Mountains in Bulgaria
The incredible beauty and grandeur of Bulgarian mountains challenges the will and strength of thousands of hikers and nature-lovers and rewards them with stunning views of high peaks, fresh meadows, crystal-clear mountain water and the specific feeling of closeness to nature that cannot be compared to nothing else. Each mountain in has its specific character. The Balkan range, separating Bulgaria in a southern and northern part extends from the western Bulgarian border to the Black Sea. , and are a part of the Rila-Rhodopian range occupying a large territory in southern Bulgaria.
The Rila Mounatian
is the highest in and on the Balkan Peninsula. The mountain’s alpine relief, the beautiful glacier lakes and waterfalls attract visitors from all over the world. The Seven Rila Lakes circus is among the most remarkable natural formations in Rila. The mountain offers excellent conditions for all kinds of sports. The most popular ski resorts in Rila are , , and . , situated in the foothills of the mountain, is an architectural monument of immense cultural and historical significance.
The Pirin Mountain
is the second highest mountain in Bulgaria, situated in its southwestern part. Pirin’s unique nature is characterized by imposing high peaks, beautiful circuses and diverse flora and fauna. A large part of the mountain is covered by the Pirin National Park. The conditions for sports in the Pirin Mountain are perfect. The Bansko winter resort offers good opportunities both for and . The small picturesque town of Melnik, famous for its unique technology for wine-production, is nestling in the Pirin’s foothills. is a resort in Pirin, offering ideal conditions for spa vacations and balneological treatment.
The Rhodopes
, situated in southern Bulgaria, are characterized by hilly landscape with coniferous forests and broad pastures. The Rhodopes have been inhabited by Thracian tribes since deep Antiquity. Many traces from the Thracian culture have been discovered in the Rhodopes –the ancient city of Perpericon, Thracian sanctuaries, golden treasures and pottery.
The famous ski resort of is situated in the Western part of the Rhodopes, The of and are well-developed centres for spa tourism. The authentic atmosphere of past centuries has been preserved in the villages of , , and Trigrad. Each summer bagpipe with Bulgarian and foreign participation take place in these villages.
The Balkan Range
The Balkan range (Stara Planina) is the longest mountain in Bulgaria, separated in Eastern, Central and Western parts. The Central Balkan National Park occupies a great territory of the mountain. It is meant to preserve the unique nature of the Balkan range. Make a to the Balkan Range to step into the magic of its century-old forests, babbling creeks and lush fragrant meadows.
The picturesque Balkan of , Koprivshtitsa and Gabrovo, prosperous craft centres in the past, are now keepers of Bulgarian spirit and traditions. The town of is a renowned resort in the central part of the Balkan range.