Cherven bryag: Hiking Trails, Nature and Culture

The Kaleto Tectonic Ridge is located in the area of Reselets and is a protected natural landmark covering 57.4 hectares. The Kaleto-E nature trail is more than 3.5 kilometres long and has three difficulty levels. Check its condition locally before planning your hike.

Natural Landmarks and Landscape

The Shtarka protected area safeguards a population of the endangered Balkan peony (Paeonia peregrina Mill.) in Reselets. The Reseleshki Dolls, also a protected natural landmark, are also located near Reselets. The natural rock bridge Sedlarka lies in the Ezeroto locality in the area of Rakita. The geomorphological formations Kupenite and the Skoka waterfall are near Breste. Haidushka Cave, also known as Temnata Dupka, is a natural attraction in Cherven Bryag Municipality. The municipal area lies within the Karlukovski Karst (BG0000332) and Karlukovo (BG00001014) Natura 2000 protected areas.

Hiking Trails and Excursions by the Water

There is a hiking trail in the area of Sukhache, with equipped rest areas and a sports ground. Near Telish, the Through History tourist trail runs through the area. Check the current condition of these trails locally before setting out. The length and difficulty levels of the Kaleto-E trail help you gauge the scope of the hike; checking conditions should also be part of planning for the other trails mentioned.

The artificial Barazha Lake on the Ruchene River is suitable for fishing and excursions. Check access and facilities locally. Near Dobri Dol on the Ruchene, the Kaleto hiking trail leads to a pool with an equipped beach and pedal boats. If you plan to use these facilities, check in advance whether they are currently operating.

Fortresses and Culture

The late antique and medieval Kaleto Fortress is located near Reselets. A fortress of the same name stands near Telish, with construction or periods of use dating back to Thracian, ancient and late antique times. The historical periods therefore differ: at Reselets, late antiquity and the Middle Ages are represented, while the Telish fortress also includes earlier periods.

The Svetlina community cultural centre (chitalishte) in Cherven Bryag hosts numerous exhibitions in its foyer by artists from Cherven Bryag, Bulgaria and abroad. The exhibition programme may change. The chitalishte is also home to a modern ballet group and a men’s group performing authentic folklore. These group activities may also change over time.

Traditions and Regional Cuisine

Near Reselets, a water-related folk custom is authentically reenacted on the Ruchene River for Epiphany on January 6 and St. John’s Day on January 7. Local identity is also reflected in the cuisine: Reselets luchnik is made with Reselets water onion, egg and cheese. The Day of the Reselets Water Onion is one of the municipality’s distinctive cultural-calendar celebrations. Check the exact dates for the year in question before your trip.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

The Sofia–Ruse first-class road passes through the territory of Cherven Bryag Municipality. The railway station in Cherven Bryag is an important railway junction on the Sofia–Varna route. Check timetables before travelling. For bus services, the municipality provides an overview of routes, with contact details for the Cherven Bryag bus station and a municipal transport map. Here too, check individual routes and departure times in advance.

Discover more destinations: Breste, Dolni Dabnik, Belene, Pleven.

Back to the main travel overview: Pleven Province.