Memories of childhood are often filled with sunny afternoons, running at will and first encounters with nature. What could be better than giving our children just such moments - shared, real and away from screens? A walk along one of Bulgaria's beautiful eco-trails is the perfect way to combine fun with exercise and teach kids to love and protect nature.
You don't have to be an experienced mountaineer to enjoy these adventures. We've selected some easy and extremely scenic routes that are perfect for families with kids - with enough interesting views to grab their attention, and no steep or dangerous sections.
1. Eco-trail "The Canyon of Waterfalls", Smolyan
This is probably one of the most impressive eco-trails, which is, however, fully accessible for smaller tourists. Located very close to the town of Smolyan, the trail follows the course of the Elenska River and reveals a series of breathtaking waterfalls. The largest of them is "Orpheus", whose waters fall from a height of 68 metres. The route is well protected with wooden bridges, stairs and resting places. The sound of the water, the fresh forest air and the beautiful views will fascinate children, and the metal animal figures along the way will make the walk even more interesting. The duration is about 3-4 hours with a slow pace and breaks, but you can reach the first few waterfalls and return if you are with very young children.
2. The Devil's Path, near Borino
Don't be intimidated by the name, this eco trail is a real adventure! Located in the Western Rhodopes, it offers a unique experience. Part of the route goes along wooden stairs and platforms cut into the rocks above the river, giving the feeling of passing through a secret world. The trail has two circles - a small and a large one. The small circle is perfectly suitable for children over 6-7 years old, takes about an hour and a half and passes through the most attractive part with the rock phenomenon "Devil's Bridge". Children will be ecstatic at the opportunity to feel like real explorers. It is important to wear comfortable, closed shoes.
3. "Beli Iskar" eco-trail, Rila
If you're looking for a very easy and flat walk, perfect for even strollers or the littlest of feet, this is your place. The trail is located at the beginning of Rila National Park and winds along the crystal clear waters of the Beli Iskar River. The trail is about 7 kilometers long in both directions, but is almost without any climbing. There are numerous bridges crossing the river, information boards about the local flora and fauna and picnic spots all along the way. This is the perfect place where children can run free, throw pebbles into the water and enjoy the fresh mountain air without any exertion.
4. Krushun Falls, near Lovech
This is a fabulous water cascade that creates the feeling of an exotic paradise. The eco trail is made up of a system of bridges and steps that allow you to walk very close to the turquoise waters of the falls. The view is truly spectacular all year round. The route is short and easy, making it ideal for families. Keep in mind that the place is quite crowded on weekends, so go early to enjoy the tranquility. There are also several caves in the area that you can explore.
How to recover after the adventure?
After a day filled with so much emotion and movement, there is nothing better than a well-deserved rest. Imagine how the tired legs of children (and yours) relax in the warm embrace of the mineral water. That's just the kind of recharge you need to make your family excursion complete. You can relax in our SPA hotel in Velingradwhere the healing mineral water will help you to fully recover. The pools are a great place to end the day, where the kids can have fun in the water and you can relax and plan your next adventure in nature.
Travelling with children doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes a simple walk in the woods is all you need to create priceless memories together. Choose your trail and hit the road!
