The Iskar-Panega Geopark consists of two parts: the Karlukovo Karst Complex and Panega Landscape Park. It also offers trips on the Zlatna Panega, an eco-trail along the Vit, and several rock churches with medieval frescoes. If you are looking for accommodation in Lukovit, you can shape your trip around these different themes—from landscapes and water to culture and climbing.
Karst, Parkland and River
The geopark brings together geological, geomorphological, and palaeontological sites of aesthetic, cultural, and/or historical value. The Karlukovo Karst Complex is a protected natural landmark within the municipality of Lukovit. The Kuklite rock formations lie on the Karlukovo Karst Plateau. In the Kötlen area is a particularly distinct ancient meander of the Zlatna Panega, a striking feature of the river landscape. The different parts of the geopark offer visitors a range of experiences, rather than just one type of landscape.
The geopark also offers educational and information programmes for local residents and tourists. Visitors interested in geological, geomorphological, or palaeontological aspects can take this perspective into account when planning their trip.
Boat Trips on the Zlatna Panega
Panega Attraction is located in the heart of Panega Landscape Park and offers trips on the Zlatna Panega River. Options include a pedal boat, a rowboat, single- or double-person kayaks, and a sightseeing and photography cruise boat. The options range from self-propelled watercraft to a trip on the excursion boat. Panega Attraction operates year-round; check current departure times when planning a specific trip.
An Eco-Trail Along the Vit
The eco-trail near Aglena follows the Vit River through the Studenets Protected Area. It starts at the Slona rock formation and leads to the site known as the People’s Cave. Markers, signposts, and information boards guide visitors along the trail. Facilities also include visitor areas with tables and benches, a gazebo, a shelter, and a wooden bridge. The route is clearly described, with several waypoints and designated places to stop and rest.
Rock Churches and Frescoes
The surviving church of the Karlukovo Monastery, the Dormition of the Mother of God, was built in the second half of the 16th century as part of the large monastery complex. The rock church of St. Marina preserves fragmentary frescoes from the 14th century. Access includes a movable platform; check the latest access information before planning a visit.
The rock church of St. Gregory is also associated with frescoes: two layers of frescoes from the 14th and 17th centuries have been preserved there in fragments. The different dates give the two churches their own historical context—from a 14th-century fresco layer at St. Marina to two layers from different periods at St. Gregory.
Climbing and Getting Oriented
Prohodna Cave has sport climbing routes in several sectors and at different grades; they are considered some of the most difficult in Bulgaria. A turnoff from the road to Lukovit leads to a parking area by the cave’s smaller entrance. A tourist information centre for navigating the geopark is located in the parking area just before Lukovit, at the entrance to the Iskar-Panega Geopark. Maps, brochures, and other information about the geopark are available there.
Discover more destinations: Lukovit, Petrevene, Apriltzi, Lovech, Yablanitza, Teteven, Letnitza, Troyan
For the regional travel overview: Lovech Province.
