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Rhodope Mountains
The Rhodope Mountains extend to the south of Bulgaria and the north of Greece. As the largest and oldest mountain range in Bulgaria, the Rhodopes are known for the largest coniferous forests in the Balkans. The landscape is also characterized by karst landscapes with numerous caves, gorges and spectacular rock formations. Many rivers and creeks also flow through the Rhodopes and the mild climate attracts outdoor tourists.
Activities in the Rhodope Mountains
Attractions in the Rhodope Mountains
Highlights
Natural rock formation in the Rhodope Mountains, which has been one of Bulgaria's official natural ...
White rock formations in the shape of kissing and embracing figures.
Imposing stone bridge in the heart of the Rhodopes.
Popular vantage point with a great view over the Buinovsko Gorge.
The lake takes its name from the Vacha River, which it dams. The huge dam wall is almost 140 m high. ...
As you walk in the untouched nature of Rilla, you are accompanied by an almost constant view of picturesque, sapphire blue lakes that are ...
On historic paths through the green Nestos Gorge.
Three day hike in the Rila Mountains. Stay the night in cozy mountain huts!
A round hike from Zabardo village to the natural phenomenon Wonder Bridges
Start am Beginn der Ardaschleife, zuerst auf Straße, dann auf Feldweg zu einem Aussichtspunkt oberhalb des Dorfes Gorna Pole. Hinab über teils ...
The Rhodope Mountains: Mystical Mountains and Home of Orpheus
Photo: Krasimir, Adobe Stock
Numerous myths and legends surround the Rhodopes, most of them revolving around the most famous singer in Greek mythology: Orpheus. Legend has it that he could soothe dangerous animals, charm gods and soften stones with his singing. He is said to have made his home in what is now the Rhodope Mountains, formerly called Thrace, and to have spent many years of his life there.
The Orpheus flower, which is found only here, is said to have been created from his blood drops when he died. The inhabitants of the Rhodope Mountains still tell these stories today. They also say that at sunset the shadows of Orpheus and his beloved can still be seen in the meadows.
The legends have an important place in Bulgarian culture and have led to the Rhodopoes acquiring the reputation of being a mystical and mysterious mountain. And numerous natural wonders and monuments really give the impression that natural forces have worked here: Be it the Miraculous Bridges, the Stone Wedding rock formations or the Devil's Bridge.
The traces of Orpheus can still be found everywhere in the Rhodopes. For example, next to the Orpheus peak there is the Orpheus waterfall and the hydroelectric power station at the Vacha reservoir bears his name.
Where are the Rhodope Mountains?
Overall, the Rhodopes are characterized by dark coniferous forests and lush meadows, deep gorges and rugged cliffs, caves and high mountain peaks. The highest mountain, Goljam Perelik, reaches 2,191 m. Hikers are especially fond of the varied nature and in winter, there are two large ski areas for snowy adventures.
The Rhodopes can be divided into three areas. The Western Rhodopes comprise two-thirds of the mountains in Bulgaria and are not only the largest and highest part of the entire mountain range, but also have the best infrastructure. In the most visited area of the Rhodopes, besides the highest and most famous peaks, there are some of the deepest gorges and well-known tourist centers.
The Eastern Rhodopes occupy the last third of the mountain range in Bulgaria and are significantly lower. There are large dams and some bigger cities. The area is rich in mineral springs and is home to almost every species of European birds of prey.
The Southern Rhodopes are the part of the mountains on Greek territory and also include the Rhodope National Park. The low population of the area, the high rainfall and the geographical position favor the life of plants and animals. The famous nature reserve Dadia Forest is also located in the Southern Rhodopes.
Outdoor adventures in the wild nature
In April, the Rhodope Mountains already have relatively warm temperatures - ideal if you want to start the outdoor season here!
The western part of the mountain range is characterised by a mountain climate, while in the eastern part the warm air masses from the Mediterranean ensure warmer temperatures. The best time to visit the Rhodope Mountains naturally depends on your preferences: For hikers and cyclists, the climatic conditions are best between spring and autumn, while winter sports enthusiasts get their money's worth from December to March.
In the varied mountain world of the Rhodopes you can easily spend several days and try out different activities. The mountains offer exciting challenges for beginners and experienced hikers alike, whether you want to go on a short hike or an extended trek. In contrast to the neighbouring Rila Mountains, you will have to climb less high and have a wider choice of easy to moderately difficult hiking routes.
The Rhodope Mountains are also ideal for cycling, mountain biking and water sports. And winter sports fans also get their money's worth here: the ski resorts of Pamporovo and Chepelare are popular destinations for skiers and snowboarders. The town of Kardschali is a good place to start your active holiday, as it is centrally located and has a lot to offer.
A special feature of the Rhodope Mountains is their diverse flora and fauna: around 2,000 plant species, almost 300 bird species and wild animals such as bison and deer make their home here. You can get particularly close to the wild animals on guided safaris, which are becoming increasingly popular in the Rhodope Mountains.
What is the best way to reach the Rhodope Mountains?
In principle, you have two options: From Bulgaria you can reach the Rhodope Mountains via Plovdiv Airport, which is served by several European airports, or from the capital Sofia, which is a little further away.
You will definitely need a car to get there and to get around in the mountains, as the Rhodope Mountains are not served by public transport.
Alternatively, you can also travel from the south of Greece. The airport of Thessaloniki is a good choice. From here it is just under 100 km to the beginning of the Rhodope Mountains.
Trip planning
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