The diversity of landscapes in Bulgaria will allow you to enjoy numerous outdoor activities to share as a couple, with family or friends.
Indeed, despite its small size, Bulgaria has a generous and diverse nature.
Melnik Pyramids
The Melnik Pyramids (Bulgarian: Мелнишки пирамиди) are rock formations located at the foot of the Pirin mountain range in southwestern Bulgaria.
It covers an area of 17 km2 near the town of Melnik, the smallest town in Bulgaria, in the province of Blagoevgrad.
They are among the most beautiful and fascinating natural sites in the country.
These rocks can reach a height of more than 100 meters.
These sandstone pyramids have shapes that resemble giant mushrooms, ancient towers, Egyptian pyramids, Gothic churches and obelisks. They formed mainly due to erosion from precipitation and wear of bedrock.
The Melnik Earth Pyramids are a geological phenomenon of global significance and were declared a natural monument in 1960.
Shaped by nature, they represent a major tourist site due to the natural environment of the region, the cultural sites of Melnik and the Rozhen Monastery.
And tourists come from all over the world to admire these surreal landscapes.
Balkan National Park
The Central Balkans National Park lies in the heart of Bulgaria, nestled in the central and upper parts of the Stara Planina Mountain (Balkan Mountain Range). With an area of 72,021 ha (720 km2), the Central Balkans National Park (CBNP) is the second largest national park in Bulgaria.
Rhodopes
The Rhodope Mountains are a mountain range in the Balkans, located in southwest Bulgaria, extending only into Eastern Macedonia and Thrace and northeast Greece.
With the Rila and Pirin massifs, it forms the same mountain range.
The Rhodopes extend over a total area of 14,571 km² and are the largest massif in Bulgaria.
They occupy approximately one seventh of the total surface area of the country.
The Rhodope Mountains form a complex system of reliefs differing in altitude, length, width and orientation, deep river valleys, narrow gorges and natural cirques.
Its highest peak, Golyam Perelik (2191 meters), is the seventh highest peak in Bulgaria.
History & Mythology
The seat of numerous mythological stories and a place of worship in Antiquity, the massif has successively experienced different Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
The Rhodopes are notably considered in Greek mythology as the birthplace of the hero, legendary singer and lyre player Orpheus who, according to local legend, was born in the Smolyan region. According to some archaeologists, the Rhodope Mountains are indeed the place of origin of the Orphic cult.
Indeed, a Thracian tomb dug into the rock discovered in 2000, has been interpreted as a place of Orphic worship.
Bulgarian archaeologist Nikolaj Ovčarov speculates that it could be the tomb of Orpheus himself.
Since then, this site has appeared on all Bulgarian maps and tourist documents under the name “Orpheus Sanctuary”.
There are also archaeological sites in the region which show a cult originating in Thrace dedicated to Dionysus, such as the ancient Thracian city of Perperikon.
Hydrography
The Rhodopes also have abundant water reserves, and the network of springs and rivers is very dense.
Among the main rivers, we should mention the Arda river, part of which crosses the Rhodope Mountains, as well as smaller rivers such as the Dospat river.
Some of the largest artificial lakes in Bulgaria are located in the Rhodope Mountains.
The best known are the Vacha reservoir, the lakes of Batak on the Matnitsa, Dospat on the river of the same name, Golyam Beglik and Shiroka Polyana.
The large water reserves and the mild climate favor a great variety of plants and animals which make the Rhodopes the meeting place of Mediterranean, central European and Alpine influences.
The Western Rhodope region includes 28 protected areas, as well as two reserves (“Soskovcheto” and “Kazanite”) and six NATURA 2000 sites.
Flora
There are more than 2,000 plant species, of which 7 species are endemic to the Rhodope Mountains, 39 endemic to Bulgaria and 85 endemic to the Balkans.
55 of them are species highly threatened with extinction.
The Rhodopes are also one of the regions of the Balkans richest in medicinal plants or herbs, spices and cooking aromatics.
Flora
There are more than 2,000 plant species, of which 7 species are endemic to the Rhodope Mountains, 39 endemic to Bulgaria and 85 endemic to the Balkans.
55 of them are species highly threatened with extinction.
The Rhodopes are also one of the regions of the Balkans rich in medicinal plants or herbs, spices and cooking aromatics.
Mammals
There are also 40 species of large and small mammals found in the Rhodopes, 8 of which are listed on the IUCN red list and 6 on the Bulgarian red list of endangered species such as the bison, the wolf and the brown bear, same as the European otter and the marbled polecat.
The return of the European bison to the Rhodope Mountains where they have successfully adapted is also part of the wildlife restoration activities within the “Rewilding Europe” network, including the “Rewilding Rhodope” project.
The European bison is an endangered species and one of the symbols of nature conservation in Europe. Their story is an example of how species in a hundred years can be brought to the brink of extinction and how, through many efforts, they can be restored.
It should be added that the Rhodope Mountains, which are distinguished by a landscape shaped by man since ancient times, are also a region where unique breeds of domestic animals such as the Rhodope Cow live.
Amphibians and reptiles
13 species of amphibians (out of the 16 that live in the country) live in the Rhodope Mountains.
Two of them, the green tree frog and the great crested newt, are protected by international conventions.
Stone Mushrooms
In particular the curious Roches Mushrooms of Kamenni gabi.
It is a rock phenomenon near the village of Beli Plast in Bulgaria, on the road between Haskovo and Kardzhali. They can grow up to 2.5 meters high.
The 3 hectare area was declared a natural resource on May 13, 1974.
These natural formations with their singular shapes are an ideal setting to return from your stay in Bulgaria with countless memories and unique photos. The Haskovo region is an ideal destination to discover the incredible beauty of Bulgaria.
Stob Pyramids
In the Rila Mountain, you can explore a must-see place in Bulgaria – the natural site of the amazing rock formations of the “Stob Pyramids”. These are astonishing rock formations due to a natural phenomenon. Located not far from the village of Stob, in the province of Kyustendil and not far from Blagoevgrad in the southwest of Bulgaria, the pyramids are undoubtedly a unique natural site.
Seven Rila Lakes
Among the many lakes scattered across the Rila Mountains, there is a particular and exceptional group of lakes of glacial origin called the Seven Rila Lakes arranged in a level in a large cirque.
A unique and magical natural site
The 7 Rila Lakes are one of the most extraordinary natural sites in Bulgaria, located at a height of 2095 to 2535 meters.
They were formed during the process of erosion during the ice age, during the Quaternary system.
The movement of the glaciers and the rock mass carved out deep shapes which were purified over time.
The blocks of glaciers pushing back the rock masses, a system of cirques was formed.
The seven lakes are found in the deepest part of this complex.
The seven lakes walk in the middle of this splendid natural park is a real joy for the mountain dweller.
The natural cirque of the seven lakes is part of the European Tourist Route E4. Directions on the route make it easier for walkers during the winter.
Many hikes are offered and the place is visited especially in summer.
Indeed, the best time to visit the lakes is the month of August when the greenery, pure air and fresh water are a real pleasure.
You can easily discover them on hikes starting from the Rila Monastery and admire this sublime panorama while combining outdoor and well-being activities.
A chairlift from the Pionerska chalet to the Rilski ezera chalet makes walking easier for visitors.
Going down from Mount Damga, starting from the highest lake at 2500 meters above sea level to the lowest located at 2100 meters above sea level, you will successively discover the lakes:
Salzata (the tear) which is the highest – 2538 meters
Okoto (the eye) is the deepest in the Balkans (37.5)
Babreka (the kidney) which is the most emblematic
Bliznaka (the Twin) which is the largest in extent. During the summer, when the water level drops it divides into two, hence the name. Above rises the peak Haiduta or Haramiata, 2465 meters
Trilistnika (Three leaves) which is made up of three circles.
Lake Ribnoto attracts with its grassy edges (fish lake)
Dolnoto ezero (The Lower Lake).
The name chosen is each time linked to the shape of the lake.
Myths and legends
In Bulgarian tradition there are many myths and legends about the Rila Lakes.
A legend notably tells that there existed, a very long time ago, a village between Panitchichté and the seven lakes. There lived the beautiful Smiliana. One day she went to the well to get water.
A ray of sunlight glided over her and illuminated her face. Amazed by her extraordinary beauty, the Sun fell in love with Smiliana.
The Sun only thought of her. One day she went to harvest the local bey's (Ottoman feudal) field with her friends.
He wanted to kidnap her by force but she did not give in and to take revenge the bey had her hanged.
The Seven Rila Lakes undoubtedly form one of the most impressive natural sites in the Balkans and you will return from your stay in Bulgaria refreshed and with unforgettable memories.
When the Sun heard the news he began to cry and cried so long that his tears formed the Seven Rila Lakes.
Rila Mountain
The Rila Mountain, name probably of Thracian origin, is undoubtedly an essential place in Bulgaria to recharge your batteries in a still preserved setting. Respect for the country's ecological heritage is highlighted as well as a central focus on ecotourism.
Located in southwest Bulgaria, the Rila is bounded by the valleys of the Iskar, Djerman, Strouma, Mesta and Maritza rivers.
It is the highest mountain in the country but also on the Balkan peninsula with Mount Moussala (Мусала) peaking at 2,925 meters above sea level.
The Rila Mountain has a predominantly alpine appearance with jagged peaks, cirques, deep valleys and stretches of moraines, the results of different glaciations. And the Rila region has a typical mountain climate.
It is very appreciated by sports and nature enthusiasts because in all seasons it allows many winter sports and outdoor activities as well as well-being.
For example, you can go on a high mountain hike or go climbing or mountaineering on the ice waterfalls in one of the major Bulgarian ski resorts, notably the Borovets resort located in the northern part of the country near Samokov.
Most of the Rila is occupied by the territory of the Rila National Park on which there are numerous chalets and hiking trails including the European Long Distance Trails – E4 which runs from Spain to Cyprus and E8 which runs from Ireland to Turkey.
But you will also have the pleasure of discovering the unmissable place of the Seven Rila Lakes.
It is a group of seven lakes where the pure air and fresh water of glacial origin will delight you from spring for moments of well-being, swimming and walking tours around the lakes. The influence of the continental climate is clearly felt in the Rila where we find a rich and varied flora, composed of plants typical of Central Europe, the Mediterranean regions and the Balkans.
Many endemic species are present among the numerous pines, hornbeams and beeches in the region.
Some plants survived the last ice age and became relict species.
And many medicinal plants are also found in the mountain.
The Rila's significant fauna (more than 2,934 species) lives in an environment virtually untouched by human activity, such as brown bears, wolves, deer and chamois. But also wild goats, golden eagles, owls, black woodpeckers and many other species.
Indeed, the Rila is one of the territories in Europe with the largest population of birds of prey.
It currently represents a fundamental ecological corridor between European and Mediterranean fauna and the fauna of Asia Minor.
Without forgetting another unmissable place in Bulgaria present in the region and absolutely worth visiting – the famous and sublime Rila Monastery.
There you will be able to admire all the richness and beauty of the country's historical, cultural and artistic heritage.
The Rila Mountain is undoubtedly a perfect place to organize a trip to Bulgaria combining a cultural stay and discovery of the country's ecological heritage.
Belogradchik Rocks
The rocks vary in color mainly from red to yellow. This unique and exceptionally beautiful phenomenon is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List due to its ecological, educational, scientific and aesthetic value. Some of the rocks reach up to 200 meters in height.
Pirin National Park
The Pirin National Park is the most beautiful nature reserve in Bulgaria and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Pirin Massif is part of a mountain range with the Rila and Rhodope mountains.
Located in the southwest of the country, it covers more than 40,000 hectares.
Its mountains peak at an altitude of 2,914 meters with Pic Vihren.
The Pirin is the ideal site to enjoy the beauty of nature in all seasons and indulge in the many activities that the region offers. From winter sports like skiing in the Bansko region to outdoor sports like hiking, excursions, climbing...
But also, as soon as Spring arrives, well-being activities – with swimming in fresh and pure glacial water lakes…
All this in a unique and protected site with inestimable ecological heritage.
The Pirin Mountains are undoubtedly an extraordinary place for all nature lovers who wish to discover the exceptional ecological wealth of Bulgaria.
And we understand the universal value of the site by walking through the nature reserve and admiring its sublime nature and varied landscapes.
In all seasons, Pirin is an unmissable natural site in Bulgaria which you can enjoy as a couple, with family, alone or with friends. The richness of its biodiversity and the variety of its landscapes of rare beauty – the mountains, the lakes and the vertiginous peaks, the fauna and the flora – the Pirin will undoubtedly leave you with memories engraved for life.
Eyes of God Cave
Bulgaria has a rich and varied ecological heritage with many natural sites.
In particular caves and caverns (around 2000) scattered throughout Bulgaria. Prohodna (Проходна) is a cave located in north-central Bulgaria in the Iskar Gorge near the village of Karlukovo, Lukovit Municipality.
This site contains a truly fascinating natural mystery. It is particularly famous for its majestic “Eyes of God”.
Indeed, the cave is known for the two natural holes resembling eyes which pierce its thick vault.
Skaklya Waterfall
The Great Balkan is a Balkan mountain range located in Bulgaria and Serbia, oriented east-west and crossing the entire center of the country, from the Black Sea to the western border.
Overlooking the town of Vratsa from their steep cliffs, the Balkan landscapes of Vratsa are among the most beautiful in the Balkan region. And the Balkan of Vratsa was also proclaimed a natural park in 2003.
Located not far from the Balkan of Vratsa in the Balkan Natural Park, you will discover in particular the impressive Skaklya waterfall.
It is located near the Iskar Gorge and its spectacular mountain scenery, caves, stunning rock formations and spectacular waterfalls.
It is the highest intermittent waterfall on the Balkan Peninsula reaching 141 meters in height.
Water flows there only during the period of melting snow and rain.
Covering an area of 28,844 hectares, the Balkan Natural Park is also rich in protected animal and plant species. And outdoor activities – such as hikes, walking tours – are organized to admire the magnificent natural sites of the depths of the Balkans with its steep and imposing rocks, its virgin nature and its incredible waterfalls!
But during the winter season you can also enjoy the Balkan Natural Park and numerous winter sports activities, climbing and caving in the middle of the mountains and snow-covered forests.
A majestic and sublime decor!
Yorumlar