Devetashka Cave

Devetashka Cave

One of the most impressive caves in Bulgaria, Devetashka lies in the north of the country, near the town of Lovech. It is renowned for its vast, monumental entrance arch and for its huge inner hall, whose ceiling is pierced by several natural openings that let daylight pour in, creating dramatic shafts of light falling to the floor. Its scale, natural setting and unusual atmosphere have also made it a well-known film location.

What to see

Through the massive entrance you reach an enormous chamber, crossed by a river that flows out of the cave, with greenery at its mouth and the famous beams of light dropping from above on clear days — the image that made the cave famous. Devetashka is also an important roost for bats, which is why part of the cave may be closed to visitors during certain periods of the year to protect the colonies. Traces of very ancient human habitation have been found here, the cave having been used by people since prehistoric times.

Practical information

The cave is most easily reached by car from Lovech, on the road towards the village of Devetaki, following the signs; there is a parking area and a short path to the entrance. Spring through autumn is the best time to visit, bearing in mind that access can be seasonally restricted to protect the bats — check the situation on site beforehand. Wear shoes with good grip, as the ground can be wet and slippery. It pairs well with a visit to the medieval town of Lovech and its fortress, and the scenic villages of the surrounding region.