Velingrad, Spa resort city in Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria
Velingrad is a spa resort city nestled in the Rhodope Mountains of southern Bulgaria, shaped by the presence of numerous mineral springs throughout the area. The city spreads across hilly terrain with lakes, green spaces, and modern wellness facilities that define its landscape.
The city was created in 1948 when three separate villages merged into one, which then developed rapidly as an administrative and health hub. This union became the foundation for its modern role as a regional government center and wellness destination.
The name Velingrad comes from the merging of three separate villages, reflecting the blending of local traditions from different areas. Today you can still walk through distinct neighborhoods, each retaining its own character from those original communities.
You'll find many hotels offering wellness services throughout the city, and mineral springs are never far away wherever you explore. The city is well connected by public transportation and easily walkable on foot, especially if you take time to visit the parks and lakes scattered around.
Kleptuza Spring is the country's largest karst water source and feeds two lakes right within the city boundaries. This natural phenomenon stands out because of the massive amount of water that rises from underground every single day.
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