Central Balkan National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria, the Central Balkan National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This vast expanse of natural beauty spans over 71,000 hectares, making it the second largest national park in the country. Located in the Lovech region, it offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bulgaria.
The park is characterized by its stunning mountain ranges, deep gorges, and lush forests. One of the most popular attractions within the Central Balkan National Park is the impressive Botev Peak, the highest peak in the Balkan Mountains. Adventurous hikers and nature enthusiasts flock to this majestic summit to witness panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, there are numerous well-marked trails that wind through the park, allowing visitors to explore its diverse flora and fauna.
The Central Balkan National Park is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a sanctuary for wildlife. The park is home to over 60 species of mammals, including brown bears, wolves, and wildcats. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of avian species that inhabit the park, such as golden eagles and black storks. The park's preservation efforts have made it a crucial habitat for endangered and rare species, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers.
In addition to its natural wonders, the Central Balkan National Park offers a glimpse into Bulgaria's rich cultural heritage. Within its boundaries, you will find picturesque villages that have preserved their traditional way of life. These charming settlements offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, taste traditional Bulgarian cuisine, and interact with friendly locals.
Central Balkan National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Central Balkan National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Botev Peak, Raysko Praskalo, Babsko Praskalo, Vezhen Peak. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Central Balkan National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Central Balkan National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Roman theatre of Philippopolis (Plovdiv), Etar Architectural-Ethnographic Complex (Gabrovo), Uzana.
Best Time To Visit Central Balkan National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Central Balkan National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Gray wolf
The wolf, also known as the gray wolf or grey wolf, is a large canine native to Eurasia and North America. More than thirty subspecies of Canis lupus have been recognized, and gray wolves...
Mammals
Golden eagle
The golden eagle is one of the best-known birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the most widely distributed species of eagle. Like all eagles, it belongs to the family...
Birds
Brown (Grizzly) Bear
The brown bear is a bear species found across Eurasia and North America. In North America, the populations of brown bears are called grizzly bears.
Mammals
Peregrine falcon
The peregrine falcon, also known as the peregrine, and historically as the duck hawk in North America, is a widespread bird of prey in the family Falconidae. A large, crow-sized falcon, it...
Birds
Red Deer, Elk, Hangul, Maral, Wapiti
The red deer is one of the largest deer species. The red deer inhabits most of Europe, the Caucasus Mountains region, Asia Minor, Iran, parts of western Asia, and central Asia.
Mammals
Lovech