From Varna: Ovech Fortress with Salt Mine OR the Stone Forest

Discover the Ovech Fortress and the Provadia-Solnitsata Salt Mine (the oldest salt production center in Europe) OR the natural phenomena “Stone Forest” on a private day trip from Varna. Explore the medieval fortress and learn about the history of the region from your guide.

Your first stop will be the Ovech Fortress, situated near the town of Provadia. Built on a magnificent plateau east of the city, the fortress was inhabited from the middle of the 3rd century until the end of the 17th century. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, the city and the fortress were an important economic, administrative, military, and cultural center of the region.

Enjoy a 150-meter scenic bridge walk, marvel at the medieval ruins and fortress walls, and discover ancient wells and the ruins of churches. Take in panoramic views over the Provadia Valley.

Then, depending on the season, continue to the next option:

Option 1: Salt Mine “Solnitsa” (operates in August and September).

Continue to the nearby Salt Mine “Solnitsata”, the oldest salt-production and urban center in Europe (5600–4350 BC). The prehistoric complex Provadia-Solnitsata is located near the modern town of Provadia in Northeastern Bulgaria. It represents the remains of the oldest known salt production center in Europe, which later developed into the first prehistoric urban center on the continent (4700–4350 BC).

The complex consists of a salt-production area with ritual pits, an unfortified and later fortified settlement with massive stone walls, a ritual zone, and several necropolises. The emergence and development of the site are directly linked to the largest and only rock salt deposit in the Eastern Balkans, the so-called Mirovo salt deposit, on which the complex is situated.

“Solnitsata” presents you a great opportunity to get archeological insights into prehistoric life.

Option 2: The Stone Forest “Pobiti Kamani” (operates from May to October)

Pobiti kamani (The Stone Forest) is a natural phenomenon 18 km west of Varna. It is a spectacular natural landmark and still there is not any exact scientific explanation about it.

The area features a variety of stone formations, some of the reaching up to 7 meters in height. The tourists can walk among the rock formations, take amazing photos, and learn about their supposed geological origin, as well as the interesting legends, related to them.

After a delightful trip, return to Varna in the early afternoon.