Gela Village

If you dream of immersing yourself in the heart of the Rhodopes, there is no more authentic place than Gela village. Located only 18 km from Pamporovo, this small Rhodope village is a real gem among green hills and endless panoramas of steep peaks and ancient forests.

What to expect from Gela

Gela captivates with its silence, untouched nature and the sense of time that seems to stop. A walk through the village takes you through cobbled streets and meadows, where the scent of pine and thyme is a constant companion. Here you will see traditional Rhodope houses, the church of St. Elijah” and unique stone walls that tell stories for generations.

Gela's Hidden Treasures

• Turlata Peak— a gentle hike takes you to the top above the village, from where you can see a breathtaking panorama — you will see Pamporovo, Perelik and even Persenk. The sunsets here are magical.
• The Gela Music Festival— if you visit the village in August, don't miss the famous Guidar Festival. The sound of hundreds of kaba-bagpipes gathered under the open sky is an experience that is remembered for a lifetime.
• Monastery “St. Spirit”— a place of spirituality and tranquility, located on a nearby hill with wonderful views.

How does it feel to be in Gela?

In Gela, time moves slowly, and the air is clean and saturated with herbal aromas. Summer here is cool, spring and autumn - warm and full of colors. The hospitable atmosphere is characteristic, and the locals will often greet you with a smile. Evenings are quiet, filled with the sounds of crickets and distant bagpipes.

Practical advice for visiting

• Best time to visit:Spring and summer (May-August) — for greenery, festivals and mountain hikes. Autumn is also picturesque with its colors.
• How to get there:From Grand Hotel Murgavecfollow the path to Shiroka Luka, and then there are signposts to Gela. The drive is about 30 minutes and passes through beautiful mountain views.
• What to wear:Comfortable shoes for walking, thin outerwear (even summer nights are cool), a camera and a bottle of water.
• Helpful:There is no ATM in the village. Refuel and pick up the necessary in advance, because the shops are small and work until early in the evening.

Brief history and traditions

Gela is one of the oldest villages in the Rhodopes and legends associate it with the mythical Orpheus. Here, each house keeps memories of bygone times, and bagpipes and folk music are passed down from generation to generation.

Discover Gela while you are a guest of Grand Hotel Murgavets

Gela is not just a destination — it is a feeling of freedom, a connection with the nature and culture of the Rhodopes. After a day among the beauty of the village, the coziness of Grand Hotel Murgavecwill welcome you with warmth and tranquility. Discover this wonderful part of the Rhodope Mountains in person — with a love for detail in the experience and with real memories that you will keep forever.