Yavornitsa – Olympus Mountaineering

This summer, we dared to venture beyond Greece’s majestic peaks and into the heart of Bulgaria—a country where nature reveals itself in countless layers. From dense forests alive with birdsong to tumbling waterfalls hidden in deep ravines, from serene alpine lakes reflecting jagged peaks to meadows perfect for wild camping under a canopy of stars, Bulgaria offered us a new chapter in our hiking journey.

Our expedition unfolded gradually, like turning the pages of a mountain storybook: beginning with the refreshing cascades of Belasitsa and its family-friendly trails, pausing for rustic comfort and nights under canvas at Belasitsa Hut, then climbing higher into the granite realm of Pirin with its glacial lakes and ancient pines, before finally descending into the gentle embrace of Rila, home to iconic alpine lakes and tranquil woodland eco-trails. Each step revealed not only new landscapes, but also the unique character and rhythm of Bulgaria’s great mountain ranges.

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A hiker takes in the epic view above the Twin Lake.

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Following our unforgettable first step into Bulgaria’s great outdoors with the Kamena Waterfall hike, our exploration of the country’s wilderness was far from over. The Belasitsa Mountains still had more secrets to reveal, and just a short drive from Kamena lay another gem waiting to be discovered.

We set our sights on the peaceful village of Yavornitsa, a place where traditional Bulgarian rural life blends seamlessly with the pristine beauty of the surrounding nature. Here, the forested slopes hide yet another cascade — the Yavornitsa Waterfall, also known as the Yavornishki Waterfall.

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While smaller in scale than Kamena, this 7-meter-high waterfall has a charm all its own. The hike leading to it is part of the beautifully themed “Butterflies and Flowers of Belasitsa” trail, inviting visitors to slow down, observe, and truly connect with the natural rhythms of the mountain. And so, with boots laced and curiosity high, we continued our journey into the heart of Belasitsa’s hidden wonders.