The mountains in Bulgaria - each with its secrets, beauty and charm. There are 39 officially recognized mountains in Bulgaria, each with its own history, legends and secrets waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will embark on a journey through these mountains, exploring their unique appeal and hidden secrets…
1. Strange
Located in the southeastern corner of Bulgaria, Strandzha is an ancient mountain steeped in mysticism and folklore. Its highest peak, Gradishte, rises 710 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is known for its centuries-old oak and beech forests, as well as its rich biodiversity, including various species of orchids and birds. Gradishte Peak is connected with an extraordinary legend – about Bastet's tomb. You can read more about this legend here:
Bulgarian legends that captivate the imagination
2. Sugar
Sakar, located in Southeastern Bulgaria, is a low but picturesque mountain characterized by its hills covered with vineyards and fertile fields. Its highest peak, Višegrad, reaches 856 meters above sea level and offers a view of the surrounding plains. The mountain is known for its historical sites, including the ancient fortress of Buquelon.
Find great offers for accommodation in the Sakar mountain area here:
3. Medium forest
Stretching from west to east across the central part of the country, Sredna Gora is a medium-high mountain that is often overlooked by tourists. Its highest peak, Bogdan, rises 1,604 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Thracian plain. The mountain is known for its beech forests, mineral springs and remains of Thracian sanctuaries.
4. Rhodopes
As the second largest mountain in Bulgaria, the Rhodopes are known for their diverse landscapes, including lush forests, deep valleys and snow-capped peaks. The highest peak, Golyam Perelik, reaches 2191 meters above sea level. The mountain is known for its Thracian heritage, with numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout the region, including the sanctuary of Perperikon.
SEE MORE: 4 incredibly beautiful but little-known places in the Rhodopes
5. Rila
Rila, home to the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala (2,925 meters), is known for its stunning alpine scenery, crystal clear lakes and lush forests. The mountain is an important center of pilgrimage, with monasteries and churches, scattered across its slopes. Rila is also home to several biosphere reserves known for their rich biodiversity.
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6. Pyrin
Pirin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its dramatic alpine peaks, deep valleys and crystal clear lakes. The highest peak, Vihren (2914 meters), attracts both experienced climbers and novice hikers. The mountain is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous preserved villages and museums dedicated to local artisan life.
SEE MORE: 5 magical places in Pirin that you must see
7. Slavyanka
Also known as Alibotush, Slavyanka is a low but picturesque mountain located on the border between Bulgaria and North Macedonia. The highest peak, Gotsev Peak (2212 meters), offers a panoramic view of both sides of the border. The mountain is known for its chestnut forests, healing mineral springs and a variety of hiking trails.
8. Belasitsa
Belasitsa is a small but charming mountain located on the border between Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Greece. The highest peak, Radomir (2029 meters), is famous for its beautiful beech forests and healing mineral springs. The mountain is also known for its rich cultural heritage as it has been influenced by the various regions around it throughout history.
9. Osogovo
Osogovo, a border mountain between Bulgaria and North Macedonia, is known for its beautiful beech forests and diverse wildlife. The highest peak, Rouen (2251 meters), offers panoramic views on both sides of the border. The mountain is a popular destination for tourism and offers several marked routes leading to scenic spots such as the Popova Kaptaya waterfall.
10. Vlahina
Located on the border with North Macedonia, Vlahina is a low but picturesque mountain characterized by its rolling hills and lush forests. The highest peak, Kadiitsa, rises 1,924 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains. The mountain is famous for its traditional villages, where flocks of sheep and goats can still be seen.
11. Konyavska
Konyavska Planina, also located in Western Bulgaria, is known for its limestone cliffs and diverse landscapes, including lush forests and open hills. The highest peak, Viden, rises 1,487 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains. The mountain is also known for its wine production, with many wineries located at its foot.
12. Stara planina
In Bulgaria, Stara planina, also known as Balkan, occupies a significant part of the country's territory. Stretching from the border with Serbia in the west to the Black Sea in the east, it covers approximately one third of the country's total area. The mountain range is varied and complex, featuring both high, snow-capped peaks and deep valleys and gorges. Some of its most famous sights include Mount Botev, the summit of Stara Planina, Mazalat Hut and the Paradise Splash waterfall.
Selected accommodations from our business catalog of hotels and guesthouses in Bulgaria:
The Fish Hotel
Vitosha station
Loven Paradise
Color Hotel
13. Milevska
Milevska, located in Western Bulgaria, is known for its beech forests, picturesque villages and remains of ancient Thracian sanctuaries. The highest peak, Milevec, rises 1,732 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The mountain is a popular hiking destination and offers several marked routes leading to interesting sights.
14. Fenced
Fenced is a low but picturesque mountain located on the border with North Macedonia. The highest peak, Bilska Chuka, rises 1,731 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains.
15. Chudinska
Chudinska Planina is located in Western Bulgaria. The highest peak, Aramlia, rises 1,496 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding mountains.
SEE MORE: 10 unique places to discover in spring in Bulgaria
16. Lyulin mountain
Located in Western Bulgaria, it is known for its limestone cliffs and diverse landscapes, including lush forests and open hills. The highest peak, Dupevitsa, rises 1,256 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains.
Did you know that… World's Oldest Gold Hoard Found in Bulgaria This hoard, known as the Varna Hoard, dates back to around 4600 BC.
17. Vitosha
Vitosha is located near the capital Sofia. The highest peak, Black Peak, rises 2,290 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is a popular year-round destination for hiking, skiing and biking.
SEE MORE: 5 great places to explore in Vitosha Mountain
18. Flat mountain
Plana Planina, located southeast of Sofia, is a small but charming mountain range stretching for about 35 km. Its name comes from the Greek word "planos", which means plain or plateau. The mountain is known for its beautiful forests, winding trails and breathtaking views of the Sofia Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. The highest peak, Manastirishte, rises 1338 meters above sea level.
19. Chepan mountain
Chepan Planina, also known as Chepan, is a low mountain located in the western part of the Western Stara Planina, between the Nishava River and the Burel Valley. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Petrov Cross (1206.6 m). Chepan Mountain is known for its limestone rock formations that attract rock climbing enthusiasts.
20. Zavalska
Zavalska Planina is located in Western Bulgaria. The highest peak, Kitka, rises 1180 meters above sea level.
SEE MORE: 5 of the most picturesque rivers in Bulgaria
21. Viskar
Viskar Planina is a small mountain range located in the western part of Bulgaria, between the towns of Pernik and Breznik. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 6 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Viskar peak (1127.4 m). The mountain is mainly composed of metamorphic rocks and offers a variety of flora and fauna. Viskar mountain is famous for its herbs and mushrooms, as well as for its beautiful landscapes and clean air.
22. Montenegro
Montenegro is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, east of the city of Trun. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Golemi peak (1120.3 m). Visitors can also visit the nearby village of Erul to learn about the local culture and traditions. With its proximity to Sofia and abundance of natural beauty, Montenegro is an ideal destination for a day trip or a short stay in nature.
Find great places and recommended businesses in our business directory…
23. Blood stone
Blood Stone is a mountain located in Western Bulgaria, northeast of the city of Trun. It stretches about 20 km from north to south and 10 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Bilo (1737 m). With its unique geology, lush forests and breathtaking views, Blood Stone is a real jewel in the Bulgarian mountain range.
Did you know that… The longest cave on the Balkan Peninsula is located in Bulgaria. Magura is located in northwestern Bulgaria, it is approximately 2.5 kilometers long.
24. Elovishka mountain
Elovishka Planina is a small mountain range located in Western Bulgaria, between the towns of Trun and Zemen. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Kitka (1181 m).
25. Lozenska mountain
Lozenska, located in western Bulgaria, is known for its limestone cliffs and diverse landscapes, including lush forests and open hills. The highest peak, Polovrak, rises 1,182 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains.
Whirlpool
Vartop, located in western Bulgaria, is known for its limestone cliffs and diverse landscapes, including lush forests and open hills. The highest peak, Krivi Kamik, rises 1,035 meters above sea level and offers views of the surrounding plains. The mountain is a popular hiking destination and offers several marked routes leading to interesting sights.
26. Guard Mountain
Strazha Planina is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, east of the town of Dragoman. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Strazha (1079.6 m). The mountain is mainly composed of metamorphic rocks and offers a variety of plant and animal species. Straža Planina is known for its beautiful forests, meandering streams and panoramic views of the Dragoman Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.
27. Ruy mountain
Ruy Mountain is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, east of the town of Trun. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Ruy (1706 m). One of the main attractions of the mountain is Mount Ruy, which offers an incredible 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Another landmark is the Tran Monastery "St. Archangel Michael", which is located near the village of Slishovtsi. The monastery was founded in the 14th century and is famous for its preserved wall paintings.
Selected accommodations from our business catalog of hotels and guesthouses in Bulgaria:
The Fish Hotel
Vitosha station
Loven Paradise
Color Hotel
28. Kobilska
Kobilska Planina is located in Western Bulgaria, north of the town of Kyustendil. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Kobila (1338 m).
29. You love
Lubash Mountain is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, north of the town of Trun. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Lubash (1398 m).
30. Rudina mountain
Rudina Planina is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, north of the town of Trun. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Mount Rudina. Sirishtnishka Rudina, towering at 1172 meters high, proudly occupies the position of the highest peak in one of the 39 magnificent Bulgarian mountains. This awe-inspiring destination is not only for those dreaming of completing their mountain peak collection, but also for families looking for an affordable and enjoyable nature outing.
31. Verila
Verila - a mountain that seems to have come out of a fairy tale. Nestled between Rila and Vitosha, it is unknown to many, but it hides a unique beauty. Relatively low and with easy routes, it is ideal for lovers of mountain treks who seek peace and unity with nature. The centuries-old forests, the fresh air and the incredible views will leave you breathless. Immerse yourself in the magic of Verila and enjoy real mountain adventures!
32. Erul mountain
Erulska Planina is not for everyone. It is for those who are looking for real adventures, for those who are not afraid of difficulties and long for unity with wild nature. Here you will find steep ridges cut through centuries-old beech forests, clear springs, as if from a fairy tale, and incredible panoramic views that will take your breath away.
If you are looking for:
- A real challenge
- Unique beauty
- Peace and unity with nature
Erulska mountain awaits you!
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Did you know that: Almost one third of Bulgaria is covered with forests.
33. Earth Mountain
The Zemen mountain is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, east of the town of Zemen. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Tichak peak (1295 m). One of the main sights of the mountain is the Zemensky Monastery "St. John the Theologian", which is located near the village of Zemen. The monastery was founded in the 11th century and is famous for its preserved wall paintings.
34. Maleshev mountain
Maleshevska mountain, bordering with Pirin through the Kresnen gorge, is a wild territory sharing a border with Serbia. Unique natural forests are preserved, and two reserves protect the forest riches. The mountain can be explored by hiking or biking, focusing on its tall vegetation and scenic views.
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35. Penkiovska mountain
The Penkiov mountain, located in the center of the Kraishte region, is a 20-kilometer mountain range with numerous peaks separated by small saddles. The southern part is bounded by the Treklianska river, which separates it from the Zemenska mountain, while the Rudinska mountain lies to the east, the Erulska mountain to the north, and the Kobilska mountain to the west. The highest peak is Konski Vrah, 1187 meters high.
SEE MORE: Why Bulgaria is so loved by foreigners
36. Naked Burdo
Golo Bardo is a low mountain located in Western Bulgaria, east of the city of Radomir. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Golyama Kula peak (1126 m). Golo Bardo is the colorful treasure trove of the Verilo-Ruy mountain range, especially in May when bright flowers bloom and biodiversity flourishes.
37. Bozdag Mountain
Bozdag mountain, also known as Mramoritsa, Sveti Todor, Shipka, Beslenski rid or Peritsa, is a border mountain between Bulgaria and Greece. Although it is slightly higher than the nearby Slavyanka, on Bulgarian soil it only reaches 1200 m above sea level. On Bulgarian territory, the top of the mountain is Mount Chiplakbair, 1090 m high.
Did you know that… Bulgaria is home to over 3,000 plant species, of which 350 are endemic.
38. Ezdimir mountain
The Ezdimir Mountain, also known as Chuka, is a monoclinal mountain in Western Bulgaria, belonging to the Rui-Veril Mountain Range, located in the Kraišten Physical Geographical Region, Pernik Region. Its highest peak is the Great Peak, 1219 m high. The best starting point for climbing the peak is the village of Ezdimirtsi, which has a blue marker leading to the summit.
39. Scraper mountain
Strgach mountain is a low mountain located in Southwestern Bulgaria, east of the town of Gotse Delchev. It stretches about 15 km from north to south and 5 km wide. The highest peak of the mountain is Stergach peak (1975 m). One of the main attractions of the mountain is the Konski dol reserve, which was created to protect the beech forests and the unique flora and fauna of the area.
Walking through our mountains, one finds oneself surrounded by breathtaking views that captivate the heart and soul. From the towering peaks of Rila and Pirin to smaller but equally charming massifs such as Golo Bardo and Sturgech, each mountain offers its own unique charm. We suggest you use this article and visit each of these unique mountains in Bulgaria!
