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The surviving secrets of Bulgaria
The surviving secrets of Bulgaria
Dive deeper into the mysteries of Bulgaria and discover the most interesting hidden gems of this small Balkan state. Often visited only by locals, these architectural, natural and historical sites will rekindle your spirit of discovery.
Gigintsy Monastery (Tsarnogorsk Monastery)
Probably the most popular day trip from Sofia is the Rila Monastery, which is under the protection of UNESCO. But if you prefer to stay away from the crowds, you can choose another religious place near the Bulgarian capital. The Gigintsy Monastery (also known as the Tsarnogorsk Monastery, since it is located on the slopes of Mount Tsarnaya Gora) is located 5 km above the village of Gigintsy and has been renovated and restored in recent years. It is dedicated to Saints Cosmi and Damian and is believed to be over 800 years old. Its colorful buildings provide a striking backdrop for photographs, while the monks look after sheep and buffalo and produce yogurt, cheese and other dairy products that can be purchased at the monastery.
Tyulenovo rocks
Most foreign tourists flock to the southern Black Sea coast through its sandy beaches and warmer sea water. But head north and you'll be spoiled for stunning rocky coastline and great diving and climbing spots. The village of Tyulenovo is one of the best places to stay over its rocky bridge known as the Arch (similar to the ruined Blue Window in Malta) and great sea views.
City of Lovech
Lovech is a small hilly town with a historical past and a centuries-old fortress located on top of a hill overlooking the town. At the entrance to the fortress you will see a giant monument to Vasily Levski - the most famous Bulgarian national hero. In the fortress itself there is an open-air stage and in the summer there are often performances under the stars. However, the city is best loved for its covered wooden bridge with a line of colorful houses on either side.
Leshten village
If you want to see a Bulgarian village frozen in time, head to Leshten. In its winding stone-paved streets and shaded by trees and vineyards, centuries-old houses showcase the architectural style of the Bulgarian Revival. Made mostly of stone and wood and with flat stones instead of shingles on the roof, most of these houses are not habitable today. Others, however, have been turned into boarding houses, offering visitors the opportunity to travel through time.
Peak Kom in Staraya Planina (Balkan Mountains)
Peak Kom is an easy hike, less than two hours from Sofia, for those who want to explore the Balkan Mountains a bit. The climb from Kom Hat to the 2016 m peak takes about 2 hours (medium difficulty), which can also be reached by car. The hike passes through the evergreen forest and along the plantations of delicious wild raspberries and blueberries. The summit itself is the starting point of the Kom-Emine hiking trail, a 20-day trek along the Balkan Mountains that ends at the Black Sea coast.
Cave Checkpoint
If there is a natural monument in Bulgaria that seems unearthly and spiritual, then this is Prokhodnaya Cave. Two openings in the ceiling of the cave, called Ochima Boga, create a truly unique effect, as if you, tiny as an ant, are looking at them. The cave is located near Sofia and can be reached by car or train.
Pomorie lake
Pomorie is a family Black Sea resort with one of the most beautiful lakes that you can visit in this part of the country. Lake Pomorie is an important bird habitat and can be explored on foot or by bike. Rent a bike from the visitor center, stop at the Salt Museum to learn more about the history of the lakeside salt mines, or slather your skin with healing mud for silky, radiant skin.
15-02-2023