Shiroki dol

The village of Shiroki dol is a part of the municipality of Samokov. With its population of 1171 inhabitants (after the census 2001) Shiroki dol is one of the biggest in the municipality. Only 8 km from Samokov, 54 km southeast from the capital of Sofia and 18 km from the ski-resort Borovets.  Situated on both banks of river Palakaria, before it flows into Iskar river and Iskar dam. The altitude above sea level is 800 m. The climate is temperate continental with mountain influence. The soils are brown and alluvial-meadow. Cultivated are potatoes, flax, hops, oats.The stock-breeding is also good developed(sheep, cattle). Most of the population works in Samokov or Borovets.There is a class school since 1879, culture-house since 1932. The church “Saint Nikola”(XIX century) is a cultural monument.Shiroki dol is located in the southern slopes of Plana mountain and you can enjoy a precious view to the huge peaks of Northwest-, Middle – and East Rila, which dominate 2000 m over the valley of Samokov. There is a possibility for one-day walk to the interesting monastery “Saint Spas” in Plana mountain, famous for its murals from the 17-th century. And in spring, summer and autumn we would recommend you to visit the spa resort Belchinski bani with an outdoor swimming pool only 18 km by car in southwest direction. And don’t miss to climb the highest peak on the Balkans – Mussala (2925 m ) through Borovets – by cabin lift and by foot – only 3 hours!