Have you heard about Malinova Hut, where they make the best wine and jam? We're launching our new series "Favorite Places of the Flaming Foundation" with a two-day hike to Trustena Hut, which we do every spring and autumn.
We're kicking off our new series with a picturesque train journey from Sofia to Mezdra, or Vratsa, through the Iskar Gorge. From there, we disembark at Lakatnik Station and head east towards the village of Lakatnik, following the red trail markers! You can choose to take the smoother asphalt road, catch a minibus to Lakatnik village, or hike through the direct forest paths around the asphalt. After an hour or two, depending on your walking pace, you'll find yourself in the charming village of Lakatnik. There, we discover a minibus stop named "Last Care," symbolically leaving all our worries here to move lightly up into the mountains.
In the center of Lakatnik village, there's a little square where we never miss taking photos with a replica tank, so make sure to capture the memory there too. After our brief break, we continue onward, leaving the village and embarking on a long, straight stretch that seems endless with its beautiful views. It will take about an hour to reach a newly built shelter, which serves as a sign that our final destination is near! You can refuel there with a drink or sandwich, or continue forward following the red trail markers.
Within half an hour, you'll arrive at the magical Trustena Hut, where you'll be greeted by the friendliest housekeeper in the world with a warm feast and homemade tea. Our favorite highlights include mushroom soup with nettles, grilled meats, and desserts with homemade raspberry jam.
In front of the hut, there's a clearing where, in good weather, you can play various games with friends. The foundation's favorites are "Zip-Zap," "Egg," and "Ninja," or creative activities like painting on rocks using natural elements. The evening is dedicated to karaoke, word associations, or playing board games inside the hut.
The next morning, we recharge with fried slices of bread and homemade raspberry jam, then set off on a different route. We descend again, following the red trail markers, but this time towards the village of Bov. The path is gentle and enjoyable for a walk in all seasons!
From Bov village, you have two options: either take the asphalt road towards Gara Bov village or visit the Pod Kamiko waterfall. In the village, we love visiting the only store—a vending machine. You can find it by asking one of the grandmas or following signs for cold beer. Grab something to eat and continue downward.
Before long, you'll come upon the Pod Kamiko waterfall. Pod Kamiko is a double waterfall, with each cascade (left and right) measuring about 20 meters in height. During periods of heavy rainfall, the waterfall can become a triple cascade.
From there, you continue along the eco-trail and eventually reach the stadium in the village of Gara Bov. You'll then follow the asphalt road, which leads you to Gara Bov railway station, where you can find transportation back to the capital.
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