top of page
Imagine all this in one unforgettable stay
Scroll down to first see some of the perfect places and lovely ways to unwind and RELAX, eat and drink.
Underneath that you will see some of the gorgeous, iconic places and attractions to EXPLORE during your stay.
Finally, have a look at some of the exciting, energising and downright enjoyable ACTIVITIES available.
RELAX
KYUSTENDIL TOWN
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Osogovo Mountain, Kyustendil is one of the most famous Bulgarian spa towns yet still a hidden gem for visitors. With characterful buildings and shops, large pedestrian square in the centre, an impressive Roman bath, an early medieval fortress, two ottoman mosques, one medieval church and several Bulgarian revival churches and neoclassical mansions, it is a feast for the eyes. Incredible spas with natural thermal waters dot Kyustendil and let’s not forget the delicious food and hospitality, amongst the best in the continent.
SHOPPING
Kyustendil has many little retail shops and quaint specialist shops selling local produce, clothes, souvenirs, memorabilia, gifts and other goodies found only in the region. Kyustendil developed from an Ottoman market town into an industrial centre also known for its carpets, fruit and vegetables.
VLADIMIR DIMITROV ART GALLERY
The Art Gallery “Vladimir Dimitrov” in Kyustendil town was established in honor of the renowned artist. considered the most famous and well-loved historical Bulgarian artist of all time. The building is lovely with seven exposition halls and natural upper lighting. Vladimir Dimitrov – Maystora (The Master) (1882 – 1960) has an unmistakable unique style - exceptionally impressive paintings with vivid colors and an inimitable painting style.
THE RELAXING HOUSE
Feel like a new person (or more like your old self) with a visit to the Relaxing House. With a fabulous outdoor mineral pool which is open all year round, an indoor mineral pool, sauna, shock pool and rooms for soap and different types of massages. Relaxing House is outstanding for enjoying some deep relaxation and well-being and only fifteen minutes from Mountain View Lodge.
SEQUOIA TREES
These three fascinating giant sequoia trees that's over 130 years old are located near the village of Bogoslov in Kyustendil. Being the oldest and the highest redwoods in Bulgaria, this has become a true beauty and incredible wonder of nature that people locally and other countries are now fond of.
SOME OF THE PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK WE THINK YOU MIGHT ENJOY
FRIENDS RESTAURANT
Friends Restaurant is in the centre of Kyustendil Town. With its refined and stylish interior design, location, delicious food, varied and interesting menu, as well as perfectly trained and friendly staff, Friends Restaurant ranks as one of the best restaurants of the city, from visitors and local people alike.
PIZZA ROYAL
Apart from being the most popular pizzeria in Kyustendil, Pizza Royal doesn't just serve pizzas. They have a wide-ranging menu of hot and cold appetisers, chicken, pork and fish dishes as well as salads and delicious, desserts.
Pizza Royal is also offering free delivery when staying with us at Mountain View Lodge.
EXPLORE
RILA MONASTERY
Stunning Rila Monastery, number 1 tourist attraction in Bulgaria, is set in the lovely Medi Valley is well worth visiting as much for its setting as for its beautiful architecture, sat as it is in the heart of Rila Mountain's peaks and forests. The complex with its church, impressive towers and monastic cells is a beloved spiritual and cultural centre for all Bulgarians. With its rich history and museum, visitors can step back in time. Whilst you are in the area you can also visit Medi Valley Wine Complex.
KADIN BRIDGE
Kadin Bridge (Brides Bridge) is a medieval 100-meter long bridge over the lovely River Struma, which has several legends associated with it. Situated in the village of Nevestino (14 minutes from Kyustendil, it is one of the most remarkable constructions in Bulgaria, assigned as a monument of national significance. From it you can see a magnificent view of the Rila mountain and next to it there is a lovely park to relax, picnic and fish. Near the bridge is the Chetirski inn, where you can enjoy various delicious dishes, popular with locals and visitors alike.
PAUTALIYA ROMAN BATHS
The Pautaliya Roman Baths, in the town of Kyustendil, are world renowned as one of the most significant architectures left from Roman times in Bulgaria. They are second in size only to those of ancient Odessos in present day Varna. The architectural design, building methods and materials make the baths an iconic symbol of the town and well worth walking around.
HISARLAKA FORTRESS
Built in the late 4th early 5th century the fortress is an architectural icon of culture, assigned the category of 'national importance', located on the highest flat part of the hill of the same name. The interesting architecture and the various archaeological monuments discovered from several eras make the fortress on Hisarlaka hill well worth exploring.
MEDI VALLEY WINERY
Medi Valley is a charming destination for wine lovers, located in a picturesque area on the road to the Rila Monastery. From here begins the southwestern wine region, known as the Struma Valley, Medi Valley has been voted cellar of the year and won many prestigious national and international awards. Medi Valley Winery is open daily for visits and of course some delicious wine tasting. The area is well worth exploring for the scenery too.
OSOGOVO MONASTERY
Osogovo Monastery is a truly impressive historical building nestled on Osogovo Mountain near Kriva Palanka (opposite) in North Macedonia, which is 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) from the Bulgarian border (15 minutes from Mountain View Lodge). Osogovo Monastery is also home to an art colony and to an architecture school during the summer.
KRIVA PALANKA
Kriva Palanka is an incredible location with breathtaking views, on the northern slopes of Osogovo Mountains, by the banks of the river Kriva. Apart from the stunning Monastery of Saint Joakim Osogovski, famous for its beauty and historical importance, there is also the fascinating Monastery Church of St. Nikola and the gorgeous village of Psaca full of ancient oak trees, to visit.
GET ACTIVE
SKYDIVE SOFIA
If skydiving is your thing or you fancy trying out a brilliant new adventure then Skydive Sofia will give you an unforgettable experience. With jumps from 14,000 feet, they are open every day. If there is a group of guests going from here, Skydive Sofia can arrange transport for you there and back.
DARIS LAKE
Daris Lake is a wonderful recreational area of water that is located in the town of Kyustendil. It is the perfect place for casual and serious fishing, rambling, cycling and of course relaxation and picnics.
GO KARTING
The Pautalia karting track is located near the town of Kyustendil, surrounded by a beautiful pine forest. Host to many karting championships, the Pautalia track is a long and winding loop. Open every day for outrageous fun in a gorgeous setting.
OSOGOVO FUN PARK (SKIING)
Brilliant Osogovo Fun Park is located in the mountains of Osogovo just 15 km from the town of Kyustendil. Great for all ages with a 400m ski track and equipment hire plus instructors on request. The great news is that our friends at Osogovo Fun Park are generously giving us low price all day passes for just 25 Bulgarian Lev (roughly £11) exclusive to Mountain View guests.
AQUA PARK
At the foot of the Osogovo Mountains, lies Aqua Park, which is just over the border in Macedonia (which is 15 minutes from the Lodge). Enjoy a wide range of water attractions, volleyball, entertainments for youngsters, a souvenir shop and restaurants and bars, offered all together in a lovely setting.
REFLIP (WHITE WATER RAFTING)
Reflip is based on and around the River Struma, run by the Paunovski family for over 10 years now, passing on their passion and love for the river, the mountains and amazing experience that water creates. They offer swimming, rafting, kayaking and canyoning to children and adults.
SKO4I SKYDIVING
If you've never been Sky Diving you are in for an incredible treat with everything from 'tandem diving' to 'fun jumps' with professional accredited skydivers ensuring your safety and pleasure. If you have been Sky Diving, then you know what an amazing thrill it is. Either way, we'll help you book with Sko41.
WALKING THE ORCHARD OF BULGARIA
Renowned for its delicious and abundant vegetable and fruit growing and its lush vineyards, Kyustendil is known as the Orchard of Bulgaria for good reason. Below are two walking routes you might enjoy from and back to Mountain View Lodge.
AND FROM RIGHT OUTSIDE THE DOOR
CYCLING OR RUNNING ROUTE - 5 MILES
Head left out from Mountain View Lodge keeping the meadow on your left
As you reach the wide open lower meadow (wild deer can be seen) turn right over the mall brook bridge
Head over the fields to the flat road and straight over
Cross the stream to the 1.5 mile point, turn right heading through a small hamlet of houses for 1.5 miles
At the 3 mile point turn right onto the main road heading to Macedonia, across the river again and turn right heading toward "Rasyovo"
At the 4.5 mile point turn left to follow the track back home!
CYCLING ROUTE - 10 MILES
Mountain bike cycle route starts directly from the house. Continue straight to the top of the driveway and turn right heading directly to Macedonia! The first sight to see is a traditional farmhouse building where cows and horses are kept usually in the summer
Continue on past the horse riding school and activity centre over the train tracks
Turning right at the 3.5 mile point the ride now takes you through a gorgeous pine wood and is slightly uphill
Continue on to the 5.5 mile point to discover the abandoned station of Dolno Selo
Continue on to the 5.5 mile point to discover the abandoned station of Dolno Selo. Explore the abandoned station at your own risk!
Turning right after the station now takes you on the open road, quiet and peaceful but flat and enjoyable
At the mile 8 point the ride now takes an "uphill" section. Gravel path, low gears and some good hard work but for only half a mile!
Turn left and then continue back on the road to get back to Mountain View Lodge for a well earned rest and beer!
2 MILE PLEASURE STRETCH
This route takes us on a 2-mile loop
Start the route directly from Mountain View Lodge turn right and head toward Macedonia!
Continue on past the open fields and taking the right hand fork after 3/4 of a mile.
Head slightly uphill to see a lovely view of the lower road with an open area for a possible picnic.
Turn around and head back the same way you came. Heading back follow the path and that’s the 2 miles back to Mountain View Lodge, and have a well-earned drink!
3 MILE SCENIC STRETCH
This run takes us on a 3-mile loop with a lovely downhill section
Start the route directly from Mountain View Lodge turning left and keeping the meadow on your left
As you reach the wide open lower meadow (wild deer can be seen) turn right over the mall brook bridge
Head over the fields to the flat road and turn left on to the road (very quiet and peaceful)
On your right after only 500 meters is a stronger stream with white water and wildlife
At the 1 mile point (approximately) take the left turn off the main road, uphill!
At the T Junction, take the track of to the left
Continue on through the pine forest and enjoy the beautiful views as you near the top
At the 2 mile point turn left down the steep track to head back
Once at the bottom of the hill turn right head back to Mountain View Lodge, having completed the 3 miles and have a well earned drink!
bottom of page