There are places in every country that are below the radar of the regular tourist. Little gems in unknown villages, local curiosities, and natural beauties tucked away from view. I loved all the virtual tours that Local Guides took us on this year, and I wanted to join in the fun by sharing five of my favorite hidden locations in Western Bulgaria. These are mostly off the beaten track spots that can give you your daily dose of exercise and joy. I’ve arranged them depending on their proximity to the capital Sofia, starting with the closest one.
Read along to see if there are similar places in your country, and let me know in the comments below if any of these made it to your bucket list!
The Buddhist Stupa is the only Buddhist monument in Bulgaria. Although it’s just 30 kilometers from the capital, it is still relatively unknown to the general public. A short dirt road connects the hill of the stupa with the nearby village, but unless you have an off-road vehicle, I recommend walking that stretch. The open space, panoramic views, and peaceful atmosphere (especially at sunset) make the stupa a fantastic little trip.
An adorable mix of free roaming animals inhabits a zoo corner an hour from Sofia. Parents with children and people of all ages come to meet and greet fluffy alpacas, playful baby goats, and a variety of birds. The staff at Zoo Corner “Alis” lets you feed the friendly creatures, so you can bring your own fresh vegetables. Chances for cuddles are high, but it’s important to respect the needs of the animals and give them space when they show you they want it.
That spot has everything I love in a getaway: an energizing walk, beautiful views and proximity to water, and a curious detail. In this case: a 14th-century stone chapel with a low doorway and cozy atmosphere perched on a cliff overlooking a reservoir.
St. Joan Letni Chapel is a scenic one-hour drive from the capital. The navigation takes you to the end of the closest village, from where a dirt road starts. It takes around 20 minutes to walk up to the chapel, but the place is mesmerizing enough to make you want to stay for hours. Don’t forget to light a candle, too.
That is the perfect place for a one-day adventure. There are two ways to reach Polska Skakavitsa Waterfall: by car and by train. The navigation takes you to the village on top of the cliff from where the waterfall comes down. The train leaves you at an abandoned (but not forgotten) little station from where a picturesque trail begins. I picked the second route.
The trail takes you along the train tracks for a while before turning into a forest along a river. You cross over a train tunnel and climb up slippery narrow paths with little signage. The reward at the end is feeling the refreshing drops on your face while standing close to the falling water.
The name of this cave means “wreath,” and although it comes from the name of the nearby mountain ridge, it can easily describe the unique assemblage of formations inside. Venetsa Cave attracts visitors with its colorfully illuminated features. These include the widest cave pillar in Bulgaria, unusual clusters of corals and crystals, and a number of formations that resemble animals, people, and even angels.
That is the farthest location from Sofia, some three-hour drive to the north. Fun fact: Venetsa Cave is one of the few caves in the country that requires you to wear a safety helmet. It’s to ensure that you won’t hit your head while going through the low and narrow passages. Even though I was extra careful, I still got a scratch on my helmet at the end!
Are there similar hidden gems in your country? Share your photos and stories in the comments below.
too much some time watching in youtube funny video . Skakavista also really beautiful . Thanks a lot for sharing with us 5 gems in Bulgaria 
. almost all waterfall 300 km far from the capital but love to share my visited few waterfalls picture. 
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