Torrential Downpour and Warm Embers: Rainfall and Fire Combine in Dramatic Scene
A Summer Adventure: A Tale of July 2025
In the heart of summer, on the 30th of July 2025, our journey begins. The scenic landscapes of Bulgaria were the backdrop for a series of events that unfolded over the course of the month.
On the 17th, a thunderstorm swept across the country, bringing a much-needed refreshment to all life forms. Despite the storm, no damage was reported, and the following night, the melodious croaking of frogs filled the air.
Two days later, the Veliko Tarnovo International Folklore Dance Festival kicked off, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria and beyond. The host nation's performance was met with enthusiasm due to national pride and familiarity with the music. Performances from Argentina, India, Mexico, Colombia, USA, and Turkey were also part of the festival, adding a diverse and vibrant flavour to the event.
On the 19th, the festival was in full swing, while our dear old Ottoman farmhouse was being rented out. Meanwhile, a black cloud passed over the house on the 27th, bringing hope but no rain.
The rest of the day on the 24th was spent tootling around the big town of Smolyan and the tiny village of Mugla. In Mugla, we savoured the local dish, Patatnik, a delightful combination of grated potatoes, onions, Bulgarian cheese, and a type of mild mint called gyosum.
A day earlier, on the 23rd, we visited Yagodina, a village surrounded by meadows where bees, bears, goats, gatherers, and jeep safari abominations roam freely. The chapel of the Holy Mother of God, near Yagodina, was a sight to behold and was duly photographed. Six kilometers further on, we visited the Arch of Freedom on the 21st.
The Panorama Hotel, with its stunning mountain vistas, was another stop on our itinerary, visited on the 21st. Wild flowers and wild horses were encountered during this picturesque journey.
However, not everything went smoothly. On the 26th, our car broke down, causing a momentary hiccup in our travels. Luckily, a rental Clio was secured on the 28th to continue our adventure.
On the 25th, we discovered the beautiful village of Dolen on the road from Dospat to Greece. A for sale sign outside an old house in Dolen suggested a price of €5,000.
On the 20th, Malki Chiflik Appreciation Day was observed, and the day was spent enjoying homemade food and drink with Priyatelkata, moseying around their garden, and talking to animals.
The scorching heat was evident, with the temperature in Dolen reaching 44.5°C on the 27th and 36°C in Devin on the 21st. A wildfire was reported near residential blocks five kilometers from our bed on the 27th, but thankfully, it was quickly contained.
Throughout our journey, we were reminded of the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that Bulgaria has to offer. From the bustling cities to the serene villages, each stop provided a unique and memorable experience. As we look back on our summer adventures, we are filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder, eagerly anticipating our next journey.
- On the 24th, during our exploration, we enjoyed the local delicacy, Patatnik, in Mugla, experiencing a flavorful blend of Bulgarian culture and cuisine.
- Tracing our way from Dospat to Greece on the 25th, we stumbled upon the captivating village of Dolen, where an old house was up for sale at €5,000.
- The Veliko Tarnovo International Folklore Dance Festival, celebrated on the 19th, showcased the musical and cultural heritage of various nations, enriching our experience with a diverse tapestry of sounds and traditions.
- Overcoming a temporary setback when our car broke down on the 26th, we continued our adventure by renting a Clio on the 28th, ready to embrace the beauty and culture that Bulgaria had yet to show us.
