Sinkholes

The "Ponorite" Geocomplex near Musina village is one of the most interesting karst formations in Bulgaria – two interconnected sinkholes, about 25 meters deep, offering a unique experience for nature and adventure lovers.

How to get there

The geocomplex is located about 23 km from Veliko Tarnovo and just 400 m south of Musina village. If you are coming from Veliko Tarnovo, head towards Pavlikeni, then towards Musina. After you pass the houses of the village, you will see wide fields and a small wooden gazebo – this is the beginning of the complex. Signs are almost non-existent, so it's good to have a GPS or prior information about the route 

What not to miss

  • The two sinkholes – impressive karst formations, connected to each other, about 25 m deep.
  • The metal stairs – lead to the bottom of the sinkhole. The descent is exciting, but the stairs are steep and often wet, so be careful.
  • The feeling of the "underworld" – the temperature below is significantly lower, which creates a mystical atmosphere .

How much time to allocate

The visit can be short – about 1–2 hours, if you just want to descend and explore the sinkholes. If you combine it with a walk in the area or a picnic, you can allocate half a day.

Interesting places nearby

  • Veliko Tarnovo – only 20–30 minutes away, with Tsarevets Fortress and the old town.
  • Pavlikeni – a small town with a ceramics museum and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Hotnitsa Waterfall – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region, suitable for a short hike.
  • Emen Canyon – a picturesque eco-trail with bridges and rock formations.

Where to eat

There are no restaurants in Musina village itself, but in Pavlikeni and Veliko Tarnovo you will find mehanas and restaurants with traditional Bulgarian cuisine – a great place to try local specialties after your adventure.

Useful tips

  • Shoes with good grip – the stairs can be slippery.
  • Flashlight or headlamp – it's dark and damp below.
  • Be careful when descending – the last steps are the steepest.
  • Bring water and light food – there are no amenities on site.

The "Ponorite" Geocomplex is ideal for lovers of unusual experiences – a place that will make you feel the mysticism of the "underworld" and will enrich any walk in the Veliko Tarnovo region.