Discover Ovech Fortress & Europe’s oldest salt mine on a private Varna day trip. Uncover history with stunning views and expert guidance.
Discover Ovech Fortress & Europe’s oldest salt mine on a private Varna day trip. Uncover history with stunning views and expert guidance.
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Fortress Ovech - Start your adventure in Varna and travel comfortably to the stunning Ovech Fortress and the ancient site of Provadia-Solnitsata, the oldest salt production center in Europe.
Your initial destination will be the Ovech Fortress, located near the town of Provadia. Perched on a magnificent plateau east of the city, the fortress was…
- Fortress Ovech - Start your adventure in Varna and travel comfortably to the stunning Ovech Fortress and the ancient site of Provadia-Solnitsata, the oldest salt production center in Europe.
Your initial destination will be the Ovech Fortress, located near the town of Provadia. Perched on a magnificent plateau east of the city, the fortress was occupied from the mid-3rd century until the late 17th century. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, the city and fortress served as a vital economic, administrative, military, and cultural hub for the region.
Enjoy a 150-meter scenic bridge walk, admire the medieval ruins and fortress walls, and explore ancient wells and church ruins. Relish the panoramic views over the Provadia Valley.
Next, proceed to your chosen option:
- Solnitsata - Option 1 - The Salt Mine/operates in AUG and SEP
Head to the nearby Salt Mine “Solnitsata”, the oldest salt-production and urban center in Europe (5600–4350 BC). The prehistoric complex Provadia-Solnitsata is situated near the modern town of Provadia in Northeastern Bulgaria. It represents the remnants of the oldest known salt production center in Europe, which later evolved into the first prehistoric urban center on the continent (4700–4350 BC).
The complex includes a salt-production area with ritual pits, an unfortified and later fortified settlement with massive stone walls, a ritual zone, and several necropolises. The site’s emergence and development are directly connected to the largest and only rock salt deposit in the Eastern Balkans, known as the Mirovo salt deposit, on which the complex is located.
“Solnitsata” offers a fantastic opportunity to gain archaeological insights into prehistoric life.
After an enjoyable trip, return to Varna in the early afternoon.
- Побити камъни - Option 2: The Stone Forest “Pobiti Kamani” (operates from May to October)
Pobiti Kamani (The Stone Forest) is a natural wonder 18 km west of Varna. It is a breathtaking natural landmark, and its exact scientific explanation remains unknown. The area features a variety of stone formations, some reaching up to 7 meters in height.
Visitors can stroll among the rock formations, capture stunning photos, and learn about their supposed geological origins, as well as the intriguing legends associated with them.
After an enjoyable trip, return to Varna in the early afternoon.

- Transportation by comfortable A/C car or minivan
- Entrance tickets included
- Private trip experience
- English-speaking guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Transportation by comfortable A/C car or minivan
- Entrance tickets included
- Private trip experience
- English-speaking guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Gratuities (tips) to the guide - optional in the end of the tour
- Gratuities (tips) to the guide - optional in the end of the tour
Discover the historic Ovech Fortress and the ancient Provadia-Solnitsata Salt Mine, or marvel at the “Stone Forest” on this exclusive day trip from Varna. Stroll across a picturesque bridge to the fortress, featuring ruins and breathtaking views of the Provadia Valley. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this medieval fortress, a significant site…
Discover the historic Ovech Fortress and the ancient Provadia-Solnitsata Salt Mine, or marvel at the “Stone Forest” on this exclusive day trip from Varna. Stroll across a picturesque bridge to the fortress, featuring ruins and breathtaking views of the Provadia Valley. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this medieval fortress, a significant site during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom.
Next, explore the “Salnitsata” Salt Mine, Europe’s oldest salt production site, and gain archaeological insights into prehistoric life, or visit the “Stone Forest,” renowned for its unique rock formations.
- Enjoy a private tour with personalized attention and insights
- Visit the medieval Ovech Fortress with stunning valley views
- Discover the ancient Provadia-Solnitsata Salt Mine, the oldest in Europe
- Capture unforgettable photos in the “Stone Forest”
- Benefit from comfortable transport from Varna with a convenient return in the early afternoon
- Children under 5
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.