For the purposes of this article, we will take the liberty of paraphrasing one of the most famous quotes in Russian literature. We are confident that, even without naming the work, you will recognize where it comes from:
"Happy countries are all alike; every unhappy country is unhappy in its own way."
For us, this is one of the most accurate takeaways from the 2026 World Happiness Report. Hardly anyone is surprised that the top positions are once again dominated by the Scandinavian countries (Iceland in 2nd place, Denmark in 3rd, and Sweden in 5th), while Finland has topped the ranking for the ninth consecutive year.
What stands out more this year is the presence of Costa Rica, which secures an impressive 4th place.
The report examines in detail the reasons why these countries have become something like "hubs of happiness." Of course, there are many social and economic factors that play a key role. But there is also something else that is far more accessible and applicable to everyone, regardless of where life's lottery has placed them.
We will focus on the following trend: people in the happiest countries spend a significant amount of time in nature. At first glance, this may sound surprising, especially considering that four of the top five countries are located north of the 54th parallel, where the weather is rarely an "invitation" for a walk.
And yet, or perhaps precisely because of this, people in these countries consciously seek a connection with nature. They make it a part of their daily lives, rather than a sporadic weekend getaway.
Bulgaria is a country that is rightly proud of its natural beauty, but do we truly "make use of" this wealth, or do we just boast about it to foreigners? We're not saying you have to climb Musala every weekend, but if being close to nature, the silence of the forests, and the scent of the sea can make us happier, perhaps Bulgaria's 84th-place ranking in the World Happiness Report could quickly change.
After all, if the Finns manage to spend a significant amount of time in nature, even with an average annual temperature between 2.5 and 5 degrees, then perhaps happiness isn't as hard to achieve as we think.
EAT
Bulgaria's natural wonders are far from few. One of them, however, gained global recognition when it entered the competition for the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2009. The Belogradchik Rocks are an impressive formation of rock structures that resemble familiar shapes from the world around us. The place leaves every visitor speechless, with a finger on their lips and a single question in mind: "How is it possible for nature to create something like this?"
The Belogradchik Rocks area is a wonderful destination if you want to boost your personal "happiness meter." However, there is one small detail – on your way to the higher ranks in the World Happiness Report, you might get hungry.
That's why we suggest something more than just a walk. Combine your visit to this rock phenomenon with a picnic under the open sky, for which ATTENTION – you will have to find your own food.
Adventure Picnic for Two Among the Belogradchik Rocks
Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: Belogradchik Rocks
A picnic under the open sky among one of Bulgaria's natural wonders – with an element of surprise and adventure. Find your food and enjoy it together.
We don't know if finding your own food is part of the Scandinavian practices for a happier life, but we've all heard that people from the Northwest have a unique sense of humor, so it's no surprise that your food won't be served to you just like that.
Joking aside. The link between food and happiness is well known and scientifically proven. And when we add to that time spent in nature and an experience that requires a little effort and a spirit of adventure, the result is more than just a walk.
TRAVEL
Did you know that in some Scandinavian countries, people travel between certain towns skiing during the winter? For months on end, snow isn't just part of the landscape – it's a factor that completely changes the way of life. And instead of fighting the conditions and complaining, Scandinavians embrace them and successfully adapt their way of life to them.
They never stop traveling – on the contrary, they make getting around part of their connection with nature. Not only do they get from point A to point B in a fun way, but they also protect the environment and save on fuel, which, given the global situation, is by no means a bad idea. As appealing as this may sound to ski enthusiasts, such a model is difficult to implement in Bulgaria.
Our homeland, however, offers wonderful conditions for hiking. The Central Balkan National Park is one of those places that make you slow down and admire the views that unfold with every meter you climb.
One of the most popular routes starts from the Panitshishte area near Kalofer and leads to the highest peak of the Stara Planina Mountains – Botev Peak. Along the way, you'll be treated to panoramic views that are hard to put into words, and right at the foot of the peak lies Paradise Falls – the highest waterfall on the Balkan Peninsula. Its name is no coincidence. There, amidst the rocks and water at over 1,700 meters above sea level, nature truly seems otherworldly.
Mountain Trek in Central Balkan National Park
Duration: 2 days
Location: Central Balkan National Park, Botev Peak
A trek to Botev Peak with panoramic views and a stop at Paradise Falls – the highest waterfall on the Balkans. Nature, effort and an unforgettable view.
Of course, the transition isn't a walk in the park, and that's exactly why it's worth it. Once the fatigue has passed, you'll be filled with pride that you've contributed to the collective happiness and to Bulgaria's rise by several places in the World Happiness Report.
LOVE
Being closer to nature is much more than just a walk in the park once a week. It's a choice you make every day, even when you're at home. You can start small, like using more eco-friendly products in your daily life. Or you can take it a step further and learn to make them yourself.
Natural Soap Making Workshop
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Sofia, Veslets Street 36
Learn to make natural soaps with your own hands – no chemicals, just natural oils and aromas. Useful, sustainable and deeply satisfying.
And just like that, things quietly become truly interesting – because this is no longer just a choice, but an experience. It is a way of showing nature that you love and value it.
Don't forget that you, too, are part of it, and you carry the same ability to create and bring small wonders to life. The feeling of crafting an eco-friendly product with your own two hands – something that can bring you closer to nature at any moment of the day – is truly fulfilling and deeply meaningful.
If we had to sum it all up, we would say that the path up the ladder of happiness doesn't begin with big changes, but with something much simpler – loving more: yourself, nature, and life.