Post by VisitBulgariaToday on Nov 9, 2016 14:01:58 GMT
Pchelina lake is located only about 60 kilometers southwest of Sofia. Many people come here to relax during the summer heat and for fishing and camping, as well. But what interested me most hehe is the story of the lake and the small church above it, called "Saint Joan Letni".
About 50 years ago there was a village of Pchelintsi once stood where the lake is now. The government decided to turn the place into the lake because the Struma River which pass through the village was heavily polluted. The residents of the village were persuaded to leave their homes and compensated them with lands. They destroyed the houses. and swept the place. Today Pchelina lake is one of the largest in the country. The small church dates back to the 14th century and it is the only building remaining from the village.
The place is not famous tourist destination and there are not many visitors, which is a huge plus! This is how the magical atmosphere is still preserved and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
How to get there:
From Sofia take the direction toward Kyustendil. After Radomir turn right towards the village Priboi, and then left to the village Potsurnentsi. Turn left along the shops in the village center and continue forward. After you pass through the village go up on the gravel road. You will see meadows and a few houses. The church itself is difficult to be reached by car, so it is better to park in a convenient place before or after the last houses of the village and proceed on foot.
About 50 years ago there was a village of Pchelintsi once stood where the lake is now. The government decided to turn the place into the lake because the Struma River which pass through the village was heavily polluted. The residents of the village were persuaded to leave their homes and compensated them with lands. They destroyed the houses. and swept the place. Today Pchelina lake is one of the largest in the country. The small church dates back to the 14th century and it is the only building remaining from the village.
The place is not famous tourist destination and there are not many visitors, which is a huge plus! This is how the magical atmosphere is still preserved and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
How to get there:
From Sofia take the direction toward Kyustendil. After Radomir turn right towards the village Priboi, and then left to the village Potsurnentsi. Turn left along the shops in the village center and continue forward. After you pass through the village go up on the gravel road. You will see meadows and a few houses. The church itself is difficult to be reached by car, so it is better to park in a convenient place before or after the last houses of the village and proceed on foot.