Located in the Sinite Virove area, about 3 km north-east of the village of Mogilitsa, the cave impresses with its beautiful rock formations, underground lakes and steep galleries. It is part of Bulgaria’s 100 National Tourist Attractions.
With Transfer from Sofia Airport to Uhlovitsa Cave you can arrange a direct, comfortable journey from the airport to the Rhodopes, with no need to look for transport after landing or make multiple changes.
Uhlovitsa Cave – one of the underground palaces of the Rhodopes
Uhlovitsa Cave lies at about 1040 metres above sea level and is among the most interesting developed caves in the Rhodopes. Its total length is about 460 metres, of which roughly 330 metres are adapted for tourist visits.
The cave was discovered in 1967, and its name is linked to the word "ululitsa", the name of a kind of owl that probably lived in the area. Nature has been shaping the cave galleries for millennia, creating impressive formations reminiscent of an underground palace.
One of Uhlovitsa's distinctive features is its vertical development. The cave has several levels, and the visit involves climbing and descending metal stairs that lead to some of its most beautiful parts.
Dendrites, helictites and the stone waterfall
Uhlovitsa is known for its varied cave formations. Among them, dendrites stand out, resembling corals and fanciful trees, as do the rarer helictites.
The cave also contains stalactites, stalagmites and impressive rock cascades. One of the most striking formations is the large stone waterfall, which glitters in pale colours and is one of Uhlovitsa's characteristic natural phenomena.
These forms were created by the action of water and air currents over enormous periods of time, turning the cave into a kind of underground natural gallery.
The Hall of the Chasms and the underground lakes
One of the most impressive parts of Uhlovitsa is the Hall of the Chasms. Four deep chasms descend from it to the lower level, and the lower gallery is reached by a steep metal staircase. The lower level is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the cave.
The cave ends with a series of beautiful underground lakes, which fill with water mostly in early spring. The combination of lakes, rock cascades and fanciful formations creates an impressive atmosphere, different from that of most show caves in Bulgaria.
Various species of bats also live in the cave, using the underground environment in different seasons.
The way to the cave – part of the adventure
A visit to Uhlovitsa does not begin at the cave entrance. After reaching the car park at the foot of the hill, you face a steep climb on foot to the entrance itself.
According to the Smolyan tourist portal, the entrance is reached by a path about 800 metres long, followed by roughly 190 metal steps. The difference in height between the car park and the entrance is about 160 metres.
It is therefore advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes. Inside the cave the temperature is constant, at around 10–11°C all year round, so even in summer it is wise to bring a warm layer.
Uhlovitsa Cave – one of the 100 National Tourist Sites
The cave is listed as number 84 on the list of Bulgaria's 100 National Tourist Sites. This makes it an interesting stop for nature lovers and for tourists touring the country's national landmarks alike.
Uhlovitsa combines well with other sights in the Southern Rhodopes. The area around Mogilitsa offers opportunities for walks, nature tourism and visits to historical sites.
What else to visit near Uhlovitsa Cave?
A visit to the cave can be part of a larger route through the Rhodopes. Places you can include in your trip are:
- The Agushevi Konatsi in Mogilitsa – an impressive architectural complex with a rich history;
- the village of Mogilitsa – a picturesque Rhodope village close to the cave;
- the village of Smilyan – known for its traditions and the famous Smilyan beans;
- Smolyan – the provincial capital and a starting point for many sights;
- The Smolyan Lakes – a picturesque natural group of lakes in the Rhodopes;
- Pamporovo – one of the most popular mountain resorts in Bulgaria;
- Snezhanka Peak – an excellent destination for panoramic views and mountain walks.
The combination of caves, mountain routes, traditional villages and historical sights makes the area a great destination for a trip of several days.
If you are arriving at Sofia Airport and planning to visit Uhlovitsa, transport arranged in advance is a convenient way to continue directly to the Rhodopes.
With Transfer from Sofia Airport to Uhlovitsa Cave you get a direct journey to the Mogilitsa area, with no need to use several kinds of transport or look for a car after landing.
The service suits individual tourists, families, groups of friends and tourist groups. If you wish, the route can also be combined with other sights in the Smolyan area and the Rhodopes.
This is especially convenient for foreign tourists flying into Sofia who want to continue to one of the most interesting natural sights in southern Bulgaria.
A comfortable trip to Uhlovitsa Cave with Tsenov Group
With Tsenov Group you can arrange a convenient transfer from Sofia Airport to Uhlovitsa Cave, tailored to your arrival time and travel plans.
Instead of wasting time looking for transport after landing, you can head straight for the Rhodopes and begin your adventure right from the airport.
Uhlovitsa Cave is a place that combines natural beauty, adventure and a sense of discovery. The underground lakes, stone waterfalls, rare cave formations and characteristic mountain scenery make a visit an unforgettable part of your trip through the Rhodopes.
