Hut Wonderful Bridges: Gateway to a Natural Wonder
Experience Bulgarian hospitality amidst stunning natural rock formations. Hike, dine, and relax at the gateway to the Wonderful Bridges.
Hut Wonderful Bridges (Хижа “Чудните мостове”) is more than just a guest house; it's an immersive experience in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains. Located in the picturesque region of Zabardo, Bulgaria, the hut provides a comfortable retreat and a gateway to the area's stunning natural beauty. The main attraction, the Wonderful Bridges (Чудните мостове), are a short distance away. These natural rock formations, also known as the Rock Bridges (Skalnite Mostove), are a geological phenomenon formed by the erosive activity of the Erkyupriya River. Over millennia, the river carved a deep-water cave in the marble, and the cave's ceiling eventually collapsed, likely due to an earthquake, leaving behind two majestic marble arches. The larger bridge spans 96 meters, with its highest arch reaching 45 meters. Visitors can walk across it and explore caves within its walls. The smaller bridge, located downstream, is equally impressive, stretching 60 meters long. The hut itself offers comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving traditional Bulgarian cuisine made with local ingredients. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while savoring their meals. The complex is suitable for various activities, including children's camps and seminars. There's also space for pitching tents. Souvenirs, crystals, homemade jams, and local honey are available for purchase. The area surrounding the hut is rich in flora and fauna, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Marked hiking trails lead to the Wonderful Bridges and other scenic spots.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking to the Wonderful Bridges. The trails can be uneven.
- Try the local Rhodope cuisine at the hut's restaurant. Many dishes feature locally sourced ingredients.
- Visit during the off-season for a quieter experience and to avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Wonderful Bridges and the surrounding landscape.
A brief summary to Хижа “Чудните мостове” / Hut “Wonderful Bridges”
- Природна забележителност Чудните Мостове, Zabardo, 4872, BG
- +359888474355
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
From the Hut Wonderful Bridges, the natural landmark Wonderful Bridges is a short walk away. Follow the well-marked trails leading directly to the rock formations. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the surrounding forest. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the site.
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Public Transport
To reach Hut Wonderful Bridges via public transport, take a bus from Smolyan to Zabardo. From Zabardo, it's approximately 3 km to the hut and the Wonderful Bridges; follow road signs or ask locals for directions. A bus ticket from Smolyan to Zabardo costs approximately 4-6 leva. From Chepelare, there is no direct public transport to the Wonderful Bridges. Alternatively, organized tours from Plovdiv often include transportation to the Wonderful Bridges. These tours typically cost between 50-100 leva per person.
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Taxi
A taxi from Chepelare to Hut Wonderful Bridges is possible, but can be relatively expensive due to the distance (approximately 35km). Expect to pay around 40-60 leva for the one-way trip. Taxis are not always readily available in Zabardo, so pre-booking from Chepelare might be necessary. There are no taxi stands directly at the hut.
