Uzana and Ispolín Peak — An Adventure in the Geographic Heart of Bulgaria
Just 25 km southwest of Gabrovo, along a well-maintained asphalt road, lies Uzana — one of the most beloved mountain resorts in the Balkan Mountains. Nestled at 1300 m elevation, Uzana is often called “The Green Heart of the Balkans” and sits at the exact geographic center of Bulgaria.
Practical Information
- Starting point: Uzana resort area
- Elevation: 1300 m (Ispolín Peak: 1524 m)
- Difficulty: Easy, suitable for families
- Duration: 1.5 hours one way with stops for rest and photos
- Nearby attractions: Etara Ethnographic Museum in Gabrovo
The Beginning of the Adventure
Our first impression of Uzana was truly enchanting. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a herd of beautiful horses roaming freely across the highland meadows. These graceful animals, their shiny manes flowing in the mountain breeze, painted a scene straight out of a fairytale and instantly drew us into the authentic spirit of mountain life.
We parked beneath the shade of towering pines guarding the entrance to this mountain gem. Before us stretched a highland meadow filled with fragrant grasses and wild herbs. Uzana offers excellent tourist infrastructure — numerous huts, hotels and guesthouses — while winter brings the ski slopes to life.
A signpost informed us that Uzana serves as the starting point for many popular activities. We decided to head toward Ispolín Peak along a comfortable asphalt path with clear trail markings.
The Trail to Ispolín Peak
The path begins near Uzana Hut and continues through a picturesque forest, running parallel to the Rainbow Hill ski slope, which rests quietly awaiting the winter season. Along the way, we noticed informational signs describing local tree species — an educational touch that enriches the experience.
The trail is gentle and pleasant, perfect for the whole family, with an estimated walking time of about one hour. Once we emerged into the open, the panorama took our breath away — endless mountain ridges stretched as far as the eye could see, revealing the generosity of Bulgarian nature.
Meeting the Local Inhabitants
We crossed a vast meadow enclosed by electric fencing, where an impressive herd of well-bred cattle grazed peacefully. Young calves watched us with curious, dewy eyes — an encounter that adds authenticity to the mountain experience.
Reaching the Summit
For the final ascent, we chose the steepest path. At the top, a Bulgarian flag waved proudly in the wind, and beneath it — a framed portrait of Vasil Levski, Bulgaria’s national hero. This touching gesture from an anonymous patriot added emotional depth to our geographic achievement. At 1524 m, Ispolín Peak stands as the highest point of the Shipka section of the Balkan Mountains.
The 360-degree panoramic view from the summit is truly indescribable. In the distance rises the Shipka Monument — a symbol of Bulgarian pride — which inspired us to plan a future hike from Uzana to Shipka.
The Return and the Geographic Center
After a rewarding photo session, we made our way back through the grounds of Uzana Hut, where we stumbled upon the authentic atmosphere of Bulgarian mountain tourism — tent camps, clotheslines with laundry drying in the breeze, and a true spirit of the outdoors.
Following a short break with fresh fruit, nuts and homemade treats, we set off toward the geographic center of Bulgaria. Just 1.5 km from Uzana, a special marker was placed in 1991 — a stylized pyramid in the colors of the Bulgarian flag, marking the exact center of the country’s territory.
Uzana and Ispolín Peak offer the perfect combination of accessibility, natural beauty and historical significance. This is an ideal destination for a day trip that blends mountain adventure with a sense of national pride.
