Bezbog Hut

Bezbog Hut is the newest hut in Pirin, one of the three in Polejan part of the mountain. Located at the foot of Bezbog Peak chalet near a bezbojko lake at an altitude of 2236 m. The first hut was built in the area in 1960 west of the lake on top of the slope. Furthermore, it was small, and it was very inappropriate place. In April 1971 an avalanche fell on top of the chute chalet, which is located in the cabin and it destroys. The majority of construction materials and furniture to end up in the lake. Fortunately no injuries. The very next year starts the construction of a new hut - storey, with bathrooms on each floor, with small and comfortable rooms with three and four beds, two suites, a large dining room. It is no longer on the top of slopes, and north of the lake a safe place. The construction continues nearly ten years, almost all construction materials - bricks, sand, cement and iron were carried on horseback. Assessment of all construction professionals away Chalet is estimated at 1 million.

In the mid 80's of last century and beginning construction of the lift, which connects Gotse Delchev and Chalet Bezbog. It was built for several years from construction division troops and officially opened for operation in August 1989 for its time it was the longest in Bulgaria - almost 3 500 meters, taking the distance between the two huts for about 35 minutes. By placing the lift is created and the longest ski run in Bulgaria - over 4 500 m.

Since 2006, the inn is run by the owners of the Hotel Dobrinishte. To 2009, the inn has a wing on the second floor with renewed rooms and suites with their own bathrooms. In the inn has a restaurant and bar.

The hut has a capacity of 130 seats. Electricity, supplied with central heating. Tourism has a kitchen and dining room.

Starting point: From h.Gotse Delchev - 2.30 hours on marked trail or 0.30 hours with the lift.

From Bezbog can be reached at: Bezbog - 50 min; peak Polezhan - 2 pm; Popovo Lake - 1,20 pm; Hut Pirin - 6 pm; hut shelter - 4.30 pm; Tevno Lake - 4 pm Daily tours can also be made to Kremenski lakes and peak Dzhengal Guards.

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Roundtable on the development of ecotourism in the Natural Park Belasica

Ecotourism can speak in the Natural Park Belasitsa - Petrich, which is only one year. That said Latinka Topalova by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation held a roundtable in Petrich on this topic, sent correspondent of Radio Focus - Pirin. In her words, first steps have already been made, there is a project of two and a half years as one of its main objectives is to initiate the development of ecotourism in mountain Belasitsa. She believes that people in the region already have understood what is the benefit of the presence of the Nature Park. Fact already the first thematic paths, which represent the mountains in a different way. There are four paths, two near to the chalets and two villages. There are trained guides who have the benefit of tourists. The purity of nature and its conservation needs education to children from an early age and re-education of adults believe Latinka Topalov. It is pleasantly surprised by the fact that one year ago raised information boards in Belasitza not destroyed, unlike the Vitosha Nature Park, whose existence is sometimes only one day.

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Eco cycling tracks build up the lift to the Seven Rila Lakes

Eco-cycling tracks will be built from the village Saparevo to lift of Seven Lakes. This decision was taken during today's session of the municipal council in Sapareva banya.

Advisers adopted a decision to be supported project proposal of "ECO Southwest BG-2009 to measure 313 to promote tourism activities under the Program for Rural Development. This proposal was included in the Municipal Development Plan in order to realize the project of the association to build eco-village and cycling tracks Saparevo from the starting station of the lift to the Seven Lakes.

Cycling tracks, one main and two additional routes, four places for recreation, sports and playground place for recreation for children. The main route of eco-and cycling tracks starting with lower station of the passenger ropeway to the Seven Lakes region to region and from Zekiritsa Polyantsi in the monastery of St. Stephen to the town Sapareva banya.

The main activities to be carried out under the project are hand alignment and strengthening of track, installing safety railings or nets, where appropriate, information boards about flora and fauna and important natural and historical monuments and protected areas as and interesting places along the routes and around them. Amenities will be in place "Zekiritsa, where its council make Dunovists, Belite stones, where there will be gazebos with tables, benches, barbecue, there will be those near the monastery of St. Stephen. The project envisages the establishment of a recreational playground for children of about 1 acre right on the bottom of the lift station.

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Lines for route taxis will be found to lift to the Seven Lakes

Lines for route taxis will be open to the first lift station to Seven Lakes. This was decided by the municipal councilors of Sapareva banya during today's session of the Municipal Council. This proposal was submitted by the mayor Sasho Ivanov, but his motive is the increased number of tourists following the opening of the lift. Moreover, they will be facilitated in furthering its maximum.

This mayor justify his proposal and the fact that before there was such a line of Dupnitsa, but the contract with the company, the transport of passengers, was canceled. Route the new line from the center of Sapareva bathroom to the first lift station on Seven Lakes will have a plan, which will be followed strictly and you will know what time start route taxis. After reporting to the mayor Sasho Ivanov was adopted at a subsequent meeting of the Municipal Council shall be decided and a competition for selecting the company to carry out these services to tourists.

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Adventure Park in Teteven

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New Adventure Park "Adrenalin" entertained the nature and adventure lovers in Tetven, on 300 m /984 ft/ from the dormitory Koznitsa. The system of 26 elements is located among the branches of a pine forest area of about 4 acres. The small average height of about 8 m/26 ft/ made the attractions suitable for children.
The Rope garden is divided in a natural way by a meadow in two parts. Here is the only of its kind in Europe return trolley with impressive length of 64 meters /210 ft/.

Childrens Round is for children with growth over 1.10 meters /3.6 ft/ at the age of 4 to 8-9 years and weighing up to 50 kg /110 lbs/. It includes the ascent of launchers, swings, Nepali bridge, Alpine bridge, walk on the strip, trolley, going down the network. The ropes are located in coniferous trees at a height of 0,50 to 0,70 m /1.6 to 2.3 ft/. It is completely safe and is built of special materials that withstand weight up to 2,5 tones / 5500 lbs/.

Challenges for adults are organized in 3 rounds. The lowest platform is at a height of 3 meters /9.8 ft/, while the highest - to 9 meters /29.5 ft/. The most difficult is the third round, where is located the highest point at 12 m /39.3 ft/. The most spectacular are the bags and “Tarzan’s jump”.

Passing through the attractions is absolutely safe, after placing equipment and observing the instructions.
We are faced of opening of a café / tea, summer cinema, camping sites, and increasing the elements up to 50.

The prices for the equipment is BGN 5 /Euro 2.5/ for children under 8 years, BGN 15 /Euro 7.5/ per hour for adults.
The project for the park is owned by the Association Club for hiking Tzaritchina and it was built by "Lednica" Ltd., creators of the first Via Ferrata Lednica in Bulgaria. Such a rope garden they have built near the cave Saeva dupka near Brestnitsa village.

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Fishing in alpine lakes in Rila and Pirin Mountains is banned

The fishing in the alpine lakes within the national parks Rila and Pirin was banned. This was announced for Radio''Focus''- Pirin by Ivan Popov, the Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Blagoevgrad. According to the Fisheries Act may be imposed bans on fishing for a year or more in connection with restocking, Popov said, adding that the Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture monitor fishing in the areas of parks, a way of restocking, determination and regulation of fisheries is under the management plans of the national park.

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Hut Sedemte ezera is closed

Hut Sedemte ezera in Rila mountain (the old hut) was closed by officials of RIPCPH Kustendil. This reported Dr. Georgieva by the Regional Inspectorate in the city. After checking the samples taken from the water. The laboratory tests have shown that it does not meet the requirements of the Ordinance on the quality of water for drinking purposes. Measures are taken to stop the facility to eliminate the violation.

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Aleko Chalet

Aleko Chalet is the oldest and most visited hut of Vitosha mountain. It is a starting point for climbing of the highest peak of Vitosha - Cherni vrah /Black peak/ and in winter is a convenient point for the lovers of ski sports. It was built in 1932 in the area Maslovitsa below the Small rezen Mt. at an 1810 meters altitude
The chalet is a massive three-storey building with a capacity of 105 beds, distributed in rooms 3, 4, 6 and 8 beds. The WC and wash basins are one of a floor and the bathroom common to whole the building. The hut has an electricity, water and central heating. There are a restaurant, cafe and shop for sports and travel goods. In the ground floor is the ski wardrobe. In the area of the chalet there are four ski trails and several tracks of varying difficulty. There is a big parking lot, which is reached by paved road from the capital district Dragalevtsi.
To Aleko chalet can be reached by the following lifts Dragalevtsi - Bai Krastio - Naked Peak - 0.35 hours and 0.20 hours more there walking or cabin ropeway Simeonovo - Aleko chalet - 0.27 hours.

In addition there are hiking trails of neighborhood Dragalevtsi / far by bus № 64, 66, 93 and 98 with an initial stop Hladilnika / - 3.20 hours; of neighborhood Simeonovo / far by bus № 67 and № 98 Hladilnika / - 3.00 hours; village of Bistrica / far by bus № 68, 69 and 70 sq. Durvenitsa and № 98 Hladilnika / - 3.00 hours.
The chalet is a starting point for the following sites:
Mecha polyana - 0.10 hours
Site Pogledets - 0.40 hours
Training base "Academic" (via Mecha Polyana) - 2.00 hours
Prespa Chalet - 0.30 hours
hut Tintyava - 1.30 hours / during the plateau /
Black Peak - 1.30 hours
Aleko chalet is managed by STD "Motel" - Sofia.
Prices per night are:
bed for one night, according to the category of room:
• Adults – 5,5-6 EUR
• Children under 12 years – 4,5 euro
• Apartment (total cost) - 30 - 40 €
• Resort fee - 1lv. = 0.5 €
For reservation: +359 2 967 11 13, +359 2 967 11 41

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Boyana waterfall and Golden Bridges

There is hardly any mountaineer from Sofia, who has not visited this beautiful and popular spot in the Vitosha mountain, so this article is for those who have not yet touched by the magic of the Boyana waterfall.
It is on Boyana River, about 5 km from the center of Boyana quarter. With its fall of 15 m this is the largest waterfall in the Vitosha mountain. In clear weather during the spring it can be seen from the city center of Sofia.
There are several relatively easy trails to it. As they pass each week hundreds of tourists, nature lovers, children, pregnant women.
The waterfall is most easily accessible from the Kopitoto, whither is asphalt road. Depending on the pace and nature the walk takes about an hour - hour and a half, as most of the path is flat. More difficult is just the last section, which leads to the waterfall - a bumpy, rocky terrain that is steep descend to the waterfall above. You can go on the path, against the Television tower, or path, leaving the right of the hotel complex. Both places are going through a thick forest. Follow signs as some areas have forks. Another way to reach the waterfall is a walk in the valley of the river from Boyana and it is longer but more gentle. The distance that is passed is between 4.5 and 5 km on the north slope of Vitosha mountain. A waterfall is reached for a little over an hour and a half, with passes and along the lake and a cascade of small waterfalls.
Boyana waterfall is a popular site for ice climbing among the Sofia climbers. Usually it freezes on two ice tongues. The left is easier and right offer climbing above the average difficulty. There are 8 routes. Between the tongues can be practiced dry-tooling on the overhang and climbing ice pendants.

From here you can easily reach to another popular site of Vitosha mountain - Golden Bridges. The stone river is located in the northwest slopes of the mountain at an altitude of 1350 - 1500 m. The river is not formed by glacial processes, but by weathering and denudation of Vitosha monocytes. Thus the enormous stone blocks are filled Vladaiska river, which is deeply into them.

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Erma River Gorge

Seeing it for first time the famous Bulgarian writer and founder of the organized tourist movement in Bulgaria Aleko Konstantinov asks "What? Switzerland?". In the following decades, however Trun Gorge remains hidden from the eyes of Bulgarian tourists as falls within the border zone. In recent years, the access to the natural phenomena is free.
The imposing gorge of Erma River is located 5 km /3.1 miles/ south of the town of Trun. An asphalt road leads to it, but many tourists prefer to leave their cars in the city and make the one-hour hikes among the wonderful nature of Znepolska valley. The length of the gorge is about 100 m /328 ft/ and the width at the narrowest part - about 5 m /16 ft/. On both sides rise sheer walls of stone peaks Zhilav (south) and the Church (north). The hight of the rocks is about 150-200 m /492-656 ft/. In the last two years local mountaineers organize traditional alpiniada of Trun Gorge, a dozen routes equipped with different difficulty.

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A wooden bridge was built near the natural phenomenon, from which can best be seen the beauty of the river, glide between the rocks. From the south end of the gorge leading back to Trun eco-trail, which has a length of 13 km /8 miles/ and can be passed for 8 hours. Starting point for eco-trail is the village of Bankya, near which is located Yablanishko Gorge. The path is a series of equal sections, steep ascent and descent, bridges and ladders.
Erma river springs in southeast Serbia. Despite its small length (74 km, 46 miles) remarkable is that it crosses the Serbian-Bulgarian border twice.

The river spring is in thinly populated area Kraishte. It is leaking from Vlasina lake, after it goes northwest on the eastern slopes of the mountain Gramada, crossing the village Klisura then enters Znepole region, border region of Bulgaria. This is where the river crosses the border for the first time, to the point Strezimirovtsi. Continue in the Bulgarian part of Znepolska valley, bypassing east Ruy Mountain, Erma, this is known as Trun River. It takes close to the villages Glavanovtsi and Turokovtsi, which makes turning north through Trun. After the city, the river gorge pass through Trun. Further, Erma reaches its greatest freshet near Yablanitsa just before it comes back in Serbia, after a distance of 26 km./16 miles/ was leaking in Bulgaria. The river crosses the border for the second time in the villages of Bankya (Bulgaria) and Petachintsi (Serbia). Erma thus continue to run north, passing the village Iskrovtsi and spa center Zvonachka Bath. Continuing a comb between the mountains and Wallachia, it goes near the villages of Trun - Odorovtse and power and monasteries St. Jovan, St. Nikolai and St. Mary before comes in Nishava, southeast of Pirot, after passing a total of 48 km /30 miles/ on the territory of Serbia. In this last part, Erma runs in the coal region Sukovo, and is called Sukovska River.
The only place for accommodation in the region of Trun Gorge is Erma Hut.
Hill in the area of the gorge provides great opportunities for tents.

Transportation
Road:
Trun is located at:
74 km, 46 miles of Sofia
522 km, 324 miles of Varna
478 km, 297 miles from Burgas
222 km, 138 miles from Plovdiv
300 km, 186 miles of Veliko Tarnovo
390 km from Rouse
235 km, 146 miles of Vidin

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From Bov to Zasele – over the footsteps of grandfather Vazov

North of Sofia, about an hour and a half by car or train, has a pretty Balkan village in which the Bulgarian literature patriarch Ivan Vazov often loved to go. Inspired by an unusually beautiful views, open to him, he wrote one of his masterpieces - The story "Grandpa Yotso seen”.

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Actually, two neighboring villages pride in the name of Ivan Vazov - Bov and Zasele, settled on a tourist trail. Today it bears his name - "eco-trail Vazova” and zealously guard the memory of her rambling on literary classic. It is eco-trail, as it passes through the protected areas with specific flora and fauna. It is a cultural and historical journey, presenting today's tourists to the natural beauty and scenery, a captive Bulgarian poet. Redolent wind up in the beech forest, cross the river with easy fabulous dressed in green moss stones and opened eyes to the wonderful view to the West Balkan Mountains and Iskar Gorge.
The path passes through the famous waterfall "Skaklya” - a heavenly place of great Bulgarian nature, subdued hundred hearts. "Skaklya" is the fourth largest waterfall in the country with its picturesque beauty is an attractive place for tourists and for nature lovers. It is a cascade the first step of which is 85 meters high, the second - 20 meters, followed by several lower. Its total height is approximately 120 meters. During the winter it freezes and turns into one of the favorite places for ice climbing in Bulgaria.

How to get here
The start point to Vazova eco-trail is going through the picturesque Iskar gorge inspired with its wonderful beauty not one artist. On it you get to Bov rail-station, where there are markings. If you drive, do not enter the village (at right in the bridge over the river Iskar), but still a little up the main road. There is a large plate and parking so you not to be confused. The path climbs gently to about an hour and a half or two, as offers to the tourists few places for recreation.

Where to accommodate?
At the very beginning of its next to the waterfall is located Villa Skaklya. It is a comfortable family house with separate rooms and has a kitchen and dining room.
You can stay in the complex Bojilov - family travel site with original tavern, and rooms for accommodation, built by the heirs of one of the first inhabitants of the village Zasele in the highest part.

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Stobski earth pyramids

Take you to the Rila Monastery, be sure to turn aside to Stobski earth pyramids. They are located on three kilometers from the fork to the village of Stob. Following the brown signs we are reaching earth way to continue walking. They are located on both sides of the hill separating Grachkovets and Bukovetz.
Stobski pyramids are terrestrial rock formations, to a thickness of 30-40 m in the bank are tinted rusty-brown, reddish and dark yellow. Much of the entities have hard hats - large stone blocks, some of which have dimensions of 80 to 120 cm. Most rock types are of pyramidal type, but meet and conical shapes. Under the action of wind, rainfall and erosion factors, the shape of the pyramids is changing, some are destroyed, making the rock hats and originated new pyramids.
They are divided into several groups called from people with different names - towers, Knockety, fairy chimneys, the bride and others. The most famous group Svatovete is associated with a legend.

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National Parks in Bulgaria

The National Park is a protected area declared and managed by the government. The area of the park is protected from most human impacts of development and pollution. The National parks have a set of rules, which every visitor must comply with during his stay within the protected area. Bulgarian national parks are Pirin, Rila and Central Balkan. Their total area is 193 049 ha, which is over 1/3 of the area of all protected areas in Bulgaria.
Furthermore, Pirin, Rila and Central Balkan are among the largest and most valuable protected areas in Europe. They protect natural ecosystems, iwhich are rarely found in Europe.

Each of the national parks in Bulgaria covers and protects unique examples of natural ecosystems, declared reserves. They are the only or one of the few safe havens for many rare plants and animals of world importance.

Bulgarian national parks reveal wonderful opportunities for tourism, research and education. In the parks are protected rivers, lakes, waterfalls, beautiful landscapes and remarkable sites.

Tourists can choose from a wide variety of different activities such as:
• pedestrian tourism
• mountain biking,
• horse riding,
• Photo Safari,
• wild animals watching
• plants watching
• Climbing,
• mountaineering,
• caving.

Among prohibited by the Protected Areas Act activities are building, fishing and hunting, camping and fires outside designated areas. Violations are punishable by the law.

Pirin National Park

National Park 'Pirin' has a substantial share of Pirin Mountains. Its area is 40 332.4 ha. It borders by seven municipalities of Blagoevgrad - Gotse Delchev, Bansko, Razlog, Simitli, Kresna, Strumiani and Sandanski. There are two natural reserves in the area of the park. The reserve 'Bayuvi dupki - Dzhindzhiritsa' is one of the oldest reserves in Bulgaria. It was announced in 1934 to protect natural relict forests of white and black fir and the wide diversity of plant and animal species.

In 1977was declared a biosphere reserve under the program "Man and biosphere" of UNESCO. The reserve 'Ulen' was declared in 1994. It lies very diversity of the forest, subalpine and alpine ecosystems, and the beauty of all forms of Alpine relief. Due to its unique natural complex of 1983 NP 'Pirin' is object to the World Heritage Convention for the natural and cultural heritage of UNESCO.

Rila National Park

National Park "Rila" is the largest national park in Bulgaria with an area of 81 046 hectares. It is situated in the central and highest parts of the Rila Mountain. It protects: self ecosystems that have significant biodiversity, communities and habitats of rare and endangered species, historical monuments of world importance of science and culture. Hence some of the spring-water and many rivers in the Balkan Peninsula.
Most of the territory of the park is covered with ancient forests of spruce, white fir and white pine. Identified in the park higher plant species are 38.35% higher than the flora of Bulgaria. The total number of endemic species (species with limited geographical distribution) is 57. Local endemic species of them are 3 types, Bulgaria - 18, and 36 species are Balkan endemic species. The total number of relicts (species, a remnant of past geological epochs) in the territory of the park is 105 (74 types of ice age, and 31 species of tertiary). Species of higher plants in a park in the Red Book of Bulgaria entered 98 - 13% of all species in the Red Book. 141 species are medicinal plants, 20 of them are in the Red Book, a protected by Nature Protection are 8 species. 282 species are mosses, fungi - 233 species (11.6% of established in Bulgaria), and algae - 130 species.
This part of the Rila mountain inhabited by 2934 species and 172 invertebrate species of vertebrate animals in Bulgaria. The bird world is represented by 99 species, which is about 30 percent of the nesting species in the country, a 94 species have conservation status. Of vertebrates that occur in the park, 121 species were recorded in Bulgarian Red Book, 15 species - in the European Red Book, 24 species - in the red list of the International Union for the Protection of Nature (IUCN), a 158 - to the lists to the Berne Convention. Of 41 kinds of invertebrates are included in the World and European lists of endangered species.
In Rila National Park is presented 60 types of habitats. Of these, 29 were of high conservation significance and are included in the list of endangered habitat requiring special conservation measures under the Habitats Directive of the European Union and Resolution 4, relating thereto.
The park covers extensive grasslands, more than 100 peaks with an altitude over 2000 m, rock walls, precipices, caves, deep canyons and waterfalls. In the territory of the park there are about 120 lakes, of which 70 are from the ice age.
The park was declared a national of February 24, 1992. It was one of the most valuable and the largest protected areas in Europe. The park and four reserves are in the List of protected areas representative of the United Nations. The reserve "Parangalitsa" and former “Marichini Lakes” (which is included in the territory of the Central Rila Reserve) are part of the World biosphere reserves network program" Man and biosphere "by UNESCO. In the territory of Rila National Park is the largest reserve in the country - the Central Rila Reserve with an area of 12 393.7 hectares, and one of the oldest reserves in Bulgaria - Parangalitsa, announced in 1933.

Central Balkan National Park

National park "Central Balkan is situated in the heart of Bulgaria
in the central and highest parts of the Stara Planina area of 71 669.5 hectares.
There are self protect ecosystems possessing exceptional biological diversity, communities and habitats of rare and endangered species, historical monuments of world importance of science and culture.
Most of the territory of the park is covered with ancient beech forests, spruce, fir, and hornbeam durmast. Park’s established higher plant species are more than the half of the Bulgarian flora. Of these, 10 species and 2 subspecies are found only in the Central Balkan and nowhere in the world. 166 species are medicinal plants, 12 of them are protected by law. Wild species richness complement 229 mosses, 256 species of mushrooms. 188 kinds of algae. This part of the Balkan Mountains inhabited by 70% invertebrates and 62% of vertebrate animals in Bulgaria. The bird world is represented by 224 species, among which those given the park status of ornithological important internationally. More than 130 species of plants and animals found in the Central Balkan are entered in the Bulgarian and World Red Book.
In the National park "Central Balkan" are presented 49 types of habitats. Of these, 24 are of high conservation significance and are included in the list of endangered habitats that require special conservation measures under the Habitats Directive of the European Union.
The park covers large meadows, a chain of raw peaks, 20 of which over 2000 meters high rock walls, precipices, caves, deep canyons and high waterfalls. Central Balkan is a favorite spot of tourists, naturalist and nature-lovers.
National park "Central Balkan" was created to preserve the unique wildlife of the Central Stara Planina and related traditions and livelihood of the local population. The state and the society ensure the protection of public wealth by declaring that the National Park in 1991. Central Balkan is one of the most valuable and most important protected areas in Europe. The park and 8 of its reserves are in the List of protected areas representative of the UN, and 4 of them are part of the global biosphere reserves network program "Man and biosphere" by UNESCO.
Since 2003 the Central Balkan National Park is a member of the European network of national parks PAN Parks - international evaluation of its well-maintained and managed wildlife. Since 2004 is winner of the PAN Parks certificate and the region of the park and since 2005 the first twelve entrepreneurs in the tourism business to become PAN Parks Foundation and the Central Balkan NP.
PAN Parks certificates are a sign that the protected area be protected because of the high importance of its biodiversity, but also because of its role for social development through sustainable tourism - a source of livelihood for local people.

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Grohoten Peak

photo: Emo

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Grohoten peak (1045 m, 3428 ft) is situated in West Stara Planina. It is well known by two reasons. The first is that in his foot is Svoge town. The second, bigger glory, is an annual fair in August, which is always collected at least two hundred people. This is an inherited tradition of yesteryear, proud with its organized mass tourism. Fun starts on Friday evening, when the first tourists stretch their tents and light huge fires. On saturday flowing yet and begins really great fun.
Another moment, inherited from the past are Sunday games. Traditional are tug of rope, jumping with sack, football.
The nature is very impressive, and air - crystally clear.
The top and its aroundings have a millennial history. At the foot of Grohoten were found coins from the early Byzantine period. There are also remains of defense equipment from the First and Second Bulgarian State.

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Nature Reserve Orelyak

South of unassailable marble ridge of Northern Pirin the mountain is getting low to its medium parts. There is the Nature Reserve Orelyak with an area of about 850 ha. The Protected Area was declared in 1985 to be preserved beech forests typical for this part of the mountain and popular Pirinski tea.
The boundary of the reserve in the main mountain passes either north from the top. The most eastern parts of the area are located along the Lazhnichkata River, a tributary of the river Marevo. The reserve is situated at an altitude of 900 to 1800 m /2952 to 5905 ft/, covering a large height range.

Flora
The main task of the reserve is the conservation of elite beech forests called Montenegro. Their average age is over 150 years, but they are extremely deep. In the lower parts of the protected area are hornbeam tree species and water Mazhdryan. At height of about 1700 meters /5577 ft/ there are small areas of white fir. Important species are endemic sharplaninska-rupa, golden yarrow, Macedonian kamenolomka and others.

Fauna
Despite the small territory of the reserve the animal world is very varied. This is due to the high altitude. The most common species are Greek leggy frog, salamander, wild, wolf, brown bear, fox, deer.

Travel

In the buffer zone of the nature reserve Orelyak is prince of Middle Pirin Orelyak peak / 2099 m, 6886 ft /. It is met by the names Orelek, Orlov rocks, too. Top up the main mountain, north and northwest of Baba Chala Mt. Orelyak has a dome shape of Triglav and it was rocky and naked. Western slopes are steep and vertically to the valley of the river Bistrica Pirinska and in south-eastern slantingly to the "good field". At the top is based broadcasting repeater, which allows not reaching the highest point. Main starting point up to the peak is Popovi meadows place. The transition is marked trail for 2 hours or 12 - km /7,5 miles/ gravelly road.

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Magura cave will be examined and restored

There was launched a project to study and conservate the Magura cave in Northewstern Bulgaria, BTA said. The rock paintings in the cave will be restored and studied. Specialists, historians and archaeologists will be involved in restoration activities and will offer the most appropriate methods of conservation.
Another project envisages development of the park and the entrance area around the cave. Website will ensure the promotion of the cave as a tourist destination.
A proposal will be submitted that Magura cave to become a part of the world heritage of UNESCO.
The value of the project is 399, 430 euros and the implementation period is 2 years.
Belogradchik municipality and the Ministry of Finance are partners in this project.

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New eco-trail was established near village Barutin

New eco-trail was established near the Barutin village, said to Radio Focus - Smolyan Boyko Mollov, chairman of the Association Rhodopean, at whose initiative was created the eco-trail. The path is located between the villages Barutin and Brashten and has a total length of 5 kilometers /3.10 miles/. The route is going to the border with Greece, and the tourists can see an old Roman bridge. A part of the river Dospatska canyon, which is especially picturesque in the region, is very interesting, too. According to Mollov the most valuable is the nature with preserved age-old pine and spruce forests. On the path can be seen wild pigs and deers. This is the second eco-trail in the region, after last year marked first tourist route in the history of Barutin. The aim is developing of the rural tourism in this part of the Rhodope Mountains, which is still poorly developed, despite the great potential. Through the path there are rails for the safety of the tourists, bridges, benches, and are restored several old fountains. The project is implemented under the "Youth in Action of the European Commission. In the activities of carriage the route have included about 15 people aged 18 to 30 years. There are installed and the necessary information tables and signs to assist tourists. Crossing the trail takes about 3 hours.

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Rila

Rila is a mountain range in southwestern Bulgaria. It is the highest mountain on the Balkan Peninsula, with its highest peak being Musala at 2,925 m. /9,596 ft/. The larger part of the mountain is occupied by the Rila National Park.
The name Rila is of Thracian origin and is thought to mean "well-watered mountain", owing to Rila's abundance of glacial lakes (about 200) and hot springs in fault areas at the base of the mountain. Some of the Balkans' longest and deepest rivers originate from Rila, including Maritsa, Iskar and Mesta.
Culturally, Rila is famous for the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's largest and most important monastery founded in the 10th century by Saint John of Rila.

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Geology
Rila is a dome-shaped horst mountain, part of the Balkans' oldest land, the Macedono-Thracian Massif. It was formed by granite and gneiss rocks and crystal schists during the Paleozoic (250,000,000 years ago). Rila's alpine relief was formed during the Pleistocene by a series of glacial periods. During the most recent, 10-12,000 years ago the permanent snow line was at 2,100 m above sea level. Above this line glaciers radically changed the existing relief, carving out deep cirques, sharp pyramid-shaped peaks, rock pinnacles, various valleys, moraines and other typical glacial formations.
Borders and climate
Rila has an area of 2,400 km²/1491 sq. miles/. The dome of the mountain rises over the surrounding mountain valleys, with the Borovets Saddle (1,305 m, 4,281 ft) connecting the main Musala Ridge with the Shipchan and Shumnitsa ridges that connect to the Ihtiman Sredna Gora mountains through the Gate of Trajan pass. The Yundola Saddle (1,375 m, 4511 ft) and the Abraham Saddle (1,295 m, 4249 ft) link Rila with the Rhodopes to the east, while the connection with Pirin is the Predel Saddle (1,140 m, 3740 ft), the one with Verila being the Klisura Saddle (1,025 m, 3363 ft).
The climate is typically alpine, with 2,000 mm of precipitation on Musala yearly, about half of which is snow. The lowest average temperature ever measured in February on Musala is –11.6°C /52.9 F/ and the absolute minimum is -31.2°C /-24.1 F/. An average temperature for August is 5.4°C /41.7 F/, the maximum being 18.7°C /65.7 F/.
Flora & Fauna
The flora of Rila contains three local endemics which are seen only in this mountain. These plants are Primula deorum (with the largest population), Rheum rhaponticum and Alchemilla pawlowskii. In the mountain thrives also 36 plants as Campanula lanata, Centaurea mannagettae which are endemic for the Balkans. Some of the plant species has been survived the last glacial period by turning into relict organisms. There is also many similar animals. Some of the members of this kingdom which lives in Rila are in danger. Such animals are Barbus cyclolepis (which is rare because of the habitat loss and the river pollution), Triturus alpestris, Spermophilus citellus (European Ground Squirrel) and others.
Subdivision
Rila is subdivided into several parts depending on their geographic position.
• East Rila or the Musala Ridge is the highest and vastest part. The highest peak, as well as 12 of the 18 peaks over 2,700 m /8858 ft/ are located there — Musala, Yastrebets, Irechek, Deno Mancho, etc. The Musala Lakes lie in this part of Rila, as well as Ledeno ezero ("Icy Lake"), 2,709 m /8887.8 ft/, the second highest lake on the Balkans. Other lakes in East Rila include the Maritsa Lakes and the Ropalitsa Lakes. The renowned mountain resort of Borovets is also located in this part of the mountain.
• Central Rila or the Skakavets Ridge is the smallest part (1/10 of the total area), most famous for the glacial lakes — the Fish Lakes, Dzhendem Lakes, Monastery Lakes. The largest glacial lake of the Balkans, Smradlivo ezero ("Stinky Lake") with an area of 21.2 km² /13.7 sq miles/ is located in Central Rila, as well as the peaks Kanarata, Cherna polyana, Malak Skakavets and Golyam Skakavets, Rilets. The ridge of the Skakavtsi (the peaks of Golyam Skakavets and Malak Skakavets, Pchelina and Sveti Duh) rises isolated between the Levi and Beli Iskar rivers. Another well-known ridge in the area is the one of Marinkovitsa and Vodniya chal, extending to the forest reserve of Kobilino branishte.
• Northwest Rila takes up 25% of Rila's total area. The highest peak is Golyam Kupen at 2,731 m /8960 ft/. The Seven Rila Lakes are an important landmark in this part, as well as the many remote peaks and small lakes.
• Southwest Rila or the Kapatnik Ridge occupies 30% of Rila and has the oldest reserve of Bulgaria. Apart from its small northern part, Southwest Rila does not have the alpine appearance of the other parts.
Peaks in Rila
• Musala — 2,925 m /9596 ft/
• Malka Musala — 2,902 m /9521 ft/
• Ovcharets (Yurushki chal) — 2,768 m /9081 ft/
• Golyam Kupen — 2,731 m /8960 ft/
• Malyovitsa — 2,729 m /8953 ft/
• Popova kapa — 2,704 m /8871 ft/
• Malka Malyovitsa — 2,698 m /8851 ft/
• Lopushki vrah — 2,698 m /8851 ft/
• Lovnitsa — 2,695 m /8841 ft/
• Kanarata — 2,691 m /8828 ft/
• Orlovets — 2,685 m /8809 ft/
• Pastri slap (Aladzha slap) – 2,684 m /8805 ft/
• Zliya zab — 2,678 m /8786 ft/
• Eleni vrah — 2,654 m /8707 ft/
• Kovach (Nalbant) vrah - 2,640 m /8661 ft/
• Suha Vapa vrah - 2,638 m /8654 ft/
• Ravni vrah (Ravni chal) — 2,637 m /8651 ft/
• Belmeken — 2,627 m /8618 ft/
• Kamilata — 2,621 m /8599/
• Golyam Mechi vrah — 2,618 m /8589 ft/
• Dvuglav — 2,605 m /8546 ft/

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Elena Lakes

The group of Elena lakes is located in the northwestern Rila, in the region of Malyovitsa peak. Lakes are 9, but 3 of them are most famous. The biggest is Elenino ezero /Elena’s lake/, which is situated in the eastern foothills of the Big Malyovitsa Peak. It is situated at an altitude of 2,472 m /8110.21 ft/. The lake has shape of the kidney and cirque threshold. Part of his water drains groundwater to Elena small lake, and give early flow of the river Malyovitsa.
The lake is 220 m /722 ft/ long, wide up to 62 m /203 ft/ and deep to 5 m /16 ft/.
The legend of Elena’s lake takes us back in time to the Ottoman rule in the Bulgarian Lands /XIV-XIX century/. In Samokov town had lived the beautiful maiden Helena. When she was 17, Pasha Selim came in the region with numerous army to crush the rebel in the region. Elena was given to him. The next day she got out of captivity and escaped high in the mountain where was the band of Malyo Voevoda. She fall in love with the standard-bearer, although she had no such right after the night spent with Pasha. She saw that he loves her, too.

After the head’s death, Elena decided to take his place, only in that case the standard-bearer would not dare to seek her love. On the day, when the new head was elected each of the band members had come to shoot in a ringlet, attached to boron. The bullet of the standard-bearer was the most accurate. Elena had stood after him. Her face was burning. If she would not be better, the the standard-bearer will be the new head. And this should not be allowed. . . She took at the aim and shoot. Shoot not in the ringlet, but right in the heart of the Pasha Selim. When she opened her eyes, the ringlet was gone. Excited, the band members started to greet her. Elena achieved her objective. She adopted the leadership and from her shoulders drop a huge burden.
In a battle Elena was hurt. When she recovered, she saw above overhung the standard-bearer. Elena aware that she will die soon, before that, however, she suggested him to replace her.
She decided to admit as her love, as for the night with Pasha. But she failed to end, the death came and closed her eyes, where today splashes the lake, bringing her name ...

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Bulgaria - General Information

General Information

Republic of Bulgaria is situated on the Balkan Peninsula, in the Eastern Europe. Its area is 111,000 sq.km /69,000 sq. miles/. Country capital is Sofia.
Bulgaria borders Black Sea to the East, Greece and Turkey to the South, FYROM and Serbia to the West and Romania to the North.
Bulgaria is member of NATO since 2004 and to the European Union since 2007.
Official language is Bulgarian. But English, German, French and Russian is spoken in the country's resorts, hotels and restaurants.

Official alphabet is Cyrillic. Signs along international motorways, in airports and resorts are also spelled in Roman letters.

Official holidays
January 1 - New Year
March 3 - Bulgaria's Liberation from Ottoman rule - the National Day
Easter - one week after the Catholic Easter
May 1 - Labour Day
May 6 - Bulgarian Army Day
May 24 - Day of Bulgarian Enlightenment and Culture and the Slav Script
September 6 - Bulgaria's Unification
September 22 - Independance Day
December 25-26 - Christmas

Relief
On its territory of 111,000 sq. km /69,000 sq. miles/ Bulgaria has diverse relief. There are 37 mountains, among them is Rila, with the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula - Musala – 2,925 m /9,596 ft/. On the East is Black sea.
Climate

The climate in Bulgaria is temperate. There are two climate areas in the country. The line between them is Stara planina mountain chain. In the winter North Bulgaria is colder, than South. The temperatures in the winter are between 0° to - 7° C /19° to 32° F/. Sometimes the temperatures may drop to -20° С /-4° F/. In spring the climate is inconstant. Summer is hot in the North Bulgaria. Autumn is mild. The rainiest months are May, October and November.

Currency
Bulgarian currency is called Lev /International code is BGN/. It is divided into 100 stotinki. The Leva course is fixed to the Euro. 1 Lev=1,95583 Euro.
Monetary Units
1, 2, 5 stotinka (yellow metal), 10, 20, 50 stotinka (white metal), 1 lev (white and yellow metal). Banknotes 1,2,5,10,20,50 and 100 lev.
Exchange is possible in every Bulgarian bank without commission.
You can exchange money in the Exchange offices in the hotels, Bus and Train stations and on the Airports. There are many private Exchange bureaus, some of which are working non-stop.
In Bulgaria you can pay only in lev. Euro and other currency are accepted only in some of the bigger resorts.
You can use all the International credit cards Visa, MasterCard, JCB, Diners Club, American Express, Access, Airplus.

Tourism
The tourism is one of the key branches of the Bulgarian Economics.
Bulgaria is situated on the crossroad between the East and West. It is home of many civilizations – Thracians, Rome’s, Byzantines, Slaves, Procto Bulgarians and Osman. There are many Museums, Monasteries and other historical sightseeing.
The main ski resorts are Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo, and the main sea resorts are Sozopol, Nessebar, Golden Sands, Sunny Beach, Albena. The mountains Rila, Pirin, Vitosha, Stara Planina and Rhodopes attract mountaineers and alpinists from all over the world.
Besides of traditional forms of tourism Bulgaria offers spa tourism, rural and eco tourism and many other forms of alternative tourism.
Traveling
How to Reach Bulgaria
By plane
The national carrier Balkan Bulgarian Airlines, private Bulgarian airline companies, as well as many foreign airlines link the country to Europe, Africa, the Middle East and North America.

By car
The country can be entered through any one of the many border checkpoints. Foreign driving licenses are valid on Bulgarian territory. Insurance is compulsory - it can either be taken out beforehand or on the Bulgarian border. The speed limit in the country is as follows: 50 km/h in populated areas, 90 km/h outside populated areas, 130 km/h on motorways. Petrol stations are located at every 30 to 50 km.

By train
The main European railway routes pass through Bulgaria. International trains link Sofia with many European capital cities and the domestic rail network ensures access to all large settlements.
Visas and Passports
You will need a valid passport with an entry or transit visa which is issued by the embassies and consulates of the Republic of Bulgaria abroad.
No entry visas are required for citizens of the countries with which Bulgaria has a visa-free regime, or of organized tourists who have bought a package tour.
No entry visas are required for citizens of the EU and EFTA member states.
No visas are required for CIS citizens for a stay of one month, provided they are in the possession of a valid passport, a voucher for pre-paid tourist services or if they pay the sum of 40 USD for each day of their stay in the country.

Useful Information

Time Difference
Winter time: GMT +2 hours (October through March).
Summer time: GMT +3 hours (April through September)

Voltage
220 V only

Working Hours
offices - 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. (Monday to Friday)
banks - 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. (Monday to Friday)
shops - 10.00 a.m. to 8.00 pm. (Monday to Friday, Saturday until noon)

Medical Service
Free first aid and consultation in emergencies

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