From Sofia: Day Tour of Lovech and Krushunski Waterfalls

Exploring Bulgaria’s Hidden Gems: A Full-Day Tour from Sofia to Lovech and Krushuna Waterfalls

Getting out of Sofia for a day to explore Bulgaria’s scenic countryside and historic towns is a fantastic way to add depth to your trip. This guided tour takes you to Lovech, one of Bulgaria’s oldest settlements, along with the breathtaking Krushuna Waterfalls and the impressive Devetashka Cave. It’s a well-rounded experience designed for travelers who appreciate history, nature, and authentic local charm.

What we love about this tour is its blend of cultural insights, stunning natural scenery, and manageable pace. The guide’s knowledge adds a layer of storytelling that makes each stop more meaningful. The small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures a relaxed, personalized experience. Though, a note of caution: entrance fees for the waterfalls and cave aren’t included in the price, so budget accordingly if you want to access all areas.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see Bulgaria’s diverse landscapes and historic sites without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for a deep, authentic experience. If you enjoy scenic walks, historical tales, and natural wonders—this tour is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns with rich history and traditional architecture.
• Natural Beauty: Enjoy the highest travertine waterfalls in Bulgaria and internal lakes in Devetashka Cave.
• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines cultural sightseeing, nature, and a touch of adventure.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 7 participants, fostering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.
• Guided by Knowledgeable Experts: Guides share fascinating stories, making history come alive.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting from Sofia, the tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. The journey to Lovech takes around two hours by comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, setting the tone for a stress-free day. The small group size (max 7) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide, often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge (like Deni, who gets rave reviews), keeps the atmosphere engaging.

Exploring Lovech: Bulgaria’s Historical Heart

Arriving in Lovech, you’ll immediately sense the blend of old-world charm and lively local culture. The town is famous for its Varosha quarter, where cobblestone streets wind past restored traditional houses and cozy shops. Here, you can visit the Vasil Levski house museum—a tribute to Bulgaria’s national hero—and learn about the man who fought for liberation from Ottoman rule.

The Hisarya fortress remains up on the highest part of the old town offer panoramic views, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. The covered bridge over the Osam River, built between 1872-1874 by master builder Kolyu Ficheto, is a highlight—an iconic symbol of Lovech and a favorite spot for photos and souvenirs. One reviewer described it as “a charming spot where local shops line the bridge, offering crafts and keepsakes.”

Stratesh Hill, now a peaceful park and mini-zoo, offers a leisurely walk with views over the city—an ideal spot for a quick break before heading to the waterfalls.

Krushuna Waterfalls: Nature’s Stunning Show

After exploring Lovech, your journey continues to the Krushuna Waterfalls, approximately 2.5 hours away. These waterfalls are Bulgaria’s tallest travertine cascade, creating a dramatic and serene natural spectacle. The eco-trail with bridges and stairs allows visitors to get close to the falls, offering multiple observation points from above and below.

While not everything might be in full flow during certain seasons, the waterfalls’ unique geology and natural pools make this a rewarding stop. One guest mentioned that even when it wasn’t peak season, “the walk was very calming,” and the scenery was still spectacular. Expect a gentle hike with photo opportunities, and don’t forget your camera—these falls have a fairy-tale feel.

The Intriguing Devetashka Cave: A Bonus Highlight

A special treat on this tour is a visit to Devetashka Cave, located 18 km from Lovech. The largest in the region, it features internal lakes and waterfalls, which a reviewer called “particularly impressive.” This cave adds an adventurous element to the day, with its internal formations and water features offering a sense of mystery.

While entry fees to the cave aren’t included, many find that the internal lakes and the overall scale make it worth a small extra investment. Visiting early, as some guests did, helps avoid crowds and enhances the experience—one reviewer appreciated arriving before the influx of travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details & Travel Comfort

The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting from Sofia with pickup and drop-off included, which is a significant convenience. The vehicle is described as comfortable, with air conditioning—crucial for Bulgaria’s summer heat. The group size is limited, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Regarding costs, while the tour price doesn’t include entrance fees for Krushuna waterfalls and the Eco-trail, the overall value remains high given the diversity of sights and stories you’ll encounter. Guests loved their guides’ helpfulness; one said, “Deni was a delightful companion, sharing fascinating stories and making everything very comfortable.”

The tour operates in English, and the flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours before is ideal if your plans shift.

Review Snippets: Authentic Traveler Insights

Feedback from past travelers highlights the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and the value of the experience. One guest mentioned, “Our guide shared fascinating stories, and the walk was very calming,” emphasizing the tour’s relaxing pace. Another praised the helpfulness and friendliness of the guide, describing the day as “lovely.”

However, a few found the entrance fees’ exclusion a slight drawback, especially if you want to access all sites. Also, during summer months, the long walks and high temperatures could make the day more tiring—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to heat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxed, small-group adventure outside Sofia. It appeals to travelers who appreciate authentic, less touristy sights and don’t mind some walking—though not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

It’s ideal if you want a balanced mix of culture and nature, with guides who bring stories to life, and if you’re comfortable paying for additional entrance fees. The flexible booking options make it a low-risk choice, perfect for spontaneous plans or carefully curated itineraries.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Sofia offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bulgaria’s historical and natural treasures. The charming old town of Lovech provides a taste of Bulgaria’s past, while the Krushuna Waterfalls and Devetashka Cave showcase the country’s stunning landscapes and geological wonders. The knowledgeable guides and small group size enhance the intimacy and educational value of the experience.

While not the cheapest option—and with additional entrance fees to consider—it delivers authentic sights and stories that make it worth the investment. The combination of cultural insight, scenic views, and a relaxed pace makes it especially suitable for travelers seeking a meaningful day outside the capital.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Sofia city limits, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive from Sofia?
The drive to Lovech takes around two hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entry fees for Krushuna Waterfalls and Devetashka Cave are not included in the tour price.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically tailored for children, the walk and sights are generally family-friendly, but smaller children with mobility issues may find it challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour available year-round?
The availability and scenery can vary with seasons; check with the provider for specific dates.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any health or mobility restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and terrain.

How much free time is there at each stop?
You’ll have around 2 hours in Lovech and time to explore and walk around Krushuna Waterfalls and Devetashka Cave, with some flexibility built in.

This tour offers a balanced, engaging way to explore Bulgaria’s lesser-known but truly captivating sites. Whether you’re intrigued by history, enchanted by waterfalls, or curious about caves, it’s a solid choice to add memorable sights and stories to your Bulgaria trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: