate their act, a monument was set up there. The view from that spot is amazing and reveals the peaks of the Rhodopes, Rila and Sredna Gora. If you like history, have in mind that the famous Via Traiana Roman road passed there. You can follow the road, since information boards have been positioned to guide you. Haidoushko Sborishte region is situated near Beklemeto. This is a big meadow that also...

Cherni Vruh Peak

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 17:55:00 +0200

If someday you decide to view Sofia from high above, try climbing to Cherni Vruh peak. The peak happens to be one of the 100 national tourism sites. Cherni Vruh is Vitosha’s highest point, impressive with its 2290 m. To reach the peak, you can use one of the following routes. Option A includes walking from Zlatnite Mostove to Koumata cabin. From there, you start the actual climb to the peak. The entire hike lasts three hours and a half. Option B involves a longer hike, starting from the village of Yarlovo, through Siva Gramada peak. The walk lasts nearly five hours. Cherni Vruh is also accessible from Aleko (a hike of an hour and a half), Tintyava cabin (three hours and a half), Edelvais cabin (two hours and a half), Chouipetlovo village (four hours and a half). Make your research in advance, since some of the routes lack clear marking. Vitosha is the only...

Tracks and facilities in Bansko 2011/2012

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:23:00 +0200

Detailed information about the tracks, facilities and ski passes in the winter resort of Bansko. 1. Special price decreases during April All prices are in Bulgarian leva and include value added tax (VAT). Child passes can be used for children aged up to 12. If ski equipment is used, the discount offered is 10 percent. If ski equipment and ski instruction is used, the discount is 15 percent. Seasonal passes cannot be bought using discounts. Season 2011/2012 Period Adults Children 1 day 55 leva 36 leva 2 days 107 leva 70 leva 3 days 162 leva 105 leva 4 days 213 leva 138 leva...

Tracks and facilities in Pamporovo 2011/2012

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:23:00 +0200

Information about the ski tracks, facilities and prices in the winter resort of Pamporovo. 1. Prices of ski passes in Pamporovo Children aged under seven can use all facilities for free, if they are accompanied by an adult. The price of a pass includes a mountain insurance. Discounts - A 25 percent discount is valid during weekend in case ski/snowboard equipment is rented and instruction is made use of. - A 20 percent discount is valid from Monday to Friday in case ski/snowboard equipment is rented and ski instruction is made use of. Lift cards for season 2011/2012 Prices in leva Adults Children two-way lift ticket...

Tracks and facilities in Borovets 2011/2012

Sat, 10 Jan 2009 15:57:00 +0200

Detailed information about the ski tracks, facilities and ski pass prices in the winter resort of Borovets. 1. Prices of ski passes in Borovets The half day ski pass applies after midday. Prices for children apply for those aged under 12. Children ski cards are issued only after a student ID is presented. All prices of facility prices include a mountain insurance. Season 2011/2012 Service Duration Price Adults Children Pass for all lifts (Monday-Friday) 1/2 day 30 lv 20 lv Pass for all lifts (Monday-Friday) 1 day 55 lv 33 lv Pass for all...

The Seven Rila Lakes

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 09:40:00 +0200

There are seven of them. People see these wonders as one of the most recognizable Bulgarian symbol. It would be unusual to find someone who has not heard of the Seven Rila Lakes. The lakes are located in the northwestern part of Rila Mountain and have been listed as one of the 100 national tourism sites. Tiny streams connect the seven lakes, which are situated above each other at heights varying from 2100 to 2500 m. Nearly 280 glacial lakes are to be found in Rila and the seven are part of the group. Similar lakes can be seen in Pirin Mountain as well. During the winter, the surface freezes and the ice coverage can reach up to two meters. Each lake has been named after one of its specific features. Sylzata (the teardrop) is the lake that is positioned highest up in the mountain. The name comes from its pure and clean water. Okoto (the eye) and Bubreka (the kidney) got...

Okolchitsa Peak

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 17:15:00 +0300

Shortly before you reach the town of Vratsa, road signs will direct you to a steep road, leading to Okolchitsa peak. The many curves will take you high up in the mountain to a place where crucial historic events took place. Okolchitsa is situated 20 km away from Vratsa. Buses transport visitors from the town to the landmark during the summer. The peak is one of the hundred national tourism landmarks. A monument in the form of a cross, having the impressive height of 35 m, has been set up there to honor the act of revolutionary Hristo Botev and his followers. On June 2 1876, Botev’s revolutionaries led their final battle. Botev himself was killed in this battle. A stone carving in Yolkovitsa hollow marks the revolutionary’s final resting place. In 1947, the monument was replaced by a five-pointed star. It was restored in the original form in 1991....

Tsarska Bistritsa Palace

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 13:08:00 +0200

The palace of Tsarska Bistritsa is situated very close to the winter resort of Borovets, in the folds of Rila Mountain. Tsarska Bistritsa was constructed between 1898 and 1914. Members of the royal family, among which Ferdinand I and Boris III, used it as a hunting hut. In 1944, the palace became state property but several years ago it was returned to the royal family. Visitors can take a look at the palace each day except Monday. Against a modest entrance fee, a guide will show you the premises and tell you Tsarska Bistritsa’s story. Ferdinand’s office has been decorated as a ship captain’s cabin room. According to stories, Ferdinand won this interior playing cards. Trophies from the hunting activities of the royals can be seen on all walls. The authentic interior of some rooms has been preserved. Among these are the rooms of princesses...

Biking in Sredna Gora

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 16:15:00 +0200

Biking opportunities in the Sredna Gora Mountain region are rather limited. The routes in there are suitable mainly for experienced bikers. Apart from the beautiful nature and the historic landmarks, Sredna Gora offers various accommodation options. If you stay in Hisar, you can also enjoy spa procedures. Several paths lead from Hisar to interesting landmarks. Some of these include Voden Kamuk hut, Fenera hut and the villages of Mutenitsa and Starosel. Whichever way you decide to take, make sure you have water and food since sometimes exploring all the landmarks along the way might be a lengthy experience.

Kopitoto

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:58:00 +0200

Two of the Vitosha must-sees are Zlatnite Mostove and Kopitoto. The television tower set up in the area creates the illusion of mobility, as you look at its 100 meters of height. Kopitoto area is located in Vitosha, at an altitude of 1350 m. The distance from Sofia is insignificant. An entire tourism center has formed, using the tower as its focal point. The center has its restaurants and shops. A walk from Sofia to Kopitoto lasts an hour and a half to two hours. Your starting point should be either Kniazhevo or Ovcha Koupel residential districts. Public transportation and lifts can make your trip to Kopitoto easier. Kopitoto is actually one of the lower Vitosha peaks. The television tower has been built in its western part. The tower can clearly be seen from Sofia. The tourism center has its luxurious five-star hotel. Hotel Kopitoto is located in the eastern part of...

Verila Mountain

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:44:00 +0200

Verila is one of the smallest mountains in Bulgaria. It is located between the much bigger Rila and Vitosha. The mountain lacks water. Very few rivers flow down its slopes. This characteristic gives its name. Verila comes from ancient Thracian as the opposite of Rila, which on its turn means water mountain. Golyam Debelets is Verila’s highest point, 1415 m. The mountain is part of the climate division between the colder continental climate of the north and the much milder weather of the south. Verila lacks major landmarks. It is suitable for one-day trips and picnics. Staying overnight there is not preferable since the region lacks hotels and cabins. The lack of water is another obstacle.

Veleka River

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:23:00 +0200

The river of Veleka is one of the most beautiful and rich in fish rivers in Bulgaria. Veleka originates in Turkey but only the first 23 km of the river flow in the neighboring country. On its way to the Black Sea, Veleka changes several times its type. The river enters the sea through a firth, which channels its slow waters. Though Veleka is a wide and calm river, it is navigable only in the final 10 km before entering the sea. The mouth of Veleka forms one of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria, the northern beach of Sinemorets. If you decide to take a walk and explore the forest, you have two options. You can take the marked path that starts a kilometer away from the river’s mouth. Walk against the current and enjoy the beautiful view. The route is nearly 10 km long and is well-marked. If you get tired, rest in the summer houses along the way. The walk ends...

Sakar Mountain

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:57:00 +0200

Sakar can be defined as a relatively small and low mountain. It is located in the southeastern part of Bulgaria and is bordered by four rivers- Maritsa, Toundzha, Sokolitsa and Sazliyska. The mountain has a dome-like structure. Vishegrad peak is its highest point, going up 856 m. Sakar is the home of a number of rare bird species. This determines the mountain as a crucial place for the protection of endangered plant and animal species. Legends tell the story of Indzhe Voivoda, who for a certain time period used the mountain as a shelter. Initially Indzhe was a Kyrdzhali gang leader but decided to quit and became one pf the most-well known revolutionary leaders in Bulgaria. Oustremski monastery is one of the biggest attractions in the Sakar region. The monastery is also known as Sveta Troitsa, Vakuvski and Haidoushki monastery. It has been named a culture landmark....

Lyulin Mountain

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:54:00 +0200

Lyulin is one of the mountains located close to the capital city of Sofia. The mountain starts only a few km away from Sofia’s central part. The northern slope of the mountain houses the residential districts of Bankya, Gorna Banya, Malo Bouchino, Kniazhevo and Vladaya. The highest peak is Doupevitsa, reaching a height of 1256 m. Only a few years ago, the peak was inaccessible. Dobrinova Skala, another mountain peak, offers great view of Sofia. Lyulin Mountain is popular among Sofia residents. People go there during the weekend to have a picnic or for a walk. The routes are well-marked and visitors will have difficulty getting lost there. A few faucets offer refreshment during your mountain walk. Several monasteries are located on the territory of the mountain. Among these are the Gornobanski monastery, St. Cyril and Methodius, Vladayski and St. Petka...

Lozenska Mountain

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:50:00 +0200

Lozenska Mountain is relatively small and sometimes remains unnoticed because of the nearby Vitosha. The mountain is located in western Bulgaria, south of Sofia. It is situated between Pancharevo and Pasarel. The southwestern border of the mountain reaches the Iskar dam region. The foot of Lozenska Mountain houses the villages of Gabra, Dolni Pasarel, Lozen and German. With the appearance of these villages, the mountain territory was slowly cut by numerous unpaved roads and pathways. Tourists use these paths, as well. Lozenska Mountain has various things to show to visitors. The remains of one of the biggest and most important Bulgarian middle age fortresses can be seen there. Ourvhich fortress has rich but mysterious history and numerous legends are told as explanations. Four monasteries are also situated in the mountain. These are Lozen, German, Dolnopasarelski and...

Troyanski Balkan

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:41:00 +0200

If you are into diversity and monotonous vacations quickly get you bored, visit the Troyan part of Stara Planina Mountain. The region features opportunities for eco, spa, cultural tourism, mountain walks, horseback riding, off road experiences and fishing. Its biggest advantage is the peace and quiet of the mountain region, away from the city noise. Troyanski Balkan is a region that encompasses the central part of Stara Planina Mountain. National Park Central Balkan is the home of big number of rare bird, animal and plant species. Various eco paths lead to nature landmarks and hidden places in the region. Troyan is a town proud with its history. The village of Oreshak is situated nearby. There, craftsmen show year-round their skills. Troyan Monastery is also nearby. The town is situated in the Valley of Beli Osym River. Buses from Sofia, as well as the train, reach...

Western Rhodope

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 14:40:00 +0200

Without doubt, the Rhodope Mountain region is a magical place. This rocky part of Bulgaria is way too distinct. The Rhodope Mountains have their own unmistakable mysticism and history. Nature has unleashed its creative power in the region. People living in the mountain villages are welcoming and kind, unspoiled and unaffected by big city life. Everything in the Rhodope region is real- the food, the nature, the attitude. Visitors can practice several types of tourism in the region. Among these are rural, alternative, cave exploration and ecotourism. A big part of the overall experience is connected to the authentic local dishes to be found nowhere else in Bulgaria. If you decide to visit the Rhodope Mountains, take a look at the numerous websites offering accommodation in the villages. Pick a stay in a private house. This will give you the chance to enjoy a full-scale...

Panichishte

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:36:00 +0200

Panichishte is a tiny resort situated in the southwestern part of Rila Mountain. It is 25 km away from the town of Doupnitsa and at the distance of 10 km from Sapareva Banya. The name of the resort comes from the way the lowest one of the Seven Rila Lakes is called. The lake on the other hand, carries the name because of its dish-like shape. What makes the resort a fascinating place is the tourism options that the region offers. The resort has two ski tracks, most suitable for beginners and a 5 km ski run path. Panichishte also offers the option for skiing over unprocessed snow, practice that has gained popularity recently. The proximity to Sapareva Banya, well known for its mineral springs, gives tourists the chance to combine skiing with spa treatment. The Sapareva Banya mineral springs happen to be the hottest ones in Bulgaria. Apart from winter sports and spa...