Uzana
Gabrovo
Uzana is a renowned mountain resort situated at the foot of Ispolin Peak in the Balkan Mountains of Bulgaria, at an altitude ranging from 1,220 to 1,420 meters. It is characterized by expansive meadows surrounded by ancient beech forests, providing a tranquil natural setting. The area is popular for winter sports, especially skiing, with eight ski slopes including the longest run of approximately 1,100 meters. Beyond winter activities, Uzana serves as a gateway for hiking, rock climbing, speleology, and mountain biking. It lies near the Bulgarka Nature Park and is adjacent to the Central Balkan National Park and Bulgarka Nature Park, rich in rare flora and fauna protected under the Red Book of Endangered Species and Natura 2000 ecological networks. Uzana is also the geographic center of Bulgaria, marked by a monument inaugurated in 1991. The resort is close to cultural landmarks such as the open-air ethnographic museum Etara and Sokolski Monastery, enhancing its appeal for cultural tourism. With 15 hotels and various guesthouses, Uzana offers diverse accommodation options and serves as a hub for exploring the surrounding Balkan mountain region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Uzana depends on the activities: winter months for skiing and snow sports, and spring to autumn for hiking and nature exploration. Purchasing ski passes and accommodation in advance is advisable during peak winter season. Visitors can benefit from discounts available for groups, families, and seniors. The Visitor Information Center operates year-round and provides maps and guidance for mountain routes and cultural sites nearby. The proximity to Gabrovo allows easy day trips to local museums and historic villages.
Interesting facts
- •Uzana is the geographic center of Bulgaria, marked by a monument inaugurated by President Zhelio Zhelev in 1991.
- •The area hosts rare floral species included in Bulgaria's Red Book of Endangered Species.
- •Uzana is part of the Natura 2000 ecological network, highlighting its environmental significance.
- •The international hiking trail E-3 (Kom-Emine) passes through Uzana, connecting the Adriatic and Black Seas.
- •The resort offers eight ski slopes equipped with various types of ski lifts, including 'button' and 'bowl' lifts.
History
Tourism in Uzana began in 1937 with the construction of the first chalet on the southern side of the meadow.
The area was officially designated a resort complex in 2009, reflecting its growing popularity.
In 1991, the geographic center of Bulgaria was precisely determined and marked with a monument, which has since become a national tourist attraction.
Over the decades, Uzana evolved from a simple mountain meadow to a well-established resort with developed ski infrastructure and year-round tourism facilities.
Place Guide
Geographic Center Monument1991
A concrete marker topped with a metal pyramid painted in Bulgarian national colors, signifying the exact geographic center of Bulgaria as determined in 1991.
Ski Slopes and Winter Sports Area
Uzana features eight ski runs varying in length, with the longest being approximately 1,100 to 1,300 meters. The slopes are equipped with different types of ski lifts, supporting skiing and snowboarding activities.
Surrounding Nature and Hiking Trails
The resort is surrounded by ancient beech forests and meadows, serving as starting points for numerous hiking routes towards peaks like Shipka and Buzludja. The area is part of two parks: Central Balkan National Park and Bulgarka Nature Park.
