Wonderful Bridges Guide
Marvel at Nature's Masterpiece: The Wonderful Bridges of Bulgaria Guide
The Wonderful Bridges (Чу́дните мостове, Chudnite mostove) are a breathtaking natural rock formation located in the Rhodope Mountains, not far from Bachkovo Monastery. These majestic arches were formed by the erosive power of the Erkyupriya River, which carved its way through the marble rock over millennia. The result is a stunning landscape of natural bridges, caves, and lush forests, offering incredible views and opportunities for hiking and exploration. The Wonderful Bridges were once a single large cave, but over time, the river eroded the rock, causing parts of the cave to collapse and leaving behind the impressive natural bridges we see today. The larger of the two bridges is about 15 meters wide and 45 meters high, while the smaller one is slightly narrower and shorter. The area around the bridges is rich in flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the Wonderful Bridges by hiking along well-maintained trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can walk across the bridges themselves, marveling at the power of nature that created them. There are also several caves and rock formations to explore in the area. For a more adventurous experience, consider rock climbing or rappelling with a certified guide. The area around Bachkovo is known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Look for restaurants serving "smilyanski bob" (Smolyan beans), a hearty bean stew, or "patatnik," a potato and cheese pie.
Transportation
From Plovdiv, take a bus to Chepelare. From Chepelare, take a local bus or taxi to the Wonderful Bridges. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi directly from Plovdiv, but this will be more expensive.