Prohodna Cave is nestled in the heart of Bulgaria in a small town called Karlukovo. The cave itself is a hidden gem located under a main road that offers a truly magical experience for visitors. Since we have been in Bulgaria for 6 weeks now, we've had the pleasure of exploring this incredible cave every second day to get as much rock climbing in as possible.
We are staying in Teteven, about a 45-minute drive from Karlukovo and 1.5 hours from Sofia (the capital city). Outdoor rock climbing options around Sofia and Teteven are limited, especially with access suitable for a toddler, so we have thoroughly enjoyed making the most of visiting this cave. Whether you're a rock climbing enthusiast or simply seeking a unique natural wonder, Prohodna Cave is a must-visit destination.
A Journey to Remember
Our journey to Prohodna Cave begins with a peaceful 45-minute mountain drive from Teteven. Hiring a car from Sofia was the best decision we made, as it allowed us to travel on our own terms while following our toddler's routine. You can learn more about hiring a car in Bulgaria here.
It also allows us to arrive at the cave early to avoid tourist crowds. We usually arrive by 8 am and are lucky enough to have the place to ourselves. Tour companies usually arrive from 10 am onwards, and weekends can be quite chaotic, arriving early gives you the chance to experience the cave's serene beauty in solitude.
A Magical First Impression
The moment we stepped into Prohodna Cave, we were captivated by its sheer magnificence. The cave's spiritual atmosphere and the iconic "God's Eyes" in the ceiling create a sense of awe and wonder. The cave's accessibility, with plenty of parking and a short, easy walk in, makes it suitable for all ages. It is also free to enter with some stalls setting up at the entrance closer to lunchtime to sell souvenirs and snacks if required. A hiking trail continues through the other side for those looking to extend their adventure.
Rock Climbing at Prohodna Cave
As passionate rock climbers, we were thrilled to discover the climbing opportunities at Prohodna Cave. There are mainly sport climbing routes with some potential for traditional climbing. In our many visits, we've only encountered other climbers once or twice, making it a quiet and ideal spot for climbing. However, some routes can be dirty and unsafe due to loose rock and run-out bolts. As always, climb with caution.
The routes we particularly enjoy are near the end of the cave on the left side, where you'll find a fantastic 7a, 7b, and 7b+ climb all next to eachother. Most routes in the cave are in the harder grades, with only a few climbs in the 6's and the majority in the 7's, 8's and 9's. For more information on the routes, we recommend checking out the Climbing Bulgaria website as information on The Crag is limited.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Arrive Early: To fully enjoy the peaceful and spiritual ambiance of Prohodna Cave, arrive early in the morning before the crowds.
What to Wear: Light clothing and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. A light jumper might be necessary for cooler mornings. If you're concerned about bugs, long pants and sleeves are recommended.
Bring a Camera: The cave's unique features, especially the "God's Eyes," make for stunning photographs.
Parking: Be mindful that Google Maps might mislead you. Continue along the main road until you see a big parking area.
Exploring Beyond the Cave
Karlukovo itself is a small local town with limited attractions and accommodation. While we did drive into the town once, we found that the true highlight of the area is undoubtedly Prohodna Cave.
Prohodna Cave in Karlukovo is honestly one of the most beautiful places we've ever visited. It's unique features, accessibility, and serene atmosphere make it a standout destination for rock climbers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking a spiritual experience, a challenging climb, or simply a breathtaking natural wonder, Prohodna Cave is sure to leave a lasting impression. Safe travels and happy climbing!
PS: For real-time updates on our adventures, follow us on Instagram @the.froth.family and check out our Teteven highlight for more of Prohodna Cave!
Til next time,
R
That was beautifully written and the photos are awesome! Would love to see this place one day. Love you guys. And keep making these posts! They're wicked 😀 xo love from Cav.