Vratsa

Location: Vratsa is settled at the foot of Vratsa Balkan Range, 112 km. north of the capital city Sofia. The town represents one of the richest regions of Karsts formations in Bulgaria, such as caves, precipices, cave fauna, and Alpine cliffs. It is a preferred place for alpinists and climbers and a starting point for the routes to Vratsata gorge and Ledenika cave. It is also a point for departure to the famous Bulgarian Hristo Botev alley of death, the Okolchitsa peak monument, as well as to 'Parshevitsa' Hut and the 'Skaklya' waterfall- the second highest waterfall in Bulgaria.

History: Nestling at the foothills of the Balkan, with the Leva River calmly crossing through, Vratsa used to be a place, which attracted people since ancient times. That is why the motto of the town is: “Town as the Montain - Ancient and Young!”
The Museum of History, which is located on the main “Hristo Botev” Square features a variety of exhibitions from the Antiquity and the Middle Ages. The most famous exhibit of the museum is the Thracian Treasure of Rogozen, including sets of gold and ornamental pottery and decorations.

Sightseeing: One of the greatest attractions on the territory of Vratsa is the Vratsata rock massif. It is a vertical wall, situated along the Leva River and is preferred for extreme tourism. The impressive 400 meters vertical wall is a favorite rock climbing area. Lots of national and international climbing contests are organized there. In Roman times the gorge was blocked by a high fortress wall with a gate. Here tourists can also go with parachutes down to “Okolchitsa” hut.

Vrachanski Balkan Nature Park is situated nearby. It offers great opportunities for rural and sport tourism. Vratsa region is very attractive with its karst cliffs and more than 500 caves.
The other famous tourism site is the Ledenika Cave, located at about 16 km. southwest of the town. It is the biggest and most beautiful of all caves in this region. It has several chambers and is open for visitors. Guides are also offered. The entrance of the cave is located 830 m above the sea level. The cave features many vivid Karst formations - stalactites and stalagmites - and is a popular national tourist attraction. The interior temperature varies from -7 to -15°C, and the air humidity is 92%.

In cultural terms Vratsa has to offer many sightseeing points as well. The tower of the “Meschii” is an ancient 13-metres high stone clock tower, which was built in the 16th century. It is located very close to the main square of Vratsa.
Interesting cultural-historical place is the Ethnographic and Revival Complex, which shows the ethnic characteristics, the spirit of the epoch and the most typical livelihood in Vratsa through the ages.

Vicinities: In the region of Vratsa and easy to access are also the Cherepishki, Stroupetski, and Sedemte Prestola Monasteries. The picturesque villages Pavlotche and Zgorigrad are located near Vratsa. They are known for the hospitality of the village homes, the delicious traditional dishes and local wines. The wonderful nature and the fresh mountain air, as well as the appropriate park equipment allow eco camps and recreation.

Wine and Dine: A big supermarket from Billa Stores Chain is located on Sumi Square, close to the train and the bus station of the city.
There is a variety of good traditional restaurants, plenty of cafes and two night clubs.
Interesting place for the fens of jazz and rock & roll music is the authentic Vratsa Jazz club, situated on Ruski Square, where at the candles' light one can really enjoy the magic sounds of drums and guitars.