The villages around Troyan are basically the capital of “slow living” in Bulgaria—think shaded forest paths, cozy guest houses, spa escapes, and just enough adventure to keep things spicy. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been here, yet the Balkan mountains always find a way to surprise me. Recently, I teamed up with some fellow travel bloggers and the folks from the Balkania Association and Troyan Municipality to rediscover the region’s magic.

To truly feel that mountain hospitality, you’ll want to stay overnight. You can check out the best accommodation options in the Troyan area here.

Check out the video from my latest Balkan adventure!

Top things to experience in Troyan

• Sopot Dam Vibes – Go kayaking or pedal boating in a mountain setting that feels like the seaside.
• The “Titanic” Village – Visit Gumoshnik to hear the tragic story of the local men who were on the Titanic.
• Pottery Magic – Get your hands dirty and try making your own traditional Troyan ceramics in Oreshak.
• Spiritual Peace – Step into the Troyan Monastery, the third-largest in Bulgaria, for some soul-soothing silence.
• Balkan Flavors – Taste the legendary Troyan Plum Brandy (Rakia) and the unique “Byal Muzh” cheese dish.

1. Sopot Dam – Kayaking and Beach Vibes in the Mountains

No, it’s not near the town of Sopot in the Rose Valley. You’ll find this hidden gem near Golyama Zhelyazna village—a quiet spot far from the usual tourist crowds. In the heat of summer, it’s the perfect place to swap hiking boots for a swimsuit. Consequently, you can rent a kayak or a pedal boat from the local water sports club and enjoy the turquoise waters.

The dam is 7 km long and is a total paradise for fishermen. Moreover, because it’s high in the mountains and there are no marshy spots, there are zero mosquitoes! If you’re on a budget, there are several affordable stay options right by the water.

2. Gumoshnik Village – A Journey Back in Time

There are plenty of pretty villages around Troyan, but Gumoshnik has a vibe of its own. Just 20 km from town, it’s home to an old church, a 19th-century “cell” school, and the “Clay House”—which is an absolute architectural jewel!

The village has a touching history, too—many locals perished during the sinking of the Titanic. While visiting, you can try local delicacies prepared by the hospitable residents who keep the traditions alive.

3. Turlata Forest Park – The Best Panoramic View of Troyan

If you’re staying in Troyan and don’t want to drive far, head to Turlata. It’s a 10-minute walk from the center and was created entirely by local foresters. They cleared the overgrown hillside to create a beautiful dendrarium with rare tree species.

It’s basically a giant balcony overlooking the town. There are wooden benches and a playground made of natural materials. Therefore, it is one of the most relaxing things to do in Troyan on a lazy afternoon.

4. Oreshak Crafts Exhibition – Try Traditional Bulgarian Pottery

Oreshak is home to one of the largest craft galleries in Bulgaria. You can explore eight halls full of woodcarvings and textiles. However, the best part is the pottery workshop. You can actually hop on a potter’s wheel and try to make something yourself under the guidance of a master.

5. Troyan Monastery – Bulgaria’s Spiritual and Historic Gem

You can’t visit the region and skip the Troyan Monastery. Founded in the 16th century, it’s the third-largest in Bulgaria and houses the miraculous Three-Handed Virgin Mary icon. Furthermore, the monastery has deep ties to Bulgarian history.

History buffs will love the fact that the revolutionary hero Vasil Levski had his secret hideout here. Interestingly, there’s even a hotel part where you can stay in modernized cells for a very unique experience.

6. Azareia Eco-Village – Stay in a Feng Shui Mountain Retreat

While most guest houses in the area go for the traditional Balkan look, Azareia is different. This eco-village is built entirely on Feng Shui principles. There are six cone-shaped wooden houses designed to create an energy balance. I woke up feeling genuinely refreshed and full of “mountain power.”

Balkan Cuisine – Tasting Troyan Plum Brandy and Local Flavor

Balkan hospitality is incomplete without food. In Golyama Zhelyazna, they make “Byal Muzh” (White Man)—a local recipe involving milk, flour, and sugar. And of course, everything is washed down with the legendary Troyan Plum Brandy (Rakia).

More things to do in Troyan: Spa and History

Shipkovo and Chiflik are the go-to spots for mineral water pools and spa treatments. They have great hotels with outdoor thermal pools that are open even in winter. Additionally, don’t miss the Sostra Roman Fortress, a restored military camp just 16 km from Troyan.

For nature lovers, the Natural History Museum in Cherni Osam is fantastic. It features 25 taxidermy mammals from the Balkan range. Finally, you can’t leave without tasting the local plum rakia. In these parts, it’s not just a drink; it’s a cult.

How to Get to Troyan: Travel Tips

Troyan is tucked away in the heart of the Balkan Mountains, making it a scenic drive from almost anywhere in Bulgaria.

• By Car: From Sofia, it’s about a 2-hour drive (160 km) via the A2 (Hemus Motorway). From Plovdiv, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the scenic Troyan-Karnare Pass.
• By Bus: There are regular bus lines from the Central Bus Station in Sofia. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
• By Train: You can take a train to Levski or Lovech and then switch to a local bus. The mountain views are definitely worth it!

Looking for more Bulgarian gems? After exploring the Balkan Mountains, you might want to discover why Svilengrad is a must-visit destination.

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