Golets lies on both banks of the Dripla River, also known as Golyam Dol. The river separates two parallel slopes of the Lovech Mountains. The Sofia–Varna E772 road runs immediately south of the village. The river landscape, the village’s recorded history and routes into the surrounding area offer several points to consider when choosing your stay.
Waterfalls, Ruen Peak and Reservoirs
In the Golets area, a marked, developed hiking trail of about one kilometre leads to Kavuka Waterfall. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes; the outing is also suitable for a picnic. The waterfall lies on the river between Golets and Kirkova Mahala. Farther upstream, there are several smaller waterfalls and large rock formations along the river.
South of Golets, Ruen Peak is described as the highest point of the Pre-Balkan mountain range. Spring trips to the summit are a long-standing local tradition. They include hiking, taking in views of the awakening landscape, gathering wild garlic and sharing picnics. This seasonal practice and conditions may vary.
The two reservoirs also differ in their location and access. The Large Reservoir covers about 17 decares and is accessible by car via an unpaved road near the eastern entrance to the village. Check the condition of the access road before setting out. The Small Reservoir is within Golets and is accessible by a paved road.
Village History and Cultural Traditions
According to local tradition, Golets’ earliest settlement was around 1300 near Guzre. Because the site was exposed to storms and winds, the residents moved east within no more than 50 years. Another local historical account connects the name Golets with Bay Kolyo, known as Goltak. He is said to have built the first Bulgarian house there around 1500.
Historical descriptions of traditional women’s clothing mention white headscarves with flowers or gilded bouquets, colourful shirts with wide sleeves, woollen garments, and red aprons and woven or beaded belts. Men’s clothing included fur hats, shirts, poturi trousers, aba coats, homespun waistcoats and red sashes with white stripes. Horo dances were accompanied by songs; later, bagpipes and the kaval were added.
The Golets branch of the Probuda Community Cultural Centre includes a women’s singing group, a satirical troupe and a library with 5,199 volumes. Its services and activities may change. Two traditional spring fountains were restored through a local initiative: the Turkish Fountain and the old fountain beside the river.
Cultural Monuments and Zmeyka Cave
The house of the heirs of Ivan Hristov Kapchiyski is considered a locally significant architectural and structural cultural monument. The house of Rayko Kolev Dachev, including its gate and the tree in front, is also considered one. If you would like to visit either house, check locally whether a visit is possible.
Zmeyka Cave is around 130 metres long, wet and periodically flooded. It has one level, no branches and an elevation difference of approximately two metres. Entry is considered suitable only for equipped professionals: the cave galleries are reached through a narrow opening and deep, cold water. Check local safety advice before approaching; conditions inside the cave may change.
For the main travel overview: Ugarchin.
