Small White Town.
At least, that’s what the name suggests when you look it up online. I should probably confirm this with the few Bulgarians I know. But one thing’s for sure—it is a small town. Surprisingly, it’s also considered one of the most famous places in Bulgaria. That might be true, especially since I knew nothing of it before visiting.
It was a place my Bulgarian friend had always wanted to see, and it piqued my interest as a travel blogger. After all, “interesting” is why we travel and write.
Nestled at the foot of the Balkan Mountains, which stretch along the Serbia-Bulgaria border, this small town is renowned for its stunning rock formations. These unique geological features come with their own legends and are a beloved national landmark. Bulgaria has even proposed them as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The town is also home to the famous Belogradchik Fortress. This fortress dates back to Roman times and evolved through various periods of Bulgarian history. By the late 14th century, the Ottomans took control and used it extensively for expansion in the Balkans. The fortress was operational until the late 19th century. Today, it stands as a fascinating tourist attraction and a historical monument. The Ottomans’ influence across the region is palpable, and one’s perspective on their legacy often depends on religious views.
While there’s not much to “see” in the fort beyond its historic walls, it’s worth exploring. The rock formations seem to emerge through the ruins, reclaiming the space like nature taking back its own. Hiking is an excellent way to spend your time here, and we encountered quite a few Bulgarian tourists as well.
We amused ourselves watching a guy trying to impress his girlfriend by hiking shirtless, accompanied by several other shirtless men. I joked about the locals’ apparent inability to afford shirts, while my friend rolled her eyes and explained it as a display of local “masculinity.” Maybe there’s a charity opportunity here!
The views from the fortress are spectacular, and there are spots where you feel on top of the world, looking out at the town, rocks, and the valley below. For those without a fear of heights, there are some precarious spots that offer incredible views.
Overall, the trip was fantastic. Visiting a place my friend hadn’t seen before made it all the more special. Getting lost on our way back to Sofia added an extra layer of adventure, which is the essence of travel—wandering aimlessly and discovering new things. Having my Bulgarian friend with me made the trip easier and more enjoyable.
Practical Information:
Belogradchik itself isn’t the most captivating city. A day trip will suffice for most visitors. There are a few accommodation options, including the fairly comfortable but pricy Large Hotel Skalite, which has several restaurants. Alternatively, you can stay in one of the local guesthouses.
Getting here can be tricky without your own transport. Belogradchik is near the Serbian border, about three hours from Sofia. It’s a long day trip from Sofia but could be a good stop on a cross-Balkan adventure.
Language can be a hurdle once you leave the city. I was fortunate to have my Bulgarian friend with me, which made things easier. In Belogradchik, some people speak a bit of English, but not fluently.
Despite the challenges, the visit is worth it. The rock formations and the region are breathtaking, perhaps best explored as part of a larger tour of the area. This area is a national treasure and has been submitted by Bulgaria for UNESCO World Heritage status. It holds great local mythology and historical significance.
