Vitosha!
It is the fourth highest mountain in Bulgaria. The only domed mountain in Bulgaria, its area is also not impressive - just over 300 sq. km. It is situated between the Balkan Mountains and the Rilo-Rhodope massif, but mostly in the eyes and hearts of all who wake up with its familiar contours.
Vitosha has always held a special place for anyone born or who has ever lived in Sofia. An easy way to escape the dynamic city, but just as dynamic to come back to blend in with the city's hustle and bustle and its obligations.
We know it mostly from its northern and northeastern side - the Sofia Valley. Basically, we know well its stone rivers, Aleko hut and Platoto, some remember the Hotel Shtastliveca. We are also no strangers to Vetrovala and Ophelia, where generations of kids have been riding their sledges.
During the warmer months we decided to look at Vitosha from a different perspective - from the northwest or from the Vladayska Saddle. To reach perhaps the most popular and densely populated place on the mountain today - the Golden Bridges, but via a little-known route. We start from the village of Vladaja, nestled between Vitosha and Lyulin, to reach the area famous for its moraines.
Tourist blogs promised us about an hour and a half hike, but those used to easier terrain will take it in less time.
The trail is easy and pleasant, and suitable for children. It's well marked, though in practice it's very hard to get wrong.
It's wide and wooded most of the time. Breathtaking views are lacking, but complete relaxation and forgetting all tension is achieved.
The road runs parallel to the Vlada River - in fact the most remarkable thing about this route.
There is no shortage of mini ponds, water slides and of course - stones.
Fans of flora, fauna and photography can find interesting objects. All they have to do is step off the trail and explore the surroundings. Be careful not to get lost, especially if your walk is in the afternoon.
Eventually the trail comes out at the bottom of the Golden Bridges, before the big turn where the buses stop. The result - change of scenery, fresh air, good Slow Life mood, Sofia and Vladaja - at a safe distance.
Photos