III. B     North - East  Region




 When the bicyclists begin planning a tour including crossing Bulgaria from north to south or from south to north, my suggestion is to follow the next algorithm:

      - Define the point of entering in the country;

      - Define the point of leaving the country;

      - Choose the pass, where to cross Balkan: I have given detailed information about Balkan passes in:

Chapter I.  Passes in Balkan: Sector I. B & Sector I. C


Points where Romania – Bulgaria border can be crossed (from west to east) are:

(it will be the content of this Chapter)

1. Giurgiu – Ruse: bridge (and a ferry, still a project)

2. Oltenita - Tutrakan: ferry (still a project only).

3. Calarashi – Silistra: ferry.

    - Constanta – Silistra (Border Checkpoint Silistra).

 

 The next two border checkpoints are of local meanings:

      - Border Checkpoint Kaynardzha - Lipnitsa - open 2017;

      - Border Checkpoint Krushari - Dobromir     - open 2018;

4. Negru Voda – Kardam (Border Checkpoint Iovkovo);

5. Mangalia – Durankulak (Border Checkpoint Durankulak)


      I will connect these points with the passes in the Balkans (pointing on the map above) along roads avoiding traffic as much as possible. I will give some opportunities as well.

      Bicyclists crossing the country from north to south toward the Bulgaria / Greece border and the Bulgaria / Turkey border need to look here:

 

Chapter III. Crossing Bulgaria from north to south (from Romania to Turkey & Greece):

C. South - Central Region

D. South - East Region 

Bicyclists intending to pedal along Danube river can look in:

Chapter V. Bicycling along Danube river



1. Giurgiu - Ruse: bridge

      I do not recommend entering or leaving Bulgaria here. The bridge and the approach to it is narrow and the traffic is very intensive.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2f-vQZxMaOY

      There is an idea a new bridge to be built 2 kilometers east from the old one, but God only knows if and when that may happen.

      There is a plan for a ferry at the same point as well. According to this plan, the ferry will be available June 2024 . . . we will see ... Maybe it will be better for bicyclists!

     As it can be seen on the next map there are five possibilities to leave/enter Ruse:

      1. Towards Veliiko Tarnovo and BG/TU & BG/GR borders (this is the route toward Sofia, too):

      - Road N5, or E85 – an international road, which MUST be avoided because of the terrible traffic along it. It is the one of 2 - 3 deadliest roads in Bulgaria;

      - ALWAYS to pedal the next route, road 501 (in either direction). It can be used when leaving Ruse in a southern direction, again towards Byala and Sofia, Elena, Veliko Tarnovo and the BG/TU and the BG/GR borders. Because it is not easy to find this road in Ruse, later, I will give information on where to leave Ruse;

 

      2. Road N202 toward Popovo, Omurtag, Varbitsa and BG/TU and BG/GR borders;

 

      3. Road N2, or E70: toward Razgrad, Shumen, Provadia and and BG/TU, or Varna (the Black seaside); again a busy road, it is better to avoid it;

 

      4. Road N23: toward Isperih to Dobrich to Balchik (the Black Sea);

 

      5. Road N21: toward Tutrakan and Silistra (and east to the Black Seaside.

 

 

      These are the points of the content of my next description. I will give here some opportunities as well.


 

 1. 1  From Ruse to Veliko Tarnovo (route a) and Elena (route b)

 

      As it can be seen from the map in left, once choosing the pass where you will cross the Balkans, you reach Veliko Tarnovo (route a), or Elena (route b) continue reading I divide routes in 4 sectors.


     

      On the next map below you can see the passes in Balkan where bicyclists can cross the Balkan heading south toward Greece or Turkey borders. The west to east passes are:

      - Shipka Pass;

      -Trevnenski Pass;

      - Pass of the Republic (Hainboaz - road 55);

      - Tvardishki Pass;

      - Vratnik Pass.

 

      So, if you cross the Romania/Bulgarian border here, heading to Greece or Turkey, please look also in:

          Chapter I. Passes in Balkan

 

           Sector I. B , points:

7. Shipka Pass;

8. Trevnenski Pass;

9. Pass of the Republik (Hainboaz);

10. Tvardishki Pass;

11. Vratnik Pass;

 

          Sector I. E , points:

22. Kazanlak to Stara Zagora;

23. Gurkovo to Nova Zagora;

24. Tvarditsa to Nova Zagora.

 

      Again the road E85 from Ruse to Veliko Tarnovo is extremely dangerous because of the very heavy traffic. The routes I would suggest will be away from it.

 

 

Sector III. B - 1

 

Leaving / entering in Ruse

 

      The city of Ruse is the biggest BG city on the Danube River. At the bridge Ruse - Giurgiu, it is easy here to cross Danube River, although I am not sure if it is safe for bicyclists. The bridge is old and narrow, and there can be lots of traffic.

      There is a rumor of a new bridge to be built next to this one, but nobody knows when it will happen.

      There is a plan as well for a ferry to be built at the same point. According to the plan, the ferry will be available June 2022 . . . we will see ... Maybe it will be better for bicyclists! . . . it is still not available April 2024 :)))))

      Good information is available in Internet concerning Ruse here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruse,_Bulgaria

    

http://wikitravel.org/en/Ruse

 

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/rousse/rousse/rousse

 

 

For more detail description I will split this sector in fore.

 

 

sector III. B - 1. a

  

 

      Use this route when you head south direction (towards Elena, Veliko Tarnovo, Sofia and BG/TU & BG/GR borders: road N501).

 

      Entering Bulgaria from Romania via the bridge you will turn right and head toward Ruse. Here is the East Industrial zone of the town.

 

     Further I will post several maps, I think it is easy to find the road N501 looking at them one by one.

 

      Just after the bridge, you have to leave the road E85 (N2, E70) and enter its industrial zone.

 

 sector III. B - 1. b

      Consider visiting the town garden located along Danube River.  You can use different park lanes. You can pedal closer to Danube River.

      In the park is located the National Transport Museum, there are a lot of old steam engines in the park to see.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

National_Transport_Museum,_Bulgaria

 sector III. B - 1. c

Pedalling further, you will enter in the City center. It is a walking area.

The walking area of the Ruse City

sector III. B - 1. d

      From the city center, you will be heading towards the Danube River. It will not be difficult. Simply turn to the right and you will see the place on the photo - just before Hotel Riga.

     Many years ago I lived for a year in Ruse, I used to enjoy watching the sun going down . . . Forgotten emotions are coming up as I look at this place and write about this town  . . .

      Upon leaving Ruse you will traverse a hill and will reach Basarbovo. Pedling up the next hill, you will experience a grade on the right riverside (Rusenski Lom River) - my camp place.

      Entering Ruse from the south to the north is not a problem. Simply do not enter the bridge of road E85.  Enter in the Industrial zone and follow my line, or take "Struma" Str.


 

 

 

Sector III. B - 2

 

The route from Ruse to Borovo (road 501)

 

 

      This is one of my favourite routes in this area. I pedalled it many times, it always brings me great pleasure to be here again.

 

       From Ruse to Basarbovo to Ivanovo to Dve Mogili to Borovo.

       

      Remember, it is very important to avoid  road E 85. It is one of the extremely dangerous roads in Bulgaria.

 

      As it can be seen from the road profile chart, the road from Ruse to Borovo is a not steep. A steeper hill is the one from Basarbovo to Ivanovo.

 

     

      Bicyclists heading toward Sofia have to follow the same route !

 


 ٭An opportunity: An interesting Rock Monastery can be seen near Basarbovo (the road toward it is signed well):

https://www.bulgariamonasteries.com/en/basarbovo_monastery.html


Leaving Ivanovo you will enjoy of beautiful descending toward Basarbovo. Just after entering in Basarbovo you will see a sign, selling of geese.

Next village along the road is Ivanovo. there are 2 new hotels in it.

Needless to say, the entire area is very nice to camp.

 ٭Opportunities:  The remains of Cherven mediaeval fortress are located several kilometers to Dve Mogili. The road to the fortress is signed well. The fortress is in Rusenski Lom River Canyon, a very scenic place.

 

      The area near Rusenski Lom River is a National Reserve:     

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rusenski_Lom_Nature_Park

      And a link for the fortress remains near Cherven:  

https://mytasteforliving.com/en/bulgaria/fortress-cherven


      Several kilometers further toward Dve Mogili you will see a sign for Orlova Chucka Cave. The cave is located just over the Canyon of Rusenski Lom River. The cave is very attractive, it is worth visiting.         Near the cave is nice place to set up a tent. There is a water there, too. Coffee and drinks are available in the little info center.  

Orlova Chucka Cave:              https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlova_Chuka


The next little town along your route is Dve Mogili. Some information about the area can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dve_Mogili                    http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/rousse/dve_mogili/dve_mogili

Photos from Dve Mogili and the countryside after it.

Next several photos are the countryside from Dve Mogili toward Borovo.  Some information about Borovo:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/rousse/borovo


Sector III. B - 3

The route from  Borovo to Vinograd

 

      From Borovo (road 5101) to Pet Kladentsi to Bistrentsi to Vinograd.

 

 

      Unfortunately the road in this sector is not well marked, so GPS device would be very helpful. There is very little traffic on this road and the road is in very nice condition.

 

 

      Bicyclists heading to Sofia have to take the road 407 just before Vinogradi:

      Toward Orlovets to Karantsi to Polski Tranbesh.

 

 

 

A very detail description of this route can be seen in the

VI. Crossing Bulgaria from west to east. Routes:

B. From Sofia to Varna

Route 3. From Sofia to Varna: The route along Danube River Plain.

      The next several photos are the beautiful countryside from Borovo toward Pet Kladentsi and Bistrentsi (Pet in Bulgarian means 5).

        For Pet Kladentsi I do not remember, but in Bistrentsi there was a food shop, if my memory serves, it did not work 2 - 5 pm.
      A nice spring of fresh and cold water is available in the middle of the road 5-6 km south from Bistrenti.         From the other side of the road, above the spring is available a nice shelter.

      When I was in the area between Bistrantsi and Vinograd, in August '18, the road is not labeled. Hopefully, by now things have improved. The countryside was beautiful and I assume it is just as beautiful today.

 

      Be careful in this area. I am afraid it is very easy to lose your direction here. Maybe a GPS would be useful here. Other than that, there are no problems visiting this area.

Again, just before Vinograd there is a nice springs of fresh cool water, unfortunately there is not a nice shade, where to relax for 2 - 3 hours.


      ٭An opportunity: There are no overnight accommodations in Dve Mogili or Borovo. You will need to go to Byala to find accommodations.

 

      Byala is close to the Yantra River. If visiting Byala, you will have an additional climbing, as you can see from the next road profile charts below.

 Down toward Byala

Overnight accommodations in Byala is available, some information about it is available here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byala,_Ruse_Province                                          http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/rousse/byala

     If you decide to visit Byala, the only not so intensive traffic you will see is when you leave it along road N51, no more than 7 - 8 kilometers.

        This road is in very nice conditions; the next photos:  are taken from Byala toward Bistrentsi up the road 51.


 

 

 

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 4

The route from Vinograd to Veliko Tarnovo

 

 

 

 

route a

 

       This is a nice route for bicyclists intending:

 

      From Vinograd to Paisiy to Strelets to Draginovo to Dolna Oryahovitsa to Gorna Oryahovitsa to Arbanasi to Veliko Tarnovo.

 

      I have pedalled this route. Unfortunately I have not photos to share here.

 

 

 

Gorna Oryahovitsa is a big railway center. The lines crosses Bulgaria from east to east and from north to south. Overnight accommodation is available here. Information is here:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/veliko_turnovo/gorna_oryahovitsa/gorna_oryahovitsa

      In the Chapter III. A. North - Central Region, Sector III. A - 3, Route c: From Svistov to Veliko Tarnovo; Sector III. A - 3. c I have given information for the route from Gorna Oryahovitsa to Arbanasi and Veliko

  Tarnovo, as well as information and photos for them. I have shown how to reach Dryanovo and head toward Gabrovo and Shipka Pass, or toward Elena. It is not necessary to repeat all that here again.

Sector III. B - 5

The route from Vinograd to Elena

route b

      From Vinograd (road 407) to Lozen to Gorski Senovets to Tsarski Izvor to Strazhitsa to Dzhulyunitsa to Gorsko Novo Selo to Zlataritsa to Elena.

 

      The route from Vinograd to Tsarski Izvor is almost flat, which is unusual for the Danube Plane, consisting mostly of rolling hills. It is extreme pleasant countryside to travel, without any traffic.

      Strazhitsa is a little town, located in a low area, it was destroyed totally by an earthquake 1986.

 

      Overnight accommodation is available in Strazhitsa; some information can be found here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strazhitsa

      Crossing road E772 (you are on road 4005). If my memory serves me, the road was not signed well. You may need to be careful finding the road toward

 

Dzhulyunitsa.

      The same is true for the opposite direction, travelling from Dzhulyunitsa toward Strazhitsa.

      You will find the road toward Gorsko Novo Selo is with minimal traffic, pleasant and easy for pedaling. On the left is a nice spring of drinkable water.

      You can see my camping place just next to Gorsko Novo Selo.

Zlataritsa is a little town, with no overnight accommodations. A little information is available here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zlataritsa 

      After Zlataritsa, toward Elena, the climbing starts. The hill is not steep. In the middle of the road between

  Zlataritsa and Elena there is a tourist complex. I remember there is a restaurant there, but I am not sure if overnight accommodations are available.

      Several kilometers before entering Elena there is a spring hot for drinking and cool for bathing . . . Several times I have used it to refresh, relax to it and wash equipment.

       The last time I was there, just after washing my equipment, I noticed there was a big bee garden and thousands of bees . . . Fortunately they were very busy with their busyness. They did not pay any attention on me.

      Elena is a touristy spot, architecture of XIX century is saved. There are overnight accommodations and nice restaurants in the town.

 

Information of Elena can be seen here:

https://bulgariatravel.org/en/town-of-elena/

      Several photos from Elena:

      Traveling south from Elena you can use:

-Tvardishki Pass: toward Nova Zagora;

- Vratnik Pass: toward Yambol,

 

(Look in) Chapter I. Passes in Balkan Sector I. B

Points: 10. Tvardishki Pass

               11. Vratnik Pass


     Again I will say that very detail information about available passes in Balkan south from Veloko Tarnovo

  and Elena can be seen in: Chapter I. Passes in Balkan Sector I. B

      Chapter III.  A. North - Central Region, Sector III. A - 3, Route c: From Svistov to Veliko Tarnovo; Sector III. A - 3. c I have given information for the route from Gorna Oryahovitsa to Arbanasi and Veliko Tarnovo, as well as   information and photos for them. I have shown how to reach Dryanovo and head toward Gabrovo and Shipka Pass, or toward Elena. It is not necessary to repeat all that here again.

 

 

1. 2  From Ruse to Ticha

(route a)

and Varbitsa

(route b)

 

 

 (Routes toward Yambol and Burgas,  Greece &Turkey borders)

 

      The next two routes are appropriate for bicyclists crossing BG from north to south toward BG/TU (Borders Checkpoints Lesovo & Malko Tarnovo). The routes are shown on the next map in left. It is very important to avoid road E70, where the traffic can be quite heavy.

 

      - From Ruse to Yambol via Kotlenski Pass:

      Ruse to Opaka to Popovo to Omurtag to Kotel to Pentacle to Yambol (to Border Checkpoint Lesovo);

 

      - From Ruse to Burgas via Varbishki Pass:

      Ruse to Opaka to Popovo to Omurtag to Varbitsa to Sungurlare to Karnobat to Aytos to Burgas (to Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo). 

 

       Here I will describe routes to TIcha (route a) and Varbitsa (route b), where Kotlenski Pass and Varbishki Pass are located. A detailed description of both passes can be seen in Chapter I Passes in Balkan  Sector I. C

 

     For more detailed description I divide this route in 3 sectors:

 

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 6

 

 

 

 

From Ruse to Opaka

 

         I am suggesting 2 routes:

 

- route a:

      From Ruse (roads 2 & 202) to Straklevo to Nisovo to Katselovo to Gorsko Ablanovo to Krepcha to Opaka.

 

- route b:

      From Ruse (501) to Basarbovo to Ivanovo to Dve Mogili  (5001) to Pepelina to Ostritsa to Gorsko Ablanovo (202) to Krepcha to Opaka.

Route a

I did not explore the distance between Straklevo and Nisovo, I can say, the traffic here is not intensive, the countryside - scenic.

      The next photos illustrate the area from Katselovo toward Opaka, they are taken in the extremely raining June '21, when it was not easy to find a dry place

 

 to set up my tent - it is no the asphalt; and the next misty morning. Never mind, it was a pleasant tour.

 Route b

      From Ruse to dve Mogili I illustrate the route in the previous point of the same chapter, so next photos are photos from Dve Mogili to Opaka.

 

      The road is in very nice condition, because it has just been renovate. There will be hardly any motor traffic, making pedaling a real pleasure. Except in Pepelina, food and water are available in villages along the road.

      If my memory serves, next to Gorsko Ablanovo is the memorable poster featuring the world famous football referee, Colina, inviting you to visit a building materials store . . . : ))))))

 

      Very little information for Opaka can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opaka

      I am not sure if overnight accommodation is available in Opaka. The most famous fact about Opaka is that it is often mentioned in crossword puzzles in BG.

Sector III. B - 7

From Opaka to Omurtag

The route is:

      From Opaka to Gagovo to Popovo to Nevski to Svetlen to Aprilovo to Konak to Moravka to Gorne Hubavka to Omurtag.

      Again a route without traffic. Photos in right illustrate the countryside.

The road profile chart shows the easy part of the route from Opaka to Popovo.

Very little information for Popovo can be seen here:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/turgovishte/popovo

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Popovo,_Bulgaria

      Leaving Popovo you have to ride a short distance on road 51 which can be very busy (the first photo below).  

     As you enter Svetlen you have to turn right following the sign for Omurtag (road N 409). Here you will leave the main road. On the route to Targoviste there should be minimul traffic. The first village next is Aprilovo has food is available.

Unfortunately I can not fond photos illustrating the area from Popovo to Omurtag.

 

 Sector III. B - 8

      Reaching Omurtag you have to decide your next route: toward Kotlenski Pass, or Varbishki Pass.

     Have in mind that the road via Varbishki Pass from the south side of Balkan is in very poor conditions, but there is not any traffic. I prefer it.

 

     Information for Omurtag (where there is an aviation museum):

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/

turgovishte/omurtag/omurtag

 

http://www.bestbgproperties.com/

bulgarian_districts/Omurtag_property.html

 

      Omurtag is named of the Khan Omurtag (the First Bulgarian Kingdom):

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omurtag

_of_Bulgaria

      Overnight accommodations are available in Omurtag as well. Several photos from Omurtag.

Route a

 An extremely pleasant for exploring area!

At the crossroad toward Zelena Morava there is a restaurant. A food shop is available in Ticha.
Information for Kotlenski pass van be seen in Chapter I Passes in Balkan  Sector I. C, Point 12. Kotlenski Pass

Route b

The route is:

From Omurtag to Dolno Novkovo to Ratlina to Plastina to Mangihevo to Varbitsa.

Next are 5 photos of the camp place next to Paliska River, just before Ratlina (next to Paliska River) I and my daughter Maya spent a night August '10. I remember the tasty sausages we bought in Ratlina.

The countryside from Mengishevo toward Varbitsa, August '20. A perfect road without any traffic.

      Spme information for Varbitsa can be seen here:

http://www.guide-

bulgaria.com/NE/shoumen/varbitsa/varbitsa

 

       I am not sure if overnight accommodation is available in Varbitsa. Five kilometers up the mountain at Varbishki Pass there is a little resort, restaurant, hotel and thermal water.

Information for Kotlenski Pass can be seen in Chapter I Passes in Balkan  Sector I. C, Point 13. Varbishki pass

1. 3  From Ruse to Provadia and Varna (route a),

Balchik and Durankulak (route b)

 

Sector III. B 

Giurgiu - Ruse

      The next routes are Intended for bicyclists intending to cross the low eastern part of the Balkan (heading toward Burgas), or visit the Black Sea while they are crossing Bulgaria (toward Durankulak, Balchik or Varna).

 

      So, I will say several words for 2 opportunities: from Ruse to Provadia (and Burgas) -  route a, as well as routes from Ruse to the seaside (Durankulak, Balchik and Varna) - route b.

      My long year experience has shown me, many peddlers are preferring main roads. Avoid road E70 from Ruse to Razgrad to Shumen because it has a lot of road traffic.

 

      The next several photos illustrate the route along E 70 - I pedaled it several times many years ago, when the traffic was still not intensive.

 

      It would be much better to follow my next description.  You will pedal nice roads without any

 

traffic, the countryside is very nice, you will not add extra kilometers following my suggestion.

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 9

From Ruse to Kubrat

 

 

      I suggest two routes, both of them are very nice to be explored:

Route a

      The route is:

      From Ruse (road 2, road 23) to Cherna Voda to Novo Selo to Tetovo to Belovets to Kubrat.

 

      It is very pleasant area, typical for this part of Danube Plain, a flat area cut by dry river canyons. Compared with road 2 (E70), here there is very little traffic.

      Food and water are available in the villages along the road.         The next photos are the road toward Cherna Voda and our relax place in its garden.

A typical one hour afternoon summer storm. Usually it happens June to the middle of July. August is usually a dry month in this area.

Toward Kubrat.

      I am not sure if overnight accommodations are available in Kubrat. Somr information for it can be found here: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubrat_(town)

 

     The town is named of Bulgarian Khan Kubrat:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubrat      

       Photos from Kubrat and our coffee place.

Route b

      The route is:

      From Ruse (road 2, road 21) to Slivo Pole to Borisovo (road 2102) to Cheresovo to Seslav to Kubrat.

 

      Comparing with the route a, there are fewer hills, and not steep at all. The distance is 5 km longer, and there can be more traffic traffic from Ruse to Slivo Pole.

The next photos illustrate road 2 from Ruse toward Tutrakan and Silistra.
Leaving road 2, the next one is road 21 toward Slivo Pole. The next several photos illustrate the countryside toward Slivo Pole - a plane area.
After Slivo Pole, a FB friend (Armin) from Romania, and I explored this area in the early August '22.

Sector III. B - 10

From Kubrat to Nikola Kozlevo

      The route is:

      From Kubrat (road 23) to Medovene to Brestovene to Zavet to Malak Porovets to Dragomazh to Isperih (road 702) to Lavino to Kapinovtsi to Podayva to Belintsi to Duhovets to Pristoe to Kaolinovo to Todor Ikonomovo to

 

(road 7003) to Doyrantsi (road 701) to Valnari to Nikola Kozlezo.

      The route includes 79 kilometers pedaling in a nice plane area. There are a lot of villages along the road, so locating food and water in not a problem.

Zavet is a bigger town. I am not sure if overnight accommodations are available here. A little information for Zavet:     

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/razgrad/zavet/zavet

Toward Isperih

      The next little town is Isperih, overnight accommodations are available in it. Some information on Isperih can be found:   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isperih

 

The town is named of Bulgarian Khan Asparuh:

http://www.wow.com/wiki/Asparuh

From Isperih toward Nikola Kozlevo - a calm countryside, very little traffic.

Photos were taken in the early August ' 22. My FB friend (Armin from Romania) and I pedaled this area.

In the Kaolinovo region mining is developed, there is a lot of Kaolin in the field. The little city is apart of the road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 11

Nikola Kozlevo to Provadia

 

 

 

 

 

      Another very pleasant area for exploring. The roads are nice with very little traffic on the roads.

 

      The route is:

      From Nikola Kozlevo (road 2370) to Radan Voyvoda to Stefan Karadzha (road 207) to Kaloyan to Dobrotich to Momchilovo to Sredno Selo to Vetrino to Provadiya.

The next photos illustrate the countryside toward Stefan Karadzga.

A lot of villages are placed along the road, so supplying with food and water in not a problem.

Vetrino is a bigger settlement, in it can be find food, but overnight accommodation.

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/varna/vetrino

Down toward Provadia. A very pleasant road segment to pedal. Next photos are of the countryside Vetrino to Provadia. After Vetrino there is a nice spring.

      Provadia is a scenic place. It is located in a canyon along Provadiiska River. Overnight accommodations in Provadia are available, although in the touristy season reservations might be needed.

      Information for Provadia and its fortress "Ovech" on the plateau over the town:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Provadia

http://trakia-tours.com/provadia-guide-94.html

      Next several photos of the plateau above Provadia and Ovech Fortress.

      Bicyclists crossing the country north to south have to head toward Burgas and BG/Turkey border at Malko Tarnovo border checkpoint.

 

 For this purpose look into:

      - Chapter I. Passes in Balkan Sector I. C

      - Chapter III, D. South - East Region


Sector III. B - 12

From Provadia to Varna

And the last road segment toward Varna is: From Provadia to Dobrina to Manastir to Devnya to Varna.

      As it can be seen from the map above there is a road just next to the lake of Varna (road 2008). Have in mind it is an industrial zone and the traffic can be demanding. It would be better to avoid this area.

      Information for Devnya and its interesting museum of

 

mosaics:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devnya

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museum_of_Mosaics,_Devnya

      Next several photos are taken along the road just east above Provadia toward Dobrina, Manastir and Varna.

Between Devnya and Varna just next to the road is an interesting place, called "Stone forest". It really is an impressive spot which is worth visiting:         http://varna-bg.com/museums/pobitikamani/st_f_uk.html

 

     

 

 

 

      Varna is a nice town, we call it the "Sea Capital” of Bulgaria. Below are several photos of Varna: the City, its walking zone, the Cathedral, the City Garden, and the city garden.

 

 

Here are the 3 best sites I have found for information on Varna:

     

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna

https://www.britannica.com/place/Varna-Bulgaria     

http://www.bulgariatravel.org/article/details/205

 

      Several years ago on the region of Varna was found a burial, with some of the world's oldest gold jewellery, dating back to 4,600 - 4,200 BC:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_Necropolis

 

      The artifacts can be seen at the Varna Archeological

 

 Museum:  

http://archaeo.museumvarna.com/en/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_Archaeological_Museum

      Obviously the question is for some very important person . . . any way . . . I would not proceed with my gold in such a manner . . .

Several photos of the Sea Garden in Varna.

Sector III. B - 13

From Nikola Kozlevo to Dobrich

 

The route is: From Nikola Kozlevo (road 2075) to Tsani Ginchevo to Zarnevo to Orlyak to (road 207) Zheglartsi to Kochmar (road 7106) to Podslon to Geshanovo to Karapelit to (road 71) Dobrich

Here you will explore an easy flat area, the countryside is beautiful.

      Many times I have explored this area and often I move further from village to village researching the map, often I have used shortcuts – off-roads in the field between villages.

      Dobrich is the main town of this district. Overnight accommodation in it is not a problem.

 

Information for Dobrich:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/Dobrich/

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/ne/dobrich/dobrich-city/dobrich


Sector III. B - 14

Routes from Dobrich to the seaside

There are fore opportunities:       Route a: From Dobrich toward Varna (road 29).

      I have pedalled only the last 20 kilometers to Varna, but I do not believe I will do it again. The traffic here is quite intensive. If you intend to visit Varna,   use my description in the previous item. Next are the only 3 photos I have taken from this area, going down from Franga Plateau down toward Varna.

Route b: From Dobrich to Albena (road 71)

I pedaled this route only once in the extremely hot and dry May '07 . . .

      Albena resort is a beautiful place:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albena

http://www.bulgariatravel.org/article/details/16

      There is an endless beach (south towards Kranevo) and the beach sand maybe is the finest of all the beaches along BG Black Sea.

 

      There are fountains and showers on the beach. You can wash your equipment.  Because of the lack of facilities my stays here are short and then I move on. Here, I love to walk along the beach.

      The entrance road into the Albena Resort has no exit.  So, you will have to leave the resort the same way you came in.


Route c: From Dobrich toward Balchik (road 27).

     Balchik is a small city located in tiers above the sea. It is a touristy place. Rooms for the night are easily found, along with more luxury hotels. I love to stay

 

here for a day or two. Information for Balchik:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balchik

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/dobrich/balchik/balchik

      In the town there is a small residence of the Romanian queen with a lovely botanical garden. (This area was under Romanian control 1918 – 1938).

 

Information for this spot:

http://visit.guide-bulgaria.com/a/14/balchik_botanical_garden.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balchik_Palace

I like this garden and can not avoid to post more pictures :)


Route d: From Dobrich to Durankulak

I recommend this route for bicyclists intending to explore the seaside.

No problem finding food in villages along the road, the area is nice for camping in the wilderness. Photos of this beautiful plane area.

A very detail information about the seaside, routes, cities, resorts you can see in the

Chapter IV.   Bicycling along Black sea side


1. 4 Ruse - Silistra

A detail description of this route can be seen in the Chapter V. Bicycling along Danube river


2. Oltenita - Tutrakan: ferry (still a project only)


3. Calarashi – Silistra: ferry

&

Constanta – Silistra (border checkpoint Silistra)

Calarashi – Silistra: ferry.

You can cross  Danube by a ferry to/from Chiuciu (Calarasi) or come from Constanta (road 3) (RO). The more detail map above shows the disposition of both ferry and the border checkpoint. For the ferry schedule look here:                                          https://www.spikaferry.com/en/

     

Information for Silistra:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silistra

http://www.bulgaria-guide.com/guide/Silistra/203776/

 

     

      Pointed routes on the map from/to Silistra are:

 

3.1 To/from west

          1. Toward Tutrakan and Ruse , road N 21 (I have mentioned several words about it in:

      Chapter V. Bicycling along Danube river

 

3. 2 To/from south (Provadia)

(BG/Turkey Border - Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo)

            2. Toward Povadia, roads N218, 7, 207;

            - route a: roads N218, 701, 2, 208

      - route b: roads N7, 207, 208

      I recommend both routes to bicyclists intending to pedal to Varna.

 

3. 3 To/from Black sea side

            3. Toward Dobrich (andBalchik):

             - route c: road N71.

 

           On the maps below are shown these routes.

     

 

 

 

 

      The both routes from Silistra to Provadia I trace here are away from the main road 7, last years the traffic along it is relatively intensive. I am not sure which one is better, I pedalled both of them. You will choose the best one for you.

      The routes can be used by bicyclists intending to visit Varna. Have in mind that the road 29 from Dobrich to Varna is very busy.

 

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 1

Route a

 

      The route in this sector is:

      From Silistra (road 213) to Profesor Ikonomovo (road 208) to Bradvari to Vodno  (road 208) to Dulovo (road 23, 7) to Grancharovo (road 701) to Seculovo to Todor Ikonomovo to Nikola Kozlevo.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      As it can be seen from the road profile chart, the entire area is flat, it is very pleasant to be pedalled in the both directions.

Leaving Silistra toward Prof. Ishirkovo.
The entire area is perfect to camp in the field.

The overnight accommodations are available in Dulovo. Very little information for Dulovo is available here:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/silistra/dulovo/dulovo

I still did not pedalled the road segment from Grancharevo to Novi Pazar, but it is in my plans.

Sector III. B - 1

Route b

From Silistra (road 213, 7) to Alfatar (road 207) to Alekovo to Chestimensko to Tervel to Kochmar to Zheglartsi to Vekilski.

 

     The elevation of Silistra is 26 m. and is surrounding by a higher plateau. If you are leaving Silistra in the southern direction (toward Alfatar) you have a climb for 5 – 6 kilometers.

 

Some information for Alfatar:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/silistra/alfatar/alfatar

 

      Overnight accommodation in Alfatar is not available.

      Tervel is a little city. Overnight accommodations are available in it. Information about Tervel:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/dobrich/tervel

 

      The City is named of the Old Bulgarian Khan Tervel. His story can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tervel_of_Bulgaria

Again, I still have not pedalled the road segment from Tervel to Vekilski, but it is in my plans.

 

 

 

Sector III. B - 2

Route a

 

 

      The route in this sector is:

      From Nikola Kozlevo (road 701) to Hardovo to Zhilino to Stoyan Mihaylobski to Novi Pazar to (road 2)Stan to Vetrino (road 208) to Provadia.

 

      The road segment from Nikola Kozlevo is still in my plans, I did not explore just this area, but I am sure the road is very nice, with very little traffic here.

 

     Some information for Novi Pazar is available here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Novi_Pazar,_Shumen_Province

      If you research Google for information, have in mind that in Serbia there is Novi Pazar as well. I am not sure if in Novi Pazar overnight accommodation is available.

      Next several picture are the countryside from Kaspichan to Vetrino. Summer time (July and August) temperatures in this region often are very high.

In Vetrino, food can easily be found, but not overnight accommodation.

Next three photos are the countryside from Vetrino to Provadia. It is extremely nice route in this direction - from the Plateau of Dobrudha down almost at the sea level.

      Provadia is a scenic place, it is located in a canyon along Provadiiska River. Overnight accommodations in Provadia are available, although in the touristy season you may need reservations.

      Information for Provadia and its fortress "Ovech" on the plateau over the town:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Provadia

http://trakia-tours.com/provadia-guide-94.html

Next several photos of the plateau above Provadia and Ovech Fortres.

      For the route from Provadia to Burgas, please look in the Chapter I. Passes in Balkan  Sector I. C, Point 15. Aytoski Pass.

      Bicyclists intending to visit Varna can use either the

  road east from Vetrino, or the not named road east from Provadia - toward Manastir and Devnya. I will no write again about it - the information for it is in the previous item of the same point.

Sector III. B - 1

Route b: From Vekilski (road 207) to Radan Voyvoda to Stefan Karadzha to Kaloyan to Dobrotich to Mpmcjhilovo to Sredno Selo to Vetrino (road 208) to Provadia.

 Comparing with the route a, this one is shorter and the climbing is a little bit less. Next are several photos illustrating the area from Stefan Karadzha toward Vetrino.


 

 

 

 

Sector III. B

Route c

(From Silistra to Dobrich road N71)

 

      Bicyclists intending to head toward Durankulak and Balchik, I recommend pedaling toward Dobrich. Here are possible 2 routes:

Route c - 1

     From Silistra (road N7) to Alfatar to Tervel to Karapelit to Dobrich.

Route c - 2

From Silistra (road N71) to Bogorovo to Srediste to Karapelit to Dobrich.

     

 

Sector III. B - 1

 

      A more detailed map concerning alternatives from Silistra to Karapelit:

Route c - 1

      From Silistra (road N71) to Bogorovo to Srediste to Kolartsi to Hitovo to Karapelit .

      In my younger years this route was one of my favorites, maybe I pedaled it more than 10 times.  My last touring here was July '18.

      The  area is beautiful when the wheat are green or yellow, or when the sunflowers are flowering. Summertime here is quite hot.

      Along the road between Silistra and Karapelit there are lot of apricot trees, which makes pedaling in this area very pleasant from the end of May to the middle of July.

 

 

Route c - 2

 

      From Silistra (road N7) to Alfatar to (road 207) Alekovo to Chestimensko to Tervel (road N106) to Kochmar to Podelon to Geshanovo to Karapelit .

 

      Both routes are very nice, no traffic. I like both them and really can not say which one is better.

      Comparing the route profile charts, it can be seen that the area is almost the same, the climbing is the same and the distance too.

Route c - 1

Route c - 2

Route c - 1

As it can be seen from the road profile chart, when leaving Silistra there is 5 - 6 km hill.

Soon all this climbing appeared to be in vain - at Bogorovo you will be again in the altitude of Silistra.
      The hill after Bogorovo is very tedious, usually here is very hot in the summer time. Luckily 2 kilometers after it there is very nice restaurant, I was always   wondering - a restaurant in the middle of nothing, but it is a beautiful spot to refresh with a tonic, or beer. Unfortunately summer 2003 it was not working.

      Further toward Karapelit pedalling is extremely pleasant. As I have mentioned, along the road between Silistra and Karapelit there are lot of apricot trees,

  which maces pedalling in this area very pleasant from the end of May to the middle of July.

Route c - 2

Next photos illustrating route c - 2 are taken in the beginning of October '13 - the last time it was so hot was 1930.

Alfatar is little town, I am not sure if overnight accommodation is available in it.

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NC/silistra/alfatar/alfatar

Soon the route crosses the valley of so called "Dry River".

The next town Tervel is a little bit bigger.

 http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/dobrich/tervel/tervel

Comparing with the route c - 1, here there are more villages along the road, food and water are available in them.

Sector III. B - 1

Nothing special to say about the distance from Karapelit to Dobrich. Almost flat area easy to be pedaled. Years ago near the road there were a lot of cherry trees, it seems they were cut because of drying.

Dobrich is the main town of this district. Overnight accommodation in it is not a problem.

 

Information for Dobrich:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/Dobrich/

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/ne/dobrich/dobrich-city/dobrich


 

 

 

 

 

      To complete this point, I will mention that in exploitation are two relatively new open Border checkpoints on the  Bulgaria/Romanian border:

 

- Border Checkpoint Kaynardzha - Lipnitsa

(open 2017, works between 8 am and 8 pm);

 

- Border Checkpoint Krushari - Dobromir

(open 2018, having the same work time).

 

      On the map in left I point this two new Border Checkpoints.

 

       June '21 I explored this area and my information is very real.

If you use Border Checkpoint Kaynardzha - Lipnitsa head west toward Kaynardzha and road 71.

East toward Kranovo road is nice to this very small village.

The road between Kranovo and Kapitan Dimitrovo has not been maintained is in very poor condition. Exploring just this road segment I had problems with my tires, I did not know both tires are very worn. But the fields were beautiful !

Toward Koriten, Krushari and Dobrich the road in nice. I did not take more photos, thinking only to reach Dobrich and replace my tires.


      The next map shows ways to reach the Black Sea: toward Durankulak, Balchik, Albena or Varna,   but I described all that in the previous item of the same chapter, and I will not repeat it again.


 

4. Border Checkpoint Iovkovo

(Negru Voda – Kardam)

 

      I am not sure, if somebody would use this Border checkpoints. Over the last few years the traffic here (from the border checkpoint to Dobrich) is really heavy in the tourist season. The roads here are in nice conditions. Towards Burgas and BG/Turkey Border I can suggest the following route:

 

Route A

      From Border Checkpoint  (road 29) Iovkovo to Kardam to General Toshevo to Dobrich (road 2702) to Vetrino (road 208) to Provadia to Dalgopol to Aytos (road 6) to Burgas (road 9, E87) to Malko Tarnovo to Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo.

 

      Explores of my Home Page already know where is the information concerning this route.

 

 


 

 

5. Border Checkpoint Durankulak

(Mangalia – Durankulak)

 

Route B

      From border checkpoint Durankulak (road 9, E87) to Shabla to Kavarna to Balchik to Kavarna to Varna to Obzor to Nesebar  to Burgas to Malko Tarnovo to Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo.

 

      I realize that bicyclists entering in Bulgaria here would be glad to explore the seaside, so for detail information, please look in:

 

      Chapter IV. Bicycling along Black sea side


And finishing my description of this Chapter, I will give the last route: from border checkpoint Iovkovo to Durankulak - a road without any traffic. I love just this route and pedal it every time I have a possibility.

      More photos from the same area I took in the early June '23. I was walking from Kardam to Durankulak. I had problems with my left elbow, I was not able to pedal.         Although I was very disappointed I am not able to pedal, it was a very nice 10 day walk along the road and the seaside toward Varna at all.

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