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The Rhodopean mountains offer the most southern skiing resorts in Europe. It is the
sunniest Bulgarian mountain resort with wonderful snow throughout the whole winter
season. Pamporovo and Chepelare are situated on 1600m above the sea level at the
foot of peak Snejanka (1926m) and Mechi Chal (1873m). There is a 4 month skiing season
(mid December to mid April), and during the Spring to Autumn the temperature ranges
from 15 to 30 degrees. This offers a full years worth of activities and holiday opportunities.
PLACES
of INTEREST: include fortresses, monasteries, churches, cities, towns & villages,
caves, Roman ruins, rock formations, river activities, walking, hiking, rock climbing,
fishing, cycling, horse riding, restaurants, bars, swimming, spa facilities, bowling
and shopping.
HISTORY: Since ancient times the Rhodopes has been a mysterious and
enchanting mountain range. It is home of the mythical singer Orpheus and the clan
of guards of the famous Sanctuary of Dionysus. Archaeological excavations date back
to habitations from approximately the 7th century BC. The remains of many Thracian
fortresses reveal a rich ancient culture that once flourished in the area. The fortresses
guarded an ancient Thracian road running from the town of Abdera, on the Aegean Sea,
to Istros, on the Danube River. During the Bulgarian Revival period (1762-1878),
cultural and educational life flourished in the area and the surrounding villages,
illustrated by the existing 14 churches and 72 chapels. In every church existed a
school. Four of the churches are now declared artistic cultural monuments of national
significance, and one of the churches and 15 of the chapels are declared cultural
monuments of regional significance.
WILDLIFE: The Rhodopes are one of the few mountain
ranges in Europe where the Brown Bear and Wolf still breed. Old-growth forests are
home to deer, elk, fox, wild goat, and other rare European species. The Rhodopes
are a true heaven for bird lovers and contains around 190 species, many of them quite
rare. Dippers and King Fishers will dart around you as you walk along clear creeks
and streams. A Golden Eagle hovering high in the sky presents an unforgettable sight.
If you come to the Rhodopes during spring you might hear the early-morning mating
call of the Capercaillie. Lush, grassy meadows pop into mind when thinking of the
Rhodopes. For many centuries locals have kept herds of sheep, as a result of which,
they have created meadow out rests. These meadows now are home to an abundance of
rare flowers, many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth. In early spring
you can see the pink petals of Silivriak (Heberlea rhodopaensis), the symbol of the
Rhodopes, which has the unique quality of being able to spring back to life even
after being pressed for years. Legend has it that the flower bloomed out of the blood
of Orpheus after he was dismembered. The Rhodopes are also well known for their mushrooms.
Here you can also pick yourself a multi coloured bouquet of herbs;the most fragrant
thyme grows here.
Seasons and Climate
The Rhodopean mountains offer the most southern skiing resorts in............Read more
Places of Interest
Including fortresses, monasteries, churches.........Read more
History
Since ancient times the Rhodopes has been a mysterious and enchanting mountain.........Read more
Wildlife
The Rhodopes are one of the few mountain ranges in Europe where the Brown Bear and Wolf still.........Read more