Town guide
The spa capital of the Balkans — through the eyes of your hosts
Velingrad is Bulgaria’s most famous spa resort — over 70 mineral springs between 22° and 90°, crisp mountain air and the Rhodope Mountains on every side. Winter here is quiet and warm in the baths; summer is green and fresh.
Our apartments sit right in the centre, so almost everything in this guide is within walking distance or a short drive. Here is what not to miss.
5 min walk
The symbol of Velingrad and Bulgaria’s largest karst spring — more than 500 litres of ice-cold water per second rising at the foot of a pine forest. Around the two lakes you’ll find walking paths, pedal boats, rowing boats and lakeside cafes. It is most beautiful early in the morning when the park is quiet, and at dusk when the lights reflect on the water. An essential stroll on every visit.
In town
Velingrad is built on mineral water — the Ladzhene, Kamenitsa and Chepino quarters each have their own springs with different mineral profiles and temperatures. Historic public baths and modern spa centres offer everything from a classic soak to full treatment programmes. The waters are famed for helping joint, respiratory and skin conditions — and they are simply a wonderful way to unwind after a day in the mountains.
In town
One of Velingrad’s most authentic experiences — outdoor and indoor pools fed by warm radon mineral water. You soak in steaming open-air water surrounded by forest; unforgettable in winter, when snow lies all around. The radon-rich water is renowned for its benefits for joints and the musculoskeletal system.
40 km
One of Bulgaria’s most beautiful caves, near the town of Peshtera — about 40 km from Velingrad. Inside you’ll find snow-white stalactites, stalagmites and stone curtains formed over 600,000 years, including the famous “Magic Forest” hall. The temperature inside stays around 8°C — bring a light jacket even in summer. A perfect half-day trip by car.
Nearby
Horse riding for all ages through the meadows and pine forests around Velingrad — lessons for beginners, guided rides for the more experienced, and an unforgettable treat for children. The instructors are patient and attentive, and the trails pass some of the loveliest views in the area. We recommend booking a day ahead in high season.
Nearby
Several scenic waters around Velingrad are set up for sport fishing — quiet spots in nature where the day slips by unnoticed. Nearby trout farms offer licence-free fishing with your catch cooked fresh on the spot. A perfect slow afternoon — even with no experience you’ll leave with a smile, and quite often with dinner.
Nearby
The Rhodopes around Velingrad are laced with scenic eco trails — across meadows, along rivers and through centuries-old pine forests. There are easy loops for a family walk and longer routes for a full-day adventure. The air here is famous: the mix of conifer forest and mountain altitude is why Velingrad has been a climatic resort for over a century.
Included in your stay
Every stay at Oblivion comes with a complimentary bike ride around Velingrad — the nicest way to get a feel for the town. Loop past Kleptuza, the centre and the spring quarters, stop for coffee on the square and find your own favourite corners. The bikes are available throughout your stay — just tell us when you want to set off.
Oblivion Apartments
Our two designer apartments are in the very centre of Velingrad — minutes on foot from Kleptuza and the baths. Bike ride included with your stay.
Airport & city transfers
Travelling from afar? We arrange a comfortable private transfer between Velingrad and Sofia — one way, fixed price, straight to your door.
Any time of year — summer is green and fresh, while winter is bath season: warm mineral water outdoors while snow falls around you. Spring and autumn are quiet and perfect for walking.
By car it is about 130 km (2 hours) from Sofia via Kostenets. There are direct trains and buses too, and the narrow-gauge railway from Septemvri to Velingrad is one of Bulgaria’s most scenic rides. We also arrange private transfers from Sofia to your door.
Velingrad is the “spa capital of the Balkans” — over 70 mineral springs, dozens of baths and spa centres, Kleptuza Lake and crisp Rhodope mountain air.
A weekend covers the baths and Kleptuza, but with 3–4 days you can also fit in Snezhanka Cave, the eco trails and the horse base — without rushing.
