Shiroka Laka

TL;DR: Shiroka Laka is an authentic 18th-century village in Bulgaria’s Rhodope Mountains, just 14km from Pamporovo ski resort. This architectural reserve offers traditional stone houses, world-famous folk music, colorful festivals, cozy guesthouses, and incredible mountain hiking – perfect for travelers seeking authentic Bulgarian culture away from the crowds.

Ready to discover one of Bulgaria’s best-kept secrets? Let me take you on a journey to Shiroka Laka, a village so authentically preserved that stepping into it feels like traveling back in time. Tucked away in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains, this little gem has been quietly enchanting visitors for decades while remaining blissfully off the mainstream tourist radar.

What Makes Shiroka Laka Special?

Shiroka Laka is a small village in Southern Bulgaria, which is famous for its authentic Rhodope houses. It is declared an architectural and folklore reserve, and the oldest houses here are built out of stone and wood in the early 18th century. But here’s what makes it truly magical – this is one of the villages where the Rhodope song was born.

The village name itself tells a story. The name of the village comes from the old Bulgarian word „лѫка” meaning “curve, curvature, meandering”. And once you’re there, you’ll understand why – the narrow, winding cobblestone streets follow the natural curves of the landscape and the meandering Shirokolashka River.

A Living Museum of Bulgarian Heritage

What sets Shiroka Laka apart from other tourist destinations is its authenticity. The village, known for its authentic folklore, is the birthplace of a few generations of famous Bulgarian bagpipers. In 1972, the Secondary Music School for Folk Songs and instruments was opened here, and its graduates keep popularizing the Rhodope music far beyond the Bulgarian borders.

Walking through the village, you’ll hear the haunting melodies of the kaba gaida (Rhodope bagpipe) drifting from windows and courtyards. This isn’t a tourist show – it’s real life in Shiroka Laka.

Getting There: Location and Access

The village is located 14 km (approximately 25 minutes) away from the resort of Pamporovo, 94 km from Plovdiv and 25 km from Smolyan, which is the nearest district town. Shiroka Laka is nestled in the valley of the Shirokolashka River between the Perelik part of the Rhodopes and the Chernatitsa ridge.

Best Travel Routes:

• From Sofia: 4-5 hours by car via Plovdiv
• From Plovdiv: 1.5 hours by car (94km)
• From Pamporovo ski resort: 25 minutes by car (14km)
• From Smolyan: 45 minutes by car (25km)

Pro tip: If you’re flying into Bulgaria, Plovdiv Airport is your closest option, making this an easy add-on to any Bulgarian itinerary.

When to Visit: Timing Your Trip Right

While Shiroka Laka is beautiful year-round, different seasons offer unique experiences:

Summer (June-August) – Peak Season ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect weather for hiking and outdoor exploration. The bagpipe competition in Gela has gained international popularity over the years, gathering hundreds of bagpipers including many foreign participants. The festival happens on the first Saturday of August, just a few kilometers from Shiroka Laka.

Spring (March-May) – Festival Season ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Every first Sunday of March the village hosts an annual Mummers Festival called Pesponedelnik. On this day, every guest of the village witnesses a weird scene – huge mummer-monsters armed with wooden swords painted in red who dance around the streets to scare away all evil from the houses and the souls of people. It’s one of Bulgaria’s most authentic cultural experiences.

Autumn (September-November) – Budget Season ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Shiroka Laka between September and November, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. The autumn colors in the Rhodopes are absolutely stunning.

Winter (December-February) – Snowy Wonderland ⭐⭐⭐

winter bequeaths the village with a snowy shroud, transforming it into a wonderland. Perfect for combining with skiing at nearby Pamporovo.

Top Things to See and Do

1. Explore the Architectural Treasures

Shiroka Laka is famous for its unique Revival houses. The most renowned of them – Zgurovska, Uchikovska, Kalaydzhiyska, Grigorovska and Bogdanova – all stand out with their distinctive wooden facades and stone roofs.

Must-Visit Houses:

• Zgurovski Konak Ethnographic Museum: arranged as a house of a wealthy Rhodope family from the end of the 19th century
• Kalyanova House-Museum: Traditional Rhodope lifestyle displays
• Grigorova House-Museum: Authentic period furnishings
• Bogdanova House-Museum: Folk crafts and customs

2. Church of the Assumption – A Community Marvel

the Church of the Assumption which was built in 1834 in just 38 days by all the people of Shiroka laka. This isn’t just architecture – it’s a testament to community spirit that’s rare to find anywhere in the world.

3. National School of Folk Arts

For an all-encompassing exploration of Bulgaria’s musical legacy, the National School of Folk Arts “Philip Koutev” beckons. Nestled within Shiroka Laka’s embrace, this institution stands as a bastion devoted to the preservation and propagation of traditional Bulgarian music and dance.

4. Historical Sites

• Monument of Exarch Stefan I: the monument of Exarch Stefan I in the centre of the village, the monument of Captain Petko Voyvoda (a Bulgarian revolutionary who fought against the rule of the Ottoman Empire) and the house that was his headquarters.
• Captain Petko Voivoda’s House: 19th-century freedom fighter Captain Petko Voivoda had his headquarters in Shiroka Laka after the Bulgarian Liberation. His house has been turned into a rich museum dedicated to Bulgarian traditions.

5. Natural Wonders Nearby

In Shiroka laka region tourists can also see two rock formations: Momata (the Maiden) and Glavata (the Head), and three chapels: St. Theodore Stratilates Chapel, St. Cyril and St. Methodius Chapel, and St. Atanas Chapel.

Hiking Opportunities: The village is suitable for longer vacations too as there are dozens of hiking trails leading to neighboring villages. The surrounding Rhodope Mountains offer some of Bulgaria’s best hiking with well-marked trails suitable for all fitness levels.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Luxury Hotels

Shiroka Laka Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Smolyan. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and 2 restaurants. Perfect for travelers who want comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

Features:

• Full spa facilities with sauna and steam room
• Mountain views from every room
• Traditional restaurant serving local cuisine
• Free parking

Charming Family Hotels

Hotel Kalina ⭐⭐⭐ Hotel Kalina is part of the architectural reserve of Shiroka laka in the Rodopi mountains in Sоuthern Bulgaria. Coziness and hospitality are just 90 km south of Plovdiv and 250 km from Sofia. This family-owned property offers authentic charm with modern comfort.

Family Hotel Mandrata ⭐⭐⭐ Family Hotel Mandrata is a picturesque Rhodopean house in the pretty village of Shiroka Laka. A delightful courtyard with ample parking space welcomes the guests upon their arrival at Family Hotel Mandrata.

Authentic Guesthouses

Paolina House ⭐⭐⭐ Located in the picturesque Shiroka Laka village, Paolina House is a fine example of an old village house with beamed ceilings. The house has been entirely restored and modernized but its authentic spirit is preserved. Perfect for travelers seeking complete privacy and a self-contained experience.

Yakusha Guest House ⭐⭐⭐ Nice traditionally kept house with some modern appliances. Nice patio. Great value option with traditional charm.

Budget-Friendly Options

View deals from $29 per night – you’ll find several guesthouses offering excellent value, especially during the shoulder seasons.

Where to Eat: Dining Guide

Traditional Restaurants

Kalina Tavern ⭐⭐⭐⭐ They have very special local dishes of the region and Bulgaria in general. We tried quite some dishes and they were all great. Our favorite was…the cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and served with yogurt, highly recommend.

What makes dining here special: Food was simply amazing, so tasty and fresh, a real delight! Service was very good and on top of everything we had the pleasure to listen to live music -with Bulgarian “gaidi” performed by locals.

Shiroka Laka Hotel Restaurant A pleasant surprise is in store for you at the Shiroka Laka Hotel Restaurant its healthy menu contains a great variety of nutritious and delicious food choices. There are 70 seats at the elegant and comfortable saloon and yet more 30 seats at the spacious panorama terrace.

Local Specialties to Try

• Kachamak: Traditional polenta-like dish perfect for mountain weather
• Patatnik: Rhodope potato specialty
• Cabbage leaves stuffed with rice: Served with thick Bulgarian yogurt
• Local honey and herbs: The mountain air gives them a distinctive flavor
• Rhodope cheese: Made by local shepherds using traditional methods

Festivals and Events: Cultural Calendar

Pesponedelnik (March)

Every first Sunday of March the village hosts an annual Mummers Festival called Pesponedelnik. The mummers (or kukeri, as they are called in Bulgarian) are masked men who carry red, wooden swords and dance around the village to scare away the evil spirits. Their costumes are decorated with garlic, beans and peppers.

This is Bulgaria’s most authentic mummer festival – don’t miss it if you’re traveling in March!

Kaba Gaida Festival (August)

A celebration of note is the Kaba Gaida festival, an ode to the unique Rhodope bagpipe, or “gaida,” infusing the village with melodious symphonies that cascade through the convoluted cobblestone arteries during this vivacious celebration.

The nearby village of Gela hosts the annual bagpipe competition, held on every first Saturday of August since almost 100 years ago.

Ilinden Fair (August)

The next day, on Sunday, the big Ilinden (Saint Elijah’s Day) fair is held on the meadows near the village, acting as a meeting place for Bulgarians from all over the world.

Practical Travel Tips

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes: Those cobblestone streets require good grip
• Layers: Mountain weather can change quickly
• Camera: Every corner is Instagram-worthy
• Cash: Some smaller establishments may not accept cards

Language Tips

While many locals speak English, learning a few Bulgarian phrases will earn you smiles:

• Zdraveite (ZDRAH-vay-teh) – Hello
• Blagodaria (blah-goh-DAH-ree-ah) – Thank you
• Kolko struva? (KOHL-koh STROO-vah) – How much does it cost?

Cultural Etiquette

• Remove shoes when entering traditional houses
• Ask permission before photographing locals
• Try to time your visit to avoid large tour groups (early morning or late afternoon)
• Respect the quiet village atmosphere

Money Matters

• Budget travelers: €30-50 per day
• Mid-range travelers: €50-80 per day
• Luxury travelers: €80+ per day
• We had one yogurt soup, two main courses, one beer, bread, and a coffee all for 22Lv (11Euros).

Why Shiroka Laka Should Be on Your Bulgaria Itinerary

Walking around Shiroka Laka is a real pleasure — you will feel the aroma of herbs, hear the sounds of bagpipes and immerse yourself in an atmosphere that inspires and brings you closer to the Rhodopes.

This isn’t just another tourist destination – it’s a living, breathing piece of Bulgarian culture that has remained remarkably unchanged for centuries. In a world of increasing commercialization, Shiroka Laka offers something increasingly rare: authenticity.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a hiking lover, a photography buff, or simply someone seeking to escape the crowds and experience the real Bulgaria, Shiroka Laka delivers on all fronts. The village offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and genuine hospitality that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.

Although small, the village of Shiroka Laka definitely has something to offer to its visitors. If you are in the area or maybe you have come for a ski holiday in Pamporovo, don’t miss out on the opportunity to stop by Shiroka Laka, because it is extremely close and at the same time hides wonderful treasures.

Ready to explore Bulgaria’s hidden gem? Shiroka Laka is waiting to share its centuries-old stories, soul-stirring music, and warm mountain hospitality with travelers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be enchanted by one of the Balkans’ most perfectly preserved villages.

Planning your Bulgarian adventure? Shiroka Laka makes an excellent base for exploring the Rhodope Mountains, with easy access to Pamporovo for winter sports, numerous hiking trails, and some of the most stunning cave systems in Europe just a short drive away.