Escape the bustle of the city with a day trip from Veliko Tarnovo or Sofia to two of Bulgaria’s most mesmerising natural wonders – Devetashka Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls. This journey blends exploration and tranquillity, taking you from the vast underground chambers of Devetashka to the turquoise cascades of Krushuna.

Ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike, it’s a refreshing escape into the wild heart of northern Bulgaria, where every turn reveals a new layer of raw beauty and peaceful charm.

1. Overview – Exploring Northern Bulgaria’s Natural Wonders

Tucked away in the heart of northern Bulgaria, Devetashka Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls make for one of the most rewarding day trips from Veliko Tarnovo or Sofia.

This route takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking natural landmarks; from massive underground chambers to cascading turquoise pools surrounded by lush greenery.

We came from Lukovit as we were visiting the Prohodna cave the day before, but this trip is ideally suited for those staying in Veliko Tarnovo, Pleven, Lovech or Sofia looking to uncover Bulgaria’s wilder, quieter side.

After breakfast, we left our hotel (Hotel Diplomat Park) around 10 a.m. and began our journey towards Devetashka Cave. The drive itself, winding through small villages and open fields, offered glimpses into Bulgaria’s rural charm and slower pace of life.

2. Travelling from Veliko Tarnovo or Sofia

For those driving from Veliko Tarnovo, expect around a 1.5-hour journey. If you’re coming from Sofia, it will take closer to 2.5 hours. If you want to learn more about other trips you can make from Veliko Tarnovo read our article below:

Unfortunately, public transport options are very limited since the area is relatively remote, so we recommend renting a car or joining an organised tour. Having your own vehicle allows you to move at your own pace and stop for spontaneous photo opportunities along the way.

The road conditions are generally good, with well-marked signs once you approach the Lovech region. Parking near the cave is smooth, there’s a large open area just outside the entrance that accommodates plenty of vehicles.

However, expect it to be busier during the summer months, as it’s a major domestic and international attraction.

2.1. Join an Organised Tour to Devetashka Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls

Here are some suggestions for organised tours to Devetashka cave and other nearby attractions you can join:

3. Visiting Devetashka Cave

At the entrance to Devetashka Cave, we paid a modest entrance fee of €1.50 (as of October 2025). Crossing a small bridge over the Osam River, we were immediately struck by the sheer size of the cave opening.

Inside, the atmosphere changes completely – the cool air, the echo of dripping water, and the interplay of light filtering through ceiling openings create a surreal, almost cathedral-like environment.

The cave itself is immense, stretching over 2 kilometres long and with a main chamber reaching 60 metres high. It was used by the Bulgarian military as an ammunition storage site during the 1950s, and more recently gained fame as a filming location for The Expendables 2. A poster at the entrance proudly recalls this cinematic connection.

As we wandered deeper, shafts of sunlight broke through the natural holes in the ceiling, illuminating patches of moss and small pools below. A narrow path leads towards an elevated area offering panoramic views of the cave’s interior, a perfect spot to pause, sit on one of the benches, and take in the vastness around you.

While part of the cave remains restricted to protect bat colonies, there’s more than enough accessible space to explore comfortably. We found 30 to 45 minutes was an ideal amount of time to fully enjoy it.

4. Visiting the Krushuna Waterfalls

Our next stop, Krushuna Waterfalls, is less than 30 minutes’ drive away. By the time we arrived, the weather had turned rainy, a common autumn twist in Bulgaria – and most nearby cafes and restaurants were closed for the season. With our lunch plans thwarted, we pushed on to explore the waterfalls, driven by curiosity and excitement.

Tickets cost €2.50 per person, and from the entrance, the eco path gently climbs towards the main waterfall area. Before reaching the falls, you’ll come across a small church and two diverging routes:

1. The path to the Mysterious Waterfall (a steeper, more challenging ascent), and
2. The trail to the Ponds and Main Waterfalls, which is easier and scenic.

We opted to start with the Mysterious Waterfall. The climb was surprisingly demanding, taking us along earthy steps reinforced with stones and wooden planks.

Midway, we stumbled upon the Maarata Cave, a small opening worth a brief stop to admire the view across the valley below. Just before reaching the top, a side path gives a sneak peek of the Krushuna Waterfalls from above – a great photo opportunity.

When we finally reached the Mysterious Waterfall, it felt like stepping into a secret corner of nature. The air was fresh and damp, and every surface glowed green from the moss-covered rocks.

The path is narrow and muddy, so we recommend good shoes and patience when passing others. The proximity to the falls makes it feel truly immersive; water splashing lightly, birds echoing in the background.

After descending, we continued to the Ponds and the Main Krushuna Waterfall. This part of the trail is easier and only takes 5 minutes, with wooden walkways and benches along the way.

The waterfalls here are breathtaking – tiered cascades of turquoise water streaming over mossy limestone terraces. Visiting off-season meant we had the entire place almost to ourselves, a rare privilege for such a popular spot.

We spent nearly an hour simply soaking in the tranquillity, watching the clear water flow over rocks that seemed to glow beneath the grey autumn sky. The soothing sound of the falls and the vivid colours made it one of our favourite natural spots in Bulgaria.

5. Tips & Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Devetashka Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls is spring through early summer, when the waterfalls are at their fullest and the landscape bursts with green. Autumn is also beautiful, offering fewer crowds and a mix of golden foliage.

• Footwear: Wear good hiking shoes – paths can get muddy, especially after rain.
• Timing: Aim to arrive at Devetashka Cave by mid-morning to enjoy softer light and fewer tour groups.
• Facilities: There are toilets and small food stalls in summer, but few amenities off-season.
• Drones: Allowed in designated areas but check local signage.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for both cave interiors and waterfalls.

6. Final Thoughts – A Day that Blends Bulgaria’s Raw Beauty with Peace and Space

This day trip revealed a side of Bulgaria that feels untouched and almost otherworldly. From the cavernous silence of Devetashka Cave to the cascading serenity of Krushuna Waterfalls, it’s a journey that balances exploration with calm.

Even with a bit of rain and closed eateries, the experience reminded us how travel often rewards curiosity and patience.

If you’re staying in Veliko Tarnovo or Sofia and looking for a day out that’s both scenic and soulful, this route offers the perfect blend of adventure, photography, and quiet reflection.

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