In 2015, Bulgaria marks the 120^th anniversary of writer Aleko Konstantinov’s Invitation, introducing for the first time the famous tourist slogan "Get to Know Bulgaria In Order to Fall in Love with It". After that invitation on 27 August 1895, a total of 300 people climbed up Cherni Vrah /Black Peak/ in the Vitosha Mountain near Sofia. Thus, the start of Bulgarian hiking tourism was given. Poet Ivan Vazov wrote his Na Cherni Vrah /At Black Peak/ poem devoted to that event. The excursion was also mentioned as the beginning of Bulgarian organized tourism in some of his travelogues.

Who wouldn’t opt for a free day in the mountain? There might be such people, but my personal experience says that one can definitely find peace and tranquility, along with inspiration across the grass-covered and rugged terrain of Vitosha. Slight breeze and the odor of pine trees caress the senses of anyone who has dared to try the beauty of mountain walks. The climbing of Cherni Vrah in the 4^th grade will remain as one of my most unforgettable experiences. I wasn’t aware at that time that I was following the footsteps of Shtastlivetsa (the Bulgarian for Lucky Man, as Aleko Konstantinov was nicknamed), but I did know that the nice and tiring walk would remain a memory for good. The feeling of fatigue couldn’t stop me, as I wanted to reach the top of the mountain, the top of my dreams back then.

This year nature fans have the chance to join the marking of the 120^th anniversary since the start of organized tourism in this country. The event will take place on 30 August 2015 at Cherni Vrah, where the National Tourist Congregation is going to take place.

Some more good news related to a healthy lifestyle: Sofia has been recently selected to be European Capital of Sport 2018. The city is a good example for the development of mass sports events. The initiative mainly aims at the popularization and development of the active way of living, along with sports infrastructure with good facilities, programs and activities.

English version: Zhivko Stanchev