Bulgaria is interesting not only as a beach destination, but also as a country with remarkable natural attractions and scenic places of incredible beauty.
It is home to unusual rock formations, waterfalls and caves that leave visitors with unforgettable impressions. Below are 8 beautiful places in Bulgaria that are well worth seeing.
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Belogradchik Rocks
This unique natural phenomenon is remarkable not only in Bulgaria but also in Europe. The striking rock formations are located in the northwestern part of the country, near the town of Belogradchik.
The rocks reach up to 200 metres in height. They form a belt about 30 km long and up to 3 km wide. The rocks were declared a natural landmark in 1949. The area is also home to well-known attractions such as Belogradchik Fortress and Magura Cave, famous for its intriguing wall drawings.
Seven Rila Lakes
The most scenic views of the glacial Seven Rila Lakes open up from higher elevations, so reaching them requires a long and, in places, challenging hike. The lakes themselves lie at elevations between 2,095 and 2,535 metres, and their names are connected with the things they resemble. For example, Okoto means “eye”.
If you decide to visit the area, it is worth arranging accommodation in advance. You can stay in Sapareva Banya, a town known for its mineral springs and the geyser in its centre.
Krushuna Waterfalls and Devetashka Cave
The Krushuna Waterfalls are a series of picturesque waterfalls near the village of Krushuna, 34 kilometres from the town of Lovech. The main waterfall drops from a height of 20 m, divides into several streams and forms several smaller waterfalls. The landscape resembles something you might find on an exotic island.
Another nearby attraction is Devetashka Cave, one of the largest caves in Europe and, arguably, one of the most beautiful in Bulgaria. Its total area is 20,400 sq m. The cave reaches 60 m in height and is 2,442 m long.
Raysko Praskalo Waterfall
This waterfall is the highest permanent waterfall on the Balkan Peninsula. It is about 124 metres high. It is located in the central part of the Stara Planina mountain range, near the picturesque town of Kalofer, which explains its alternative name, Kalofer Praskalo. The area is particularly appealing to hiking and ecotourism enthusiasts.
Melnik Earth Pyramids
There is no need to compare them with the Egyptian pyramids: the Melnik Earth Pyramids, located on the southwestern slopes of the Pirin Mountains, were formed naturally. The formation of the rock formations began millions of years ago, and in 1960 the area was granted natural landmark status. The pyramids are located at elevations between 350 and 850 metres.
Wonderful Bridges
Another natural phenomenon in Bulgaria is the Wonderful Bridges, rock formations created after the collapse of an ancient cave, probably as a result of an earthquake.
Over time, two unusual and very beautiful marble bridges formed in its place. The attraction is located in the Western Rhodopes, while the nearest towns of interest are Chepelare and Zlatograd, which is known as a gateway to the wider world.
Caves
Bulgaria has many beautiful caves, but among the best known among tourists are Yagodina Cave, Devil’s Throat Cave and Ledenika Cave. They are located in different parts of the country, so seeing all of them on a single trip is not easy.
Each cave has its own distinctive features. For example, Yagodina Cave is notable for its considerable length, Devil’s Throat Cave was formed where a river plunges from a height of 42 metres, while Ledenika is known for its Great Hall with unique acoustics, where concerts are held.
Kaliakra
Cape Kaliakra is located on the Black Sea coast. It stretches about 2 kilometres into the sea and is considered one of the largest capes on the Bulgarian coast. The name comes from Greek and means “beautiful cape”.
It is also one of the earliest protected areas in Bulgaria, having been declared a natural landmark in 1941. The panoramic views from the cape are breathtaking.
