Bulgaria walks

This short hike (entrance fee charged to maintain the site) will take you above the Stob Pyramids, a natural site that is magnificent at the end of the day, formed by erosion.

“Витоша” (Vitosha) is the iconic mountain that overlooks the capital, Sofia. From Boyana, about 8 kilometres south of Sofia city centre, take a bus (check for the number) or drive to the place known as the “Golden Bridges” (Златни мостове) in Bulgarian. The route is a round trip with the option to stop for a meal at Aleko (45 mins), provided you arrive there before 3.00 pm. The route, signposted from start to finish, passes through Bor, then across the plateau to the ski resort. After a climb through a forest sheltered from the sun, you’ll reach a plateau covered in meadows and flowers in spring – a sight you won’t forget in a hurry – and a breathtaking 1,000-metre view down over Sofia. Fun is guaranteed, but set off early enough in the morning to be at the car park by 9.00 am and make the most of your day in the mountains; it’s a 30-minute drive from the Boyana neighbourhood to the car park: ‘Златни Мостове – Golden Bridges’ – don’t look for bridges, though; they’re actually huge round or oblong blocks of lava.

This route is very busy during the summer, but it offers splendid scenery and multiple alternatives. This hike can be started by chairlift to avoid a 5 km climb and save your energy for the most beautiful part