The cliffs of Lakatnik rise in a magnificent rocky massif, part of Stara Planina or The Balkan. They are situated opposite Lakatnik, which is a small station on the busy Sofia - Varna railway (where is that). The railway itself follows a picturesque valley, called The Iskar Valley or The Iskar Gorge. This river valley has been created by the river of Iskar in prehistoric times. The limestone cliffs form almost vertical walls with height of about 100 to 250m. (300 to 750ft.), making them perfect for alpinism and a favorite place for climbers. The rocky massif is cut by many holes and caves, which also attract tourists. The vast karst region collects many waters, forming a big underground river that exits under the cliffs.

Lakatnik is in 60km. from Sofia and is easily reachable by car or train. That makes it not only a good place for climbers, but also for people escaping out of the busy city.

Being up late in the morning (or nothing short of dinner-time) it comes naturally that the most attractive point is a small restaurant. It's situated under the magnificent cliffs and next to the karst spring where the underground river passing trough Temnata Dupka exits.

What they serve in that nice small restaurant is something typical for the Balkans - skara. Not only it's very tasty, it looks good.

While waiting for my meal a leaf fell on the table.

After exiting its opening the river forms a nice waterfall. Here is the raging water, seen in 1/2000s.

After the mandatory restaurant visit the climb may begin, but there are more autumn colors to be seen around the waterfall.

Reaching the first stage of the cliffs at about 120m. (360ft.) takes only 20-30 minutes.

The view of the valley is magnificent.

Climbers always can be found here, in their rocky paradise.

Looking at the abyss.

Nice forest spreads on top of the cliffs. The sun is just to disappear behind the mountain.

She is happy.

The autumn day is too short. Taking a final look at the view when going back down.

It's Autumn!