I dare say that the Bulgarian stretch of the Danube remains an “untapped frontier” in terms of tourism, harboring countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The area around the village of Belyanovo is one of them. This idyllic spot lies not far from Ruse, in the municipality of Tsenovo, nestled along the banks of the Yantra River, the third-largest tributary of the Danube
As the Yantra approaches its confluence with the Danube, it carves breathtaking meanders and creates a dramatic canyon, etched with caves and inaccessible crevices, like a skilled sculptor shaping nature’s wonders. Near the villages of Novgrad, Belyanovo, and Djulyunitsa, the river flows slowly at the base of towering cliffs, making the area a magnet for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and water sports lovers.
Check out the short film from our adventure in the Belyanovo village area and the Polomie region, as well as our encounters with the local people.
Kayaking Through the Yantra River Canyon
Kayaking enthusiasts are well-acquainted with this region. The river routes vary in length, with the shortest starting from a campsite near Belyanovo. Even beginners like me, who can’t swim, can enjoy the adventure. After a brief safety briefing and donning a life jacket, you’re ready to hop into the kayak.
The route spans approximately 8 km, with its final stretch entering the slightly more turbulent waters of the Danube and ending at the fishing village of Krivina. It took us about 2.5 hours to complete. The most popular route, however, is a two-day journey starting at the iconic Kolyo Ficheto Bridge in Byala, with an overnight stop in Belyanovo. This information came from Sasho Popov, our guide and the head of the “Prista” Tourism Society, which regularly organizes kayaking adventures in the area.
Kayaking allows you to become one with the water and feel at harmony with nature. Trees and shrubs surround the river, forming a lush, green tunnel that wraps you in tranquility and shuts out the outside world. As the kayak glides smoothly forward, you’ll see grey herons, cormorants, mallards, storks, and even sea eagles soaring above. It’s a magical experience!
When Is the Kayaking Season?
The cold months are no obstacle for kayaking down the Yantra River. Enthusiasts from the “Prista” Tourist Society wrap up the season as late as Christmas and then eagerly reopen it by mid-January. During late autumn and winter, you can see large flocks of birds, including pelicans, while shreds of mist float low over the water, creating a beautiful atmosphere, explains the society’s chairman, Sasho Popov. Thus, every season is suitable for this sport, each with its own charm, as long as the water isn’t frozen in winter. However, freezing has been a rare occurrence in recent years.
Hesychasts, Monastic Cells, and Churches High in the Rocks
Near the village of Belyanovo, just before the Yantra River flows into the Danube, it carves its way at the base of a 40–50-meter-high vertical rock wall.
“These limestone cliffs have been eroded by water, forming a fascinating structure with caves and niches,” Sasho explains as our kayak slices quietly through the water. “In some of these, medieval hermit monks carved out rock cells. See them up there, high on the cliffs? They’re hard to access and require alpine equipment to reach.” Perhaps the monks used rope ladders or climbed the cliffs with their bare hands?
The Rock Church of Belyanovo
One of the rock churches in the area has been made accessible for visitors. It’s located just before the village of Belyanovo and features a parking area and a convenient pathway. Dating back to the 12th century, this church was likely part of a small monastic complex. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the shrub-covered banks of the Yantra River.
“In the past, hermits enjoyed the support of local authorities and the population,” Sasho tells us. “Part of the taxes collected went toward maintaining these rock monasteries and their inhabitants.”
Locals refer to the church as “Pop Martin’s Church,” named after a legendary priest whose story is deeply rooted in folklore. According to legend, Pop Martin became a rebel leader after the local pasha abducted his beautiful wife. He joined a band of freedom fighters and hid his stolen gold in the cliffs near the village.
Belyanovo’s Suspension Bridge
The locals take pride in their suspension bridge, which connects the two banks of the Yantra River. Built in 1968, the bridge spans 105 meters and was the longest suspension bridge in Bulgaria until 1975. While it may no longer hold the record, it offers unparalleled views of the Yantra.
Accessible only to pedestrians, the bridge connects Belyanovo with the nearby village of Novgrad, about 8 km away.
For those traveling by car, the nearby iron bridge, constructed by a Belgian company in 1909, is an alternative route. So Kayakers have the unique opportunity to pass under this historic structure during their journey.
Lenin’s Statue and the Charm of Novgrad
On the village square, you’ll find a statue of Vladimir Lenin—the only surviving monument of its kind in Bulgaria.
Built in 1975 with donations from the locals, the statue was recently spared from being sold to a Scandinavian collector for $30,000. Where else in the EU can you encounter such a relic of Soviet-era history?
Natural Wonder: Markov Cross
In the outskirts of Djulyunitsa, you’ll come across another hidden gem—the “Markov Cross” natural site. This area features a small parking lot, informational signage, benches, railings, and even a new chapel dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the meandering Yantra below.
On one of the inaccessible cliffs high above the river, a cross carved into the rock stands out visibly.
A legend surrounds this phenomenon, linked to a historical figure who lived in the 16th century. Deli Marko was renowned for his bravery and strength. According to stories, during an uneven battle with the Turks, in which he rescued abducted maidens, he swung his sword powerfully, splitting the rock and leaving behind a cross-shaped mark.
Mechka Village – Wine and History
The village houses of Mechka scatter across the hilly banks of the Danube—a favorite spot for riverside walks, fishing, and photography. The local landmark is the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, built in 1925, considered one of the most beautiful in the area. In the “Stalpishte” locality, literally a few meters from the Danube, lies an intriguing natural site known as “Dikilitas” or “The Erected Stone.”
People believe that these two tall stone formations date back to the Mesozoic era (i.e., several hundred million years ago). Nearby, they have established a modest campsite with wooden bungalows.I n the vicinity , there is also a pleasant hotel complex. It has a restaurant offering a magical view of the Danube. The owners have vineyards. So they produce excellent wine, which we had the chance to taste in the specially designed winery within the complex.
In Conclusion
You can still stumble upon unspoiled paradises untouched by mass tourism, like Belyanovo and the Yantra River canyon. This shows that Bulgaria holds an inexhaustible treasure trove of historical and natural assets. You have also modern hotels and guesthouses, delicious food and kindness of the locals. So no matter how much we explore it far and wide, we always discover a new, unknown place that enchants us and makes us sincerely exclaim: “There is no better country than ours!”
If you decide to visit this magical corner of Bulgarian nature, you can seek assistance from the “Prista” Tourist Society, which organizes various activities in the Polomie region and the Yantra River canyon.
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