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Hiking Trail
· Rhodope Mountains
ST508 Makadoniya hut - Belitsa (Bear Park)
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Rila National ParkPhoto: Max Smits, Sultans Trail - a European Cultural Route
The route passes Semkovo before arriving at the Belitsa Bear Park.
The descent continues through a landscape shaped by forestry, mountain pastures, and scattered settlements lying between the major mountain chains of the central Balkans. These upland regions long remained isolated during the winter months, connected by seasonal mountain roads and shepherd trails.
Near Belitsa lies the Belitsa Bear Park, a sanctuary created for former dancing bears from across the Balkans. The practice of keeping trained dancing bears survived in parts of southeastern Europe into recent decades. The sanctuary was established with support from animal welfare organisations, including Brigitte Bardot, and provides a protected forest environment for rescued bears.
The stage ends at tne Belitsa Bear Park in the Rila foothills.
Author’s recommendation
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
The route is subject to Alpine conditions. Be prepared for rapid weather changes.The trail follows well‑marked paths and mountain roads, is consistently safe, and lies within an area covered by mountain rescue services.
Tips and suggestions
The trail passes Semkovo, a winter ski resort. You may be able to find accommodation and refreshments here.The trail ends at the Belitsa Bear Sanctuary, which is situated in the mountain forest, about 12km from the village of Belitsa. The nearby Barbecue "Bear Park" offers food and accommodation. Reservations needed.
Roadbook
Public transport
The Makadoniya hut can only be reached by 4-wheel drive on a dirt road from Blagoevgrad (37km) or Belitsa via Semkovo (26km)The Belitsa Bear Park can be reached by car from Belitsa (12,5km).
Belitsa is located at the narrow-gauge Rhodope Railway line between Septemvri and Dobrinishte and is best reached by train. The BDŽ narrow‑gauge line runs several times per day. Trains from Septemvri connect with mainline services from Sofia and Plovdiv, making Yakoruda accessible from both directions. The village also has a bus connection to Yakoruda and Velingrad.
Directions
The timetable of the narrow-gauge Rhodope Railway line can be found on razpisanie.bdz.bg hereThe timetable for the bus to Velingrad can be found on bgrazpisanie.com here
Coordinates
Equipment
This stage of the Sultans Trail requires standard long-distance hiking equipment. Weather protection is essential, including rain and cold gear, depending on the season. In late spring and early summer, mosquito deterrents are strongly recommended, while during the hot season, sun protection and a sufficient water supply are essential. Reliable offline navigation tools should be carried at all times.Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
User Questions