While there are lots of good paragliding spots in Bulgaria, the Stara Planina mountain around Sopot is probably the best location because of the specifics of the terrain. Competitions are hosted here every season and two times was hosted even a PWC rounds. The scenery is remarkable, rugged mountains and a beautiful valley. The cloud base is usually over 2000m (6561 feet) and on a good day it can reach 3000m (9842 feet).
The mild climate, the South mountain slope and the 900 meter denivelation give excellent opportunities for wonderful and varied flights. The combination of mountain and valley flying can feed the interest of every pilot. With its wide valleys directly below the mountain and the availability of a major road, which follows it, Sopot is especially suitable for first attempts in Cross Country flying. More experienced pilots can face the challenge to break records by flying all the way to the Black Sea and up the borders of the neighboring South and West countries. Winds are normally not too strong, which provides good opportunities for Cross Country flights type Out-and-return Distance and Distance over a triangular-course. Adrenaline seekers can enjoy perfect conditions for Acro flying. Not surprisingly, some of the world's best Acro pilots, Horacio Llorens and Pal Takats, often come to Sopot to indulge in the flying opportunities. The over 1200 meters above sea level mountain slopes are with mild forms and green vegetation perfect for bivouac flying or picnic top landings. Last but not least, after the long flights you can rehydrate yourself with good cheap beer.

 
Connecting directly the landing field with the take-off, this is the longest chairlift on the Balkans. Surprisingly, this elaborate facility does not lead to any ski slope. It was build during Communist time, way before the birth of the paraglider, for the active recreation of the Sopot factory workers. Thanks to Shambala Extreme Sport Center for managing and maintaining the facility in good order for our paragliding community.

Famous as the town with most mountain spring water fountains, Sopot is a small town with about 700 residents situated at the foot of central Stara Planina Mountain South slopes and at the North end of the Rose Valley. It is located 130 km East from the capital city of Sofia, 70 km North from historical city of Plovdiv and 300 kilometers West from the beach city of Burgas.
The valley where Sopot is located is also famous for its rose plantations and in the summer months you can enjoy one of the "rose thermalls" as we call them...lift scented with the smell of blossoming roses. In close proximity is the Renaissance town of Karlovo, which offers various historical sites and also exciting dining options. Only 16 kilometers away to the East is the town of Banya with its hot mineral springs.