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The town of Kalofer is situated along the banks of Tundja River and is beautifully nestled between the Balkan Mountain Range and Sredna Gora Mountains. It is located 17 km away from Karlovo, 56 km away from Plovdiv and 164 km away from the capital city of Sofia.
Kalofer is rich in historical and cultural sights - the “Hristo Botev” house-museum, the old revival church “Holy Mother of God”, the stone bridges over Tundga River, the world-famous valley of the Bulgarian roses, “St. Atanas” Maiden Monastery and many more.
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The vivid mountain forests, the proud mountain peaks and the gorgeous river valleys will definitely fascinate you. You will be astonished by the quiet, crystal waters of „Byala River", whispering legends from old times.
Botev peak - the highest peak in the Balkan range, named after the great Bulgarian poet and revolutionary Hristo Botev raises above the town. In close vicinity of Kalofer “South Djendem” National Reserve and canyon and Raiskoto praskalo- the highest waterfall in Bulgaria are situated. |
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You should also visit the Kalofer Male Monastery, who preserved the strength of the Bulgarian religious spirit centuries ago.
Kalofer is famous not only with its gorgeuos nature, but also with the beautiful monastery and churches. Early in the morning you will be pleasantly waken up by the song of the church bells. A little street will take you to the Virgin female monastery, built of 4 older convents. The male monastery is functional since 1640 and the female one since 1700. Today both of them are open for tourist visits. |
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Established during the 16 century, Kalofer has about 3600 inhabitants now. The occupation of the people is mainly agriculture farming, ecology and craftsmanship. The typical crafts and traditions of Kalofer have been preserved very well during the centuries.
If you visit the knitting workshops in Kalofer you will encouner the world's famous Kalofer lace, you will also see traditional Kalofer carpets and the special carpet looms. Hand-made souvenirs, copper attributes, wooden barrels, kegs and engraved knives are another attraction of the workshops. |

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Kalofer is most famous for its beautiful and world-popular valleys of roses. In the beginning of June the visitors of Kalofer can visit the Rose Festival in the nearby town of Kazanlak and see the special places where the roses are distilled. The tourists are offered to take part in the rose- gathering. After that they can also taste the delicious "Jam of Roses", and even the popular "Rose Rakiya"(strong alcoholic drink, made of roses). This tradition has turned represents a unique and exciting experience, that is surely to be remembered by every visitor. Everyone who comes to Kalofer finds a new different world of specific atmosphere and spirit. |
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Kalofer is also a Balkan Range centre for organized backpack tourism. You can take a trip to the "Central Balkan" National Park, "Botev" mountain peak and many more. There are professional high-mountain guides, as well as professional equipment at tourists’ disposal. The riversides of Tundja River and Byala River offer great possibilities for picnic tourism. |
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