Rhodope Mountains

Above the Struma valley, the mountain country of Pirin descends from its high northern summits toward the south. Rivers such as the Sandanska Bistritsa cut deep valleys into the western slopes before joining the Struma. Marble and granite form contrasting ridges, while coniferous woods grow beneath rocky heights. The range lies between the Struma and Mesta rivers, with the wooded Rhodopes extending beyond the Mesta to the east.