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Buynovo River Gorge: A Natural Masterpiece

Discover Bulgaria's longest gorge: a breathtaking journey through towering cliffs, rich biodiversity, and captivating legends in the Rhodope Mountains.

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The Buynovo River Gorge, Bulgaria's longest gorge, is a stunning natural wonder carved by the Buynovo River through marble rock. Towering cliffs, the narrow 'Wolf's Leap,' and diverse flora and fauna make it a must-see destination in the Rhodope Mountains.

A brief summary to Buynovo River Gorge

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Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available in the gorge.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky and uneven trails safely.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make trails slippery.
  • Consider visiting in the spring for the most vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Buynovo River Gorge via public transportation, take a bus from Smolyan to the village of Dolen. Buses run regularly, but check the local timetable for exact times. The bus journey takes about 30 minutes and costs around 2 BGN. Once in Dolen, you can walk or take a local taxi (which might cost around 10-15 BGN) to the entrance of the gorge. The walking path from Dolen to the gorge is about 3 km and offers beautiful views.

  • Car

    If you're traveling by car, start your journey from the town of Smolyan, which is a central hub in the Rhodope Mountains. Head southeast on road 86 towards the village of Dolen. After approximately 15 km, keep an eye out for signage directing you to Buynovo River Gorge. Turn left onto a smaller road that leads into the gorge. The final stretch is scenic but may be narrow, so drive cautiously. There is no parking fee, and you can park along the roadside.

  • Taxi

    For a more convenient option, you can hire a taxi from any location in the Rhodope Mountains to Buynovo River Gorge. This will be more expensive, typically ranging from 25 to 50 BGN depending on your starting point, but it provides door-to-door service. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Buynovo River Gorge

The Buynovo River Gorge, situated between the villages of Yagodina and Teshel, is the longest gorge in Bulgaria. This natural landmark was formed by the Buynovo River as it eroded layers of marble rock over millennia, creating an impressive canyon with towering cliffs rising hundreds of meters. The gorge is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the narrowest point known as “The Wolf's Leap”. Legend has it that during harsh winters, wolves would attempt to leap across this chasm to reach sheepfolds on the other side. While the story may be folklore, the proximity of the cliffs at this point is undeniable. The area boasts rich biodiversity, with a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are under protection. The gorge is also in close proximity to other natural attractions. Nearby, the Yagodina Cave, the longest in the Rhodope Mountains, offers a fascinating underground experience, with about 1.5 kilometers open to tourists. Also close are the Sanchov Cave, a natural bridge, and the Praskolo waterfall. The Buynovo River Gorge is accessible by a narrow, paved road that winds through the base of the cliffs. This route, while scenic, requires careful driving due to its single-lane nature and potential for opposing traffic. For panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding Rhodope Mountains, visitors can ascend to the Eagle's Eye, a metal platform built on St. Iliya Peak. The Buynovo Gorge was designated a nature reserve in 1971 and is part of Bulgaria's top 100 tourist destinations.

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