The Rozhen National Astronomical Observatory sits on a ridge above Pamporovo at 1,750 metres, a cluster of white domes visible from the main road. It is Bulgaria's principal astronomical research facility and home to a 2-metre telescope that has been used for continuous observation since 1981. The observatory is open to visitors during the day, with guided tours of the facility including the main telescope dome and a small exhibition on Bulgarian contributions to astronomy.
The views from the observatory plateau over the Rhodope Mountains are excellent in clear weather, extending south toward the Greek border. The drive up from Pamporovo takes 20 minutes on a narrow road through spruce forest. A visitor centre at the entrance has information on current research projects and a schedule of any special viewing events.