![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/bulgaria/yugozapaden/2738798160/zmeitsa-4.webp)
The Rhodope Epic
A road cycling route starting from Borino
Conquer the legendary climbs of the Rhodope mountains on this challenging road cycling route.
![Map miniature of "The Rhodope Epic" cycling inspiration in Yuzhen tsentralen, Bulgaria. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/borino/road/228786.webp)
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Rhodope mountains on this epic road cycling adventure. Starting near Borino, this route takes you through stunning natural scenery, ancient forests, and picturesque villages. With a total ascent of 4059 meters and a distance of 178 kilometers, this is a route for experienced cyclists looking for a challenge. The road surface is mostly paved with some sections of gravel, making it suitable for road bikes with wider tires. Throughout the journey, you will encounter highlights that add to the excitement of the route. Stops like Stola, Zmeitsa, and Dospat offer picturesque views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The highlight of the route is the climb to Голо Бърдо(Golo Bardo), a stunning mountaintop with panoramic views. Other highlights include Petrovo Borro, Peshtera Cave, Krichim, Yazovir Vacha (Vacha Reservoir), and Mihalkovo. Challenge yourself with the demanding ascents, stunning scenery, and unique cultural experiences offered by The Rhodope Epic.
Highlights on the route
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Devin](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/devin-4.webp)
![Image of Dospat](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/dospat-4.webp)
![Image of Sarnitsa](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/sarnitsa-5.webp)
![Image of Satovcha](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yugozapaden/satovcha-5.webp)
![Image of Batak](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/batak-2.webp)
![Image of Chepelare](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/chepelare-4.webp)
![Image of Smolyan](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/smolyan-5.webp)
![Image of Bratsigovo](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/bratsigovo-5.webp)
![Image of Rakitovo](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/bulgaria/yuzhen-tsentralen/rakitovo-4.webp)