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Vratsa, in the foothills of the Vrachanska mountains, is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. Yet only 116km from Sofia. The name comes from the spectacular gorge Vratsata (the Door) on the Leva river. The area is unspoilt, with diverse natural features, rare flora and fauna, and several protected attractions and historical monuments. The most important is the National park "Vrachanski Balkan".This is the most cave-rich area in the country - more than 500 caves and Karst precipices, including the massive Ledanika Cave. The main climbing and paragliding area is Vrachanski Skali (Vratsa Rocks) "Vratsata" is a world famous favourite of rock climbers where national and international alpine-style climbing competitions are held. It has an imposing vertical wall (over 400 metres high), containing over 116 alpine tracks with a difficulty-level 4 or more. Nearby is the Vrachansky Karst - a significant scientific and natural reserve. Well worth seeing is The God's Bridge - a natural rocky bridge. Also the karst spring in the Liliache village region; the Borovanska mogila - an ancient Thracian fortress; the Botev Statue and the highest waterfall Skaklia - 141 meters. The mountains and forests are ideal for developing different types of tourism - hunting and fishing, speleology, para-gliding, photo-tourism, hiking, mountaineering, carting, etc. Also rope-line skiing in winter near the Purshevitza Chalet. Vratsa is the bustling, booming capital of the region, vibrant, sophisticated, elegant.