Exploring Bulgaria's hidden gem, Razlog!
Good morning travelers! The time is around 9:30 AM, and we have just arrived in Razlog. Join us as we embark on an exciting journey through this charming Bulgarian town.
To start our day off right, we decided to forgo the usual caffeine boost and let our brains wake up naturally. However, our search for a morning pick-me-up led us to a delightful surprise - a coffee machine with English translations! How convenient! We marveled at the array of options, from espresso to cappuccino. It seems like the locals here live on espresso! We couldn't resist indulging in a cup of our own, even though we were amused by the machine's quirky habit of throwing the change onto the floor.
With our caffeine fix in hand, we originally planned to hike to the Razlog Glass Tower. However, the steep ascent proved to be quite challenging. Even Yousef, my husband, struggled to catch his breath. But the breathtaking views that gradually unfolded made every step worth it. Located atop Golak Hill, the Observation Tower offered a mesmerizing 360-degree panorama of Razlog city and the surrounding mountains.
After descending the hill, we made our way to Gorno Village, where we discovered a fascinating piece of history. In this village, people still use a traditional wooden washing machine to wash heavy items like duvets and carpets. The water, sourced directly from the river, fills a large wooden bucket. It's incredible to see how this age-old method has stood the test of time.
Our journey continued to Belitza Village, a Muslim village known for its three mosques. We couldn't resist the Ride of the old train that travels the area. Legend has it that the trail for this train was marked by following a donkey and laying the rail behind it. As we arrived at our destination, we were greeted by a nice hotel that seemed perfect for a moment of relaxation!
Our last stop of the day took us to an ancient church perched atop a small hill in the village where we are staying. The views from this vantage point were simply awe-inspiring. It was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure and discovery.
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