The "Orlovo Oko" (Eagle's Eye) sightseeing platform is an exceptionally popular, adrenaline-pumping, and highly panoramic tourist attraction located in the heart of the Western Rhodope Mountains. Constructed in 2009 by the local "Rodopeya" tourist association of Yagodina village, the platform stands directly on the precipice of Mount St. Iliya at an altitude of 1,563 meters above sea level, close to the famous Yagodina Cave. Looking straight down from the edge is a truly breathtaking experience, as the sheer vertical drop from the steel structure to the road winding through the bottom of the Buynovo Gorge is over 600 meters. The project, costing a total of 21,000 BGN, was fully funded by the entrance fees collected at the Yagodina Cave. Engineered to meet strict safety standards, the steel platform is designed to withstand loads of up to 3 tons. From this unique high-altitude vantage point, visitors are rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama. On clear days, the view stretches across the entire Buynovo Gorge, the charming mountain villages of Yagodina, Borino, and Chala, and even as far as the distant ridges of the Rila and Pirin ranges, as well as the northern mountains of Greece. The summit can be reached via a marked hiking trail or by renting an off-road 4x4 safari vehicle from the cave entrance.
Smolyan
1.7 km away
Smolyan
2.0 km away
Smolyan
2.1 km away
Smolyan
2.2 km away
A travel guide to the Trigrad Gorge and the Devil's Throat Cave in the Western Rhodopes: the vertical marble canyon, the roaring underground waterfall, the nearby Yagodina Cave and the Eagle's Eye viewpoint.
Everything you need to plan a Rhodope Mountains trip: Smolyan, Pamporovo, Trigrad Gorge, Shiroka Laka, Perperikon, caves, spa towns, food, itineraries and when to go.
A travel guide to Smolyan, the highest town in Bulgaria: the Smolyan Lakes, the planetarium, the Canyon of Waterfalls, day trips to Pamporovo, Shiroka Laka and the Trigrad caves.
Eagle's Eye Viewpoint is located in Smolyan, Bulgaria.
Eagle's Eye Viewpoint is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Eagle's Eye Viewpoint can be visited year-round. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for photography and longer day trips; winter visits are possible but weather can limit access at some sites.
Most natural landmarks in Bulgaria are freely accessible and open year-round, though some sites have entrance fees or require a guide. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as the terrain can be uneven. Respect any protective barriers and stay on marked paths to preserve the site.
