Stone Forest and Aladzha Monastery Experience

Overview

Available languages

English

4 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Discover the mystical Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani) and historic Aladzha Rock Monastery on this half-day self-guided tour for travelers who value independence and rich information.

Travel comfortably from Varna or nearby resorts in a small group. Upon arrival, explore at your own pace with an expert-authored guidebook written by licensed local guide Hristina Nedelcheva.

The guidebook includes:

• Historical and cultural background

• Legends and symbolism

• Practical visitor information

This tour combines independent travel with professional insight — no fixed schedule.

Why Choose This Tour:

• Discover at your own pace with expert insight at your fingertips

• Guidebook created by a certified local expert, not AI or generic content

• Perfect mix of natural wonder and cultural heritage

• A smart, budget-friendly alternative to traditional guided tours

• Ideal for curious, independent travelers who want quality storytelling

• Small group setting

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Pobiti Kamani

You will spend 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring the Stone Forest, a remarkable natural phenomenon made up of limestone pillars scattered around Lake Beloslav. This area features over 300 stone columns of various shapes—solid and hollow, truncated cones, and other unusual formations. The group you will visit, called “Center-South,” is the most famous site, located 18 km west of Varna, with some columns reaching up to 8 meters tall. During your visit, you will read the guide-prepared booklet and walk among the stone pillars, learning about the different types of stone formations and their geological history.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Not Included

Aladzha Monastery

You will also have 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore Aladzha Monastery, the most famous medieval rock-hewn monastery on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. Inhabited by Christian monks from the 12th to the 14th centuries, the monastery features rock-carved chapels, cells, and frescoes. During your visit, you will read the booklet prepared by the guide and walk through the site, learning about the different parts of the monastery and its rich spiritual and historical significance.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Not Included

What‘s Included

Round-trip transportation with a driver from your address in Varna or nearby resorts is included. Pick-up from Albena or the golf resort areas is available for an additional fee.

Self-guided exploration of 1 hour and 30 minutes at each site

Enjoy a professional, attentive driver throughout the tour.

Guidebook about both sites written by tour guide Hristina Nedelcheva (digital or printed)

3 EUR per adult for the Stone Forest and 5 EUR per adult for Aladzha Monastery.

Pickup points

Splendid Boutique

Bratia Shkorpil St 30, Varna Bulgaria

Options