Sokolna, Nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria.
Sokolna is a nature reserve in the Balkan Mountains with ancient beech forests that spread across different elevations. The woodland contains numerous plant and animal species adapted to this mountainous environment.
The area received protected status in 1979 and was later recognized as part of an international listing for ancient beech forests. This designation reflects the global importance of this undisturbed woodland.
Visitors walk through a forest landscape that has remained largely undisturbed by human activity. The beech trees that dominate this place are deeply connected to the identity of the region and its natural heritage.
Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and weather protection as the hiking trails wind through mountainous terrain with changing conditions. Marked paths help with navigation, but proper preparation and equipment are needed.
The beech trees in this reserve are among the oldest and least disturbed stands in Europe. Scientists visit to understand how these forests develop over long periods without human interference.
Inception: July 11, 1979
Part of: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
GPS coordinates: 42.72711,25.05583
Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:24
Shipka
21.9 km
Raysko Praskalo
11 km
Botev Peak
10.1 km
Dzhendema Reserve
4 km
Triglav
19 m
Shipka Memorial Church
22.4 km
Peeshti Skali Reserve
4.4 km
Batoshevo Monastery of Assumption of Mary
17 km
Sevеren Dzhendem
11.4 km
Голям Кадемлия
23 m
Shipka Park-Museum
21.9 km
Golam Kupen
19.4 km
Thracian tomb Golyama Arsenalka
21 km
Shipka-Buzludzha National Park-museum
21.9 km
Kalofer Monastery "Nativity of the Theotokos"
14.5 km
Karlovo waterfall
21.8 km
Berghütte Sokolna
8.4 km
Karlovsko Praskalo
16.8 km
Batoshevo Monastery of Presentation of Mary
20.1 km
Babsko Praskalo
2.5 km
Новоселски манастир
16.9 km
Калоферський Введенський монастир (Болгарія)
14.5 km
Leshnitsa
13.5 km
Кръстците
18.1 km
Krastsite
18 km
Ethnographic Complex Damascen
12.6 km
Chitalishte Napred 1903
19 km
Chitalishte Hristo Botev 1869
14.4 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes