Feel Bulgaria with Ivaylo Ivanov

In the new edition of the column "Feel Bulgaria with..." we meet you with Ivaylo Ivanov – a traveler and photographer who turns weekends into expeditions to the most beautiful corners of Bulgaria. Here's what Ivaylo tells us about his passion for rediscovering Bulgaria...

I am Ivaylo Ivanov and for me, traveling is more than a hobby – it is a mission. I don’t just visit places, I am a moment hunter who turns every weekend into an expedition to discover the hidden jewels of Bulgaria. Through my lens, I don’t just capture landscapes, but I capture that magic and inspiration that you can only feel on the edge of Rila Mountain or while the sun caresses the Black Sea coast. I believe that the most beautiful corners are at your fingertips, and my Instagram profile is my map that leads to these treasures. I am ready to show you Bulgaria through my eyes!

In the following lines, of course, we will virtually transport you to 5 great places, where Ivaylo will personally show us around. Here they are…

1. Natural Paradise in the Rhodope Mountains: Bachkovo Waterfall!

Did you know that just a short distance from the famous Bachkovo Monastery lies a natural gem? I'm talking about the majestic Bachkovo Waterfall!

Legend and History
Although less well known than the monastery, the waterfall has its own charm. Its name comes from its proximity to the village of Bachkovo. It is believed that the area has been an important place since the Middle Ages. The waterfall is formed by a karst fault and is about 10 meters high! It is part of a beautiful karst region and is associated with local legends about the rock bridges that are located nearby. The view of the cascading waters falling from the rocks is simply breathtaking and energizing!

Why Visit It?
If you are in the area, a visit to the waterfall is a must!

• The road: From the Bachkovo Monastery, there is a pleasant trail to the waterfall. It takes about 20 minutes to walk one way, making it perfect for a short family walk!

• Advice from us: Unfortunately, during our visit the waterfall was quite dry and we were unable to enjoy its full, lush beauty. Plan your visit in the spring or after heavy rainfall to see it in all its glory!

• Picnic and Recreation: There are great picnic spots around the waterfall. Take a basket of goodies and enjoy the coolness and sounds of nature. It's perfect for a romantic date or fun with the kids!

• Stay: Near the waterfall and in the village of Bachkovo itself, you can find guest houses and hotels where you can stay and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Rhodope Mountains.

Treat yourself to a day in nature, away from the city noise. The waterfall will enchant you with its wild beauty and tranquility.

2. The Devil's Path

Part 1: The adventure begins!
Are you ready for a true Rhodope experience? The Devil's Trail awaits you with views and emotions that are difficult to describe. To make everything go smoothly and without unnecessary waste of time, there is one "golden" piece of advice: leave your car at the entrance to the village of Borino. The parking lot is free and large enough. There you will be met by locals who can guide you. From there, for 10 leva per person, they take you to the other end of the trail towards Teshel and Buynovska River to walk back to your car. This way you don't have to go back the same way and waste more hours. In addition, this option is more pleasant because you start from the lower one and climb the bridges instead of going down them. The "small circle" is about 4 hours with breaks and photos. Keep in mind that the "big circle" is closed due to a collapsed bridge, and going around it would take over 10 hours.

Part 2: Secrets of the Path
The trail gets its name from a legend that says the devil himself was involved in building the bridges so that the river could pass. And as scary as it sounds, the place is a real treasure. There are no markings in some places, but there’s almost no way to get lost – the trail runs right alongside the river. You’ll see it now on the left, now on the right – as long as the river is in front of you, you’re on the right path. Keep in mind something important: there are sections without railings (in places they’ve been replaced with ropes), and other railings may be wobbly or have gaps – crossing is possible, but requires attention. One of the most impressive places is the Devil’s Bridge – you can cross it in two ways: from below on the bridge over the water or from above on dry land. From below it’s a bit more extreme, but also much more beautiful. Bring water – although it’s cool, the trail is long.

Part 3: The Finale
After about 4 hours of hiking, filled with fresh air and great views, you reach the end of the trail. The last 15–20 minutes are wider and flatter – a perfect end to this adventure. However, the trail can be slippery in places, so be careful, especially if the river is not at its best due to dry weather. But the beauty around is worth every minute. If you are looking for a place to get away from everyday life, the Devil's Trail is just such a choice. And the bonus at the end is that you can eat a delicious grill and homemade salad and get homemade cheese and yellow cheese from the hosts of the establishment.

3. Orpheus Peak

Did you know that in the heart of the majestic Rhodopes, above the picturesque village of Trigrad, rises a place shrouded in legends and breathtaking views? This is Orpheus Peak – a place where myths come to life and nature reveals all its beauty! According to the ancients traditions, it was here that the mythical singer Orpheus enchanted not only people and animals, but also the rocks themselves with his lyre. It is no coincidence that a sculpture of Orpheus rises at the top today, which can be seen from afar and gives an even more mystical atmosphere to the place.

The climb to Orpheus Peak (1550 m) is an adventure that is worth it! Walking from Trigrad you will reach the peak in about 2-3 hours, enjoying every moment of the hike. If you prefer a faster and more comfortable way, keep in mind that jeeps are also available to the peak transitionsThey will pick you up and drop you off in about 20-30 minutes in each direction, and the price is 80 BGN for a car that fits about 8 people!

From the top, a panoramic view of the endless green hills of The RhodopesThe clean mountain air and tranquility will recharge you with new energy. Here you will also find a comfortable bench with a table, as well as a separate fire pit, ideal for a picnic or a short break in nature.

And for herb lovers – in the Orpheus Peak area you can also find the rare treasure of the Rhodope Mountains – Mursal tea! You might even be lucky enough to pick some of it to enjoy a cup of healthy drink at home.

4. The monument to Buzludzha

This iconic monument, perched majestically on Stara Planina, is one of the most impressive places in Bulgaria that you simply have to see. An incredible view and atmosphere that made us think!

What to visit nearby? While you are in the area, we recommend you visit other attractions:

Shipka: The Historic Passage and the Freedom Monument are a stone's throw away, offering another dose of history and breathtaking panoramas.

SEE MORE: 5 remarkable monuments to visit in Bulgaria 

Kazanlak: The city of roses and Thracian kings is famous for the Valley of the Thracian Rulers, the Kazanlak Tomb (part of UNESCO) and the Rose Museum.

SEE MORE: Under the auspices of UNESCO in Bulgaria 

Ethnographic Complex “Etar”: A little further away, but worth it – a living open-air museum that showcases traditional Bulgarian crafts and lifestyle.

SEE MORE: 5 unique museums to visit in Bulgaria 

Sokol monastery: Situated amidst beautiful nature near Gabrovo, this operating monastery is a peaceful and beautiful place for relaxation and worship.

SEE MORE: 5 monasteries you shouldn't miss seeing 

Our walk with Ivaylo Ivanov is just the beginning – Bulgaria through his lens seems even more alive, deeper and more real. If you want more routes, views and those “captured moments” that make you immediately pack your backpack, follow him on Instagram: / iitravelbg / and get inspired for your next adventure.

SEE MORE:

Feel Bulgaria with Maria Tarashmanova 

Feel Bulgaria with Silvia Stoyanova

5 unique places in Pirin that you must see