The Suspension Bridge to Lisitsite Village

The only way to reach the village of Lisitsite by land involves a hike across the longest rope bridge in Bulgaria. It is recommended to start the hike from the village of Shiroko Pole. By car you can reach the end of the village and continue a little further. You can park your car next to the transformer station.

During springtime, the path along the railway is dotted with wildflowers and herbs, making the walk quite enjoyable. The hike also takes you through a small grove – a refreshing escape from the scorching sun along the railway.

The Story Behind the Longest Suspension Bridge

In the past, residents of Lisitsite Village used a small rope bridge over the Varbitsa River to get to the nearby town. However, in the 1950s, the construction of the Studen Kladenets Dam required a sturdier, more durable bridge. The result was an impressive 260-metre-long suspension bridge!

From its construction until the early 1990s, the bridge saw no maintenance. The wooden planks rotted, and the steel ropes, which supported it, rusted over time. In the winter of 1993, a local resident fell into the icy waters when one of the bridge’s ropes snapped as he was crossing it. Although his fellow villagers managed to pull him out, he sadly passed away from hypothermia.

Following this tragic incident, the bridge underwent urgent repairs. Today, it is in excellent condition, apart from a couple of broken planks. Nevertheless, there is no reason to worry while crossing it!

While you’re there, consider visiting Lisitsite Village itself – a tiny and charming settlement with a population of just about 20 people. The locals raise livestock as their primary livelihood. The village is almost entirely cut off from the outside world, with the suspension bridge being the only access route.

We recommend that you bring cash along – you might want to buy herbs, honey, or other homemade (organic) products from the villagers.

The walk can be combined with the Monek (Manyak) fortress and peak or the Chit Kaya sanctuary.

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