European long distance path E8 - part Bulgaria
The place
hiking trail from Dursey, Ireland – to Istanbul, Turkey
Why go
Belogradchik rocks (natural fortress). Vratsa karst gorge. Shipka Pass (scene of Russo-Turkish War 1877). Kazanlak Thracian tomb (UNESCO). Bachkovo Monastery. Strandzha Nature Park. Black Sea coast at Rezovo.
A bit of history
The E8 was established by the European Ramblers Association as part of its European walking network. In Bulgaria, it integrates the existing national Eco-Trail network (Ekopohodna Мрежа) developed by the Bulgarian Tourist Union.
Getting there
Bregovo: car from Vidin (30 min), train from Sofia (3h via Vidin). Rezovo: car from Burgas (2h). Sofia international airport.
Recommended gear
Hiking boots. Water (some stages have limited water sources). Map of Bulgarian trail network. Insect repellent (Strandzha region).
Best season
April to October. May–June with wildflowers. October: pleasant temperatures, less crowded.