Fortress
Varadsko Fortress
A 19 km day route to a rocky peak above 1,200 m holding ancient defensive walls, past the abandoned village of Varad and a 'sea of mountains' view.
Varadsko Fortress is a rocky peak above 1,200 metres near the abandoned village of Varad. On it are remains of ancient walls that once served as defensive fortifications. By tradition the site was used by Thracian tribes, later formed one of many Rhodope fortresses in the Byzantine period, and was afterwards used by Bulgarians for defence against Ottoman incursions.
The route is 19 km and takes about 7 to 8 hours, with roughly 600 metres of ascent. It starts in Mogilitsa and passes through the Elindin neighbourhood, then alternates between mixed forest and meadows with several water fountains. The panorama takes in Mount Kom, Ardin peak, Golyam Perelik, Tsigansko Gradishte, the Snezhanka tower at Pamporovo, and the Greek peaks Falakro and Pangaion.
The trail reaches the old village of Varad amid open clearings, passing a centuries-old beech described as the thickest tree in the Upper Arda region, before the final climb to the summit. The return follows a different path southward toward Chereshkite and Borikovo and back to Mogilitsa.
Safety: the first 2 km of the return has a risk of falling trees. Not advised in strong winds or heavy snow; in bad conditions return by the original path.