Optimism for Bulgaria

Besides over 20 years of friendship, what unites Milen Kunov, Nikolay Makedonski, and Daniel Manev from Belene is their love for their hometown. Although two of them don’t live in Belene full-time, they travel there weekly to stay connected with family, friends, and their favorite sights and sounds along the Danube.

Slowly but steadily communities along the Danube have been waking up to new possibilities over the past decade, and at least partial credit is due to the tireless Boris Begamov and his creation Dunav Ultra — a 740-kilometer cycling route connecting Bulgaria’s northwesternmost point with the Black Sea coast and running along the length of the Danube River.

From August 30 to September 9 this year, the villages of Deleyna, Yasen, and Koshava, in Bulgaria’s northwesternmost area, will host Baba Residence, a residency for artists and researchers from various disciplines.

Dr. Evgenia Naydenova is the passionate director of the Oryahovo History Museum, who has transformed the museum into a vibrant cultural hub. Explore the fascinating multimedia exhibition dedicated to textile artist Marin Varbanov and experience hands-on activities that bring history to life.

Watch this episode of bTV travel series No Luggage as it explores the untouched islands along Bulgaria’s stretch of the Danube River. Discover pristine landscapes, unique flora, and idyllic beaches while learning about the natural beauty that thrives without human interference.

Wherever you dig in Bulgaria, a treasure is bound to crop up sooner or later. This is what renowned British historian Bettany Hughes found out after spending a few weeks there last year. The result of her explorations is the documentary Treasures of Bulgaria, available on Viasat World Bulgaria’s YouTube channel.

Nevena and Kiril are making the most of rural life, but they moved to the village with the clear intention of giving back to the local community as well.

For the second edition of Open Vratsa Fest on August 31 and September 1 this year, Tsvetoslav Yonov, or Tseko for short, and his team promise an even more vibrant lineup with independent Bulgarian and international performers, modern circus shows, public readings, and film screenings.

In addition to breathtaking views of Bulgaria’s longest river canyon, in the Kobilini Steni area, you can also see some of the most impressive rock formations nationwide.