Landmarks and nature

Located in the Iskar Gorge at the foot of the Vratsa Balkan Nature Park, Osika Park is surrounded by exceptional natural beauty, rich plant life, and diverse wildlife.

Protected territories

Vratsa Balkan Nature Park

Vratsa Balkan Nature Park covers an extensive area in Northwestern Bulgaria, encompassing almost the entire Vratsa Mountain. Part of its territory lies within the Iskar Gorge, which shapes the park's characteristically highly dissected relief.

The territory was declared a national park in 1989 and received nature park status in 2003. Its total area is 28,844 hectares, featuring diverse natural complexes: forests, rock ridges, river valleys, karst formations, and open meadows.

The varied relief and proximity to the city of Vratsa and multiple small settlements make the region one of the preferred destinations for eco and mountain tourism.

Explore the area

Historical and natural landmarks around Osika Park:

Lakatnik / Milanovo Rocks

The Lakatnik (Milanovo) Rocks are a protected area within the Vratsa Balkan Nature Park, featuring diverse climbing routes. The rocks are located on the left bank of the Iskar River and fall within the territory of Milanovo village (formerly Osikovo), earning them the alternative name "Osikovo Stones." Over 100 caves and chasms have formed within these rock massifs, the longest being the "Temnata Dupka" (The Dark Hole) cave, which spans over 5 km. The region is highly appealing to alpinists and cavers, and due to its scenic landscapes—to regular tourists as well. It is one of the most visited and famous climbing destinations in Bulgaria and is regarded as the birthplace of Bulgarian rock climbing. Meanwhile, the "Temnata Dupka" cave is known as the "school" for cavers from Sofia.

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Cave "Temnata Dupka" (The Dark Hole)

The "Temnata Dupka" cave is the longest cave in the Balkan Mountains (5,300 m). Its entrance is located in the rock ridge of the Lakatnik (Milanovo) Rocks, roughly 27 meters above the Iskar River, within the territory of Milanovo village, northwest of Lakatnik railway station. Formed in dark Middle Triassic limestones (Ladinian) of the Milanovo syncline, it consists of a system of two main galleries with adjacent branches. The northeastern section is the longer one, extending about 800 meters along the main axis, while the main underground river flows along it. The underground river usually discharges through the "Zhitolub" karst spring, but during extreme rainfall and snowmelt, its level rises and the water flows out through the cave's entrance. The cave fauna is highly diverse, with 18 identified species of troglobites adapted to a life of complete darkness. Remarkably, Bulgaria is among the nations with the highest diversity of cave organisms. Known as the ultimate "school" for Bulgarian cavers, "Temnata Dupka" has played a vital role in the history and development of Bulgarian speleology.

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Cross of the Fallen Mountaineers and Climbers

The Cross of the Fallen Mountaineers and Climbers is located on the Lakatnik Rocks and was erected in 1939 with funds collected by the Bulgarian mountaineering elite of that era. It is situated on the highest part of the cliffs, offering impressive panoramic views of the Iskar Gorge. The monument was created in memory of those who died in the mountains and carries strong symbolic significance. It was destroyed during the socialist regime but was rebuilt in 2001 by residents of Milanovo village. A scenic hiking trail from Lakatnik railway station leads to the monument, providing beautiful views along the journey. Today, the site combines natural beauty with historical value, making it a preferred destination for walks and photography.

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Devil's Holes

The Devil's Holes are a rock ridge and system of karst formations located in the canyon of the Proboynitsa River, a tributary of the Iskar. The area is situated in the Vratsa Balkan and is distinguished by its characteristic rocky structure. The rock ridge is about a kilometer long and includes numerous cavities, passages, and cave formations. A path passes underneath, allowing for an up-close view of these structures. Off the beaten path, this site sees fewer visitors and offers a wilder, more authentic experience—perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an adventurous trek.

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Petrenski Dol

The "Petrenski Dol" eco-trail starts just past the turn-off for Gubislav village and passes through the picturesque gorge of the Petranitsa River. The route is pleasant for walking and relaxation, moving through the locality also known as Petrenski Dol. The path is about 5,360 meters long in both directions, with an elevation of about 350 meters, and the distance is covered in about two and a half hours. The route is gentle and suitable for both children and adults who have decided to spend time outdoors. Along the path, you will find the largest river pool in Petrenski Dol, which gives the trail its name. The area offers a perfect escape filled with tranquility, refreshing coolness, and an opportunity for complete relaxation in nature.

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Zhitolub Spring - the shortest river in Bulgaria

The "Zhitolub" karst spring is located at the foot of the Lakatnik (Milanovo) Rocks, under the "Temnata Dupka" cave, about 8 meters above the level of the Iskar River. The spring is one of the largest karst springs in Bulgaria and is formed by the confluence of two underground rivers—Petrenski Dol and Proboynitsa. They pass through the flooded galleries of the "Temnata Dupka" cave and flow through a narrow siphon into the spring, from where the water discharges into the Iskar River. The length of this outflow is approximately 59 meters, which is why it is often regarded as one of the shortest rivers in Bulgaria. During heavy rains, up to 1,200 liters of water per second pass through it. The site is small but highly interesting, making it a popular stop on any route through the Lakatnik and Milanovo region.

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Natural phenomena

Waterfalls - the living heart of the Balkan

An exceptionally high concentration of waterfalls can be found within the territory of the Vratsa Balkan Nature Park. During the spring months of May and June, as a result of snowmelt and heavy rainfall, over 170 waterfalls can be seen in the area, with 17 of them flowing year-round.

The waterfalls are formed mainly along the limestone rock ridges of the park and are among the most impressive natural features of the region. They contribute to the characteristic appearance of the Vratsa Balkan and rank among its most visited natural landmarks.

Waterfall "Skaklya"

The highest intermittently flowing waterfall in Bulgaria
Height: 141m
Located about 1.5 km south of Vratsa

Waterfall "Borov Kamak"

Height: 63 m
Located in the area of Zgorigrad village
Its name comes from the black pine trees found in the area

Other waterfalls

Smaller, seasonal and hard-to-reach waterfalls
Active mainly during spring
Part of the natural karst relief of the park

Biodiversity

Flora and fauna

The territory of the nature park is characterized by rich biological diversity, due to its complex relief, wide altitude range, and diverse habitats. Forest, rocky, grassland, and water ecosystems are all represented here, creating ideal conditions for the existence of numerous plant and animal species.

Ornithological wealth

Birds

The territory of the Vratsa Balkan Nature Park is characterized by exceptionally rich ornithological diversity, due to the presence of rock complexes, forests, open grasslands, and water habitats. The area spans an altitude range from 300 to 1,400 meters above sea level, creating ideal conditions for various ecological groups of birds.

Over 180 bird species have been recorded in the park, 157 of which are protected under the Biodiversity Act. This defines the region as one of the most significant territories for bird conservation in Northwestern Bulgaria.

Traditionally used species

Medicinal plants

The territory of the Vratsa Balkan Nature Park is characterized by a great diversity of plant species. Over 1,100 species of higher plants have been recorded within the park, 373 of which are registered under the Medicinal Plants Act. This defines the area as one of the richest territories for medicinal plants in Northwestern Bulgaria.

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