The "sea of Sofia"

When I heard about Pancharevo Lake, I knew I had to visit. As someone who lives in Sofia, I'm always on the lookout for new ways to escape the city and reconnect with nature. And Pancharevo Lake promised to deliver just that.

On this trip, I was together with my friend Betty. She is truly a nice person who is easy to get along with and with a beautiful spirit. In addition to her charming personality, Betty is also an excellent photographer. She has an eye for capturing the beauty of her surroundings and creating stunning images that tell a story. The credits for the photos on this blog go absolutely to her.

The journey to the lake was short and easy, and soon enough, I found myself surrounded by pristine natural beauty. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I took in the crystal-clear waters and towering mountains that surrounded the lake. One of the first things I noticed was the unique mineral water that flowed from the nearby springs. Locals have long believed in the healing properties of this water, and many come to the lake to soak in its restorative powers.

One of the highlights of my visit was when I stumbled upon a man selling flowers on the shore. He was a very friendly and kind person with a warm smile and a welcoming demeanor that made us feel comfortable and at ease. He seemed genuinely interested in our conversation and eager to make me feel at home in his country.

I liked that he tried to make jokes about Albanians and Mercedes, I could tell that he didn't mean any harm by it. I bought some beautiful flowers in respect of his work and his warmness.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I realized that my time at Pancharevo Lake was drawing to a close. But the memories of the mineral water, the stunning scenery, and the kind flower seller would stay with me for a long time to come. And as I boarded the bus back to Sofia, I couldn't help but chuckle at the city's nickname for the lake - the "sea of Sofia." While it may not be an actual sea, Pancharevo Lake certainly offers a taste of the seaside life, without ever having to leave the city.