Just 100 km from Sofia, in the cliffs of the Iskar Gorge, stands the National Cave House “Petar Tranteev” (Peshteren Dom). Built into the rock and fully renovated in 2024, it serves as a base for adventure tourism, outdoor sports, and scientific exploration. Today it is one of Bulgaria’s 100 National Tourist Sites and a starting point for travelers, families, and explorers of all ages.
At The Pine, we chose this location after visiting it ourselves and seeing the many benefits it offers — from its authentic natural surroundings to the wide range of opportunities for adventure and exploration that perfectly match what our guests are looking for.
A Home Built Into the Gorge
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Carved into the rocky ridge overlooking the Iskar River, Peshteren Dom feels like it belongs to the landscape. Renovated in 2024, the base blends comfort with wilderness spirit:
- Accommodation for up to 56 guests in bright, south-facing rooms with stunning river views
- A restaurant offering warm meals after a day of outdoor adventure
- A training and seminar hall — ideal for educational groups or team activitie
Whether you’re a family, a school group, or a team of adrenaline seekers, the Cave House is designed to welcome explorers.
Choose Your Own Adventure
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This corner of Bulgaria is one of the richest speleological regions in the world, with over 300 mapped caves waiting to be discovered. Staying at Peshteren Dom puts you in the heart of it all:
Cave Exploration
- Wander into Temnata Dupka, Bankovitsa or Svirchovitsa
- Don’t miss Prohodna Cave , famous for its natural rock windows — the “God’s Eyes.”
Cliffside Thrills
- Test your skills on climbing routes
- Feel the rush of abseiling, trolley rides, pendulum swings, or bungee jumping
River Adventures
- Trek the trails along the Iskar River , where the gorge reveals its full majesty
- Explore the turquoise waters of the Zlatna Panega River with water activities and scenic eco-trails
Here, every day can be as calm or as extreme as you choose.
Beyond the Cave House
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Beyond the caves, the region offers a mix of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Within a short drive you can discover:
- Karlukovo Karst Reserve — unique karst formations and biodiversity.
- Iskar–Panega Geopark — an eco-trail that combines natural wonders with outdoor learning.
- Panega Eco Trail — a favorite for hikers seeking turquoise river views.
- Historical sites like Pleven’s Roman fortress Storgosia.
These nearby treasures make Peshteren Dom the perfect basecamp for multi-day explorations.
Fuel for the Journey
Adventure calls for good food, and the Cave House restaurant is ready to provide it. After hours of climbing or hiking, guests can enjoy Bulgarian flavors that feel both hearty and homely. For those who like to explore local cuisine further, nearby towns offer traditional dishes like banitsa, rakia, and creamy local yogurt.
For Families & Teams
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The beauty of Peshteren Dom is that it adapts to every type of traveler:
- Families: Safe, fun activities for children, balanced with challenges for adults
- Seminars: A hall for training and learning, with nature as a backdrop
- Teams & Groups: Adventure sports and shared challenges that strengthen bonds
It’s not just about visiting — it’s about experiencing together.
Plan Your Visit
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- Location: 100 km from Sofia, 8 km from Lukovit, <3 km from Karlukovo station
- Best for: Adventure tourism, family trips, educational seminars, team retreats
- Capacity: 56 guests, restaurant, seminar hall
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Come for a weekend or a week — but prepare to leave with memories as deep and unforgettable as the caves themselves.
Are you ready to choose this place for your next team building? At The Pine, we will turn the organization into a seamless, stress-free process and your team’s experience into a lasting memory.
