The route leads from the village of Mezek to Sheynovets peak (703.6 m) in the Eastern Rhodopes, close to the Greek border. The peak is not in the Sakar. It is marked in blue.
Sheynovets is in Lyubimets municipality, north-east of the village of Valche Pole and south-west of Mezek. Locals also know it by its Turkish name, Kurt Kale, "the wolf's fortress". The first battle of the Balkan War was fought here on 5 October 1912. Fourteen soldiers of the 30th Sheynovo Regiment, which gave the peak its name, were killed. The summit has a monument to the fallen and a TV tower over 100 m tall, visible from far away. On a clear day you can see the Aegean.
You can also drive to the summit via Mezek. The road is in good condition, but steep and narrow in places.
The village is known for its domed Thracian tomb and the medieval fortress above it, which combine easily with the climb to Sheynovets.
South-east of Sheynovets is Saraburun peak, below which the largest battle in the history of the Border Troops was fought in 1952.
Mezek – Sheynovets Peak is located in Haskovo, Bulgaria.
Mezek – Sheynovets Peak 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.
Mezek – Sheynovets Peak is best walked from May through October, when the trail is clear of snow and weather is generally stable. Summer middays can be hot at lower altitudes — start early. Winter walking requires proper gear and route knowledge.
Suitability depends on the specific route. Bulgarian trails range from paved family-friendly paths to multi-day high-mountain crossings. Check the length, elevation gain, and surface before setting off. Sturdy footwear, water, and a basic map (offline or paper) are essential even on short walks.
