While Bulgaria hadn’t previously been on my radar, I suddenly realized what I’d been missing out on.
A big part of its appeal is that you can visit some mindblowing locations — such as the epic Belogradchik Fortress or the stunning Devetashka Cave — and only have to share them with a handful of other visitors. If you want to go somewhere before it’s really ‘discovered’, go to Bulgaria now.
Bulgaria is so wonderfully authentic. You can easily tell it hasn’t been spoiled or commercialized nearly as much as certain European travel hotspots.
Do keep in mind that tourism development is a few steps behind even some of the other countries in the Balkans, which you can view as a pro or con depending on your perspective. This is nothing a backpacker would mind, but still something to mention in an overview like this.
For instance, I felt that in Romania (in Transylvania in particular) more energy has already been invested in terms of tourism infrastructure, restoration, promotion, etc. In Bulgaria I felt some of the bigger mainstream tourism potential is still unrealized. Of course, that can also make it really fun to discover it for yourself.
Honestly, I couldn’t believe how uncrowded certain places were in Bulgaria — even at the peak of the summer season. (I should note that I didn’t travel along the Black Sea coast, focusing my trip on cities and nature in the interior.)
A great example is the ancient fortress in Belogradchik. It’s one of the most unique castles I’ve ever seen and the views from the top are jaw-dropping, but I only had to share this huge site with a dozen or so other visitors.
Yep, a stunning view like this is a lot better enjoyed when you’re not pummeled in the face by a thousand selfie sticks!
That’s just one of the reasons why it’s worth traveling a little off-path.
