Stone river

The stone river on Vitosha is one of the most striking natural sights near Sofia: a frozen "river" of huge granite boulders spilling down the slope, with no water on the surface but a stream you can hear running beneath the rocks. The best-known of these stone rivers lies in the Zlatnite mostove (Golden Bridges) area on the northern flank of the Vitosha massif, a short trip from the Bulgarian capital.

What to see The boulders, rounded by erosion over thousands of years, form a wide field of stone that seems to "flow" downhill through the conifer forest. The spot is loved for its unusual atmosphere and the contrast between the grey stone and the green woods. It is a classic place for a walk, photos and a rest, with marked trails branching off toward Vitosha's ridges and peaks.

Practical Vitosha is "Sofia's mountain" and is easy to reach by car or via the mountain access points; from there, well-marked paths lead to the stone river. Late spring, summer and autumn are the most pleasant, when mountain weather is settled; in winter the area becomes a snow-hiking and skiing destination. Hiking shoes and an extra layer are wise, as weather changes quickly at altitude. Nearby you can combine other Vitosha trails and stops at the mountain huts.