In the Sukhata Valley, Dobrich-Selska reveals a landscape of dry valleys, terraced slopes, rocks and cliffs. The valley crosses Dobrich-Selska Municipality from north to south. Nature and traces of history meet here in an area especially suited to travelers who want to explore the landscape and cultural heritage together.
A Valley Between Rocks and Plain
The dry valley of the Sukhata is home to more than 460 plant species, including 16 species on Bulgaria’s Red List, as well as numerous endangered animal species. These figures may change as a result of future surveys. The biodiversity adds another perspective to the valley’s striking landforms.
The Batova Valley presents a different kind of landscape: it is considered Bulgaria’s only “mountain beneath a plain.” There, wooded mountain slopes rise abruptly from beneath the Dobrudzha Plain. The contrast between this landscape and the dry valleys, rocks and terraces of the Sukhata reveals two distinct facets of the region.
The Sukhata’s cultural heritage is not confined to a single period, either. The valley contains ruins of ancient Thracian and Roman fortresses, as well as medieval fortresses and rock monasteries. These traces give the landscape a historical dimension without requiring a particular viewpoint or building to take center stage.
Hiking Trails and Planning Your Time
There are different routes to choose from when planning your time: a one-day hiking route runs through the Sukhata Canyon from Karapelit toward Zhitnitsa; a hiking trail of about four hours leads from Stozher to the St. Marina Monastery. The canyon route also offers the opportunity to visit the karst cave in the “Krali Markova stapka” area.
The Batovska Trail runs from the “Buzluka” area to the “Gubkite” area, close to the village of Batovo. Accessibility on the Sukhata route may vary seasonally. Before setting out on the trail from Stozher to the St. Marina Monastery, check the conditions locally.
A Fortress, a Well and Beehives
Kaleto Fortress lies about 2 km southeast of the village of Odartsi. It was built on a hill-like, rocky peninsula. The distance and direction provide a clear guide to the fortress’s location; its distinctive shape is defined by the peninsula.
The Karalezka Well is located in a small park in the center of the village of Stefan Karadzha. The well bears a “Cross of Valor” dedicated to members of the Third Bulgarian Army who fell in the struggle to liberate Dobrudzha during the Dobrich Epopee. The well and memorial cross thus connect a specific place in the village with the memory of this historic struggle.
In Prilep, the “Mihovi” Honey House combines an apiary with a kind of museum and attracts tourist and educational groups. On display are various types of beehives: a stone cave, hollow tree trunks and tree cavities, a clay hive used in Egypt and Israel, and a woven beehive typical of the local area. The different designs offer a vivid comparison. Check which exhibits are currently on display before visiting.
The Botevo Hut provides a practical reference point for planning an overnight stay: it is at an elevation of 280 m and has 28 beds and a dining room for 40 people. As capacities may change, check the latest information before making your plans.
Discover more destinations: Popgrigorovo, Stefanovo, Vladimirovo, Shabla, Kavarna, Krushari, Balchik and Tervel.
Go to the regional travel overview: Dobrich Province.
