Belogradchik Rocks
Bulgaria
At a glance
The Belogradchik rocks (Belogradchik Cliffs, Belogradchishki Skali) is probably the most popular (locally and internationally) natural phenomenon in Bulgaria. It is situated a bit less than 3 hours drive northwest of Sofia. The distance on the highway via Botevgrad is about 220 km but travelling along that road is pretty boring. The distance via Petrohan pass along the Svoge gorge is 40-50 km shorter yet driving time is the same - this is a most beautiful winding road with amazing scenery. Avoid it in the winter though, as it becomes one of the most dangerous roads in this country and the pass is often closed down when heavy frost and snowfalls.
If you are coming by car, try to arrive before noon, after that the parking lot at the sight becomes really crammed and you may find it difficult to park. Public transport from Sofia is quite limited and not possible for a one day visit. The bus to Montana stops in Belogradchik (check Sofia Central Coach Station) and there is a train to Oreshets, a small village 15 km from Belogradchik, from where you will have to take or share a taxi with the locals to Belogradchik. There are quite a few hotels (mid and low range), guest houses and B&Bs in Belogradchik and a decent number of restaurants and eateries. If you combine your visit to the Belogradchik Rocks with a trip to the Magura cave, you can even camp at the Rabishkoto ezero (Rabishko lake) nearby.
Whichever means of transport, season or time of day you choose to travel, the sight of the Belogradchik Rocks will definitely capture your heart and spirit. There is no entrance fee. Allow yourself at least 2 hours for a proper walk around. There are 5 gorgeous eco-trails and a great number of prime spots to take pictures. Most popular is the Belogradchik fortress from where they say the best views of the magnificent red rocks are revealed, however, we have seen some awesome shots made from other trails too. Climbing the rocks is prohibited and for safety reasons it is recommended to avoid visits in the winter and when the weather is bad.
