Discover the Majestic Iskar Gorge
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iskar Gorge, Bulgaria's natural masterpiece, perfect for hiking, photography, and outdoor adventures.
Iskar Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder in Bulgaria, offers visitors stunning views, diverse wildlife, and thrilling outdoor adventures. This picturesque ravine is perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
A brief summary to Iskar Gorge
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the gorge.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit; conditions can change rapidly in the gorge.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from Sofia Valley and take the road towards the town of Samokov. Follow the signs for the E79 road and then merge onto the Rila Highway (Peshtera - Samokov - Dolna Banya road). Continue on this road for approximately 20 kilometers. Look for signs indicating Iskar Gorge (Искърско дефиле) as you approach the area. Once you arrive, you can park at designated areas near the gorge. Please note that parking may incur a small fee.
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Public Transportation
To reach Iskar Gorge using public transportation, take a bus from Sofia to Samokov. Buses leave from the Central Bus Station in Sofia frequently. The ride takes about 1 hour and costs approximately 5 BGN. Once you arrive in Samokov, you will need to take a local bus towards Iskar Gorge. The bus stop for the Iskar Gorge is usually near the central area. Make sure to check local schedules as they may vary, and the bus ride from Samokov to Iskar Gorge will take about 30 minutes.
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Taxi
For a more direct option, consider taking a taxi from Sofia Valley directly to Iskar Gorge. This will provide you with a comfortable and quick ride, taking about 40 minutes. The cost will vary depending on the taxi service, but expect to pay around 40-70 BGN. It is advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is running.
Discover more about Iskar Gorge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Heroes Mural
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Trastenaya Hut
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Vratsa Balkan
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Vratza
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Kom Peak
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Sofia valley
29.5 km
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LEM Bulgaria EOOD
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MOTO-PFOHE
35.9 km
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Hostel "10 Coins"
36.0 km
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Perlovska
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Theater "Liberation"
36.9 km
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Zapaden Park - Main Entrace
37.0 km
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Sofia Serdika Bus Station
37.1 km
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Like Home Hostel
37.1 km
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Site Bulgari Zaedno
37.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vazova trail - starting from the village of Gara Bov
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Waterfall Skaklya (Zasele)
1.9 km
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Karst spring "Jitolyub"
5.6 km
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Lakatnik Rocks
5.6 km
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River rafting Iskyr / Rafting in Bulgaria
5.6 km
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"Temnata Dupka" (The Dark Hole) Cave
5.7 km
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Monument "Septemvriytsi 1923”
5.9 km
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Moscha
16.1 km
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Klisurski Monastery
19.6 km
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Petrohan Pass
20.5 km
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Ledenika Cave
21.2 km
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Katina Pyramids
22.0 km
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Cherepish Monastery
22.1 km
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Shiyakovtsi monastery
25.7 km
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St. Mina Monastery
32.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Rhodope Chanove
33.9 km
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Mehana "Kukush"
36.5 km
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Skadarlija (Скадарлиjа)
37.1 km
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Restaurant "Zapaden park"
37.1 km
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Ashurbanipal
38.0 km
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Contessa
38.1 km
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L'etranger restaurant
38.2 km
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Skapto Burgers, Beers and Fries Iskar
38.3 km
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Belogradchik Rocks Restaurant - Sofia
38.3 km
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Melo by the Ruins
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Miyabi
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Shaverma
38.4 km
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Chefs burger duner
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Panorama
38.5 km
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StandArt Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Izola Petrov Ltd
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Folk Art
37.6 km
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Souvenir shop Folk art
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Зоомагазин Pet Bar
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Art.E
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Bulgarian shop
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Gift shop.
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The Coffee Shop
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Kofein
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Online shop for cosmetics FACE CARE
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магазин BLACK SEA STARS
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Central Universal Store (Tsum)
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Plus (Second Hand)
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Mystic Fox Tattoo Studio
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Craft Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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DELTA BLUES BAR
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Street Bar
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com.bar
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Cush.Bar
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Barila Bar | Кафе-бар София
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Sputnik Cocktail Bar
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Rabbit Hole
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The Scene Rooftop Bar & Terrace
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KANAAL - craft beer bar
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BarBarossa
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