ADVENTURE TRAVEL - Bulgaria
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A DV E N T U R E T R AV E L
A DV E N T U R E T R AV E L
bulgariatravel.org
360mag.bg hiking-bulgaria.com stenata.com
2021
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
- AIR -
CONTENTS 74 PARA-/ HANG GLIDING
Sopot
75 SKYDIVING
Montana
- HIGHLIGHTS -
76 BUNGEE
6 FROM SEA TO SUMMIT 77 HOT-AIR BALLOONS
8 FOUR SEASONS
- MOUNTAINS - - CYCLING -
32 NATURAL DIVERSITY
58 MARKED/TRACKED ROAD AND
MOUNTAIN BIKE ROUTES
34 MOUNTAIN LODGES AND SPORTS CENTRES
Rudopia
Belmeken High-Altitude Sports Complex
Trans- Rhodope Bike Trail
Malyovitsa Training Complex
Belogradchik
36 TREKKING
62 BIKE CENTRES
- NATURE -
Е3 Kom - Emine
- WATER - E4 The Balkans' High Trail 80 PROTECTED AREAS
Е8 Rila – Rhodopes
12 RIVERS 82 BIRDS
14 Rafting 41 TRAIL RUNNING 83 ANIMALS
Struma
16 Kayaking 42 CLIMBING 84 FORESTS, TREES
Arda Vratsa The Granit village Oak Tree
18 Waterfalls Lakatnik - Vrazhite dupki Baikushev‘s Pine
19 Canyoning Karlukovo - WINTER -
48 Via Ferrata 86 EQUESTRIAN TOURISM
20 LAKES AND RESERVOIRS 49 Bouldering 66 ALTERNATIVE RESORTS / SKI AREAS 88 GREEN SCHOOLS
Ledenoto ezero 50 Mountaineering Ski Area Dobrinishte Chatama
Iskar Reservoir 51 Ziplining Bodrost Resort
52 Climbing walls/ Adventure Parks
22 SEA 68 SKI TOURING / - USEFUL INFORMATION -
24 Sailing 54 CAVES FREERIDING
25 Diving Saeva dupka Vitosha 90 MOUNTAIN RESCUE SERVICE
26 Surfing/ Wakeboarding Snezhanka 92 ТOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES IN
27 Kite-/ Windsurfing Devetashka Cave 70 WINTER HIKING/ SNOWSHOEING BULGARIA
28 Cliff Diving 94 INDEX
29 Deep Water Soloing 71 SNOWKITING 96 MOUNTAIN GUIDING
4 www.bulgariatravel.org 5
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
more than peaks
over
lodges and shelters
over
over mountain resorts
natural sites
beaches
The highest mountain peaks and Allergic to confined spaces, travellers counter with an authentic, hospitable
some of the most inaccessible and are individuals in quest of extraordi- and unique local culture... Somewhere
stunning places around the globe nary spots. What floats their boat is... new, or a lifestyle matching their ever
feature on any travel agent’s list. suspending their hammock at the very more demanding taste for adventure...
After thousands of years of nomadic edge of a breath-taking precipice, Get lost in Bulgaria. Find yourself.
wandering, marches of conquest, or building an old-time wigwam to
missionary work, daring exploration share with someone close at heart in
over
more than and mountaineering expeditions, pursuit of their dreams... Enriching
the world has now dubbed all that experiences far from the hubbub of
Brownian motion adventure travel. globalisation – a place, a trip, an en-
rivers
lakes
6 www.bulgariatravel.org 7
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
FOUR SEASONS WINTER Ski
Snowboard
Ice climbing
Mountaineering
AUTUMN Trekking
Surfing
SPRING Climbing
Rafting Biking
Camping
Trail running
Bird-watching
From ancient shipwrecks on the bot- choice. Your choice. And it’s about their way from North Europe to Africa,
tom off the deceptively tranquil Black experiences. Plenty of them: Join then try making our trademark pepper
Sea shores, through the soft shapes the fearsome kukeri in their dance relish called lyutenitsa and get a taste
of East Bulgaria’s woody hills treaded to scare winter away, spend a spring of the new wine. Four seasons packed
Sailing on for millennia by Thracians, Romans, morning rose-picking in the Rose with great opportunities. An abun-
Cliff jumping Greeks, barbarians and Crusaders, to Valley, collect herbs from the fragrant dance of adrenaline and adventure.
the escarpments and rocky cathe- meadows of the Rhodope and Balkan For connoisseurs and chronic nomads.
SUMMER Diving
Kayaking
drals of Belogradchik and Vratsa and
the celestial peaks of the Rila and
Mountains in summer, and witness
the impressive autumn migration of
Pirin Mountains. Bulgaria is about hundreds of thousands of birds on
8 www.bulgariatravel.org 9
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
WATER
12 RIVERS
14 Rafting
15 Struma
16 Kayaking
17 Arda
18 Waterfalls
19 Canyoning
20 LAKES AND RESERVOIRS
Ledenoto Ezero
Iskar Reservoir
22 SEA
24 Sailing
25 Diving
26 Surfing/ Wakeboarding
27 Kite-/ Windsurfing
28 Cliff Diving
29 Deep Water Soloing
Bulgaria borders more than
900 km of water, with 470 km of
the Danube’s total length of 2850
km being the country’s northern
border, and its Black Sea coast
extending for 387 km.
10 www.bulgariatravel.org Sinemorets, photo: Marin Kafedzhiyski 11
WATER Arda, photo: Hristo Uzunov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
RIVERS
@ moew.government.bg
Ministry of Environment and Water Bulgaria’s rivers belong to one of two drainage basins,
ultimately flowing either into the Black Sea or into the Aegean Sea.
Of Bulgaria’s more than 540 rivers, 32
extend for over 100 km each, including
the Danube, Iskar (368 km), Tundzha
(350 km), Maritsa (322 km), Osam (314
km) and Struma (290 km). Taking their
sources from mountainous areas and
flowing through spectacular gorges,
many of the country’s rivers are a great
destination for visitors as diverse as the
range of activities they have to offer,
from families with children to extreme
adventurers.
River activities:
trekking, canyoning,
camping, rafting, kayaking
and fishing.
River locations:
Lakatnik at the Iskar Riv-
er and the entire Iskar Gorge,
the Devil’s Bridge at the
Arda River, the Rilska, Beli
Vit, Cherni Vit, Mesta, Veleka
and Rusenski Lom Rivers.
Whitewater kayaking: the
Manastirska River (in the
Rila Mountain), the mouth
of the Kamchiya River, the
Yantra River (near the town
of Byala), the Tundzha River
(near the town of Elhovo),
and more.
12 www.bulgariatravel.org 13
Struma, photo: Ivan Dobrev ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
Struma More activities
around: Kayaking pos-
sible almost year-round
(whitewater in spring,
The Struma River takes its sources after, that’s where you can hire the otherwise touring between
at an altitude of 2246 m, just below equipment and qualified guides from. Kresna and Strumyani).
the Vitosha Mountain’s highest peak, A special rafting campsite near Kresna Cliff jumping, canyoning.
Wildlife watching (over 140
Cherni Vrah (2290), and then flows past offers not only the required rafting
species of birds and other
Bulgaria’s highest mountains Rila and infrastructure but also an adventure animals). Cycling and trek-
Pirin. Its underground flow has carved park with a variety of attractions. It king routes (Kresna-Sliv-
out the karst labyrinth of Bulgaria’s is here, in the Kresna Gorge, that the nitsa-Strumyani-Kresna,
longest cave, Duhlata. The Struma is Struma features one of the Balkans’ with a total length of 28
the country’s most popular rafting most technically challenging rafting km). Hunting and fishing
(with the Golak Hunting
river, with well-developed commercial routes, with a total length of 18 km.
and Fishing Society of the
and sports rafting facilities. A number The river’s rating is Class 3-4 Pool- village of Strumyani). A
of sports clubs operate along the river, Drop, which means intermittent rapids few thermal springs (Stara
with well-equipped rafting centres followed by sections of calm water. It Kresna, Oshtava, Marikosti-
near the towns of Kresna and Simitli. is the venue for annual races, some of novo, some of which out in
If it’s advanced rafting routes you’re which are international. the wild). Wine tours along
the Struma valley.
Struma, photos: Adventure Net
More about the place:
Dozens of natural, archaeological, architectural and tourist sights along the
RAFTING
Bulgaria has several rafting hotspots river are worth visiting: the picturesque cliffs of the Zemen, Skrino and Kresna
and a well-developed network of raft- Gorges, the Zemen Monastery, the extinct Kozhuh volcano and the mystic
ing centres, clubs and professionals Rupite area with its thermal springs, the Tisata Natural Reserve, the ruins of
promoting this kind of sport among the medieval Krakra fortress, the Kadin Bridge of the village of Nevestino, and
tourists and organising rafting races many more.
An Outdoor & White Water Fest kick- and sports events. Popular rafting
starts the rafting & kayaking season in locations include the Struma River
Gorge, the Iskar Gorge, the Rusenski
late March every year. Lom Canyon and the Arda River Valley.
Other rafting spots in
Bulgaria:
Lakatnik at the Iskar River,
the Devil’s Bridge at the Arda
River, the Rilska, Beli Vit,
Cherni Vit, Mesta, Veleka and
Rusenski Lom Rivers.
@ kresna.org - website
with useful information
14 www.bulgariatravel.org 15
WATER/ RIVERS Arda, photo: Ivan Dobrev ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
KAYAKING
Other kayaking spots More about the place:
in Bulgaria: The TID (Tour Numerous historical sights
International Danubien) along the Arda River Valley
annual international suggest a rich history. In ad-
regatta on the Danube, the dition to the ruins of ancient
Iskar River. Whitewater fortresses (including Krivus
If you’re a fan of kayaking tours, you’ll find splendid opportunities in almost every near the village of Bashevo,
kayaking: the Manastirska
corner of Bulgaria. Whitewater kayaking is available in some of the mountainous River (in the Rila mountain), Pathmos near the Borovitsa
areas. Driven by the rising popularity of this pastime, it is not only rowing and the mouth of the Kamchi- Lodge, Monyak near the town
sports clubs but also an ever larger number of travel agents that tend to include ya River, the Yantra River of Kardzhali, and many more),
it is worth exploring some
kayaking in their portfolio. (near the town of Byala),
the Tundzha River (near the of the countless Thracian
town of Elhovo), and more. sanctuaries (notably Chit
Kaya in the vicinity of the
village of Lisitsite, the crom-
Kayaking on the Arda, you can visit dozens lech near the village of Dolni
of ancient fortresses, sanctuaries and @ bko.bg - Bulgarian Kayak
Association
Glavanak, and more). One of
the most popular points of
forgotten villages. interest here is the medieval
Devil’s Bridge near the town
of Ardino. The biodiversity
here boasts more than 4300
animal species, including
the critically endangered
Egyptian vulture along with
three other vulture species (in
the Valchi dol Reserve near
Madzharovo), the imperial
eagle, the black stork, the
European bison (in the Studen
kladenets Game Breeding
Station), and a wolf popula-
tion. A Nature Conservation
Centre near Madzharovo,
known as the Vulture Centre,
features a campsite and a
Arda bird hide.
The Arda is Bulgaria’s 9th longest river, throughout the year. At high water, the
flowing through the Rhodope Moun- river’s upper course (before it reaches More activities around:
tains for 242 km and leaving Bulgaria the Kardzhali Reservoir) is suitable for Rafting in spring (in the
for the last 30 km of its course. Its sce- whitewater kayaking. Once a year, in section from the Beli izvor
nic valley boasts natural and historical May or June, thanks to the organisers Hydropower Plant to the
sights and is the perfect destination of an annual kayak regatta here, it is point where the river flows
into the Kardzhali Reservoir,
for a few days of kayaking combined possible to cover the whole distance
known as the Zero Point).
with camping and a variety of outdoor from the Kardzhali Reservoir to the Mountain hikes and cycling
activities on and by the river. The Arda Ivaylovgrad Dam without getting off (the TransRhodopi Long-Dis-
feeds three of Bulgaria’s most pictur- the kayaks. tance Biking Trail, the Sultan’s
esque reservoirs – Kardzhali, Studen Trail long-distance footpath),
kladenets and Ivaylovgrad, which, ecotourism, esoteric tourism
(the ancient Perperikon,
along with the river valley near the the sanctuary of Tatul, the
town of Madzharovo, are a great choice Utrobata (Womb) Cave, the
for relaxing recreational tours almost cromlech near the village of
Dolni Glavanak, and more).
16 www.bulgariatravel.org Arda, photo: Ivan Dobrev 17
WATER/ RIVERS Raysko praskalo, photo: Vladislav Terziiski Iskar, Emen canyon, photo: Marin Kafedjiiski ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
WATERFALLS The Dyavolsko garlo (Devil’s Throat)
Cave deep in the Trigrad Gorge engulfs the
river that carved the awe-inspiring land-
CANYONING
With an abundance of riverbeds with particularly suit-
Bulgaria’s waterfalls have a great
scape around and is home to the Balkans’ able geomorphological features, canyoning is simply
diversity of outdoor activities to offer, highest underground waterfall (42 m). a must in Bulgaria’s adventure travel portfolio. The
such as hiking (the Waterfalls Canyon), gorges of the Struma, Erma and Trigrad Rivers, as well
ice climbing in winter (the Boyana and as the Iskar Gorge near the village of Karlukovo, are
Skakavitsa Waterfalls and the Severen @ waterfallsbg.info some of the country’s preferred canyoning destina-
Waterfalls in Bulgaria tions. A number of rafting clubs also offer this activity
Dzhendem Rserve), and highlining (the
Skaklya Waterfall). Most of them are ac- in their range of services.
cessible through well-maintained hiking
trails, and picnic sites are conveniently The First Love highline, set
set up nearby. Popular destinations
include the Raysko praskalo (Heavenly
up by Lyudmil Ivanov, extends
Sprinkler) in the Balkan Mountains, for 130 metres, at a height of
which is the highest permanent 50 m above the river in the
waterfall in the Balkans (124 m), the
Krushuna Waterfalls, an exquisite series
Emen Canyon, which also fea-
of turquoise-coloured pools connected tures a nice trail and a little
with charming little falls near the
village of Krushuna, and the remarka-
gem of a waterfall.
ble Bovska Skaklya Waterfall near the
village of Zasele in the Iskar Gorge, Popular spots: the Sheytan
ranking as Bulgaria’s fourth highest dere Canyon of the Struma River, the
waterfall (120 m). The Waterfalls Canyon, Negovanka River (in Veliko Tarnovo
a scenic trail right at the outskirts of the Region), the Popina Laka Waterfall
town of Smolyan, boasts as many as 40 near the town of Sandanski
waterfalls of varying heights, the tallest
one (68 m) bearing the name of the
legendary Thracian harpist Orpheus.
Other popular
waterfalls:
Vrachanska Skaklya
(Bulgaria’s tallest, though
not permanent one, with
141 m), the picturesque
Rilska Skakavitsa (the Rila
Mountain’s highest one, 70
m), the Hotnitsa Waterfall
near its namesake village
in Veliko Tarnovo Region),
Vidimsko praskalo in the
Balkan Mountain’s Severen
Dzhendem Reserve, the Boy-
ana Waterfall in the Vitosha
Mountain.
18 www.bulgariatravel.org 19WATER Kardjali reservoir, photo: Hristo Uzunov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
LAKES Bulgaria boasts more than 300 alpine lakes and more than 1000 reservoirs.
Many of them are a wonderful venue for outdoor activities such as trekking,
cycling, rowing, sailing, wakeboarding and more. A large part of these bodies of
water are at an elevation of 1,500 m or more. By far the most popular alpine lake
cious ecosystems of the Shabla, Pomorie
and Atanassovo Lakes and the Mandra
Reservoir. If you are simply looking for
easily accessible fishing and camping
RESERVOIRS
destination in the Balkans is the Seven Rila Lakes cirque. In another part of the sites, you will find plenty of suitable
Rila Mountain, a large sports complex at 2,000 m above sea level is a convenient reservoirs and lakes in Bulgaria’s plains Activities:
starting point near the serene Belmeken Reservoir. Rila also boasts the Balkans’ and lowlands. trekking, cycling, sailing,
highest artificial lake, Kalin, at 2,394 m. Near the Black Sea you will find the pre- wakeboarding, water
attractions, kayaking,
camping, windsurfing
Other lakes of The Belmeken high-
interest: Lake Srebarna
(a biosphere reserve on altitude sports complex Other reservoirs of
the UNESCO list, featuring
a great diversity of
is a preferred training interest: Batak and Golyam
Beglik (near the town of
protected bird species), centre for athletes Batak), Studen kladenets
Durankulak (a coastal
lake that is host to a large from all over the world. (Bulgaria’s second largest
reservoir, located near the
number of rare species
and an archaeological
Its attractive natural town of Kardzhali), Ticha
(Bulgaria’s reservoir with
park). surroundings and the longest shoreline, near
altitude, along with the the town of Veliki Preslav),
Pchelina (near the town of
conditions it offers, are Radomir), Koprinka (near
the town of Kazanlak)
only matched by one @ bd-dunav.org
other sports complex in Danube River Basin
Europe. Directorate
Urdini Lakes, photo: Alexander Ivanov
Ledeno ezero Iskar Reservoir
‘The Ice Lake’ Iskar is Bulgaria’s largest reservoir, both
in terms of surface area (30 sq.km) and
This is the Balkans’ highest lake, at an volume (580 million cubic metres). It is
altitude of 2,709 m, just below Southeast fed by its namesake river. At a distance
Europe’s highest peak, Mount Musala of just 20 km from the capital city of
(2,925 m). With a surface area of 1,8 Sofia, it is the country’s largest inland
hectares and a depth of 16,4 metres, destination for water sports and activ-
this gem of a lake is in the bottom of a ities. Along the waterside you will find
deep and shady cirque, and its ice never a number of camping and recreation
completely melts, not even in summer. It zones as well as facilities for a variety of
is one of the total of 7 Musala Lakes. sports and water activities.
20 www.bulgariatravel.org 21
21WATER Kaliakra, photo: Vladislav Terziiski ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
SEA Though not famous as an island country, Bulgaria does have
Activities: sailing, diving, surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing,
kayaking, camping, trekking, fishing, parasailing, water skiing,
SUP its five islands in the Black Sea: Zmiyski ostrov (Snake Island),
St Anastasia, St Ivan, St Kirik and St Peter.
Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, stretching
for 378 km, is the country’s eastern
border. It boasts vast beaches with
fine-grain sand, picturesque bays and
coves, and dramatic cliffs. The Black
Sea washes against the slopes of two
of Bulgaria’s mountains, the Balkan
Mountain, where its easternmost point,
Cape Emine, divides Bulgaria’s coastline
in two, and the mystic Strandzha Moun-
tain in the south. In the north, between
the town of Balchick and the village of
Tyulenovo, a high rocky plateau drops
abruptly into the sea to form imposing
coastal scenery, such as the impressive
Cape Kaliakra and the delightful little
beach of Bolata right next to it. The
waters of 16 of the country’s rivers flow
directly into the sea, shaping unique
nature spots, such as the beaches at
the mouths of the Veleka, Kamchiya and
Ropotamo Rivers. Campers’ favourite
beaches Silistar, Karadere and Irakli
have retained their fabulous beauty,
with parts of them included in the ter-
ritory of some of Bulgaria’s 18 coastal
protected areas. Bulgaria’s Black Sea
coast offers virtually unlimited active
recreation opportunities, and the coun-
try’s two big seaside cities – Varna in the
north and Burgas in the south – have
all the infrastructure that adventure
travellers and fans of all sorts of water
activities may need, including an air-
port and a passenger seaport each.
@ marad.bg Maritime Administration
Executive Agency
22 www.bulgariatravel.org 23WATER/ SEA Beglika Reservoir, photo: Marin Kafedjiiski ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
SAILING
Sailing is a well-developed sport in Bulgaria, with long-standing traditions. Other sailing spots:
The Iskar Reservoir
Towns and cities such as Balchik, Varna, Pomorie, Burgas and others have their
own yacht clubs, facilities and sailing schools, and marinas exist in almost any
location along the coast. National sailboat competitions take place on a regular
basis, while Varna and Burgas frequently host races within prestigious interna-
tional regattas, such as the Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta, the International Black @ bulsaf.bg
Sea Championship and more. Sailboats are available for rent, and if you just want Bulgarian Sailing Federation
to get a taste of the experience, you will easily find sailing excursion offers.
The Bosphorus (the Strait of Istanbul) being close by,
the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is conveniently connected to
the Mediterranean and thus the World Ocean.
DIVING
Other diving spots:
The Underwater Seals’
Cave (Maslen nos), the
Underwater Chapel
(Primorsko), Dardanelite
Curious underwater terrain, dozens of shipwrecks near the coast, and easily (near the village of Var-
vara), the Petrified Forest
accessible shores make diving an ever more popular pastime for fans of active (near the town of Sozopol),
recreation. Bulgaria’s coastal cities and most of its seaside resorts have at least the Safak Shipwreck (town
one diving club each, offering underwater adventures for beginners and ad- of Tsarevo)
vanced divers alike. Top diving destinations include Krokodilite (The Crocodiles)
and the cape of Maslen nos near the town of Primorsko in the south, and the
craggy shores of the villages of Kamen bryag and Tyulenovo in the north.
Other activities:
freediving, snorkelling,
underwater fishing
Two objects have been intentionally scut-
tled to make diving attractions: the Pioneer @ bnaua.org
Bulgarian National
fishing vessel, between Sozopol and the St Association for
Ivan Island, and a Tu-154 aircraft once used Underwater Activities
for government flights, near Varna.
24 www.bulgariatravel.org Black Sea, Sozopol, photos: Mihail Zaimov; Maslen Nos, Freediving instructor: Sea Nomad, photo: Tihomir Rachev 25WATER/ SEA Ahtopol, photo: Yoan Kolev, Akasha Surf ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
WAKEBOARD/ WATER SKIING
Water skiing and wakeboarding are also in Bulgaria’s portfolio of popular water Other wakeboarding
activities. Special wakeboarding and water skiing boats are available at the spots: Inland wakeboarding
major seaside destinations. The country also boasts a few wake parks, two of facilities are also available
which at the seaside: in Varna in the north and near the village of Chernomorets in the Bratushkovo and Ka-
in the south. zichene Reservoirs, in the city
of Plovdiv, and more.
In late summer, the Bratushkovo Reservoir
@ bewsasurf.wordpress.
(near the town of Slivnitsa) traditionally hosts com Bulgarian Extreme
the National Wakeboard Championship. Water Sports Association
SURFING Every year Ahtopol hosts the Youngsters
vs Old Chaps competition, with the status of
Even though the Black Sea is not
a national championship. It takes place near
the town’s emblematic lighthouse. KITE-/ WINDSURFING
famous for big waves, surfing
conditions along Bulgaria’s coast Windsurfing is a well-known sport in Bulgaria, with
Other kitesurfing/
are decent almost year-round, long-standing traditions and windsurfing clubs and schools windsurfing spots:
and best between late September existing all along the Black Sea coast. Some of the country’s Good spots for beginners
and December. Bulgaria’s most reservoirs also boast suitable windsurfing conditions. Kite- include the Zlatnata ribka
attractive surf spot is undoubtedly surfing has been gaining popularity over the past years too. (Goldfish) Campsite and
Preferred destinations for both types of sport in the south the Atliman Cove (near the
Ahtopol, where the combination
town of Kiten). Reservoirs
of underwater terrain and certain include the North Beach in the Burgas Bay, where most that offer suitable condi-
above-surface factors produces major competitions take place, the Arapya Campsite near tions almost throughout
waves alternating and breaking Tsarevo and more, while the top kitesurfing and windsurfing the year include Iskar, Gorni
similarly to ocean ones. Other pop- spots in the north are the beaches of Shkorpilovtsi and Dabnik, Dospat, Koprinka,
ular locations include the beach Krapets. Dolna Dikanya, Lobosh and
others.
of the Koral Campsite and the
Silistar Beach in the south, and the
Kabakum Beach near the Zlatni
Pyasatsi (Golden Sands) Resort in Nicola Abadjiev from Bulgaria holds the European
the north.
river kitesurfing distance record: 320 km on
the Danube in 12 hours.
26 www.bulgariatravel.org Lozenets, photo: Marin Kafedjiiski 27WATER/ SEA Tulenovo, photo: Ivaylo Donchev Tulenovo, photo: Rus Vakrilov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
CLIFF DEEP
The diversity of precipitous cliffs all along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast
attracts fans of cliff jumping. A favourite in the north is the Ashalaka area
near the village of Tyulenovo, but its soaring cliffs are only suitable for
JUMPING WATER
advanced jumpers. Cape St Agalina near the town of Sozopol is a top cliff
jumping destination in the south, offering great possibilities to plunge into
the sea from heights reaching 15 m on both sides of a fjord-like cove.
Other cliff jumping Todor Spasov from Bulgaria is part of
SOLOING
spots: The cliffs of the Old
Town in Sozopol, Chudnite the global elite of the Cliff Diving Series,
skali (The Wonderful Cliffs) of
the Tsonevo Reservoir
a high diving competition where partic- The indented, precipitous shore
ipants plunge into the sea from a height between the village of Tyulenovo
and the Yaylata area has in recent
of 27 metres. years been discovered as the
perfect venue for this fun pastime,
soloing directly above water. More
and more climbers appreciate
the great properties of the cliffs
here, conveniently overhanging
the water.
Top locations The cliffs
near the villages of Tyule-
novo and Kamen bryag
@ climbingguidebg.com
website for climbing in
Bulgaria
Climbing fans gather in the area near Kamen bryag in August
every year for an informal meeting that has become a major climb-
ing event recently.
28 www.bulgariatravel.org 29ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
MOUN
TAINS
32 NATURAL DIVERSITY
34 MOUNTAIN LODGES AND SPORTS CENTRES
Belmeken High-Altitude Sports Complex
Malyovitsa Training Complex
36 TREKKING AND HIKING
38 Е3 Kom - Emine
39 Е4 The Balkans’ High Trail
40 Е8 Rila – Rhodopes
41 TRAIL RUNNING
42 CLIMBING
45 Vratsa
46 Lakatnik - Vrazhite dupki
47 Karlukovo
48 Via Ferrata
49 Bouldering
50 Mountaineering
52 Ziplining
53 Climbing walls/ Adventure Parks
54 CAVES
55 Saeva dupka
Snezhanka
Devetashka Cave
30 www.bulgariatravel.org Rai hut, photo: Vladislav Terziski 31MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
NATURAL
DIVERSITY
Bulgaria’s small territory boasts a (roughly 240 by 100 km) area of the
surprising wealth of varied land- Balkans has for centuries impressed
scapes and natural assets. Four of with its impenetrable forests, named
its mountains are markedly alpine: Silva Magna Bulgarica in medieval
Rila (with Southeast Europe’s highest sources. The Balkan Mountain, pop-
point, Musala Peak, 2,925 m), Pirin ularly called Stara planina (The Old
(Vihren Peak, 2,914 m), Slavyanka and Mountain), is the longest mountain
the Central Balkan Mountain. A total range in Southeast Europe and a dis-
of eight mountains in the country rise tinct climatic divide that was named
above 2,000 metres, and 37 peaks Haemus in antiquity, after Rhodope’s
exceed 2,700 m in altitude. brother and king of Thrace. Vitosha,
the unique dome-shaped mountain
Diverse in their geological origin, right next to the capital city of Sofia
topography, climate and biology, and (and therefore a top adventure and
accessible in both summer and winter, hiking destination), is also believed
mountains in Bulgaria are the perfect to bear a Thracian name, meaning
venue for active recreation and sports. ‘Two-Summit Mountain’.
It is the distinctly alpine mountains, in
particular those abounding in serene Wreathed in legends, the Sakar and
alpine lakes, that attract most visitors. Strandzha Mountains boast rare natu-
The ancients considered these unap- ral treasures. Despite their much more
proachable heights as the dwelling of modest altitudes, they attract visitors
gods, and they named them accord- with their many dolmens and the
ingly. Pirin, for example, is associated pre-Christian tradition of fire-walking,
with the name of the Slavic god of surviving to this day.
thunder Perun. Before the Slavs, the
Thracians called it Orbelus, ‘Snow-Cov- Tourists in the uplands can find a
ered Mountain’, while some linguists place to stay in several hundred
associate that name with Thracian or lodges, a few refuges and some sports
Greek words meaning rock. The name centres. Alternatively they can choose
Rila is also believed to be of Thracian from a multitude of guesthouses and Impressed at how close to Sofia the Vito- More mountains:
Sredna gora, Erulska,
origin and mean ‘Water Mountain’.
Countless legends surround Bulgaria’s
family-run hotels at the foot of the
mountains and get a genuine taste of
sha Mountain was, 19th-century Viennese Ruy, Chepan, Konyavska,
mystic Rhodope Mountain, where the local life and culture. geologist Ferdinand von Hochstetter said: Lozen
mythic Thracian harpist Orpheus lived, ‘Sofia and Vitosha are inseparable, just like
as legend has it. Bearing the name of
Queen Rhodope of Thrace, this vast Naples and Vesuvius.’
@ planini.eu - Mountains and
People, Bulgarian Association
of Mountain Leaders
32 www.bulgariatravel.org Pirin, photo: Georgi Hajiiski 33MOUNTAINS Malyovitsa, photo: Georgi Hadjiiski ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
MOUNTAIN LODGES
AND SPORTS CENTRES
As a country with a wealth of moun- and Mazalat in the Balkan Mountain, Just a few examples of this much
tains, Bulgaria has well-developed Rilski ezera and the emblematic Ma- welcome revival are the tech-orient-
upland tourism infrastructure and lyovitsa in Rila, and Mechi chal in the ed Septemvri and Balkanity in Vitosha,
sports centres, with plenty of active Rhodope Mountain are just a few of the artsy Lovna in Rila, and Belasitsa
organisations. A network of over 250 the country’s major cradles of hiking in its namesake mountain. Some
mountain lodges, refuges and sports and mountaineering. Refuges provide lodges are right next to skiing facili-
centres conveniently cover all impor- shelter from bad weather at key lo- ties, such as the Pleven Lodge in the
tant trekking routes as well as the cations, such as Vitosha’s Cherni vrah Central Balkan Mountain, Bezbog in
approaches to them. They are crucial (Black Peak) and the breath-taking Pirin, Dobrila in the Balkan Mountain,
to Bulgaria’s mountaineering move- arête of Koncheto (the highest refuge and more.
ment, providing not only accommoda- in Pirin). There is even a weather sta-
tion but also the facilities indispen- tion on the Top of the Balkans, Musala
sable to the training of outdoor and Peak. A growing number of mountain @ www.btsbg.org
mountain sports professionals and lodges and refuges are now operated Bulgarian Tourist Union
rescuers. Lodges such as Aleko in the by young and motivated people who
@ bulgarian-mountains.com/
Belmeken High-Altitude Sports Complex Activities:
sports training, trekking,
Vitosha Mountain, Eho, Kozya stena add a charming touch of ingenuity. hiking, camping, freeride
Huts a website listing mountain skiing and snowboarding
accommodation in Bulgaria
At 2,000 m above sea level, near Belmeken Peak and its namesake reservoir in
Eastern Rila, the Belmeken High-Altitude Sports Complex was built in 1968 as
a high-altitude training centre for a wide range of sports, as well as for family @ nsb.bg
recreation and organised school events. Due to its elevation and unspoiled Belmeken
nature, it is a preferred training location for athletes from around the world
and is only matched by one other facility in Europe, the Sierra Nevada High-Alti-
tude Training Centre.
The first moun-
tain lodge ever
Malyovitsa Training Centre built in Bulgaria, in
1922, is Skakavitsa,
At an elevation of 1770 m in the Rila Mountain, at the foot of Malyovitsa Peak, now a hotspot for
this training centre is known as the cradle of Bulgarian mountaineering. Over
the years it has evolved into an established training hotspot for mountaineers
ice climbers.
and mountain professionals. There is a ski slope right next to it. The centre is
located at a crossroads of major marked routes to top destinations such as the Activities: climbing
Rila Monastery, the Seven Rila Lakes, Lake Strashnoto (The Scary Lake) and and mountaineering,
trekking, hiking, camp-
many more. This is also one of the approaches to the E4 international trekking ing, freeride skiing and
route. The area of the Malyovitsa Lodge not far up the valley is a hotspot for snowboarding
climbing and alpinism and a popular starting point for trekkers and ski tourers
in the Rila Mountain.
34 www.bulgariatravel.org Echo hut, photo: Vladislav Terziiski 35MOUNTAINS Sinanitsa Hut, photo: Victor Troyanov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
TREKKING AND HIKING
Mountain hiking has long-standing is poor. Cairns also show the way on with its speciality: village-to-village @ planini.eu
Mountains and People,
traditions in Bulgaria. In 1895 the some routes. Several international hikes and cosy nights at guesthouses.
Bulgarian Association
writer Aleko Konstantinov, a renowned trekking routes cross Bulgaria. The areas around Trigrad, Kovachevit- of Mountain Leaders
public figure at the time, initiated Popular hiking destinations include sa, Smolyan, Devin, Ivaylovgrad and
the first mass hike to the Vitosha not only the country’s mountains but Velingrad are quite popular among
Mountain’s highest peak, Cherni vrah also the Black Sea coast, numerous fans of this type of travel, along with
(Black Peak). Since then, a network canyons and the areas around lakes other regions of Bulgaria, such as
of over 10,000 km of hiking and and reservoirs. The country’s highest those around the towns of Belograd-
trekking trails of varying difficulty mountains Rila, Pirin and Central chik, Vratsa, Gabrovo, Elena, Veliko
has been developed. Most routes are Balkan are the best known hiking and Tarnovo, Sevlievo, Sopot, Kalofer and
well-marked. Metal marker poles trekking destinations but definitely Sliven in the Balkan Mountain, as well
painted yellow and providing detailed not the only ones deserving attention. as the entire Strandzha Mountain.
navigation information are a precious The Rhodope Mountain and particu-
aid in winter, especially when visibility larly its western part will enchant you
Trekking and hiking Activities:
locations: hiking and trekking,
Vitosha and its Stone Riv- ascending mountain peaks,
ers; the Seven Rila Lakes; culture and historical tours,
the Belogradchik Rocks; waterside hikes
the Ovech Fortress Trail
near the town of Provadiya;
the Rila, Pirin and Central
Balkan National Parks, the
Emen Canyon; Perelik Peak,
the Chernatitsa Ridge and
Trigrad (all three in the
Rhodope Mountain), the
Tran gorge.
36 www.bulgariatravel.org Mazalat hut, Central Balkan National Park, photo: Damyan Georgiev 37MOUNTAINS/ TREKKING Shipka, photo: Lubomir Popyordanov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
Е3 KOM - EMINE
@ www.btsbg.org Points of interest along
Bulgarian Tourist the route: Todorini kukli
Union (Theodora’s Dolls) Peak,
Murgash Peak, Trastena Lodge,
Eho Lodge, Severen Dzhen-
dem Reserve, Pleven Lodge,
Kom-Emine is Bulgaria’s longest and gain of 20,500 m and elevation loss Botev Peak, the Singing Rocks, Points of interest
most popular marked trekking route. of 21,500 m, and passes right by Mazalat Lodge, Shipka Pass, along the route: Cherni
It traverses the Balkan Mountain Bulgaria’s geographic centre, near the Flying Saucer (former vrah (The Black Peak),
Range, from Kom Peak close to the the Uzana Lodge. It takes between 18 communist monument) of the Seven Rila Lakes,
Serbian border in the west, all the way and 25 days to complete in summer Buzludzha, Yurushki Cliffs, Malyovitsa, the Predela
Chumerna Lodge, Tvarditsa Pass, the northern
to Cape Emine on the Black Sea coast and climbs more than 100 peaks in Pass, the lighthouse of the karst ridge of the Pirin
in the east. This is the final section of the Balkan Mountain. A large number village of Emona Mountain with the arête
the E3 European long-distance path, of mountain lodges along the route of Koncheto and Vihren
connecting the Atlantic to the Black provide accommodation. Marking: Peak, Tevno Lake, Kapat-
Sea. The section through Bulgaria is Triple white-red-white stripes nik Peak.
painted on stones, trees or oth-
580 km long, with a total elevation er prominent objects are the
summer marking along this
route. The winter marking here
The first man to complete this route, in comprises metal poles painted
in an alternating yellow-and-
1933, was Pavel Deliradev, one of the found- black pattern. These are placed
ers of Bulgarian speleology. at 200-metre intervals. Marking:
White-red-white stripes
painted on prominent
static objects, or ar-
row-shaped signs with
a red tip.
Е4 THE BALKANS’ HIGH TRAIL
@ European long-distance
The E4 European long-distance path connects Portugal to Cyprus. Its section path network
in Bulgaria is known as the Five-Mountain Trek, as it traverses the crests of the www.era-ewv-ferp.org/
e-paths/
Vitosha, Verila, Rila, Pirin and Slavyanka Mountains. This route of roughly 260 km
takes, on average, 14 days to complete.
Koncheto (The Foal) is a narrow arête on the northern karst
ridge of Pirin. At an altitude of 2,810 m, with precipices on both
sides, this is one of Bulgaria’s most extreme destinations. A metal
rope installed in the narrowest section serves as a safety railing.
38 www.bulgariatravel.org Koncheto, photo: Sofia Popyordanova 39MOUNTAINS/ TREKKING Rhodopes, photo: Hristo Uzunov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
TRAIL RUNNING Other popular trail run-
ning races:
Cherni vrah Peak Trail Race,
Thracian Ultra, Run 4 Chepan,
Belasitsa Sky Run
@ racecalendar.bg
In recent years trail running has become a favourite international participants is the 160-kilometre Persenk
outdoor activity for many Bulgarians. A growing number Ultra in the Rhodopes, with a total elevation gain of 7,100
of running clubs and societies are established, more m. Tryavna Ultra is a popular race in the Balkan Mountain
and more running routes are marked, and GPS tracks that crosses three municipalities and dozens of villages.
are uploaded online. Organising and taking part in trail Adventure Sky Run is the highest-altitude trail race in
races has evolved into a form of tourism in its own right. Bulgaria and indeed in the Balkans. The oldest and most
Some races target professional athletes. Pirin Ultra is popular race is the one around the Vitosha Mountain, with
Bulgaria’s most prestigious ultramarathon and part of the a length of 100 km.
Skyrunner World Series. Another ultramarathon attracting
More than 60 trail running races of varying difficulty take
place in Bulgaria every year.
Е8 RILA – RHODOPES Marking:
White-red-white stripes, as
well as small, yellow square
signs inscribed ‘E8’.
The E8 international trekking route starts at the Atlantic coast of Ireland and
ultimately reaches Istanbul. In Bulgaria it connects the Serbian border near
Kalotina to the village of Mezek near Svilengrad in Southeast Bulgaria, travers-
ing on its way Eastern Rila and the Rhodopes. The marked section starts at the
skiing resort of Borovets in Rila and passes by numerous ancient sanctuaries
and fortresses. The section in Bulgaria is 400 km long and takes roughly 14 days
to complete. @ European long-distance
path network
www.era-ewv-ferp.org/
Points of interest along the route: e-paths/
Musala Peak, Avramovo Narrow-Gauge Train Station, the Dyavolsko garlo (Dev-
il’s Throat) Cave, the Yagodina Cave, the unique Maltepe Thracian tomb and the
Kaleto Fortress near the village of Mezek
40 www.bulgariatravel.org Chepan Mountain, Running for Chepan, photo: Plamen Kudenko 41MOUNTAINS ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
CLIMBING The grade of Bulgaria’s hardest climbing routes is 9a.
These are ‘Onwards and Upwards’ near Karlukovo and
‘El Niño’ near Dryanovo.
Bulgaria’s mountaineering has tradi-
tions dating back almost a century.
Given the diverse topography and
broad range of altitudes and climate
conditions in the country, it is no
wonder that climbing sites, routes and
destinations exist virtually everywhere
– in the Balkan, Rhodope, Pirin, Rila and
Vitosha Mountains, near Sliven, Karlovo,
Vratsa, Veliko Tarnovo, Tyulenovo, and
many more. The hills in Plovdiv boast
unique climbing routes right in the
heart of Bulgaria’s second largest city.
The country’s higher mountains such as
Rila, Pirin and the Balkan Mountain are
a perfect venue for alpinism. Cave tour-
ism has great potential to thrive, given
the 67 caves and caverns accessible to
visitors.
@ bfka.org
Bulgarian Climbing and
Mountaineering Federation
@ climbingguidebg.com
42 Vratsa, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov www.bulgariatravel.org 43MOUNTAINS/ CLIMBING ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
Vratsa
Soaring like a gothic cathedral, the
cliffs of Vratsa are known as Eastern
Europe’s Verdon, and for a good reason.
Limestone escarpments overhanging
the town of Vratsa and the Leva River
for kilometres feature over 480 climb-
ing routes. Of those, 220 are equipped
for sport climbing (in sectors such
as Stegite, Malkata dupka (The Little
Cave), Manastirski dol, etc.), while the
rest are meant for traditional climbing
and require skilful use of the full range
of climbing gear (Zgorigradska stena
(Zgorigrad Wall), Tsentralna stena (Cen-
tral wall) and other sectors). Climbing
routes here are of varying difficulty
grades, ranging from 5a to 8c for sports
routes and reaching 7c for traditional
climbing routes. This destination is also
Every autumn Vratsa hosts an Annual suitable for beginners’ training.
Climbers’ Meeting.
44 Ice climbing, Skakavitsa, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov www.bulgariatravel.org Vratsa, photo: Lubomir Popiordanov Vratsa, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov 45ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
Karlukovo
A karst region with a wealth of cliffs
and caves, Karlukovo is a perfect
setting for climbing and speleology
experiences. The highlight of the
area is the Prohodna Cave (Passage
Cave), naturally illuminated by
daylight through two impressive
eye-shaped openings in its vault. No
wonder it is commonly known as ‘The
Eyes of God’. This lofty underground
passage is 262 m long, over 40 m
high, and between 20 and 50 m wide.
It is mostly sport climbing routes
that you will find in and around the
cave, with difficulty grades ranging
Lakatnik, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov between 4c and 9a. One of the
greatest perks of climbing in the
Lakatnik - The Orlovo gnezdo (Eagle’s Nest) climb- Prohodna Cave is that you can do it
even on rainy days. The routes most
ers’ refuge is a small wooden cabin built in
Vrazhite dupki 1938 by a group of mountaineers on a tiny
liked by climbers are ‘Pop-Folk’,
‘Nepobedim’ (The Invincible) and ‘El
Choro’. The cave is a protected area,
Lakatnik is a favourite destination for shelf on the rock face. so climbing is subject to certain
climbers from Sofia not only because it restrictions.
is fairly close to the capital city but also
because... they simply love the glorious
little climbers’ cabin perched right on
the rock face! This climbing site boasts
more than 100 routes for sport and
traditional climbing as well as boul-
dering, with difficulty grades ranging
from 3a to 8b+. Nearby, the canyon of
the Proboynitsa River is home to a much
loved climbing site: Vrazhite dupki (The
Enemy Caves), a limestone escarpment
roughly 1 km long that faces south and
enjoys a very mild microclimate even in Perched on top of the cliffs overhanging
winter. The cliffs are mostly 20 m high,
which is also the length of most routes
the Iskar River, the Petar Tranteev National
here. Vrazhite dupki are equipped for Speleology Centre is conveniently close to
sport climbing, but some sections are
also suitable for bouldering.
the Prohodna Cave. Four of the building’s
five floors are built in a rock crevice.
46 Eagle‘s Nest Shelter, photo: Marin Kafedzhiyski www.bulgariatravel.org Karlukovo, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov 47MOUNTAINS/ CLIMBING Rila monastery, photo: Ruslan Vakrilov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
VIA BOULDERING
FERRATA Bouldering is a recent trend in
Bulgaria that has quickly become
bouldering sites are in the Rila and
Vitosha Mountains. In addition to the
ing site is ‘Danera’ (The Tree Stump), a
crag near the Beli Iskar Reservoir with
a favourite among climbers. The large number of bouldering routes a difficulty grade of 8В/V13. It was first
fast development of this sport is that already exist, unlimited options climbed by Ivaylo Radkov, nicknamed
Bulgaria has 7 equipped via ferrata exclusively driven by a network of are available for developing new Fazata, in 2011. The second climber to
sites at different locations: the Maly- climbing gyms, and a range of sport bouldering problems. One of the most successfully surmount the challenge,
ovitsa Via Ferrata, a medium-difficul- clubs see to it that Bulgarian athletes popular and easily accessible boulder- in 2013, was the globally renowned
ty route with an optional advanced refine their bouldering skills and that ing destinations is right at the periph- Chris Sharma.
section; the 40-metre via ferrata at new bouldering sites are explored ery of the Boyana District of Sofia at
the Haramiyska Cave in the Trigrad and developed. Bulgaria first hosted the foot of the Vitosha Mountain and
Gorge; the Golubovitsa 2 Via Ferrata the European Youth Cup Boulder includes a number of bouldering sites.
next to its namesake cave near the in 2017. The country’s most popular The country’s most difficult boulder-
village of Koshnitsa in the Rhodope More bouldering
Mountain; the Nevyastata (The Bride) sites: Panagyurski
Via Ferrata, comprising two routes In 2018 Peter Ivanov from Bulgaria became koloni (The Panagyu-
rishte Pillars), village
next to their namesake crag above
the town of Smolyan; the Rakitovo Via
the European youth champion in bouldering. of Bozhenitsa, the Red
Rocks (town of Lovech),
Ferrata, with a metal bridge and lad- the valley of the Rilska
der; the Lednitsata Via Ferrata near River.
the village of Brestnitsa, comprising
routes of three difficulty levels; and
the via ferrata next to the Dryanovo
Monastery, a first-grade route;
Lednitsata is Bulgaria’s first via ferrata,
set up in 2007.
48 Malyovitsa, NP Rila, photo: Momchil Damyanov www.bulgariatravel.org 49MOUNTAINS/ CLIMBING Dvuglav, photo: Branislav Brankov ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
MOUNTAINEERING
Mountaineering in Bulgaria is more the International Federation of Sport for alpinists to train and refine their
than 90 years old, dating back to the Climbing (IFSC) and the International skills. The Central Balkan Mountain
establishment of the Bulgarian Moun- Ski Mountaineering Federation. Many is another great mountaineering
taineering Club on 19 November 1929 of the major mountaineering sites in destination, especially ‘Rayskite skali’
in Sofia by a group of intellectuals and Bulgaria are in the country’s highest (The Heavenly Cliffs) and the Severen
compatriots who had travelled to the mountain, Rila, particularly around the Dzhendem Reserve. Good sites for
high mountains of Western Europe. A Malyovitsa Peak. Pirin, the country’s mountaineering training include the
snapshot 85 years later would show the mountain with the most alpine air, also Reznyovete and Kominite areas in the
Bulgarian Climbing and Mountaineer- boasts a number of popular routes, Vitosha Mountain, as well as some
ing Federation uniting 33 clubs, itself a mostly in its northern part. The north spots in the Rhodopes.
member of three international sports face of Vihren Peak has been the venue
federations: the International Climbing of challenging ascents since 1934,
and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), and continues to be a preferred place
@ bfka.org
Bulgarian Climbing and
Mountaineering Federation
More peaks for
mountaineering: Otovishki
vrah (Rila), Kabul (Rila),
Dautorv vrah (Pirin), Kutelo
(Pirin), Kozya stena (Balkan
Mountain), Golyam Kupen
(Balkan Mountain)
Koteshki Chal, photo: Damyan
Georgiev
50 www.bulgariatravel.org 51MOUNTAINS/ CLIMBING ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
@ zippline.4epelare.com
ZIPLINING
Ziplines are operated at a number of places in Bulgaria. Popular destinations
include the Struma River, the cliffs near the town of Klisura, the Chaya River
near the Chepelare ski resort in the Rhodope Mountain, as well as the Chudnite
Mostove (Wonder Bridges) rock formation nearby.
CLIMBING WALLS/
ADVENTURE PARKS
Indoor and outdoor climbing walls number of adventure parks in Bulgaria @ kokolandia.com
exist in most of Bulgaria’s cities and offer a diversity of attractions. Parks Adventure park in Sofia
larger towns and near a number of frequented by fans of active recreation
@ walltopia.bg
tourist points of interest. They are include Kokolandia in Sofia, Nezabrav- Climbing wall in Walltopia’s
most abundant in Sofia, Plovdiv and ka near the village of Popovtsi, and X headquarters
Varna. A particularly popular one is the Challenge Park in the seaside town of
outdoor climbing wall near the Nevy- Tsarevo. @ climb.nsa.bg
astata (The Bride) crag above the town Climbing wall of the National
The longest Tyrolean traverse in the world, recognised as of Smolyan. In addition, an ever larger
Sports Academy
a Guinness World Record, measures 1,550 metres, between
the Malyovitsa (2729 m) and Orlovets (2685 ) peaks in The Bulgarian company Walltopia is a top global manufacturer
Bulgaria’s Rila Mountain. It was crossed by Daniel Stefanov of climbing walls and installations.
on September 19, 2008.
52 Zipline Chepelare, photo: Marcho Paunov www.bulgariatravel.org Walltopia, photo: Yane Golev, Walltopia 53MOUNTAINS Devetashka cave, photo: Marin Kafedzhiyski ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
CAVES
Popular caves:
Along with a multitude of unexplored near the village of Bosnek in Pernik The Dyavolsko garlo (Devil’s
caves, Bulgaria has dozens of caves Region, the deepest pit is Kolkina Throat) Cave, the Yagodina
accessible to visitors without special dupka (- 543 m) not far from the Cave, the Haramiyska Cave,
equipment. More than ten of those town of Svoge, and the longest water Uhlovitsa, Saeva dupka,
are equipped with safety infrastruc- cave is Devetashka, in Lovech Region Bacho Kiro, Prohodna,
Devetashka, Snezhanka,
ture and illumination installations (2,500 m). Traces of prehistoric life
Ledenika, Orlova chuka,
and offer guided tours suitable even have been found in many of Bulgar- Magurata and Lepenitsa.
for visitors with no prior experience. ia’s caves. They provided shelter to
The rest require certain skills to visit humans as early as in the Palaeolithic,
or are only accessible to trained spe- and some even let us glimpse into an-
leologists. In addition to horizontal cient cultures – such as the Magurata @ speleo-bg.org
caves, pits and water caves are also Cave, with prehistoric drawings dating Bulgarian Federation of
to be found in Bulgaria. The longest back more than 7,000 years. Speleology
horizontal cave is Duhlata (18 km)
No one has yet unravelled the great mystery of the Devil’s Throat: what-
ever the river sweeps into the cave as it rushes down its natural entrance,
such as tree logs, simply disappears and never comes out on the other side. Snezhanka Saeva Dupka
(Snow White) The Saeva dupka Cave is close to the village of Brestnitsa in Lovech
Region. It is named after two brothers, Sayu and Seyo, who would hide in
the cave back when Bulgaria was dominated by the Ottomans. The largest
of its 5 halls is called Srutishteto (The Rockfall), and not surprisingly: its
This is arguably one of Bulgaria’s most ceiling collapsed in an earthquake in the 19th century. The Harmana hall,
dazzling caves. Its length of 145 m is just with its excellent acoustic, occasionally hosts concerts. A great variety
enough to showcase a great diversity of of cave formations are to be seen here, such as stalactites, stalagmites,
cave formations, again including stalac- rimstone pools, flowstone and more. The cave is easily accessible and
tites, stalagmites, rimstone pools and open for visitors.
flowstone. Bright white deposits have
been accumulating inside for millions
of years in bizarre shapes. One such for-
mation likened to the fairytale princess
Snow White gave the cave its name. It is Devetashka Cave
just 5 km away from the town of Peshtera
in the Rhodope Mountain. The Devetashka cave, 18 km away from the town of Lovech, is also known
as Maarata or as Oknata (The Windows), due to the seven openings of
varying dimensions in its ceiling that illuminate most of its central course
and part of its two branches. Explorations have found that the cave has
been inhabited almost uninterruptedly throughout human history.
54 www.bulgariatravel.org Berende, photo: Tsvetan Ostromski Magurata, photo: Lubomir Popyordanov 55ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
CYCLING
58 MARKED/TRACKED ROAD AND MOUNTAIN BIKE ROUTES
59 Rudopia
60 The TransRhodopi Long-Distance Biking Trail
61 Belogradchik
62 BIKE CENTRES @ bgcf.bg
Bulgarian Cycling
Federation
Cycling has been among favourite wine-cellars on the fringe of the mote specific regions. Some of those,
sports in Bulgaria in recent years, and Rhodope Mountain near Plovdiv, in such as the Vitosha 100 km mountain
an important segment of adventure Southwest Bulgaria and in some areas super trail race in late June, the Bike
travel. More and more people choose of North Bulgaria have been gaining & Run 4 Chepan race in April, and
to explore the beauty of nature, go popularity. More than 3,000 km of the Lion Heart Ultra Cross Triathlon
on bird-watching or botanical trips, cycling trails have been explored around Primorsko and Strandzha in
or visit historical sights by bike. The and marked, and GPS tracks for them early September have grown into a
cycling tours on offer vary in difficulty, uploaded on special platforms. An tradition and attract hundreds of
from adrenaline-packed adventures ever growing number of bike centres competitors.
on difficult terrain that will put your throughout the country will give
skills to the test, to relaxing family you lots of adrenaline. National and
outings. You can choose between international races take place on
back-road cycling trips and mountain a regular basis. A large number of
bike tours. Cycling trips around the amateur events are organised to pro-
Over 1 million bicycles are made in Bulgaria every year. Many
Bulgarian and foreign athletes choose Bulgarian brands for
their appearance in a range of international races, and they
often win!
56 www.bulgariatravel.org Apriltsi, Central Balkan National Park, photo: Viktor Troyanov 57CYCLING ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN BULGARIA
MARKED/TRACKED ROAD
AND MOUNTAIN BIKE
ROUTES
Hundreds of marked bike routes exist culminate with an ascent to the
in Bulgaria, some of which cross the Seven Rila Lakes and finish at the Rila
entire country and connect different Monastery. Networks of marked bike
destinations. A large number of trails also exist the area of Bansko,
marked downhill race tracks have Dobrinishte and Razlog, as well as
been set up in and around national in Northwest Bulgaria, with scenic
and nature parks and other points routes around Belogradchik and
of interest. Two international cycling Vratsa. Routes along the Danube, the
routes cross Bulgaria: EuroVelo 6 and mountain road connecting Etropole,
13. The Balkan Mountain, crossing the Troyan and Gabrovo, and certain areas
country all the way to the Black Sea, along the Black Sea coast have also
attracts hundreds of cyclists inspired been gaining popularity.
to reach the seashore using the
Kom-Emine long-distance mountain Cycling routes in Bulgaria are
trail or the roads at the foot of the commonly marked by colour triangles
mountain. The Rhodope Mountain is pointing in the right direction at any
a favourite of mountain bikers, with fork or crossroads. These are painted
its great terrain, abundance of bike onto trees, stones, etc., and have
routes, rich cultural and historical gained the status of an unofficial bike
heritage, ethno-religious diversity trail marking standard. Additional
and the unmatched hospitality of signs and other types of marks
locals. Other popular routes include will help you find your way around. @ www.mtb-bg.com @ www.bikearea.org
combinations of the Vitosha and
Verila Mountains that may then
Detailed GPS tracks are available for
most cycling routes in Bulgaria.
The Bulgarian mountain
bike website
Rudopia
@ bikearea.org
Rudopia is one of the longest mountain Kardzhali and Studen kladenets Res-
bike routes in Bulgaria. Starting from ervoirs, the ancient city of Perperikon,
Velingrad, a town known for its spas, the Arda River valley, Madzharovo and
it crosses the Rhodope Mountain to finally Mezek near the Greek border.
reach the must-visit village of Mezek. Cosy guesthouses and family-run
Dunav Ultra is Bulgaria’s longest cycling route, stretching for 740 With a total length of roughly 450 km, hotels offer accommodation all along
km along the Danube to reach the Black Sea. It mostly uses back this route takes you to the Beglika the route, which means you can enjoy
Reservoir, the villages of Buynovo and this scenic ride without having to carry
and dirt roads. In recent years this has been the venue for the or- Trigrad, the Chairski Lakes, the village heavy baggage. It usually takes 8 or 9
ganised Dunav Ultra event in late summer. of Mugla, the Pamporovo resort, the days to complete the full route.
Rozhen and Haydushki polyani areas,
the valley of the Borovitsa River, the
58 www.bulgariatravel.org Rhodopes, photo: Bikearea 59You can also read
