In the heart of Northern Bulgaria lies the Devetashko Plateau (also Devetaki Plateau). Here, nature seems to have slowed down to reveal its raw beauty- deep canyons and chasms, waterfalls tumbling over limestone cliffs, and breathtaking views. The most famous landmark is the Devetashka Cave. This impressive underground “cathedral” stretches about 2 kilometers, with ceilings reaching up to 60 meters high. Seven natural openings in the roof let sunlight pour in, revealing the magnitude of this hidden world inhabited by 15 species of bats. 

The closed and abandoned old school in the center of Karpachevo has now been given a second life. Today it welcomes visitors as a guesthouse with a pool and a restaurant. Each classroom has been transformed into a bedroom, and locals joke, “Whoever didn’t sleep during class - now is the time to catch up!”

And what about another unusual transformation in the village - a former barn turned into a comfortable family hotel with a green roof planted with 12 types of succulents? 

And have you heard of the Old Mill of Karpachevo?

The building used to be a watermill in nearby Krushuna. Two brothers dismantled it stone by stone, transported it, and reassembled it in Karpachevo, turning it into a mill. Some years ago, enthusiasts from the local “Devetashko Plateau” association restored it, and now the building is a cultural and educational center, says the association’s chair, Iva Taralezhkova:

“We started with something boldly called the ‘Rural Business Academy,’ where we developed a training program to help local producers and tourism entrepreneurs upgrade their skills and knowledge. We organize various workshops. We’ve held Bulgarian embroidery workshops for tourists. We also host exhibitions - right now you can see the photography exhibition Up Close by Hristofor Tashev, featuring faces of people of different ages. As part of our annual festival JAZZ under the Stars, we offer master classes and music workshops. The acoustics are wonderful, the piano sounds beautiful, and the atmosphere and energy of this place make people feel good,” Iva Taralezhkova concludes.

Photos and video: Veneta Nikolova