A paved mountain road to Shipka Pass in Bulgaria

Shipka Pass is a mountain pass at an elevation of 1.190m (3,904ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary of Stara Zagora and Gabrovo provinces of Bulgaria. The pass was the site of many historic battles.

Where is Shipka Pass?

Set high in the Stara Planina Mountain, part of the Balkan Mountains, within the Bulgarka Nature Park, the road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called National Road I-5 (part of the E85). It’s said to be the highest pass of the country.

How long is Shipka Pass in Bulgaria?

The pass is 44.4 km (27.58 miles) long, running north-south from Palauzovo to Kazanluk. Access to the pass is typically open all year round, but winter weather may cause restrictions and closures due to dangerous weather conditions. A road also leads from the pass to the summit of Buzludzha, 12 km to the east.

Is Shipka Pass in Bulgaria worth it?

Tucked away on the central part of the country, the views at the summit the views are magnificent. Near the pass is the Shipka Memorial, a 98-foot stone tower commemorating those who died during the many battles in the pass, which represents the victory over the Ottoman forces during the Russo-Turkish War in 1877 and 1878. Driving to the pass, you’ll also pass through the Valley of Roses (most of the rose extract used to make perfumes comes from here).