Borino: Rhodope Mountains, Karst and Living Folklore

Rhodope Landscapes and Protected Nature

Borino Municipality lies in the Rila-Rhodope region, in the Veliyshko-Videnishki part of the Rhodope Mountains and within the Trigrad karst massif. The terrain is mountainous and deeply dissected, with rounded forms, high ridge plateaus, deep river valleys, gorges and extensive tectonic basins. These varied landscapes give the region its distinctive character. The entire municipality is part of the Natura 2000 network because of its exceptionally rich biodiversity.

One example of a protected landscape is the “Trigrad Gorge” area, which lies partly within the territory of the village of Yagodina in Borino Municipality. It was designated on December 6, 1963, expanded on July 18, 2007, and updated in area on October 8, 2015. The Buynovo Gorge is another protected natural landmark. It covers 608.60 hectares and lies 6.5 kilometers northeast of Buynovo. Its unique rock formations are protected. The Buynovo River runs through the gorge, forming numerous waterfalls and pools.

Kastrakli also brings together several natural features: the biosphere reserve is one of the municipality’s natural attractions and includes a small reservoir and a distinctive black pine forest. The lake is artificial, with a water surface of 35 decares and a depth of 18 meters; it is fed by an underground spring. Kastrakli is 6 kilometers from the village of Borino. When choosing your holiday apartment, such location details can help you take your preferred nature destinations into account.

Rock Arch, Waterfalls and a World of Caves

The Devil’s Bridge is a rock arch shaped by the waters of Chatak Dere over millions of years. It is 18 meters high, its opening measures 6 meters, and the rock layer is 3 to 4 meters thick. From Borino, access is via a marked and secured path, with wooden shelters along the way where you can rest. From the path at the bridge, it takes 15 to 20 minutes on foot to reach the Hidden Waterfalls. You can then continue to the confluence with the Buynovo River. The path ends 2 to 2.5 kilometers below Yagodina Cave.

The section of Yagodina Cave developed for tourists is 1,100 meters long and passes through several halls. Its karst formations include stalactites, stalagmites, stalactones, dendrites, cave pearls and draperies, as well as colorful, leopard-skin-like facets. A prehistoric dwelling is also located at the cave’s natural entrance. A 270-meter paved path leads there from the asphalt road to Buynovo. Archaeological excavations from the 1970s offer insight into the way of life and material culture of the region’s prehistoric inhabitants.

Folklore and Viewpoints

Borino’s culture includes two types of traditional folk costumes and woven textiles, Turkish and Bulgarian, associated with religious affiliation. Local folklore is preserved mainly in songs and dances and nurtured by two ensembles: an authentic folklore group and the children’s dance folklore ensemble “Borinche.” The ensembles take part in traditional festivals in Borino, Dospat, Grohotno, Gyovren, Buynovo, Yagodina and Chala. A traditional village festival is held in Buynovo on May 24 and 25.

For a different view of the landscape, Orlovo Oko is a panoramic viewing platform on Mount Sveti Iliya, near Yagodina Cave. It is located at an altitude of 1,563 meters. From the platform, you can see the Buynovo Gorge and the villages of Borino, Chala and Yagodina; in the distance, the view extends to parts of the Pirin and Rila Mountains, as well as mountain ranges in Greece. Videnitsa Peak is also a popular destination for tourists and can be reached via a marked trail.

For further orientation in the area, you can also find Kozhari, Chala, Yagodina, Borino and Buynovo.

For the wider travel overview: Smolyan Province.

More destinations

More places under the same destination:

Nedelino, Devin, Chepelare.