Mount Okolchitsa in the Vrachan Balkan is a national symbol of Bulgaria's struggle for freedom. Here, in 1876, the legendary poet and revolutionary Hristo Botev and his group fought their heaviest battles against the Ottoman Empire. The memorial at the top, a towering reinforced concrete militia cross, honors the Bot comrades who died for the liberation of Bulgaria.

"Hristo Botev" Memorial Park: a place of national memory

The "Hristo Botev" memorial park, located only 20 km from Vratsa, is a place of national memory and pilgrimage. Every year on June 2, a national commemoration is held at the foot of the monument. In the park there is also the path "In the footsteps of the Boteva Cheta" - a circular one-hour route tracing the battle path and fate of the Chetniks.

The Vola Open Air Festival: A unique party under the stars

The Vola Open Air Festival, which takes place every year in August, is a unique party under the stars in the beautiful Vračanska mountain. Featuring a mix of innovative, non-commercial music, circus acts, acrobatics and workshops, the festival attracts more than 300 headlining Bulgarian and foreign artists. Participants stay in tents and enjoy 48 hours of non-stop entertainment.

Okolchitsa Peak: A must-see destination in Bulgaria

Not far from Mount Okolchitsa, in the area of Rashov dol near Lyutibrod, is the site of the last battle of the surviving Botevi fighters. The three-hour trail from Mount Okolchitsa to Lyuti Brod introduces you to the incredible mountain scenery and the history of the struggles for the liberation of Bulgaria.

Okolchitsa Peak is one of the most emblematic and historical destinations of Bulgaria. Listed among the Hundred National Tourist Sites, it is a place of pilgrimage and remembrance for Bulgarians and a fascinating destination for both history lovers and nature lovers.