What is the Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway?

The Rhodope Narrow Gauge Railway, is a historic narrow gauge railway located in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. It is one of the most beautiful and unusual railway lines in Europe, with a rich history.
The line goes from its starting station Septemvri (between Pazardzhik and Kostenets) via Velingrad, Yakoruda, Belitsa and Bansko to Dobrinishte, which is 125 km in total.

The narrow-gauge railway was built in the late 19th century and served as an important link between the small villages and towns in the Rhodope Mountains. It was vital for transporting passengers, goods and raw materials such as timber and minerals.

Today, the Rhodopes narrow-gauge railway is mainly used for tourist purposes, offering travellers the opportunity to take a nostalgic trip back in time. The train travels through beautiful landscapes, past meandering rivers, dense forests and villages.

There are many scenic vistas, beautiful nature and rock formations to see along the way. Also located on this line is the highest railway station in the Balkans: Avramovo station.

Avramovo station, the highest station

The trains running on the Rhodopes narrow gauge line are old but well-maintained, making the experience even more authentic. You can enjoy the sound and rhythm of the wheels on the rails along the way, while admiring the beauty of the mountains.

The Rhodope narrow gauge railway has become a popular attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists looking for a unique travel experience in Bulgaria. It offers not only a chance to explore the beautiful scenery of the Rhodope Mountains, but also to catch a glimpse of the region's rich history and culture.

What is special about this railway is that it was built entirely by hand, 24 hours a day by hundreds of workers.
But also special is the width of the track, which prevents the train from travelling fast in the mountains.

Sights along the line

Today, the last Bulgarian narrow gauge line is defined as a marvel of technical thinking and an architectural masterpiece, and great appreciation for its charm and value comes from all corners of the world.

The Septemvri - Dobrinishte line is undoubtedly a national treasure with its history, technical parameters and landscape. It connects the country's most beautiful mountains, and hiking trails to natural and historical sights start from each station.

These include the mineral water of Varvara, the last fallen Rhodope fortress Tsepina and the carpet workshop in Kostandovo, whose carpets adorn a number of palaces in Western Europe.
But also consider the spa capital of the Balkans: Velingrad. This is the only place in Bulgaria where the parallel and the meridian cross.
The resort of Yundola, the southernmost Rhodope fortress Kalyata near Yakoruda, Treshtenik with its many trails to the higher parts of Rila, the Bear Park near Belitsa and Bulgaria's oldest ski resort (Semkovo) are also found near the railway line. Not to mention the resort village of Banya, Razlog (the town between the three mountains with the oldest Bulgarian calendar), the ski capital of the Balkans Bansko at the foot of the Pirin and Dobrinishte with its mineral water and ski resort!

A short history lesson

The history of the line dates back to 1921.
The construction of the railway began in 1921 at the insistence of the Bulgarian army and the Ministry of Forestry with the aim of transporting forest resources in the mountains. It was also used for mining in the region.
Due to the mountainous terrain, a narrow gauge of just 760 mm was chosen.
This is still used today, hence the name narrow gauge line.

The first trains on the line were pulled by steam locomotives and the passenger carriages had wooden seats. One of the first carriages has been preserved to this day and is used for special attraction rides.
In the 1970s, the wagon factory in Dryanovo produced new modern carriages for the Septemvri - Dobrinishte line at the request of BDZ (the Bulgarian railway company).

The 'modern' locomotive

The train compartment

They are equipped with upholstered seats and heating, much more comfortable than the old carriages with wooden benches and wood heating. These carriages provide passenger trains on the line and are thoroughly repaired and modernised every five years.
Today, they are equipped with power sockets, LED lighting, comfortable seats with armrests and sometimes curtains.

How and where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets online via the website of the Bulgarian railway company (BDZ) or on the train itself (cash only). Just keep in mind that it can be crowded in high season, especially in summer.

Do you go as far as Septemvri station or board here? Then you can easily change trains here to major cities, such as Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna.

Check this page for up-to-date ticket information.