Gela: Hotels and Accommodation

Gela is located in the Perelik section of the Rhodopes at an altitude of almost 1,500 metres, at the foot of Golyam Perelik and the Orpheus and Turlata peaks. Those wishing to book a hotel in Gela can then continue their search for accommodation.

Nature

Gela is surrounded by meadows and forests where wild fruits and herbs grow. The terrain around Gela is suitable for hiking.

Culture and History

There are four active chapels outside the village: Ascension, St George, St Marina and the Twelve Apostles. The Church of the Holy Trinity was built in 1910 beside the remains of an early Christian monastery that had been destroyed by fire in 1540.

Gela's early Christian basilica was part of a large Christian complex built at the beginning of the fifth century during the Christianisation of the Bessi. According to local tradition, Gela is associated with the birthplace of Orpheus. The ancient Thracian fortress of Gradishte can be visited about five kilometres from Gela.

The Ilinden gathering has historical roots in family reunions near the St Elias Chapel. It takes place on the first Sunday in August in the Ilinden meadows above Gela and includes spit-roasted meat, bagpipe music, dancing and informal bagpipe competitions.

Regional Cuisine

Rural tourism in the Rhodopes includes dishes such as patatnik, cheverme and Smilyan beans.

Geographical Setting

The route to Gela via Narечenski Bani, Hvoyna, Chepelare and Shiroka Laka includes a road section in poorer condition over the final four kilometres.

Other destinations: Mogilitsa, Bosilkovo, Devin, Zlatograd, Polkovnik Serafimovo, Chepelare, Bilyanska, Pamporovo.

To the main travel overview: Smolyan Province.