Bulgaria may not be a mainstream tourist destination, but that doesn't mean it lacks interesting things to do and see. On the contrary, this small Balkan country has plenty to offer concerning cool traditions, events and activities. Any of them can leave you dazzled and with long-lasting fond memories of the place. Here is a quick list of things to do here:
A Dance With Monsters
Bulgaria is home to the rather unusual tradition of Kukeri. Men dress up as monsters with big masks and plenty of bells attached to the waist area. Kukeri takes place in villages all across the country from as early as January till March. The idea is that these monsters and the sound they make will scare away evil spirits and ensure prosperity in the area. The costumes are very elaborate and are spectacular to look at.
Step On The Embers
If you think watching Kukeri was cool, you'd be thrilled to see the Nestinari. People dancing on embers - Nestinari - is an ancient tradition, preserved in a few places in the country. Watching these people dance on the smouldering embers might make you worried. However, know that they are perfectly fine - they have mastered this art to perfection.
Wake Up Early To Collect Roses
Bulgaria is home to the world-famous Valley of Roses, which grows the local Rose Damascena. This is the type used in a majority of top perfume and cosmetic products. Roses are picked in June and tourists may usually join in on the fun. You should keep in mind that roses must be picked at dawn to preserve their essential oils, so that's one consideration for people who like to sleep in.
Listen To Live Music Performances In The Mountain
The Ambaritsa chalet, which stands at 1500 meters, is home to the Blueberry Festival. Hundreds of people head up the mountain to enjoy a weekend of live music performances and take a look at various interesting crafts and exquisite food.
Enjoy A Different February 14
You know well enough that February 14 is St. Valentine's day. However, that is mostly a Western tradition. Bulgaria has been influenced by it and makes honour love on this day, but the country also celebrates the Day of the Winemakers on the same day. If you happen to be in the country on this exact day, you should treat yourself to a glass of wine in honour of St. Trifon the Pruner.
You know well enough that February 14 is St. Valentine's day. However, that is mostly a Western tradition. Bulgaria has been influenced by it and makes honour love on this day, but the country also celebrates the Day of the Winemakers on the same day. If you happen to be in the country on this exact day, you should treat yourself to a glass of wine in honour of St. Trifon the Pruner.
Check Out Seven Lakes At Once
Perhaps the most visited tourist attraction in Bulgaria is the Seven Rila Lakes. The lakes unveil magical scenery as you climb the Rila Mountain. Climbing on top of Lake Peak is a fantastic opportunity to see all seven lakes at once.
Perhaps the most visited tourist attraction in Bulgaria is the Seven Rila Lakes. The lakes unveil magical scenery as you climb the Rila Mountain. Climbing on top of Lake Peak is a fantastic opportunity to see all seven lakes at once.
Visit a place of worship of 4 different religions
There is a place in the capital of Sofia where four different religions have their places of worship co-existing peacefully. The place is known as the Square of Religious Tolerance, where a mosque, a Roman Catholic cathedral, a synagogue and an Orthodox church stand close to each other.
There is a place in the capital of Sofia where four different religions have their places of worship co-existing peacefully. The place is known as the Square of Religious Tolerance, where a mosque, a Roman Catholic cathedral, a synagogue and an Orthodox church stand close to each other.
Evidently, there are a lot of cool things to do in Bulgaria. The next time you are searching for a Bulgarian property, be sure to check for opportunities to experience these locations and events.
Author: Trendafil Dryankov
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