Hike to Stolo Rock Formation, Balkan Mountains
The Stolo rock formation in the Ponor Mountains is one of the hidden treasures of the Balkan Mountains, deserving the attention of every nature lover. This impressive site offers breathtaking views, unique rock formations and a chance to fully immerse yourself in mountain silence, far from the city noise.
Practical Information
- Elevation: 1200 m (highest point of Stolo)
- Starting point: Breze Village (parking at the edge of the village)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (suitable for people with basic fitness)
- Duration: 3 hours total (1.5 hours ascent + time for rest and photos + 1.5 hours descent)
- Equipment: Hiking boots (essential), appropriate clothing for mountain hiking, sufficient water, food for the whole day
- Trail markings: Sparse markings, GPS or offline maps recommended
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but most beautiful in autumn for the fall colors
Trail Description
Getting to the Starting Point
The trail to Stolo rock formation begins from Breze Village, where there is parking at the edge of the settlement. Make sure to fill up with water from the local drinking spring — there are no water sources further along.
Important: Carry enough water for the entire hike, as there are no other water sources along the trail.
The Beginning of the Journey
Beyond the last houses of Breze Village, picturesque fields stretch out where herds of cows and horses graze peacefully, enclosed by electric fencing. Stolo is visible in the distance, but as is typical of hikes in the Balkan Mountains, distance can be deceiving — the destination looks close but there’s still quite a way to go.
Through the Autumn Forest
After a sharp turn, we enter a sparse woodland where trail markings are weak. We recommend using a GPS device, although the direction remains visible and clear.
The path through the autumn forest is a true symphony of colors, scents, sounds and views. Wherever you look, nature’s paintings turn every moment into magic.
The Challenge
The only difficult section of the entire hike is a rocky slope covered with bushes and thorns. Once you overcome it, you emerge onto flat ground.
Meeting the Local Inhabitants
On the flat terrain, you often encounter grazing animals — during our visit, we saw a flock of sheep guarded vigilantly by fierce Karakachan dogs. Be prepared for a loud “greeting” from these faithful guardians!
The Majesty of Stolo
And there it finally is — Stolo! Rocks carved as if by a knife, revealing breathtaking views. This impressive site unveils narrow, deep crevices — natural creations sculpted with fierce beauty.
Mountain Encounters and Friendships
During our visit, we met a lovely family, the Dikanskis. This chance encounter turned out to be the beginning of a wonderful friendship — just a week later, we ran into each other again by chance in the Berkovitsa Balkan, and later we visited Lakatnik Rocks together. The mountains have this wonderful way of connecting people! Hugs to you, dear Dikanski family — you are wonderful!
