Things to Do in Varzulitsa
Varzulitsa, located in Veliko Tarnovo Province, Bulgaria, is a charming village that offers visitors a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Its proximity to the Danube River and the city of Svishtov makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat with easy access to urban amenities.
Things to Do and Top Attractions in Varzulitsa
Vardim Island
Vardim Island, situated near the village of Vardim, is the third-largest Bulgarian Danubian island. It serves as a protected wetland and bird nesting area of national importance, hosting a diverse range of flora and fauna. The island is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, with 75 bird species, including 31 of European importance, making it a significant site for ornithological studies.
The island's rich biodiversity and serene environment make it a popular spot for nature walks and ecological tourism.
Goritsa Waterfall
Located in the Rila mountain range, the Goritsa Waterfall is a 39-meter-high plunge waterfall. It is the lowest waterfall in Rila in terms of altitude, situated at 900 meters above sea level. The waterfall is accessible via a trail starting from the village of Ovchartsi, offering visitors a picturesque hike through the Bulgarian countryside.
The Goritsa Waterfall is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, providing a refreshing escape into nature.
Aladzha Monastery
Aladzha Monastery is a medieval Orthodox Christian cave monastery complex located in northeastern Bulgaria, near the city of Varna. The monastery caves were hewn into a 25-meter-high vertical karst cliff near the upper edge of the Franga Plateau on several levels. Dedicated to the Holy Trinity, it was an active hesychast monastic community of the Second Bulgarian Empire since the 12th century and perhaps survived until the early 18th century.
Today, the grotto is a popular tourist destination, offering insights into medieval monastic life and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Varna Archaeological Museum
The Varna Archaeological Museum, located in the city of Varna, is one of the largest museums in Bulgaria. It has 2,150 square meters of exhibition area with exhibits from the prehistoric, Thracian, Ancient Greek, and Ancient Roman periods of the region's history, as well as from the times of the medieval Bulgarian and Byzantine Empires, Ottoman rule, and the Bulgarian National Revival.
The museum's most celebrated exhibit is the Gold of Varna, the oldest gold treasure in the world, excavated in 1972 and dating to 4600-4200 BCE, which occupies three separate exhibition halls.
Varna Zoo
Varna Zoo, located within the Sea Garden in Varna, Bulgaria, is home to 60 species of animals, with more than 300 individuals. The zoo houses 17 protected kinds of birds and animals, written in the Red Book of Bulgaria for protected species.
The zoo is a popular destination for families and animal enthusiasts, offering educational programs and a chance to see a variety of wildlife up close.
Museum of Mosaics, Devnya
The Museum of Mosaics in Devnya is built on top of a large ruined Roman villa from Late Antiquity. The museum exhibits mosaics from the Roman and early Byzantine city of Marcianopolis, as well as other archaeological artifacts.
The museum offers a unique glimpse into ancient Roman art and architecture, showcasing intricate mosaics and historical artifacts.
Varna Aquarium
The Varna Aquarium focuses on the Black Sea’s flora and fauna, including over 140 fish species, as well as freshwater fish, Mediterranean fish, exotic species from faraway areas of the World Ocean, mussels, and algae.
The aquarium provides an educational experience about marine life and conservation efforts in the Black Sea region.
Varna Dolphinarium
The Varna Dolphinarium is the only dolphinarium on the Balkan Peninsula. It was built in 1984 and has 1,134 seats. In 30-minute shows, visitors can watch trained dolphins perform various tricks and interact with the audience.
The dolphinarium offers an entertaining and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Shumen Plateau
Shumen Plateau Natural Reserve covers a protected area of 3,896 hectares, where visitors can find a wealth of plant and animal species, including 19 species of orchids, the rare black woodpecker, red deer, Eurasian goshawk, and over 20 species of bats.
The plateau offers hiking trails, historical sites, and panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Madara Horseman
The Madara Horseman is a legendary rock relief, one of Bulgaria’s national symbols and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is part of the National Historical and Archaeological Reserve 'Madara', which comprises a Thracian praying site, ancient water springs, pagan temples, ruins of Christian churches, a rock monastery with more than 150 cells, and several cave complexes.
Visitors can explore the archaeological site, hike to the top of the Madara Plateau, and enjoy the view from the medieval fortress ruins.
"Key Takeaways"
Visitors to Varzulitsa can explore ancient ruins, enjoy scenic landscapes, and immerse themselves in local traditions. The village's rich history and natural surroundings provide a unique backdrop for a memorable Bulgarian experience.