Europe Archives - Page 7 of 7 - Awesome Places to Visit

Devetashka Cave – See the stunning underworld of Bulgaria

Entrance to the magnificent Devetashka Cave in Bulgaria, showcasing its vast opening and lush surroundings

Devetashka Cave in Bulgaria comprises relics from Hollywood movies and the Cold War era. The story goes that it once was the residential spot for many tribes in the Neolithic and late Paleolithic period.

Located approximately 18 kilometers to the northeast section of Lovech, Devetashka Cave boasts of a ceiling that is 2442 meters high with a breadth of 60 meters.

This cave is regarded with high esteem by locals, who consider it a landmark of immense international potential, and by travelers who rightly believe it to be a cultural monument.

The Unique Beauty of Devetashka Cave in Bulgaria

This cave is one of those places that make you feel as if you have entered a magical world. The surreal combination of greenery, large gaps in the cave’s ceiling, and a wide variety of bats and insects make it a unique tourist destination. Unlike other caves where you only find stillness, Devetashka is always brimming with the sound of swallows chirping and bats flapping their wings.

Stunning view from inside Devetashka Cave looking out to the bright outside world, a contrast of light and shadow — Marvel at the stunning views from inside Devetashka Cave, a dramatic play of light and shadow in Bulgaria.

There is an assortment of rock specimens available here, which include stalactites, stalagmites, and speleothems. The numerous naturally formed domes and rivulets only add to the charm of this ancient cave structure.

The entire cave is bathed in natural light that allows you to behold the natural beauty that surrounds you. You will want to keep visiting it again and again.

The Devetashka Cave's unique skylight openings, allowing sunlight to illuminate the cave's interior — Witness the breathtaking natural skylights of Devetashka Cave, where sunlight dances through the caverns.

How to get to Devetashka Cave?

Reaching Devetashka is quite easy if you are approaching it from Devetaki village, which is just two kilometers away. You can hike to the cave by following the path beside the village river.

Those who wish to opt for a more relaxing journey might ride a car on Road 301. You will have to cover a short distance on a concrete bridge and a dirt road and you will soon reach Devetashka Cave.

What is the entrance fee for Devetashka Cave?

The entrance fee for the cave is quite reasonable considering its astounding beauty. to gain access to this beatific cave Students and adults are charged 2 and 3 leva – something between 1 and 2 USD.

Interior of Devetashka Cave with its large caverns and distinctive skylights, creating a mystical atmosphere — Discover the mystical interior of Devetashka Cave, famed for its expansive caverns and natural skylights in Bulgaria

What can you do on Devetashka Cave?

Devetashka Cave offers diverse attractions to tourists, including waterfall sightseeing, information gathering about the bats that inhabit the cave, photography, and exploring the historical points of interest.

Nowhere you do see as much multi-faceted beauty as you do in Bulgaria. While the scenic landscapes, pristine coastlines, and mountains are astoundingly beautiful, Devetashka Cave stands a class apart.

What is the best time to visit Devetashka Cave?

The best time to visit this magic Cave is during autumn, as the weather is neither too cold nor too hot during this time. Moreover, seasonal changes can be witnessed quite clearly.

Where to stay nearby of Devetashka Cave?

Some of the amazing accommodations that you can try out while visiting are:

Guest House Ongal
Guest House Bigora
The White House
Krai Potoka
Hotel & Relax Zone Cattleya

Kjeragbolten – For those daredevil hikers out there

Aerial view of Kjeragbolten, illustrating its precarious position and the sheer scale of the surrounding cliffs

Kjeragbolten is a boulder that is wedged into a deep crevice in the Kjerag hill. It is suspended in the crevice and below it, is a 984-meter deep abyss. It was a result of recurrent reformations of the valleys in between the several ice ages.

The Kjeragbolten in Norway was formed in around 50,000 B.C. during the last glacial period.

Where is Kjeragbolten in Norway?

The Kjeragbolten sits on the Kjerag hill, which is located on the shore of Lysefjord. Lysefjord, in turn, is a fjord that you find towards the southwest of Lysebotn village. A fjord is a narrow extension of the sea in between the mountains and is a speciality of Norway.

Let’s get you a route from Oslo to Kjeragbolten, since Oslo is the starting point of all Norway vacations.

From Oslo to Lysebotn: Lysebotn is the closest town to Kjeragbolten and is just 15 minutes away. You can fly from Oslo to Lysebotn or you may as well choose a car ride from Oslo to Lysebotn, which takes around 7 to 8 hours

From Lysebotn to Kjeragbolten trail:
By car, it takes hardly 15 minutes to reach the bottom of the Kjeragbolten hike trail.

Panoramic view of the scenic landscape around Kjeragbolten, with the vast Lysefjord below — Marvel at the panoramic beauty of Lysefjord from Kjeragbolten, a stunning viewpoint in Norway’s rugged landscape.

Why do people climb Kjeragbolten, Norway?

Most people – if not all – visit the Kjeragbolten in Norway for the daring Kjeragbolten hike and for the breathtaking landscape views. You get to see from a thousand meters above and from the Kjerag plateau. The climax of the trip is almost always a photograph posed on top of Kjeragbolten.

What is the best time for the Kjeragbolten hike?

The summer season, of course. The Kjeragbolten hike follows a strict seasonal pattern to avoid fogs, rains, and harsh climate.

Hikers en route to Kjeragbolten, traversing the challenging yet scenic trails of the Norwegian landscape — Embark on a hiking adventure to Kjeragbolten, a rewarding journey through Norway’s stunning natural terrain.

Is Kjeragbolten hike safe?

As challenging a climb Kjerag is, you find a couple of chains to assist you at the steepest parts. Furthermore, some red-colored T’s are painted on the rocks along the path, and thus you just can’t get lost or diverted. Fog and rain, if present, happens to be your worst enemies at the climb.

As of the infamous Kjeragbolten deaths, nobody has yet died from the Kjeragbolten hike itself. The few Kjeragbolten deaths were all due to base jumping from the boulder and not because of merely standing and falling from Kjeragbolten.

Adventurous hiker standing on Kjeragbolten, the suspended rock between two cliffs in Norway, with a breathtaking view — Experience the thrill of standing on Kjeragbolten, a unique rock suspended above a fjord in Norway, offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

How long does it take to hike Kjeragbolten?

The hike is bound to take a good 6 to 7 hours which includes both the uphill and downhill journey.

If you are a hiking daredevil, you surely can’t miss Kjeragbolten, Norway. Hike the Kjerag hill and enjoy the spectacular views of mountains and fjords and visualize the incredibly beautiful impact the ice ages have left on Norway.

Where to stay for the hike – Lysebotn, Norway?

The best possible way to spend nights is by camping out in the open, for an altogether magical experience. Make sure to bring a tent and other necessities if you prefer this option. However, in case you want to comfortably spend your nights indoors, check out on these:

Stavanger Bed and Breakfast:
Flørli 4444 Hostel: An affordable lodging that comes with dorms and also provides spectacular views of Lysefjord.
Lysefiorden Tourist Cabin
Sirdal Hoyfjellshotell

Black Beach of Vik – The magic of Volcanoes

The iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks seen from the Black Beach of Vik, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene

The black sand beach of Vik is the stupendous creation of nature. With the smooth black sand along the sea coast, the mesmerizing, powerful, beautiful, and magical beaches will be classic. The popular arctic country with the most amazing beaches and the mind-blowing environment makes the trip of the black sand beach Vik Iceland memorable.

The cold breeze, clear water, dark-beauty beaches, and the splendid sky above create a paradise in Iceland.

Where is the Vik black sand beach?

The alluring Vik black sand beach is located Iceland’s south coast, about 2.5 hours away from Reykjavik. Located by the beautiful small town of Vik I Myrdal, this beach is no less than a paradise.

The sparkling black sand, large basalt columns and turquoise blue sea is home to the spectacular biodiversity and various nesting birds. The exclusive home of puffins, guillemots, and fulmars is just mesmerizing and pleasant.

Sunset over the Black Beach of Vik, with the sky and sea reflecting a kaleidoscope of colors — Enjoy a breathtaking sunset at Vik’s Black Beach, where the sky and sea unite in a display of vibrant colors in Iceland

What is the best time to visit Vik black sand beach?

With the natural beauty scattered everywhere and the soothing environment, the black sand beach is breathtaking. With the beauty of cool Iceland and the most dramatic landscapes right from the phenomenal volcanoes to cascading waterfalls, breathtaking ice caves, and mystical mountains, the place is awe-interesting.

Visiting this white fairyland of ice and black sand is incredible throughout the year. The best time for the Black beach of Vik is between 2-5 PM during the day.

The rugged coastline and natural arches near Vik's Black Beach, highlighting Iceland's dramatic coastal scenery — Explore the rugged coastline and natural arches near Vik’s Black Beach, a journey through Iceland’s spectacular landscapes.

What types of rocks is the Vik black sand beach made of?

The dark-beauty of nature is alluring and soothing. The volcanic rocks formed after the lava condensed at this place makes it even more beautiful. When the rock starts to get worn, the tiny pebbles are formed. The sparkling turquoise sea, black sand, and crystal clear ice reflecting the rainbow lights create the image of the paradise at the Black beach of Vik.

What to do at Vik black sand beach?

The marvelous and classic black sand beach is beautiful in all aspects. With so much to explore and travel, the black sand beach is alluring and phenomenal. With the beauty scattered all around this black sand beach is just thrilling.

The best things to do here are:

Explore the black sand beach
Take a trip of the alluring caves
Visit the enormous cliff of Dryholey
Adore the Diamond Beach
Get amazed with the northern lights
Hike on the Glacier
Explore the Eldhraun Lava Fields

Stunning view of the black sand beach in Vik, Iceland, with its distinctive dark shoreline and powerful waves — Explore the unique beauty of Vik’s black sand beach, a natural wonder with its striking dark sands and dramatic waves in Iceland.

Where to stay in Vik black sand beach?

Spending time in the lap of nature at the black sand beach Vik Iceland is an awe-inspiring experience. The beauty of the sand and coolness of air creates magic at this place. The best places to stay at this glorious location which offer luxury are:

Black Beach Suites: The best and the modest hotel near the astounding beaches offers the polished stay studios free WiFi, and shared kitchen.

Vik Cottages: The stupefying collection of cottages with countryside views, a restaurant, and a gym.

The Barn: The well-settled line of dorms and private rooms in a warehouse-cum-chic hostel offering a bar, a kitchen, and Wi-Fi, the stay would be pre sheer luxury.

Vik Apartments: The budget-friendly apartments with kitchens, living rooms, and countryside views, topped with high-speed Wi-Fi.

Hotel Kria: The luxurious and modern hotel blended with the authentic Iceland kitchen, and a bar with the free breakfast accompanied by an adoring view of the northern lights, this is amazingly cozy.

The beauty of the sand mixed with the calmness of the sea and cool breeze creates an alluring and phenomenal picture at the Vik black sand beach. Visit this place to explore the untouched beauty of ice and water!

Plitvice Lakes National Park – Makes Croatia ‘Full of Life’

Early morning mist rising over the waterfalls and lakes of Plitvice, adding a mystical atmosphere to the park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is the crowning jewel of Croatia. The erstwhile chalk and limestone have been overflown with tumultuous waters over several years to create organic dams, Croatia waterfalls, and lakes. The coastline itself spans 1.778 kilometers and a whopping 1185 islands.

The natural beauty of the park is amplified by the surrounding forests that house exotic animals such as wolves and bears.

How to reach Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Here are a few routes that you can take to reach Plitvice Lakes, National Park:

From Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes: You can opt for a connecting bus from the terminal building at the Zagreb Airport to the Zagreb bus station. Take another bus from this station. You will reach Plitvice Lakes within three hours.

Panoramic view of the cascading waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park, showcasing the park's lush greenery and pristine waters — Experience the majestic waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder in Croatia.

From Split to Plitvice Lakes: Buses are the only modes of public transport from Split to Plitvice Lakes. You can also sign up for the organized day tours to reach the Croatia National Park. It will take around four hours to reach Plitvice Lakes from Split through the bus service.

From Zadar to Plitvice Lakes: Plitvice Lakes National Park is approximately 130 kilometers away from the Zadar Airport. You can take a connecting bus from this airport to Zadar Bus Station and then venture toward Plitvice by boarding a different bus. The entire journey spans two hours.

In case you are in any other part of Croatia and wish to visit the Plitvice Lakes, you may board a bus to any of the three locations mentioned above and take another bus once you reach there.

When to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Our recommendation will be to visit this Croatia National Park between June and September. There’s a significant influx of tourists between July and August and during the morning hours. The scenery is picturesque and the crowds are sparse from 7 a.m. onwards so you should seriously consider exploring this part during this tranquil time.

Wooden walkway winding through the scenic landscape of Plitvice Lakes National Park, offering an immersive nature experience — Stroll along the charming wooden paths of Plitvice Lakes National Park for an up-close encounter with Croatia’s natural beauty.

However, don’t let this restrict you. There’s a seasonal perk to visiting this during all seasons – the beauty of the peak of the waterfalls during spring as the water levels increase. On the other hand, fall showcase the wondrously changing colors of nature while winter allows visitors a look at the frozen lakes and the winter wonderland in general.

What should you visit when come to Plitvice Lakes National Park?

It lives up to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park comprises around 90 waterfalls, lakes that date back to thousands of years, and a diverse ecosystem with different varieties of flora and fauna.

Plitvice is a great place for adventure lovers. You can go hiking on the mountains or forest trails, opt for horse riding or kayaking, or just book a buggy ride.

You can fit in a trip to Smiljan, which is the birthplace of Nikola Tesla, and houses a museum with his mementos. It is only 65 kilometers away, so the opportunity is ripe!

Crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Plitvice Lakes surrounded by dense forest, reflecting the serene beauty of the park — Discover the tranquil turquoise waters of Plitvice Lakes, nestled in the heart of Croatia’s lush forests.

If you wish to kick things up a notch and visit a unique tourist destination that puts you at peace, Plitvice Lakes is the place to be!