Veliko Tarnovo, Day 4
On arrival in Veliko Tarnovo I was greeted by Assen from Hostel Mostel picking up a few people from the train. As soon as we were back at the hostel we were hurried outside by Assen to see a rather atmospheric light and music show, displaying the Veliko castle in all it’s grandeur. A few beers back in the hostel and a session of putting the world to rights led to a reasonably early night!
The next morning Assen showed me round Hostel Mostel – a beautiful split level hostel in a big traditional house that’s been recently renovated. A large communal area is surrounded by private and dorm rooms, with a separate eating area, and beautiful large sun terrace with views out across the valley. Hostel Mostel is most definitely the place to stay in Veliko Tarnovo!
After my tour I was up for a stroll around town with some of the guys from the hostel…and the annual world wrestling championships were on!! Cue plenty of beefy guys (and girls – you know who you are Braziliera!) wondering around town with their entourages and of hangers on.
The town itself used to be Bulgaria’s capital, and has been an inhabited area for the last 5,000 years!! It’s now a great spot for strolling, people watching and supping the local Zagest beer in one of the many outdoor cafes and bars lining the main medieval strip.
After a couple of beers some culture beckoned, so we hiked through the ancient town centre and out to the fort. Once inside the grounds a tough 10 minute climb got us to a church built high in the centre of the grounds, and some amazing views of the surrounding country side. Getting down was quicker than getting up, particularly with the call of dinner!
The Globes restaurant offers a huge range of local delicacies – meatballs, grilled peppers and pork casserole. We were surrounded by large arm wrestling guys in national tracksuits…no GB, but Japan, Ukraine, Latvia, Poland, Finland and Russia were all present and correct…and taking advantage of the ridiculously large portions!
After eating my fill it was time to say cheerio to Bulgaria and jump on the night bus to Istanbul…
