Mantaritsa

The biosphere reserve Mantaritsa has preserved the most magnificent coniferous forests in Bulgaria. They resemble a jungle and are mostly impassable. The most common trees in Mantaritsa are the spruces, followed by fir-trees and white pines. The average age of the trees is 130-150 years. The fauna is very rich as the most interesting species are wood-grouse capercalzies, bears, red deers, wild boars, roes and wolves. Pashino Peak is situated in the western part of the reserve. The remains of an ancient fortress can be found there. The wall is over a meter wide and is of preserved height of 150 sm. The fortress surrounds an interesting 5-meter high rock. There are four platform-grounds on the rock, which purpose is still unknown. A marvelous view to the Rila Mountain and part of the Rodopi Mountains appears on the top of the rock. The highest peak of the Batashka Mountain – Syutkya, rises over Mantaritsa. Lepenitsa Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Bulgaria, can be found at the foot of Syutkya.

Location