Biserna Cave (Cave Pearl) near Shumen is now open to tourists. The natural landmark can now be seen twice a year – in spring and in autumn for a period of around two months, before the onset of bat hibernation season. The restrictions are in place because there are colonies of 14 different bat species living there.

The cave is in a locality called Kyoshkovete and there are two clearly-marked hiker trails leading up to it. “To enjoy it in all of its splendour you need to put on a warm jacket and sensible shoes, and give full rein to your imagination,” says Irina Pavlova from the Shumen Plateau directorate in an interview with the BNR’s Radio Shumen. During the free-access days last year, Biserna was visited by almost 2,000 tourists, she adds. The cave is around 3.5 million years old, and the tourist hike is about 800 metres long.

The cave also goes by the name of Zandana, although the name used more often is the prettier Biserna (pearl). The name is derived from the magnificent white rock formations covered in sparkling water droplets. 

Visitors can see the cave after prior registration which can be made on weekdays.

Compiled by Veneta Nikolova
Translated from the Bulgarian and posted by Milena Daynova
Photos: shumenskoplato.bg