From the Heights to the Valley and Back: The Steep Path to Tserovo

Our project site in Bulgaria is located on a remote mountain, and the nearest village is an hour’s walk away. The path leads down the mountain to the village. When returning, you have to tackle the steep climb back up. Especially when you walk this route regularly, as I have in the past four months, you quickly realize that this hike requires a lot of stamina and leg muscle. But the reward is the peace and solitude you find up here – and the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

The path to the nearest train station is marked with white and yellow signs to guide the way. This summer, I renewed the markings because they had faded significantly. After that, I made the path passable again. With pruning shears and a machete, I trimmed the plants that had spread over the path and also removed several fallen trees blocking the way. It’s a lot of work, but it ensures the path remains safe for everyone who uses it.

In the past few months, I’ve walked this path what feels like a thousand times – during the day, at night, in the blazing sun, in the rain, and even in the snow. Although you get a bit fitter over time, the climb is still strenuous, and you usually arrive sweaty and out of breath. But there are also nice moments, like when you go shopping in the village or just take the train to Sofia. It’s a little adventure, but an important part of our life here in the mountains.

By Sarah K.