Adventure, Nature, Culture

offices abroad Hiking Penguin Travel - Denmark Frederiksberg Allé 32 Cycling 1820 Frederiksberg C Tel. +45 33 21 51 00 Horseriding Fax: +45 33 21 51 50 www.penguin.dk penguin travel - bulgaria [email protected] Birdwatching

Penguin Travel Bulgaria-1 Penguin Travel - Sweden Roundtrips ”DMC Bulgaria” Stortorget 8 9 Orfej Str. 222 23 Lund SPA & Wellness 1421 Tel. +46 46 235 244, Telefon: + 359 2 400 10 50 +46 852 500 233 Fax: +359 2 400 10 49 Fax: +46 46 211 49 11 Summer holidays www.penguin.bg www.penguin.se [email protected] [email protected] Winter holidays Penguin Travel Bulgaria -2 Penguin Travel - Norway Rent-a-car 35 Knjaz Alexander (floor 2) Sandgata-Postboks 1705 4000 Sentrum Telefon: + 359 32 65 30 01 7416 Trondheim Fax: +359 32 63 11 50 Tel. +47 85 22 66 85 www.penguin.bg www.penguin-travel.no [email protected] [email protected] About Bulgaria 1 Contents: About us 2 Tour types and grades 2 Roundtrips Roundtrip “Around Bulgaria” 3 Self drive 3 Wine & Dine 4 Short breaks 4 Roundtrip Macedonia & Albania 5 Rose festival 6 Icon painting & Monastery tour 7 Hiking tours The - mountain trek 8 Transbalkan trek 9 The Pirin-Rodopi mountain trek 10 Trigrad, Rodopi Mountains adventures 11 , Pirin Mountains adventures 12 , adventures 13 Mala Tsarkva, Rila Mountains adventures 14 Rock climbing course in Rila Mountains 15 Snowshoeing in Rodopi Mountains 15 Rodopi Mountains self-guided trek 16 Balkan Mountains self-guided trek 16 Trekking holiday in Sinaia, Bucegi Mountains (Romania) 17 Trekking in Northern Albania 17 Cycling tours The Balkan cycling tour 18 Monastery cycling tour 19 Road cycling in Rodopi Mountains 20 Mountain biking in Rodopi Mountains 21 Devin, centre-based cycling trip in Rodopi Mountains 22 , centre-based cycling trip in Rodopi Mountains 22 The heritage of Transylvania (Romania) 23 Horseriding tours The Ranch rides 24 Balkan Riding Base – the Balkan rides 24 The Balkan riding trek – Ride trek over two mountains 25 The Rila Mountains riding trek 26 The Balkan Mountains trek to the “Singing Rocks” 27 Horse riding at the Black Sea 27 Birdwatching tours Spring birding tour “200+ specialties” 28 Spring birding intense tour for keen birders 29 Birdwatching in Southern Bulgaria 29 Autumn birding along the spectacular “Via Pontica” flyway 30 Winter birding tour “Red-breasted Goose” 31 Special interest tours 31 SPA & Wellness 32 Holidays Winter holidays 34 Summer holidays 35

Sofia & Plovdiv guesthouses 36 Rent a car 36 About Bulgaria

ore and more people around the Europe. It features more than 12,500 plant spe- world are now curious about Bulgaria. cies (with over 250 endemic varieties); about MYou may have heard bits and pieces 770 vertebrates (over 420 species of birds, concerning the country in general, you may more than 20 of them globally threatened); and have visited the famous beach and ski resorts, hundreds of nature reserves and protected but Bulgaria offers far more than that. areas. The beauty of Bulgarian nature has Located on the southeastern part of the Balkan many faces: long sandy beaches on the sun- Peninsula, Bulgaria boasts an ancient and drenched Black Sea coast; 37 mountains – each rich history. The Thracians, Greeks, Romans, one with its own unique characteristic; over Byzantines, Bulgarians and Slavs all inhabited 550 mineral springs; fertile plains and valleys; these lands in their time, leaving behind monu- deep gorges and mysterious caves. ments and enriching the world’s treasure- Some call the mountainous regions of Bulgaria house of culture, and amazing modern-day the fortresses of Bulgarian spirit. They pre- tourists. serve not only the purity and variety of Bulgar- ian nature, in bygone times they maintained Here are some things you might not know the spirit of the nation during difficult periods about Bulgaria, but would be interested to of Byzantine and Ottoman domination in the know: churches and monasteries hidden deep in the • The Bulgarian state was founded in the year mountain slopes and woods. 681 These regions keep another treasure – the • The oldest handcrafted gold was discovered Bulgarian village. Throughout the ages people in Bulgaria followed tradition and created unique customs, • The global perfume and cosmetics industry folklore and crafts. The villages of the Rodopi could not do without Bulgarian rose oil. Bulgaria Mountains and the small picturesque villages produces 80 percent of the world’s supply and museum towns in the Balkan range offer • Bulgaria invented yoghurt excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, • Bulgaria is one of the biggest wine producers hiking and horse riding in the area. • Bulgaria is the land of Orpheus – the mythical musician and singer Enjoy the beauty of Bulgarian nature, taste the spirit of an ancient and rich culture, discover In addition to its historical sites and remnants unknown crafts and traditions, become ac- of ancient cultures, Bulgaria is renowned for quainted with some of the finest cuisine and its unique biodiversity – one of the richest in wines

Brief about Bulgaria

Territory: 1,110,912 sq km (11,957,756 sq ft). Population: 7,538,000 (2003) 83.9% ethnic Bulgarians; 9.4% Turks; 4.7% Roma; rest – smaller minorities including Russians, Armenians, Vlachs, Jews and Karakachans. Religion: 82.6% Orthodox; 12.2% Islam; 0.7% Protestant; 0.5% Catholic; 4.1% Other. Capital city: Sofia (1,182,698 people in 1992) Largest towns: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Bourgas, Ruse, , Mountains: 37. Longest – Balkan mountains: 550 km (341 miles); width – 30-60 km (18-37 miles); highest – Rila Mountain – Musala – 2,925 m (9,596 ft). Boundaries: North: Romania; East: Black Sea (coastline 378 km, or 234 miles); West: Serbia, Macedonia; South: , Turkey. Distribution of land (above sea level): 59.8% – 0-400 m (0-1,312 ft); 27.6% – 400-1,000 m (1,312-3,280 ft); 11.9% – 1,000-2,000 m (3,280-6,561 ft); 0.7% – over 2000 m (6,561 ft). Protected areas: Three national parks, 10 nature parks, 55 reserves, 35 managed reserves, over 350 protected areas and 500 natural monuments

01 introduction roundtrips About us Roundtrip “Around Bulgaria”

enguin Travel was founded in 1989. It began regardless of how many people book. Most of the Introduction: tery. Overnight in Bansko. by organising small trekking groups in a itineraries can also be organised for other dates This excursion offers a combination of natural Day 3. Sightseeing in Bansko. Transfer to San- Pfew countries and now offers trips to over during the appropriate season, for no additional and cultural landmarks. We start from the capital danski for more sightseeing (famous for its spa 15 destinations with more than 80 trips (including fee if a minimum of two people book. city of Sofia, situated in the foothills of Mount and climatic treatment resources). Transfer to the China, Mongolia, , Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran, Our active tours usually include small groups . Then we head southwards to the Rila Rozhen Monastery (the biggest sanctuary in the Spain, Italy, Kazahstan and many others). comprising four to twelve clients. And this is and Pirin ranges, both boasting peaks higher Pirin region) and further to Melnik for sightseeing In recent times our team has expanded to offices not just for flexibility. We believe this keeps our than 2,500 m, or 8,202 ft, as well as spectacular and overnight accommodation. in Bulgaria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Rus- clients satisfied and fulfilled during the entire trip monasteries. After passing the rounded hills of Day 4. Journey through the Rodopi Mountains sia, covering our biggest customer bases as well because they get a better insight into the daily the Rodopi Mountains (the birthplace of the mythi- to the blue waters of lake, followed by as the most sought after holiday destinations. life, culture and traditions of the country they are cal singer Orpheus) we continue through valleys Yagodina cave. After a cave tour, we head for Devin We are a team of young, enthusiastic people visiting. It also serves to keep nature undisturbed and plains to the Balkan mountains towards a and our overnight accommodation. with a passion for adventure and activity-based and less affected than it would be near bigger number of small towns, housing the remains of Day 5. We continue northwards through the travel – cycling, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, groups. rich history, traditions, unique architecture and Rodopi mountains and the Thracian Valley to the birdwatching, horse riding, photography and spirit kept alive over the centuries. foothills of the Balkan mountains and the town so on. A background in biology, geography and Penguin Travel is a fully bonded tour operator and The tour is carried out in small groups, giving peo- of . Sightseeing along the cobbled nature-related skills helps us to create and the money paid to us is completely protected. ple the opportunity to be travel and experience streets of this unique settlement, which has pre- develop a wide range of programmes. Since we Your financial security is guaranteed by the a lot more, to be more flexible, and not least, to served over 250 designs from the Revival Period love travelling ourselves and know Bulgaria inside Danish Rejsegarantifonden, with whom Penguin get closer to the local people and their everyday architecture. Transfer through the Beklemeto out, all our excursions are carefully selected and Travel has its own membership number – 888. life. We stay in small and cosy hotels in beautiful Pass to (famous for its plum brandy) for tested. Most of the tours are guided by our own Our destination management centre in Bulgaria historical towns. An English-speaking guide will overnight accommodation. staff. For all guided trips we have fixed departure holds the Bulgarian license touroperator’s num- accompany the group throughout the tour. Day 6. Transfer to . Sightseeing at dates throughout the season and run them ber 05605. Highlights: the Tsarevets Fortress. Transfer to the museum- Sofia – the capital of Bulgaria. Founded 7,000 town of Arbanasi for sightseeing. End the day years ago, Sofia is the second oldest city in in Tryavna (famous for its preserved Bulgarian Europe. National Revival houses). Sightseeing followed by Tour Types & Grades The is the most popular of all an overnight stay. the monasteries in Bulgaria with tourist, who Day 7. Transfer to the Etara Open-air Museum. e provide a host of different tours with mend that you start planning well in advance. be longer. Preliminary trekking/cycling experi- appreciate its size, natural surroundings, archi- We pass again the Balkan Mountains via the respect to type and difficulty grades! Your good physical condition is a prerequisite. In ence is an advantage, but not necessary if you tecture, wall paintings and ancient history. Pass to the city of Plovdiv. Sightseeing in Whether you choose individual and order to achieve it we advise you to start walking, are really in good shape. Note that during some of Plovdiv is one of the oldest European cities on the Old City of Plovdiv and overnight. W a par with Troy and Mikena. It has existed as a Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or for group tours with a guide, or combined tours with jogging, swimming or cycling for few hours a day the days, you should personally carry your bag- a guide for some part of the trip, is entirely up to around two weeks prior to departure. gage, which is naturally an additional challenge. settlement about 8,000 years ago. departure. you. We make a point of using local experienced For Trekking/ For Horseriding tours Veliko Tarnovo (the Old Bulgarian capital) is Accommodation: guides with knowledge of the local language, Cycling/Roundtrip tours A different skill grade is necessary for the various regally situated along the historical hills of Tsar- Seven nights in shared double rooms (2-3 star culture, history, art and so on. The tours are A: Light: No special experience is needed. As a riding tours. Here is a short description of the evets, Trapezitsa and Sveta Gora on the two banks hotels with en-suite facilities) on HB (breakfast conducted in English. Guides in other languages rule the trips are short and at low altitude. The difficulty grades we operate with: of Yantra river. and dinner included). One folklore evening are available upon request. routes follow a hilly terrain without long steep 1. For novices and those with a little experience. Melnik is the smallest and one of the most included on day 7. T o u r t y p e s ascents and descents. Normally the active part 2. For those with the relevant experience from fascinating towns-museums in Bulgaria, famous Extensions: Black Sea coast (check our sum- Our tours are divided into different types, with re- (walking/cycling) is three to five hours per day. one to two years with a riding school. You should for its sandy pyramids and local red wine. mer holiday offers at page 35) spect to whether someone travels with a guide, B: Moderate: Anyone used to walking during a have tried the different paces and individual tours I t i n e r a r y : Tour type: GT by themselves or as part of a group. long weekend will be in a condition to cope with in the open fields. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport. Transfer Difficulty grade: A IT: Individual tours: There is no guide on this a tour of this level. There will be successive days 3. You have several years of experience and you to the hotel. Sightseeing in Sofia (main attractions: Group size: Minimum 4 tour. You travel individually and we are respon- of longer and more difficult walking and days of are well-trained for riding at any pace, on challenging Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the National Theatre, Best period: April – October sible for the hotel accommodation and/some lighter walking. Some parts of the day routes are terrain and on horses with different temperaments. St Sofia Church, Sofia’s oldest building – the 3rd Included: accommodation and board as outlined transfers. A guide can be arranged, if ordered. done at a higher altitude. The active part (walk- Century St George Rotunda). Remain overnight. above; transfers to/from Sofia and Plovdiv Airport; We take it for granted that you can read the maps ing/cycling) is five to seven hours per day. Day 2. In the morning we head southwards to English-speaking guide and private transfers provided by us upon arrival. C: Difficult: These tours include trekking/cycling the town of Bansko, situated in the foothills of the throughout the tour; entrance fees everywhere; IT+: Individual tours with a guide: The same which is a little harder, normally on a challenging Pirin Mountains. En route we visit the Rila Monas- VAT and all local taxes. as the Individual tours, with the only difference terrain and height up to 3,000 m, or 9,842 ft. We that there is a local guide provided for some of the assume that you are healthy and fit. You should days. During your days with a local guide, you will come physically prepared to get the maximum S e l f - d r i v e probably be with other tourists. from the tour. GT: Group tours: A guide accompanies you D: Challenging: Tours of this level demand that In addition to our guided “Around Bulgaria” programme we are able to provide a self-drive variation throughout the trip. The group size is normally six you are in really good shape. The paths are not by organising transportation for our clients (using our company-owned car fleet) and arranging to 12 people, unless specified. always in the best condition and markings can be accommodation at any of the places mentioned and many others. We can provide you with some IG: International group tours: The tours are scarce. There are day-treks with big ascents and initial directions and maps, which will help you to get the best out of your self-drive holiday. The big- similar to our group tours. The only difference is descents. Changing weather conditions – even in gest advantage of this option is your independence during the trip. You will have to rely on your own that these are multi-national. Guided services are midsummer – play an important role when trek- abilities to handle situations, but you will have the freedom to choose where, when and which way English, if no special arrangements have been king at very high altitude and may cause changes to go and for how long. The impressions collected cannot compare with a guided tour as you will made. of the preliminary route. This will be decided by have to act like local most of the time, which should be a rather exciting experience. Difficulty grades the mountain guide at the time. Normally the Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details at: [email protected] To be at your best during your holiday we recom- treks last six to eight hours per day, but some can

03 roundtrips Wine & Dine Roundtrip Macedonia & Albania

Introduction: Dinner and overnight stay in Plovdiv. Introduction: walk through the new town and the remains of the Day 7. Drive northwest to the city of Durres an The sun, the vine and wine have been symbols of Day 4. Sightseeing in Plovdiv. In the afternoon visit Both Macedonia and Albania are relatively unknown Old town of Skopje. Overnight. international harbour city. Drive to the capital Tirana. Bulgaria since antiquity. Thracians, the first known the – the second largest in countries to the average tourist, although they have Day 2. After breakfast drive to Ohrid – an important After check in at the hotel take a sightseeing walk in inhabitants of the Balkan Peninsula, were experi- Bulgaria. Wine tasting in Assenovgrad. Dinner and interesting histories and inspiring mountainous centre for culture and education since 861 and the the centre. Overnight in Tirana. enced vine-growers and wine producers. It was overnight stay in Plovdiv. terrains. During this journey we will try to uncover birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet. Sightseeing tour of Day 8. Departure from Tirana. Transfer to either Ti- believed that Thracian wine is a precious elixir which Day 5. Departure for and visit to a replica their hidden treasures. The group is usually small, Ohrid. Overnight there. rana Airport or Skopie, depending on your personal provides strength, courage and inspiration. The Thracian tomb and the museum of Roses followed about five or six people, plus the guide and a driver. Day 3. Drive from Ohrid towards the St Naum Mon- itinerary. Thracian god of wine and fertility, Dionysius, became by a visit of the Shipka gold-domed church and the We travel by minibus. The road may occasionally be astery, some 30 km, or 18 miles, southeast of the Accommodation: one of the most esteemed gods not only in Hellenic lately discovered “Goliama Kosmatka” tomb. On the bumpy, but the natural views we are going to see town. Visit the Monastery and continue towards the The accommodation is not luxurious, but pleasant history, but also in Roman mythology and latterly all way to Veliko Tarnovo visit to the open-air museum can rarely be seen elsewhere in Europe. Albanian border. Reach Permet late in the afternoon. and clean: 2-3 star hotels, sometimes family-run. over the world. During the Roman times and after at Etara. The museum was build as a Craftsman Highlights: Overnight stay in Permet. All rooms have their own toilet and bathroom. The when the Slavs and Bulgarians inhabited the Balkans street. Still the craftsman here produce their unique Skopie – the capital of Macedonia Day 4. Today’s drive covers a distance of ap- hotels are centrally located. Half-board is included and founded the Bulgarian state in 681, the ancient art pieces of copper, goat’s fur, wood, steel, potter’s Ohrid – the birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet, and an proximately 130 km, or 80 miles. Our first stop will (breakfast and dinner). vine-growing and wine producing traditions were clay and silver. Dinner and overnight stay in Veliko important cultural centre through the ages be the town of Gjirokaster, a highlight for tourists E x t e n s i o n s : inherited and greatly developed. During the Middle Tarnovo or Arbanasi. Gjirokaster – a picturesque town with a great interested in architecture and history. The city was The tour can be combined with a roundtrip of Ages the monasteries owned most of the lands Day 6. Sightseeing Veliko Tarnovo. Afternoon visit historical heritage thought to be founded in the 12th Century AD around Bulgaria (see page 3) or a stay on the Adriatic/Black where viticulture was widespread. Monastic wines, to Liaskovets and its winery – famous for its high Saranda – a popular holiday resort a fortresson the hillside. Continue to Saranda – a Sea coast. kept in special cold cellars, became famous abroad quality still and sparkling wines. You will have the Butrint – a museum town which reveals the colorful coastal town and a holiday resort situated Tour type: GT for their extremely good quality. opportunity to sample the best red and sparkling remains of an important ancient city from 9th on the Adriatic coast opposite the Greek island of Difficulty grade: A Today vine-growing and wine production is an im- Liaskovets wines. Take a late afternoon sightseeing Century BC Corfu. Overnight stay in Saranda. Group size: Minimum 4 portant part Bulgarian life. Not a single major event tour of Arnbanasi. Dinner and overnight stay either Apolonia – another museum town with ancient Day 5. Drive first to the ancient city of Butrint, Best period: May – September in an everyday Bulgarian’s world passes without in Veliko Tarnovo or Arbanasi. ruins nowadays a museum town. Visit to Butrint and drive Included: Accommodation and board as outlined plenty of fragrant wine or fruity Bulgarian brandy Day 7. Departure for the town of Troyan for tasting Berat – another cosy town with picturesque back northwards, take the picturesque coast road above; English-speaking guide and private transfers being present for the celebration. the infamous Troyan brandies (made from plums). houses, steep, narrow, cobbled streets and an north to the city of Vlora. Arrive at Vlora during the throughout the tour; entrance fees everywhere; VAT At the same time Bulgaria is renowned for its deli- Troyan brandies are very popular and steadily gain- ancient fortress afternoon, check into the hotel and explore the city. and all local taxes. cious cuisine. It is tasty, spicy and varied – which ing acknowledgement abroad. Continue to Koprivsh- Durres – Albania’s international harbour Dinner and overnight stay in Vlora. means it tends to appeal to everybody. This “culi- titsa via the famed Rose Valley. Tour of this romantic Tirana – the capital of Albania Day 6. Drive to the ancient settlement of Apollonia, Please note that the above tour is a recommended nary” geography abounds in delicious specialities National Revival museum town. Late in the afternoon I t i n e r a r y : founded in 588 BC. Continue for Berat – beautiful, extension to the roundtrip “Around Bulgaria”. The appro- and exotic dishes: Bansko-style kapama, Rhodope drive to Sofia or Plovdiv. Dinner and overnight stay in Day 1. This expedition starts in the capital of Macedo- cosy, and picturesque town, famous for its ancient priate departure dates have been arranged, giving you cheverme, Thracian katmi and Dobrudzha banitsa, Sofia or Plovdiv. nia (FYROM), Skopje. Transfer to the hotel. Sightseeing fortress. Overnight in Berat. the opportunity to see the most of these three countries. Bulgarian yoghurt, and not least the famous Bulgar- Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. ian Shopska salad… The list is endless. Accommodation: Enjoy this Wine & Dine Bulgarian Style tour and Seven nights in shared double rooms (2-3 star NAZDRAVE (“cheers”). hotels with en-suite facilities) on HB (breakfast I t i n e r a r y and dinner included); wine tasting included as per Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport. Transfer to a itinerary; hotel in Sofia. Dinner and overnight stay in Sofia. Extensions: Black Sea coast (check our summer Day 2. Sightseeing Sofia. Departure to the famous holiday offers at page 35) Rila Monastery – the largest and one of the most Tour type: GT spectacular religious sites in Bulgaria. Afternoon Difficulty grade: A drive to Melnik – the smallest inhabited town in Group size: Minimum 4 Bulgaria, famous for its local brands of red wines. Best period: April – October Sightseeing tour of Melnik, wine tasting and dinner. Included: accommodation and board as outlined Overnight in Melnik. above; transfers to/from Sofia and Plovdiv Airport; Day 3. Visit to the picturesque Rozhen Monastery, English-speaking guide and private transfers noted for its magnificent woodcarvings. Drive to throughout the tour; entrance fees everywhere; VAT Plovdiv. En route stop in Brestovitsa for wine tasting. and all local taxes.

Short breaks As we know the value of time in recent days we pages 11-14). have made shortened but fulfilling breaks for busy For genuine birders we have made 3-day “Wall- people. These include the active parts (3 days with creeper tour”, offering the chance to spot not only guided walks) of our centre-based hiking pro- this elusive bird, but also many other rarities in grams in Bansko, Teteven, Mala Tsarkva or Trigrad. Rodopi Mountains. Sample itinerary would have the following Culture and nature lovers can take a special pack- schedule: age with 2 or 3 overnights in Sofia with visit to the Day 1. Arrival and transfer to one of the above mentioned destinations. highlights of the Bulgaria’s capital and the spectacu- Day 2-4. Trekking with guide as mentioned in the lar Rila Monastery. An optional excursion to Plovdiv itinerary for each of these programs. and Koprivshtitsa will be available as well. Day 5. Transfer for departure. Accommodation, boarding, and price inclusion is For more information please do not hesi- again as mentioned for each of these tours (see tate to reach is at: [email protected]

05 roundtrips Rose Festival

I n t r o d u c t i o n : lowed by the authentic rose boiling demonstration. Bulgaria is renowned for its beautiful nature and Attend the Carnival Parade in the town centre. Enjoy ancient and unique customs. The famous oil-yield- the special celebration lunch with delicious Bulgarian ing Bulgarian rose is an inseparable element of dishes and wine, accompanied by magnificent Bulgarian history and culture. It has been honoured folklore dances and songs. Dinner and overnight by a number of famous, as well as lesser-known stay in Kazanlak. writers and artists. Its name is commemorated by Day 3. This day we see two Thracian tombs, the countless folklore songs. one in Kazanlak and the lately discovered “Goliama As a trademark of the country, the Bulgarian rose is Kosmatka” which will be followed by a visit to Shipka’s celebrated every year in a very special ceremony gold-domed memorial church. Continue on to Veliko – the Rose Festival. In early June the Rose Valley Tarnovo – capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom comes alive with the songs and dances of the rose- (1185-1396). We will then get a chance to visit the pickers. They come at early dawn dressed in careful Etara Open-air Ethnographic Museum. Dinner and national costumes. overnight stay in Veliko Tarnovo or Arbanasi. The event takes place every year on the first Sunday Day 4. Sightseeing in Veliko Tarnovo – a city consid- in June. It stretches out from the Rose Valley to the ered to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. In the towns , and Kazanlak and is strikingly afternoon visit the village of Arbanasi – a piece of beautiful when the famous Bulgarian rose blos- unbroken Bulgarian tradition. Overnight stay in Veliko soms in May/June and the area is consumed by Tarnovo or Arbanasi. fragrance. Day 5. Morning departure to Sofia with a visit on the Don’t miss this unique opportunity to encounter a way of the unique town of Koprivshtitsa. Dinner and piece of authentic Bulgaria, as well as the chance overnight stay in Sofia. to enjoy genuine folk dances and songs, to see a Day 6. Sightseeing tour in Sofia – the capital city of very special ceremony and have the experience of Bulgaria. Sofia has been inhabited for 7,000 years. a lifetime. It was called Serdica by the Thracians. Dinner and H i g h l i g h t s : overnight stay in Sofia. Icon painting & Monastery tour Sofia – the capital of Bulgaria Day 7. Drive to Plovdiv – the second largest city in Rose Valley – the famous site where the Rose Bulgaria. Plovdiv was founded by the Thracians who festival and rose-picking takes place I n t r o d u c t i o n : the museums in Varna and Tryavna. A considerable Day 7. Shaping the face, hands and inscriptions. (5 Kazanlak – located in the Valley of Roses with more called the city Evmolpia. Dinner and overnight either The tempera technique has been used in Bulgaria selection is kept on the altars of churches and hours) than 90 cultural and historical monuments in the in Plovdiv or Sofia. since ancient times. After the official adoption of monasteries throughout the country. Day 8. Completing the work and applying the polish vicinity of the city Day 8. Time to go home. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Christianity in 865 this method was applied to icon Highlights: (1 hour). Drive to the Cherepishki Monastery for Plovdiv is one of the oldest European towns exist- Airport. production. This way of depicting icons has been Sofia – The capital of Bulgaria. sightseeing. Dinner and overnight stay at Srupecki ing as a settlement for some 8,000 years Accommodation: preserved for more than 1,100 years. The oldest The Cherepishki, , Glozhene and or Chekotinski monasteries. Veliko Tarnovo (the Old Bulgarian capital) is regally Seven nights in shared double rooms (3 +, 4-5 star icons found in Bulgaria illustrate that the tempera Troyan monasteries. Day 9. Visit to the Etropolski, Glozhene and Troyan situated along the historical hills of Tsarevets, Trape- hotels with en-suite facilities) on HB (breakfast and technique kept the images unchanged since they Veliko Tarnovo (the Old Bulgaria’s capital) is regally monasteries. Dinner and overnight stay at Troyan zitsa and Sveta Gora on the banks of the Yantra River. dinner included). One folklore evening included on were created. situated along the historical hills of Tsarevets, Tra- Monastery. Arbanassi – with houses that resemble mini day seven. The soft radiance of the Bulgarian icon is a grand pezitsa and Sveta Gora on the two banks of Yantra Day 10. Drive to Veliko Tarnovo and sightseeing tour fortresses Extensions: Black Sea coast (check our summer dimension of the fate, stability and spiritual evolu- River. of the city. Overnight stay in Arbanasi. Koprivshtitsa – one of the most best preserved holiday offers at page 35) tion of the Bulgarians after their conversion to Arbanasi – with houses that resemble miniature Day 11. Visit the unique Church of Nativity and the towns with houses from the National Revival Period Tour type: GT Christianity in the 9th Century. Nameless master fortresses. Kostantsaliev’s house. In the afternoon visit to the I t i n e r a r y : Difficulty grade: A painters filled the dead iconographic scheme with Bachkovo Monastery – known for its unique Preobrazhenski and Kilifarevski monasteries. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and meet Group size: Minimum 6 life, exquisiteness and bursts of colour. Canonical architecture and amazing icon paintings. Overnight stay in Arbanasi. with one of our professional and friendly guides. ascetic faces were replaced by youthful looking Plovdiv is one of the oldest European cities Day 12. Sightseeing at Monastery, Overnight stay in Sofia or Plovdiv. The Rose Festival takes place each year during the saints, humble hermits, venerable prophets and contemporary to Troy and Mikena. It has existed as a Etara Open-air Ethnographic Museum and a Day 2. Early drive to the rose fields near Kazanlak first weekend of June. This programme can change lifelike portraits of the Blessed Virgin. Their deep-set settlement for around 8,000 years. replica Thracian tomb in Kazanlak with murals for participation in the traditional rose-picking fol- according to your flight schedule. eyes radiate wisdom and a love of mankind. The Rila Monastery is the most popular tourist site from the 4th Century BC. Overnight stay in virtuoso line and the vivid exuberant colour imposed among all monasteries in Bulgaria equally for its Plovdiv. a new ideal of beauty, previously unseen in the size, natural surroundings, architecture, wall paint- Day 13. Morning sightseeing tour of Plovdiv. After Christian world ings and ancient history. lunch – visit to the Bachkovo Monastery. Icons are an integral part of Bulgarian church art. I t i n e r a r y : Overnight stay in Plovdiv. The first icon schools were established in mon- Day 1. Arrival at Sofia Airport. Transfer to one of the Day 14. Drive to the biggest and most famous mon- asteries. These religious sites have preserved the numerous monasteries within 120 km, or 74 miles, astery in Bulgaria – Rila Monastery. Sightseeing. spirit of Christianity throughout the centuries and in of Sofia. Dinner and an overnight stay. Continue for Sofia. Dinner and overnight stay in the the years of foreign domination the icons served as Day 2. Today we begin the icon painting course. The capital. a cultural link with the traditions of the past. Bulgar- first day will involve attaching the linen to the round Day 15. Transfer to Sofia Airport. ian icon art experienced its greatest upsurge after (1-1.5 hours). Accommodation: the 10th Century, peaking in the 12-14th Century when Day 3. Preparation of the background. Priming. (7 Fourteen nights in monasteries (with sometimes Bulgaria was the leading centre from which the use hours). very basic accommodation) and small family type of icons spread throughout the Slav world and the Day 4. Grinding and coping of the picture, sticking hotels with HB (breakfast and dinner included). Balkan Peninsula. The tradition of Bulgarian icon the guilding. Isolate the round. (4-5 hours). Extensions: Black Sea coast (check our summer painting was enriched during the National Revival Day 5. Basic colour layout of the clothes and base. holiday offers at page 35) Period (17-19th Century). Today the most valuable (5 hours) Tour type: GT examples of icon painting can be found in the Alexan- Day 6. Dress modelling of the face and hands. (5 Difficulty grade: A der Nevski Crypt, the National Museum of History and hours) Group size: Minimum 6

07 hiking tours The Rila-Pirin mountain trek

Introduction: reserve it reaches the “Tevno lake” hut (2512 m a.s.l.), This trek takes place in the two mountain chains where we stay overnight. (7 hours; uphill walk - 900 which contain the Balkan Peninsula’s highest peaks, m; downhill walk - 300 m). vast national parks, rare vegetation and rich animal Day 6. Descent towards the valley of Zheleznishka life. The trip is structured to take the participants to River and along its stream to “Pirin” hut (1640 m a.s.l.), remote regions with beautiful and unspoiled natural which is the next stop for overnight. (4,5 hours; uphill landscapes. If you do not have the time for extensive walk - 100 m; downhill walk - 950 m). trekking in the world’s biggest mountain ranges, this Day 7. In the morning we head to the final stop for tour is strongly recommended. Here you can enjoy the Rila-Pirin trek, the smallest town of Bulgaria - Mel- the physical challenge of alpine landscapes above nik (380 m a.s.l.). Here is also the Rozhen Monastery, the tree border, as well as the cultural treasures of where we make a short visit. Some 6 km further, Bulgaria and the warm hospitality of the local people. walking among the spectacular sandy pyramids, I t i n e r a r y : we reach the town of Melnik, famous for its red wine. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv (depending on your to the hotel in the Rila Mountains for overnight. departure flight) where we stay overnight. (5 hours; Day 2. Adaptation walk within the spruce forest to uphill walk - 100 m; downhill walk - 1350 m). “Skakavitsa” hut (1876 m a.s.l.) and “Skakavitsa wa- Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for terfalls”. Then the path continues to the “Seven Rila departure. lakes” hut (2100 m a.s.l.) where we stay overnight. Accommodation & luggage (4-5 hours; uphill walk - 900 m; downhill walk - 200 transportation: m). We stay overnight in 3-star hotels (days 1, 3 & 4) Day 3. Breath-taking sceneries await us after breakfast along the way to our next target - the with rooms with en-suite facilities and in mountain renowned Rila Monastery (1147 m a.s.l.). We stay huts (days 2, 5 & 6) and guesthouses (day 7) with overnight in a hotel by the monastery walls.(6-7 shared facilities on FB (breakfast, lunch pack and hours; uphill walk - 500 m; downhill walk - 1500 m). dinner included). Luggage is taken care throughout Day 4. Trip in the monastery cells and corridors. the whole trip. Around noon we had with the bus to the town Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer of Bansko situated at the foothills of the Pirin holiday offers at page 35) Mountains, where we stay overnight. Later in the Tour type: GT afternoon we make a short sightseeing tour in the Difficulty grade: D old parts of the town. Group size: Min. 4 Day 5.Transfer to “Vihren” hut (1950 m a.s.l.). Very Best period: June-September close by the hut is the marble peak of the giant of Included: accommodation and boarding as Transbalkan trek Pirin Mountains - Mount Vihren (2914 m a.s.l.). The mentioned above; transfer to/from Sofia or Plovdiv path from now on passes by the glacial “Bunder- airport; English-speaking guide and private transfers ishki lakes” and along the highest parts of the “Julen” throughout the tour; VAT and all local taxes. Introduction: Reserve is expecting us to the village of Cherni - 900 m). This trip offers a combined trek through two of Osam. Then we have a transfer to Day 7. The route starts with a descent along the the most exciting natural reserves in the Balkan and the nearby museum of local crafts “Oreshaka”. stream of Toundzha River to the resort settle- mountains: Kozyata Stena and Severen Dzhendem, In the afternoon we leave for , where we stay ment “Panitsite”. Six kilometres away from here as well as a visit to the Troyan Monastery. We overnight. (5 hours; uphill walk - 450 m; downhill is the town of Kalofer, where the bus is waiting for climb Mount Botev – the highest peak in the Balkan walk - 650 m). us to take us to the city of Plovdiv, where we stay mountains (at 2,376 m, or 7,795 ft) and enjoy the Day 4. Sightseeing trip in Apriltsi, providing a good overnight. (3 hours; uphill walk - 20 m; downhill walk imposing view of the low-lying Sredna Gora moun- insight into the local way of living. Around noon we - 970 m). tain and the fertile Thracian Valley. After descending make a walk along one of the new local eco-paths to Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for the extremely steep southern slope of the Balkan, Pleven hut (1390 m a.s.l.) where we stay overnight. departure. known as “Tarzan’s walkway”, we visit the small (3-4 hours;uphill walk - 900 m; downhill walk - 100 Accommodation & luggage town of Kalofer. The mountain huts lie like pearls on m). transportation: a thread with the walking paths in between. You will Day 5. From Pleven hut the path goes through a 3-star hotels (days 1, 2 & 3) and guesthouse (day 7) be accompanied the whole time by a highly-trained beech forest, reaching a place, called “Murgata”. with private facilities and mountain huts (days 4, 5 English-speaking mountain guide. Then it continues by the foothills of the “Milk Peak” to & 6) with shared facilities on HB (breakfast & dinner I t i n e r a r y : “Hristo Botev” refuge (2050 m a.s.l.). Further on we included). Lunchpacks are included for the mountain Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer cross the river bed of Haidushka River, followed by a to Beklemeto Pass in the Balkan Mountains where walk through alpine meadows to “Vasil Levski” hut, treks during the days 5, 6 & 7. Luggage is taken care we stay overnight. where we stay overnight. (4-5 hours; uphill walk throughout the whole trip. Day 2. Start from Beklemeto towards the peak - 900 m; downhill walk - 300 m). Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer parts of the mountains to Troyan pass (1525 m a.s.l.), Day 6. Walking by the ski-runs near Vasil Levski hut, holiday offers at page 35) continuing west after that to Kozyata Stena reserve the waymarks lead to the highest peak of the Balkan Tour type: IT+/GT and further to Haidushka pesen hut. From now on Mountains - Mount Botev (2376 m a.s.l.). From the Difficulty grade: B (days 2, 3 & 4) / C (days 5 & 6) we have about 7 km to reach the village of Chiflik (600 peak the track weaves among the rocky slopes of Group size: Min. 4 m a.s.l.). Transfer to the hotel on Beklemeto. (7 hours; the mount, providing excellent view to the precipice Best period: June-September uphill walk - 250 m; downhill walk - 950 m). of the Southern “Dzhendem”. Then we continue to Included: accommodation and boarding as men- Day 3. After breakfast we head from Beklemeto to “Rai hut” passing by the Heavens Waterfall (“Raiskoto tioned above; transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv; Eng- Dermenka hut (1504 m a.s.l.). Nice descent along the pruskalo”). We stay overnight in Rai hut (1560 m lish-speaking guide; luggage and private transfers stream of River through the Steneto a.s.l.). (5,5 hours; uphill walk - 1000 m; downhill walk throughout the tour; VAT and all local taxes.

09 hiking tours The Pirin-Rodopi mountain trek

Introduction: The tour continues along the 7 glacial lakes including a.s.l.), which will put the end of the trekking activities This tour is a lighter version of the Pirin-Rila trek, the biggest lake in Pirin Mountains. (5 h walk) for this trip. Then we take the bus, setting for Plovdiv which combines the high and challenging Pirin Then we continue to Leshten village and further to via Bachkovo Monastery - the second largest in mountains’ beauty with the serenity of the Rodopi the village of Kovachevitsafor overnight. (uphill walk Bulgaria. We stay overnight in Plovdiv, where we range. During the trek, you will get to explore some - 650 m (1st option) or 300 m (2nd option); downhill will have some free time in the late afternoon for of Bulgaria’s more remote and forgotten regions. walk - 650 m (1st option) or 300 m (2nd option). sightseeing and shopping. (5 hours; uphill walk - 600 Mountain border villages, which were closed to Day 4. Sightseeing tour in Kovachevitsa and the ad- m; downhill walk - 250 m). foreign visitors not so long ago, enable the tourists jacent area. Transfer further to Trigrad village where Day 8. Early transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for to experience some elements of authentic Bulgarian we stay overnight for the next 2 nights. En-route we departure. culture and country life. On the tour we also visit stop for lunch by the blue water of Dospat dam. (3 Accommodation & luggage caves and the second biggest Bulgarian monastery. hours; uphill walk - 400 m; downhill walk - 500 m). transportation: I t i n e r a r y : Day 5. In the morning we continue southeast to We stay in 3-star hotels (days 1, 2 & 6), family-run Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer the peak of the ridge by Trigrad village and further to hotel (days 4 & 5) and guesthouse (day 7) with to Bansko for overnight. Vodni Pad village. The return journey is a real delight private facilities and in a traditional old fashion house Day 2. Sightseeing trip along the streets of Bansko. going after Trigradska River all the way to Trigrad (day 3) with shared facilities on HB (breakfast & Afternoon walk above Vihren hut (1950 m a.s.l.). and Trigrad Gorge (1450 m a.s.l.). (6 hours; uphill walk dinner included). Luggage is taken care throughout There we visit Muratovo, Ribnoto, Dulgoto, Zhabesh- - 400 m; downhill walk - 450 m). the whole trip. koto and Okoto lakes.(5 hours; uphill walk - 300 m; Day 6. After breakfast we leave the hotel in Trigrad Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer downhill walk - 300 m). on foot. A nice dirty road, following the upper edge of holiday offers at page 35) Day 3.Transfer to the foothills of Pirin Mountains to Trigrad Gorge leads to the village of Yagodina (850 Tour type: GT the town of and further to Gotse Delchev m a.s.l.) and Yagodina Cave where we have about 45 Difficulty grade: B hut. Here we take the chair lift to Bezbog hut (2236 min cave tour. The bus is waiting by the entrance of Group size: Min. 4 m a.s.l.). Here we decide between 2 possibilities the cave to take us to the village of Shiroka Luka (1060 Best period: June-September depending on the weather conditions: m a.s.l.), where we stay overnight. (3 hours; uphill Included: accommodation and boarding as 1- Climbing Mount Polezhan (2851 m a.s.l.). This trip walk - 250 m; downhill walk - 600 m). mentioned above; transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv; offers probably the most beautiful panoramic views Day 7. This morning we start with two hours walk English-speaking guide and private transfers in the mountains. (5 h walk) from Shiroka Luka to Gela village (1500 m a.s.l.) and throughout the tour; entrance fees for the caves; VAT 2- Walking to the area of Popovo lake (2270 m a.s.l.). 2,5 hours more to the village of Solishta (1500 m and all local taxes.

Trigrad, Rodopi Mountains adventures

Introduction: Yagodina village (850 m a.s.l.) to Trigrad village (1250 also a good decision. The Trigrad Gorge is one of the The green and 225 km (139 mile) long mountain m a.s.l.) and additional trip to Trigrad Gorge (1450 m most renowned places in Europe for watching the ridge of the Rodopi mountains is situated in south- a.s.l.) and The Devil’s Throat cave. Uphill walk - 600 m; elusive Wallcreeper. Here you can enjoy tens of Al- ern Bulgaria, with 20 percent of the range extending downhill walk - 350 m. pine Swifts, many Black Redstarts and Crag Martins, into Greece. The highest peak is around 2,000 m 2. In the morning we head southeast to the peak Goldcrests, Firecrests, Bullfinches, Nutcrackers etc. (6,561 ft) high, with the average height around 800 of the ridge by Trigrad and further to the villages of Help by a guide for some/all of these activities is m (2,624 ft). With their pleasant climate the Rhodope Vodni Pad and Kesten. It takes about 4-5 hours of available upon request (in advance or on the spot)! mountains are the perfect place for trekking, offer- walking to get there and two more for the way back Day 8. Early transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for ing walkers a rolling landscape with pre-historic along Trigradska River’s stream. The return journey departure. caves, ancient Roman roads and bridges, fortresses is a real delight going after Trigradska River all the Accommodation: and churches. These walking paths and little villages way to Trigrad village. Uphill walk - 600 m; downhill In a family pension on HB (breakfast & dinner do not represent a well-trodden route for tourists, walk - 650 m. included) in rooms with en-suite facilities. however. Goats are not just a part of the scenery, 3. This is a real trekking day starting from Trigrad vil- Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer they are an element of everyday life, providing the lage through Chairski lakes (1600 m a.s.l.) to Mougla holiday offers at page 35) locals with milk, meat and leather. village (1400 m.a.s.l.) (about 5 hours walk). Uphill walk Tour type: IT+ I t i n e r a r y : - 600 m; downhill walk - 450 m. Difficulty grade: A (stage 1) / B (stages 2 & 3) Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer * The rest of your stay here you could spend on Group size: Min. 2 to Trigrad in the Rodopi Mountains for overnight visiting some interesting places (i.g. Devin and Best period: May-September (about 3,5 hours). Shiroka Luka) for sightseeing or even swimming in Included: accommodation and boarding as Day 2-7. Three trekking days with a guide are the mineral swimming pools in Devin. Trigrad village mentioned above, transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv planned for this period. These are: provides also nice opportunities for active recre- airport to Trigrad; transfers for the 3 trekking days 1. After breakfast we travel to “Yagodina” cave where ation. There you can hire either a bike or a horse (Trigrad-Yagodina, Mougla-Trigrad); English-speaking within an hour a cave tour will be performed. After with a guide in order to explore the mountains in guide for 3 trekking days; entrance fees for “Yagodina” that we have about 3,5 hours of walking through different way. Fishing, caving or birdwatching are cave and The Devil’s Throat cave; VAT and all local taxes.

11 hiking tours Bansko, Pirin Mountains adventures

Introduction: possibility for Day 2!) The Pirin Mountains – named after Perun, the god of or Thunder, are Bulgaria’s wildest peaks, comprising - Transfer to Vihren hut and walk among the Bunder- numerous protected areas and no less than 60 ishki lakes. All the way we enjoy beautiful breath- mountains over 2,500 m, or 8,202 ft, high. Generally taking panoramic views, flowers, crystal waters in speaking, the terrain is alpine, meaning that most the rivers and the lakes. (5 hours; uphill walk - 400 m, of the trekking is done above the tree zone. This downhill walk - 400 m). tour features stupendous views of crystal-clear 3- In June, July and August it is worth going for an mountain lakes, green dales, extraordinary rock Edelweiss tour. Therefore we have decided that the formations and rich animal life. During the rest of chance to see these unique flowers in their natural the trek there will be opportunities to explore the habitats is not to be missed! mountains, either alone, or as part of an impromptu Transfer to Bunderitsa hut.Trek to the region of trek organised with a local guide. ”Kazanite“. This area is located into the Marble parts Bansko is a three-hour drive from Sofia and is of the Pirin Mountains. There are neither rivers located on the outskirts of the Pirin National Park nor lakes… but here is the home of the Edelweiss – the largest protected area in Bulgaria. It will be your and many other flowers, flowering over the steep base camp on this walking holiday. With its special gorges and rocky cliffs. (6 hours; uphill walk - 600 m, architecture of Ottoman and Greek origin, Bansko of- downhill walk - 600 m. fers visitors a wealth of experience. The stone hous- * The rest of your stay here you could spend on es, many of which look like miniature monasteries, visiting some interesting places (i.g. Melnik and Rila exist side by side with the modern structures of Monastery for sightseeing or even swimming in this little town, which boasts only 12,000 inhabitants. the mineral swimming pools in Ognianovo). You Bansko boasts a multitude of restaurants and local can also engage your guide for more trekking eateries as well as a lively cafe scene. From there days. Bansko provides nice opportunities for active you can sit and enjoy the somewhat exotic sight of recreation. There you can rent a bike in order to the locals, who, along with their animals and carts, explore the mountains in a different way. Fishing or head for the market to sell fruits and vegetables. Do birdwatching are also a good decision. The region not be surprised if you encounter a flock of sheep of Bansko is suitable for watching Nutcrackers, on their way through the town too! Black and Three-toed Woodpeckers, Pallid Swifts, I t i n e r a r y : Ring Ouzels, Alpine Choughs, Goldcrests and Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer Firecrests etc. to Bansko for overnight (about 3 hours). Help by a guide for some/all of these activities is Teteven, Balkan Mountains adventures Day 2-7. Three trekking days with a local guide are available upon request! included in the program. These are: Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for Introduction (5 hours) and the chapel next to it, the “St. Ilia” Monastery built 1- Morning sightseeing tour in Bansko. Transfer to departure. Teteven (415 m, or 1,361 ft) is a small town situated in Petrahilya is a symbol of the town of Teteven. Its in XIV century, the picture-gallery in the centre of the Todorova Ornica in the Pirin Mountains. Walk along Accommodation: the valley of the Vit river among Lisets, Vasiliovska stone ridge, which is 130 m in height, is the first to town, “Sueva dupka” Cave, considered as the most the Demyanitsa River, combined by the view of the You will stay 7 nights in a family run hotel (3 stars), and Lestvitsa mountains, close to the Central Balkan meet the warm sun beams in the morning. The peak beautiful cave in Bulgaria because of its extreme waterfall “Julenski Skokove”. The tour continues with rooms with private bath/toilet. Breakfast and ridge. Monuments discovered accidentally prove is famous for its Karst structure, housing many variety of cave formations, the ancient houses through the old Mura Forests and fragrant alpine dinner are included in the price (HB). that this area has been populated since ancient pot-holes and small caves. - Bobevskata, Iorgovata and Hadzhi Ivanovata; meadows finishing at the place called “Karantiyata”. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer times. The Teteven region’s nature is truly unique, 2- Teteven – Cherven Peak (1221 m a.s.l.) and back (6 Ribaritsa resort (with optional swimming in a local Transfer back to Bansko. (5 hours; uphill walk - 400 holiday offers at page 35) fascinating, picturesque and exceptionally diverse, hours) pool), resort (famous for its hot mineral m and downhill - 700 m). Tour type: IT+ with beautiful and interesting flora and fauna. The The path starts from Teteven and goes upwards springs), Troyan Monastery, Boatin Biosphere Difficulty grade (trekking days only): B (stages 2- Two opportunities for the second day: area offers a great variety of trekking tours and through small gardens, broad leaved forests and Reserve, Vasiliov hut and the peak of the same - Transfer to Vihren hut. Ascent to the giant of Pirin 1, 2.2 & 3), C (stage 2.1) destinations. The broadest Beech forest belt in vast meadows to the rocks of Cherven Peak, offering name nearby and many others… Biking and Mountains - Mount Vihren (2914 m a.s.l.). After that Group size: Min. 2 Bulgaria, one of the largest protected beech massifs a nice panoramic view over the whole town of Tete- birdwatching extensions in the area (famous for its we go back to Vihren hut and by bus - to the hotel in Best period: June-September in Europe, is to be found in the region of Teteven in ven. From there we take the new eco-path leading owls, woodpeckers etc.) are available upon request Bansko for dinner and overnight. (7-8 hours; uphill Included: accommodation and boarding as to Babintsi village. Then there are 2 hours of walking Boatin Biosphere Reserve. Century-old woods, with (please send requests not later than a week prior walk - 1000 m and downhill - 1000 m). mentioned above, transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv steep, even vertical rocks in some places, meadows, along the asphalt road down to Teteven. to arrival). (* It is a steep path, all the way up and down, passing airport to Bansko; English-speaking guide for 3 waterfalls and caves are just some examples of the 3- Glozhene – Morovitsa Cave – Glozhene Monastery Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for departure in many parts over rocks. It is recommend for trekking days; transfers for the 3 trekking days; VAT natural wonders that can be found here. – Goliam Izvor (5 hours) Accommodation: tourists in a good shape! Otherwise see the other and all local taxes. I t i n e r a r y After a short transfer to the village of Glozhene (8 km In a guesthouse in Goliam Izvor village with shared Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer from Teteven) a short trek expects you to Morovitsa to the village of Goliam Izvor (about 1 h from Sofia Cave. The path from the cave continues through old facilities on HB (breakfast & dinner included). and 3 h from Plovdiv), where we stay overnight. Beech forest to Glozhene Monastery, where you Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer Goliam Izvor is some 15 km from Teteven. We use a will hear the mysterious story of its establishment. holiday offers at page 35) guesthouse there in order to make tourists feel like From the monastery we take the dirty road leading Tour type: IT+ / GT local people, to live like them, to get an insight into the to the pass between Goliam Izvor and Teteven Difficulty grade: B (stages 1 & 3), C (stage 2) everyday’s life of the countrymen, their concerns and then following the asphalt road we get back to Group size: Min. 2 and duties in growing cattle, land cultivation etc. Goliam Izvor. Best period: April-September However transfers to Teteven as a starting point for * The other three days of your stay could be ar- Included: accommodation and boarding as the 3 trekking days are arranged. ranged on the spot with the guide (who will help you mentioned above, transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv Day 2-7. Three trekking days with a local guide are decide and you can also engage him/her) or you airport to Teteven; transfers for the 3 trekking days included in the program, which could be spent on could spend them on your own on sightseeing or (Goliam Izvor-Teteven-Goliam Izvor (x2), Goliam Izvor- walking along the following routes: visiting some other places in the region of Teteven Glozhene); English-speaking guide for 3 trekking 1- Teteven – Petrahilya Peak (1179 m a.s.l.) and back like the historical museum, the church “Vsiah Svetii” days; VAT and all local taxes.

13 hiking tours Mala Tsarkva, Rila Mountains adventures Rock climbing course in Rila Mountains

Introduction: the gondola-lift to Yastrebets. Trek to the highest Accommodation: Introduction: equipment types and how to take care of your gear; The Rila mountain range is not only the tallest in the peak in Bulgaria nd the Balkan Peninsula - Musala We live in a family run pension with rooms with Rock climbing and mountaineering have old tradi- how to evaluate safe anchor sites; anchor types Balkan Peninsula, but also within southeast Europe. (2925 m). Walk back and transfer to Mala Tsarkva. (6 private bath/toilet. Breakfast and dinner are included tions in Bulgaria. Bulgarian mountaineers have and placement; setting rappel, belay and top-rope The highest peak is Musala (standing at 2,925 m, hours; uphill walk - 650 m; downhill walk - 650 m). in the price (HB). climbed all peaks in the world, exceeding 8000 m., system; rope management; intermediate climbing or 9,596 ft). Many of the summits here are close 3- There are 2 options: Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer including The Top of The World - Mount Everest. The techniques; an introduction to climbing multi-pitch to 3,000 m, or 9,842 ft, high. Rila (an old Slavic word, - Transfer to Vada hut (1410 m a.s.l.). This is the start- holiday offers at page 35) best natural conditions of Rila Mountains for acquir- routes; placement of protection - cams, nuts etc.; pi- meaning “Water Mountain”) looks like a rough sea ing point for the trek to the Seven Rila lakes hut (2190 Tour type: IT+ ing perfect skills are combined with the excellent ton placement; fixing ropes; first aid in the mountain; of mountain ridges and peaks, and boasts deep m a.s.l.). Furthur on we continue through the region Difficulty grade: C tradition and reputation of the Bulgarian mountain- camps and camping in the mountain; the dangers gorges and 150 crystal clear lakes. Generally speak- of “Goreloto” to Lovna hut (1654 m a.s.l.). The trek Group size: Min. 2 persons. eering school. The skills of Bulgarian climbing in- of the mountains, connected to weather, relief etc.; orientation etc. ing, the Rila Mountains comprise two parts: west ends again by Vada hut, where the bus waits to take Best period: June-September structors guarantee excellent results and complete safety to the participants in the climbing courses. Day 7. Practise. Now you are expected to compe- Rila with Maliovitsa Peak, the Rila Monastery and the us back to Mala Tsarkva. (6-7 hours; uphill walk - 1050 Included: accommodation and boarding as At the moment there exist about 120 trekking and tently belay and follow a leader on single and some m; downhill walk - 850 m). Seven Rila lakes; and east Rila, housing the ski resort mentioned above, transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv climbing routes, 106 of which are concentrated in multy pitch routes, conduct self-rescue and set up of and Musala Peak. The Seven Rila lakes, or airport to Mala Tsarkva; transfers for the 3 trekking Maliovitsa Ridge (Granite Paradise) and 14 in the East- vertical hauling system. lying like pearls on a thread, are the main reason for - Transfer to the complex of Maliovitsa (1720 m a.s.l.), days (-Mala Tsarkva, Mala Tsarkva-Bo- ern Ridge of the mountain. For this reason, the Alpine Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for Rila’s attraction to alpine trekkers and wanderers. walk to Maliovitsa hut (1960 m a.s.l.) and further on to rovets-Mala Tsarkva; Mala Tsarkva-Vada hut-Mala & Mountaineering School is located in the Maliovitsa departure. Thanks to mild winds from the Mediterranean Sea, Maliovitsa Peak (2730 m a.s.l.). Then we turn back to Tsarkva or Mala Tsarkva-Maliovitsa-Mala Tsarkva); Ridge of Rila Mountains. It is fully equipped for the Accommodation: the mountains have an entirely unique vegetation. A the complex of Maliovitsa. (5 hours; uphill walk - 1200 lift tickets for Stage 2; English-speaking guide for 3 course, including an indoor artificial climbing wall. 3-stars hotel with en-suite facilities on FB (breakfast, big part of the National Park is also under the protec- m; downhill walk - 1200 m). trekking days; VAT and all local taxes. I t i n e r a r y : lunch & dinner included). tion of UNESCO. * The rest of your stay here you could spend on visiting Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer The village of Mala Tsarkva (1,200 m, or 3,937 ft ) lies some interesting places (i.g. Sofia and Rila Monastery) to Maliovitsa resort in Rila Mountains. holiday offers at page 35) in the Levi Iskar valley. It is a perfect starting point for or you could engage your guide for more trekking The time till the end of the day will be spent on acli- Tour type: IT+ trekking tours to west or east Rila. options. Mala Tsarkva provides nice opportunities for matisation walks (self-guided) and in the area. Difficulty grade: A, B, C & D (day 7) I t i n e r a r y : active recreation. There you can rent a bike in order Day 2-6. For the next 5 days you will have tuition Group size: Min. 2 Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to explore the mountains in different way. Fishing in and instructor-guided rock climbing - 4 hours Best period: June-August to Mala Tsarkva village in Rila Mountains. Iskar dam or along the streams of Levi and Cherni Iskar daily. The programe will be stressed on the most Included: accommodation and boarding as Day 2-7. Three trekking days with a guide are Rivers or birdwatching are also a good decision. The important knowledge and skills you should master mentioned above, transfer to/from Sofia and Plovdiv planned for this period. These are: region of Mala Tsarkva is suitable for watching Nut- for rock-climbing and mountaineering as a whole. airport to Maliovitsa resort; 5 days instructor-guided 1- Start from Mala Tsarkva (1200 m a.s.l.). Trek to to crackers, Black Woodpeckers, Pallid Swifts, Ring Ouzels, These are basic climbing techniques: stemming, lessons, 4 hours/day (on English); 1 day practical Mechit hut (1650 m a.s.l.) and further following the Crested Tits, Goldcrests and Firecrests etc. smearing and jamming; knot tying; how to rappel; activities; VAT and all local taxes. stream of Ovcharska River - to the village of Govedar- Help by a guide for some/all of these activities is avail- tsi (1160 m a.s.l.). Transfer to the hotel in Mala Tsarkva. able upon request! (4 hours; uphill walk - 500 m, downhill walk - 550 m). Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for Snowshoeing in Rodopi Mountains 2- Transfer to the ski resort Borovets. Here we take departure. Introduction: Day 5. Transfer to the foothills of Mount Perelik (2191 Snowshoeing is another way of exploring the m. a.s.l.) - the highest peak in Rodopi Mountains. mountains – and offers spectacular views. Snowshoeing to Lednitsata hut and further to Gela Hidden below the snow paths, it offers visitors a village for overnight (1500 m a.s.l.). (5,5 hours; uphill memorable experience of the quiet and serenity walk – 200 m; downhill walk – 500 m). of the landscape with virgin snow coverage, but is Day 6. In the morning we head to Trigrad village and also quite unpredictable with regards to changing round snowshoeing trek in the region. En-route we conditions (weather, signpost availability and so on). visit The Devil’s Throat Cave hidden in the very bottom Snowshoeing in the Rodopi mountains is a challeng- of the Trigrad Gorge. Overnight in Trigrad. (4 hours; ing adventure. No matter how deep the snow, this is uphill walk – 200 m; downhill walk – 200 m). the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages Day 7. Trek to Yagodina village and Yagodina Cave is to tackle the invigorating challenge of walking on the expecting us. Transfer to the town of Devin, famous white surface of the Rodopi mountains – through for its mineral springs. (4 hours; uphill walk - 350 m; dense forests, alpine meadows and remote villages. downhill walk - 450 m). I t i n e r a r y : Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for departure. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer Accommodation & luggage to Plovdiv where we stay overnight. transportation: Day 2. A visit to Bachkovo Monastery in the morning In guesthouses (days 1, 4 & 5) and in mountain hut and bus transfer to the village of Orehovo. Trek to (day 2) with shared facilities, in family pensions Persenk hut (1750 m.a.s.l.) where we stay overnight. (days 3 & 6) and 3-star hotel (day 7) with private (4 hours; uphill walk – 900 m; downhill walk – 50 m). facilities on HB (breakfast & dinner included). Luggage Day 3. Snowshoeing from Persenk hut to “Grobite” is taken care throughout the tour. (1950 m.a.s.l.) and further to The Miraculous Bridges Extension: Ski holiday in Bansko, Borovets or Pampo- (1500 m a.s.l.). Transfer to for overnight. (4,5 rovo (check our winter holiday offers at page 34) hours; uphill walk – 300 m; downhill walk – 550 m). Tour type: IT+ / GT Day 4. Transfer to “Mechi chal” (The Bear’s Peak) and Difficulty grade: C chair lift to the peak (at 1873 m a.s.l.). Trek to Stoikite Group size: Min. 2 village (1500 m a.s.l.). Transfer to Shiroka Luka. Short Best period: January-March time for sightseeing and lunch. The next stop is Included: accommodation and boarding as men- Studenets hut (1735 m a.s.l.). From here we start tioned above, transfer from Sofia or Plovdiv airport to snowshoeing to Smolianski Lakes (1400 m a.s.l.). Plovdiv; all transfers as per program; English-speak- Overnight in Smolian. (4 hours; uphill walk – 200 m; ing guide; entrance fees for “Yagodina” cave and The downhill walk – 900 m). Devil’s Throat cave; VAT and all local taxes.

15 hiking tours Rodopi Mountains self-guided trek Trekking holiday in Sinaia, Bucegi Mountains (Romania)

Introduction: Day 5. Morning transfer to Beden village. Trek to Introduction you to Babele (“The old women”) – a rock formation, Passing through some of the most spectacular Liaskovo village for overnight (15 km; uphill walk - 350 The highest and most spectacular mountains near given the shape of three persons by the erosion. parts of the Rodopi mountains (the Trigrad Gorge, m; downhill walk - 315 m). Bucharest - the Bucegi (2507 m.a.s.l. on Omu Peak), Walk to Caraiman peak with terrific view over The Devil’s Throat cave, The Miraculous Bridges and Day 6. Walk from Liaskovo to “Skalnite mostove” provide attractive and extremely accessible hiking Prahova valley. Trek to Piatra Arsa and further to the so on) this trip gives you the opportunity to explore hut (1620 m a.s.l.) through century-old coniferous area within a 2 hours drive or train ride from the lift station by Virful Cu Dor. the mountain without being escorted by a guide, woods and hidden meadows in-between. Visit to capital. Here is the popular Prahova Valley with its * The other 3 days could be spend on sightseeing relying just on your own ability to handle exciting the rocky phenomenon “Miraculous Bridges” and resorts. Upwards, on the Bucegi Plateau, the winds the neighbouring towns by Sinaia, including Brasov and surprising situations! The trail affords breath- transfer to the village of Kosovo for overnight. (13 km; and the rains have turned the rocks into spectacular and its churches, The Bran Castle (owned in the past taking views over high rocky cliffs, dense woods, uphill walk - 635 m; downhill walk - 200 m). figures, such as the Sphinx - a rock with the shape by Vlad Tsepesh, the prototype of the legend for alpine meadows and the tiny villages still housing Day 7. Short stroll around the village. Transfer of a human-like face with a lingering and enigmatic count Dracula), the old city of Fagaras as well as the the ancient spirit of times gone by. Pre-arranged through Bachkovo Monastery to Plovdiv for over- smile and Babele. The Bucegi Mountains are known monastery and the Peles Castle in Sinaia. accommodation and luggage transportation during night. In the afternoon you can go for a sightseeing for their colorful diversity in plants and it’s strange Day 7. Transfer by train to Bucharest and departure. the whole trip ensure the pleasure of unrestricted tour in the Old Town of Plovdiv. erosions. They are the most visited mountains in Note: additional night in Bucharest could be arranged walking through the wilderness of the mythical Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for Romania. upon request. Orpheus’ native lands. departure. I t i n e r a r y Accommodation: I t i n e r a r y : Accommodation & luggage Day 1. Arrival in Bucharest and transfer by train to Hotel in Sinaia, equipped with private facilities on HB Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer transportation: the hotel in Sinaia. (6 nights; breakfast and dinner included). to Yagodina for overnight. We stay overnight in small family hotels (days 1, 2, 3 Day 2-6. Three trekking days in Bucegi Mountains Extension: Additional night in Bucharest for Day 2. Short walk to Yagodina Cave and then to & 4) with private facilities and guesthouses (days 5,6 with local guide are included in the program. The sightseeing Trigrad village for overnight. (11 km; uphill walk: 600 m; & 7) with shared facilities (only the latter with private walks are easy, following flat or slightly steep Tour type: IT + downhill walk – 250 m). facilities) on HB (breakfast & dinner included). terrains, not requiring any special preparation in Difficulty grade: B Day 3. Trekking to the remote village of Vodni Pad Luggage is taken care throughout the tour. advance. Depending on the weather conditions Group size: Min. 2 and back to Trigrad village. This stage provides good Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer these could be: Best period: May-September overview of the way of living for many of the local holiday offers at page 35) 1- Transfer by the cabin lift to “Cota 1400” and further Included: Accommodation as per program; train people, combined with the serenity in the coniferous Tour type: IT to the top called Virful Cu Dor. Walk over the plateau. ticket Bucharest-Sinaia-Bucharest; transfer Bucha- forests en route. (!3 km; uphill walk - 400 m; downhill Difficulty grade: B 2- Transfer by the cabin lift to Virful Cu Dor and walk rest airport – railway station (day 1); lift tickets for the walk - 450 m). Group size: Min. 2 to the central depression of the mountains, reaching 3 trekking days as per program; English-speaking Day 4. Starts from Trigrad through alpine meadows Best period: May-September Pestera chalet (“The cave”) and a monk’s monastery. guide for the 3 trekking days (accommodation, fee and old forests to the ancient Chairski Lakes and Included: transfers from/to Sofia or Plovdiv airport; 3- Transfer to the village of Busteni. Cabin lift will take and lift tickets and meals included) back passing along the Trigrad Gorge and the Devil’s detailed roadbook with map; luggage transfers; Throat Cave. (20 km; uphill walk - 900 m; downhill accommodation and boarding as mentioned above; walk - 700 m). VAT and all local taxes. Trekking in Northern Albania

I n t r o d u c t i o n : Day 7. Trekking towards the village of Boga along Balkan Mountains self-guided trek This is `the genuine trekking tour` at the very heart Shtegu i Dheneve - the Path of the Sheep. After Qafa of the northern Alps of Albania that brings travelers e Thores - the Diagonal Pass (1770m a.s.l.), the trail Introduction: Day 5. Transfer to the town of Teteven. Check in into the in a scenario of amazing mountainous landscapes descends to Boga. (900 m a.s.l.). Transfer to Tirana. The Fore-Balkan area of the Balkan mountains offers a hotel (for 2 nights) and time at leisure for sightseeing with isolated valleys full of charm and ancient pagan Day 8. Sightseeing Tirana and transfer to the airport unique and diverse landscape, dotted with tiny villages and shopping. Afternoon walk to a local waterfall with legends. for departure. lost in greenness and flowers, offering visitors not extension to “Haidushka poliana” Peak (7 km.; 2,5 hours). As such, this journey is recommended to people Accommodation: only tranquillity and calmness, but also the opportu- Day 6. Walk to the highest peak by Teteven - Cherven already experienced in long walks and with a good Hotels with en-suite facilities (days 1, 2 & 7) and tradi- nity to experience the unique and cosy atmosphere of Peak (1221 m a.s.l.), offering a superb panoramic view adaptation spirit, because the only accommoda- tional guesthouses (rest days) with shared facilities authentic Bulgarian villages. In this region, traditions over the town itself and the valley of Beli Vit River. tion choice is the hospital traditional houses of the on FB (breakfast, lunch and dinner included). Single are a big part of modern life. Old water mills are still at Descent to Teteven through the village of Babintsi (14 Albanian “malesore” – highlanders. supplement available only in hotels. work; fulling mills continue to wash colourful carpets; km.; 6 hours). I t i n e r a r y Tour type: GT the famous “rakia” (brandy) is prepared right before Day 7. Transfer to the village of Glozhene. Then a Day 1. Arrival in Tirana and transfer to Kruja for Difficulty grade: B/C you; Bulgarian housewives prepare unforgettably short trek through Morovitsa Cave leads to Glozhene overnight. Group size: Min. 6 sweet jams made with wild berries; and the old Monastery, where you can see the 1000 years old Day 2. Hike up the holy mountain of Kruja and visit Best period: May-September farmers still make the famous Balkan brine cheese icon of St. George. Descend to the village of Goliam to the Bectasci teqe. Then we continue to Shkodra for Included: transfers, guidance and accommodation with sheep and goat’s milk. And all this surrounded by Izvor for overnight (11 km.; 4 hours). a visit to the Rozafa Castle. Evening relax at Shkodra as per itinerary. the wild nature of the Central Balkan National Park and Day 8. After breakfast - transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv lake and overnight. one of its nine green pearls – the biosphere reserve airport for departure. Day 3. Transfer to the ferry, going through the of Boatin, housing one of the largest belts of Beech Accommodation & luggage spectacular canyon of river Drin and dam Koman. forest. t r a n s p o r t a t i o n : Overnight in Dunishë - the best location to start all I t i n e r a r y Family-run hotels with en-suite facilities (days 1, 2, 3, 4, kinds of hike in the surrounding mountains. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to 5 & 6) and in a guesthouse with shared facilities (day Day 4. Trek to the village of Kukaj (900m a.s.l.). Then Yamna village in the Balkan Mountains for overnight. 7). The meal plan is based on HB (breakfast and dinner we continue along a shepherd’s path to the remote Day 2. An introduction walk to the trip through typical included). Luggage is taken car throughout the tour. landscapes of the Eastern Alps of Albania until landscapes – from Yamna to the village of Cherni Vit, Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer reaching Qafa e Rosit within 6 hours (2000 m a.s.l.). with further transfer to Divchovoto village for overnight holiday offers at page 35) Overnight in Dunishë. (11 km.; 3,5 hours). Tour type: IT Day 5. Transfer to the village of Ragam. Trek to the Day 3. Delightful walk through the century-old Beech Difficulty grade: B Pass of Valbona (1966m a.s.l.). Here we use mules to forests of Boatin Reserve to the village of Ribaritsa, Group size: Min. 2 persons. carry part of the luggage to the next house. The trip where you stay overnight for 2 nights (10,5 km.; 3 Best period: May-September ends in the village of Thethi (800m a.s.l), where we hours). The price includes: accommodation and boarding as will stay overnight after up to 6 hrs of walking. Day 4. Loop-like trek along the ridge above Ribaritsa, mentioned above, detailed roadbook and map, transfer Day 6. Sightseeing in the area of the village and descending at the other side of this longest Bulgarian to/from Sofia and Plovdiv airport to Yamna; luggage short hikes to a local cave and waterfall. Overnight. village (12 km.; 4,30 hours). transfers as per program; VAT and all local taxes.

17 cycling tours The Balkan cycling tour

Introduction: and further to the town of . Transfer to “Etura“- On this tour we bike along the north and central parts an open-air ethnographic museum, and Sokolski of the Balkan mountains, famous for their unspoiled Monastery. Overnight in Etura (465 m a.s.l.). (55 km; nature, green valleys with sheep peacefully grazing uphill/downhill cycling – 750m/800m). on lush grass, precipitous cliffs and gentle, rolling Day 5. Biking to Tryavna. Sightseeing and cycling to hills offering plenty of unique biking opportunities. We Bozhentsi for overnight (750 m a.s.l.). (52 km; uphill/ start the trip from the tiny Goliam Izvor village, passing downhill cycling – 950m/1000m). by the Central Balkan National Park and ending up Day 6. A visit to and cycling to in Veliko Tarnovo – the Old Bulgarian capital and one Yalovo village (315 m a.s.l.) and Monastery. of the most charming Bulgarian towns. The narrow Final destination is the town of (255 m a.s.l.) (48 roads meander through picturesque villages that look km; uphill/downhill cycling – 600m/700m). as they have been untouched for the past 200 years. Day 7. Biking to Arbanasi (395 m a.s.l.). Sightseeing You’ll see wooden carts pulled by a horse or donkey and transfer to Sofia is arranged. (43 km. uphill/down- and villagers making hay the old-fashioned way. hill cycling – 600m/600m). During the trip you will visit several of Bulgaria’s most Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for important Orthodox monasteries, situated in the dales departure. or woods. Churches with centuries-old icons and Accommodation & luggage colourful murals are spread across a wide range of transportation: villages and small towns. We stay in 3-star hotels (days 3,4 and 6) with private I t i n e r a r y : facilities and family-run pensions and guesthouses Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to (the rest days) with shared facilities on HB (breakfast the village of Goliam Izvor for overnight. & dinner included). Detailed roadbook will be provided Day 2. Cycling from Goliam Izvor village (445 m a.s.l.) upon arrival. There is a supporting vehicle throughout to Glozhene Monastery and back to Ribaritsa village the whole trip. (505 m a.s.l.) via the town of Teteven. Overnight in Rib- Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer aritsa. (78 km; uphill/downhill cycling – 950m/900m). holiday offers at page 35) Day 3. Cycling from Ribaritsa village to the highest Tour type: IT + / GT point for the day - 1185 m a.s.l. Descent to the town of Difficulty grade: B Troyan passing through the village of Shipkovo Final Group size: Min. 2 stop is Troyan Monastery (440 m a.s.l.). A visit to the Best period: April-October Pottery and Craft Exhibition “Oreshaka“and transfer Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), guide/driv- to Apriltsi for overnight. (74 km; uphill/downhill cycling er with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer – 900m/1000m). from/to the airport, accommodation and boarding as Day 4. Pedaling from Apriltsi to Batoshevo Nunnery mentioned above, VAT and all local taxes.

Monastery cycling tour

Introduction: material expression of the reviving Bulgarian nation. Gabrovo and the open-air ethnographic museum This tour is not just a circuit of some of the most I t i n e r a r y : of Etura (465 m a.s.l.). Ascent to Sokolski Monas- interesting Bulgarian cloisters. It is also a journey Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to tery and overnight.(28 km; uphill/downhill cycling through Bulgaria’s history, since all of the featured the museum village of Arbanasi for overnight. - 500m/350m). religious buildings are monuments to everything that Day 2. Cycling from Arbanasi (365 m a.s.l.) to Day 7. Biking through the countryside to Batoshevo happened in Bulgaria over the last 1,300 years or so. Veliko Turnovo (a visit en-route to St. St. Peter & Paul Monastery. Transfer to Sofia for overnight. (45 km; As early as the 4th-5th centuries, monasteries began Monastery). Sightseeing Veliko Turnovo. Transfer to uphill/downhill cycling 650m/750m). to spring up on Bulgarian territory. In the period Dragizhevo village. Cycling to and the final Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for between the 9th and the l2th Century, monasteries point – Gorsko Novo Selo village.Transfer back to departure. and the churches were the centres which, during the Arbanasi for overnight. (31 km; uphill/downhill cycling Accommodation & luggage Byzantine rule, managed to preserve the Bulgarian - 400m/450m). transportation: language, written culture, habits and national con- Day 3. Transfer to Merdanski Monastery. Cycling back We stay in monasteries (days 1,2,3,4 and 6) and guest- sciousness. In the l3th-l4th Century, the construction to Dragizhevo village and further to Pchelishte. A visit to house (day 7) with shared facilities and in a family-run of monasteries gathered pace, aided by the endless Kapinovo Monastery (170 m a.s.l.). Cycling through the hotel (day 5) with private facilities on HB (breakfast & donations from rulers and noblemen. During the Sec- countryside to Kilifarevo Monastery for overnight. (45 dinner included). Detailed roadbook will be provided ond Bulgarian Kingdom (13th-14th Century) churches km; uphill/downhill cycling - 550m/550m). upon arrival. There is a supporting vehicle throughout and monasteries played a particularly important role Day 4. Cycling through local villages and along Dry- the whole trip. in celebrating the past glories of Bulgarian literature anovska River to Dryanovo town and further to Dry- Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer and the arts. In the period between the late l2th to anovo Monastery for overnight. (27 km; uphill/downhill holiday offers at page 35) late 14th Century, the monasteries near the royal city cycling - 500m/450m). Tour type: IT + / GT of Veliko Tarnovo became the venues of the most Day 5. Biking to the town of Tryavna for overnight. Difficulty grade: A significant cultural and artistic endeavours. During In this little town the houses and yards, churches, Group size: Min. 2 the Ottoman domination (l5th-l9th Century), and streets and fountains and the square with the clock Best period: April-October particularly during the National Revival Period (l8th-l9th tower breathe the air of the National Revival period and Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), guide/driv- Century), the monastic communities played a key role its striving for beauty. (29 km; uphill/downhill cycling er with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer in Bulgaria’s public life, becoming animated sociopoliti- - 600m/500m). from/to the airport, accommodation and boarding as cal and artistic centres, embracing the spiritual and Day 6. Cycling from Tryavna following the road to mentioned above, VAT and all local taxes.

19 cycling tours Road cycling in Rodopi Mountains

Introduction: woods. In the afternoon the road passes the Iundola’s night (1650 m a.s.l.). (47 km; 3,30 hours; uphill/downhill The Rodopi mountains are situated in the oldest part mountain meadows before descending to the town cycling – 950m/300 m). of the Balkans and boast some of the loveliest conifer- of , where we stay overnight.(76 km; 5,30 h.; Day 7. Cycling from following Che- ous woods in the country. The landscape is gentle and uphill/downhill cycling – 500m/1300 m). pelarska River to the town of Chepelare (1100 m rounded, consisting of high ridges and deep river val- Day 3. Start from Velingrad, passing through the a.s.l.). Extension to the unique nature phenomenon leys with gorges intermingling with river basins and picturesque landscape of by Batak dam “The Miraculous Bridges”. Cycling to Plovdiv via the valleys. Here one can also find 70 percent of the world to the town of Dospat (1200 m a.s.l.). On the way we second largest monastery in Bulgaria - Bachkovo minerals, as well as some 600 caves. Flora and fauna go round the blue-green waters of Goliam Beglik and Monastery. (87 km; 3,30 hours; uphill/downhill cycling contain species that have become extinct in other Shiroka Poliana dams before reaching the town of – 650m/1650 m). European countries. In contrast with our tour of the Dospat and its dam, where we stay overnight. (71 km; 5 Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for Balkan mountains, this tour will take you even higher, hours; uphill/downhill cycling – 600m/700 m). departure. to around 2,000 m, or 6561 ft, to be precise. Most of the Day 4. Biking from Dospat to Buinovsko Gorge, which Accommodation & luggage mileage is done on asphalt main roads, with relatively is also a gate to the next stop - the Yagodina Cave. transportation: little traffic, that are well-suited for biking. Along them Here we make a cave tour before going further to We stay in family-run hotels (day 4) and 3-star cyclists can see some old-style modes of transport Trigrad village (for overnight), passing among the 250 hotel (days 2, 3, 5 & 6) with private facilities and in means: wooden carts pulled by horses, donkeys or m high cliffs of the Trigrad Gorge (1450 m a.s. l.). Here guesthouses (days 1& 7) with shared facilities on HB cows. You may also meet some nomadic gypsies, is The Devil’s Throat Cave, housing one of the highest (breakfast & dinner included). Detailed roadbook will picking mushrooms and berries in the woods, as well underground waterfalls in Europe. (50 km; 4 hours; be provided upon arrival. There is a supporting vehicle as some local Muslim inhabitants growing tobacco uphill/downhill cycling – 700m/800 m). throughout the whole trip. and potatoes, or herds of sheep or goats coming Day 5. From Trigrad village we cycle back and down Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer down from the hills at the end of the day. to Trigrad Gorge and further down to the village of holiday offers at page 35) I t i n e r a r y : Nastan. Then we follow the Vucha River to the village of Tour type: IT + / GT Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and accommo- Mihalkovo.Transfer to the town of Devin for a refresh- Difficulty grade: B dation in Sofia or Plovdiv depending on the arrival time. ing mineral swimming pool and overnight (58 km; 3,30 Group size: Min. 2 The staring point of the trip is between these two cities hours; uphill/downhill cycling – 250m/700 m). Best period: May-September so you may meet the rest of the group in the morning Day 6. Start from Devin and upstream Shirokolushka Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), guide/driv- of Day 2 for the first stage of the tour. River to the village of Shiroka Luka, where some time er with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer Day 2. Cycling from the village of Sestrimo and up to on sightseeing will be spent. We reach Smolian lakes, from/to the airport, accommodation and boarding as Belmeken dam (2000 m.a.s.l. ) through old coniferous then we have transfer to Pamporovo resort for over- mentioned above, VAT and all local taxes.

Mountain biking in Rodopi Mountains

Introduction: Day 3. Transfer to Lilkovo village (900 m a.s.l.). The km; 5,15 h; uphill/downhill cycling – 600m/850m). This trip will take you right into the heart of the stun- cycling runs within the countryside Hadzhiitsa (1600 Day 7. Loop-like cycling Trigrad - Vodni Pad village ning Rodopi mountains. Numerous off-road tracks m a.s.l.), further up - Popova Rock. and “Persenk” - Trigrad. Then to Yagodina Cave, situated within the await you in the green lands of the legendary musi- hut (1750 m a.s.l.). Transfer to the town of Chepelare Buinovsko Gorge. Transfer to Plovdiv for overnight (31 cian and singer, Orpheus, who made people, animals for overnight (46 km; 4,45 h; uphill/downhill cycling km; 4,15 h; uphill/downhill cycling – 350m/600m). and plants listen to his magical music. The tour covers – 900m/1250m). Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for almost the same area as the Rhodope road cycling Day 4. Transfer to the rocky phenomenon “The Mi- departure. trip. You will visit the same landmarks, but even more raculous Bridges”. Cycling from “Skalni mostove” hut to Accommodation: of them. However, on a mountain bike in forests, “Gluhite kamani” (“The Deaf Stones”) nature phenom- We stay in family-run hotels (days 3 & 6) with private on ridges and hillsides you will have the chance to enon (1920 m a.s.l.). At “Izgrev” hut (1820 m a.s.l.) you facilities and in guesthouses (the rest days) on HB more closely explore the beauty of the stunning start a downhill biking all the way down to Chepelare. (breakfast & dinner included). Detailed roadbook will Rodopi landscape with its remote villages, unique Transfer to the town of Smolian for overnight (42 km; be provided upon arrival. Luggage is taken care of architecture, hospitable people, rich cultural heritage, 4,30 h; uphill/downhill cycling – 350m/800m). throughout the whole trip traditions and customs, and abundant flora and fauna. Day 5. A visit to the beautiful Lakes. Transfer Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer I t i n e r a r y : and cycling to “Stoudenets“ hut and Pamporovo ski- holiday offers at page 35) Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to resort. Arrival in Shiroka Luka village (an architectural Tour type: IT + / GT Plovdiv for overnight. reserve) for overnight. (38 km; 3,45 h; uphill/downhill Difficulty grade: B (days 2, 4, 5 & 7) / C (days 3 & 6) Day 2. Transfer to “” hut (1650 m a.s.l.) cycling – 300m/950m). Group size: Min. 2 where the biking begins on a dirt road and continues Day 6. Transfer to Gela village. Cycling to “Lednitsata” Best period: May-September through picturesque panoramic views to Assen’s hut and then through a couple of small villages to the Included: equipped mountain bike (without helmet!), fortress. Transfer to Bachkovo Monastery and further ancient Chairski lakes. End of the trip in Trigrad Gorge guide/driver with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, to Brestnik village for overnight. (40 km; 4,15 h; uphill/ (1150 m a.s.l.) with a visit to The Devil’s Throat Cave. transfer from/to the airport, accommodation and downhill cycling – 500m/1000m). Nearby is Trigrad village where we stay overnight (43 boarding as mentioned above, VAT and all local taxes.

21 cycling tours Devin, centre-based cycling trip in Rodopi Mountains The heritage of Transylvania (Romania)

Introduction Dam. End in the town of Krichim. Transfer back. I n t r o d u c t i o n : Day 3. Biking starts from Sibiu through several vil- and coniferous woods and picturesque mountains by A tour designed to explore both the natural and cul- (60 km; 4 h; uphill cycling - 250 m; downhill cycling Transylvania is not only the most famous part of lages with picturesque fortified churches right to the Cheia and Suzana Monasteries to the centre of Valea tural merits of the – century-old - 700 m) Romania thanks to the legend of Dracula, but it is also beginning of Medias, where the bus will be waiting for Popi. There the bus waits to take the group back to coniferous woods which fill your lungs with fresh air; Day 6. Biking from Devin upstream Shirokolushka the most romantic and inspiring of all country’s prov- the group. Overnight in Medias (72,6 km). Bucharest for overnight (39,7 km). deep gorges banked with vertical cliffs more than 250 River to the architectural reserve Shiroka Luka. inces. Settled over a plateau area (305-488 m high) Day 4. The cycling today is traced again to pass along Day 8. Sightseeing Bucharest (if time available!) and m, or 820 ft, high; green meadows decorated with a Sightseeing. Cycling to Stoikite and Smolian Lakes, in the north-west of Romania, it is among the most few hidden villages, typical for this part of the country. transfer to the airport for departure. colourful carpet of flowers; sinister caves; the blue perched above the town of the same name. Transfer advanced regions of the country. We visit here well Fortified churches and medieval fortresses will be Accommodation & luggage waters of mountain dams and unique local architec- back. (45,6 km; 3,30 h; uphill cycling - 1000 m; downhill known medieval towns dating from the 14th century accompanying the group throughout the whole stage. t r a n s p o r t a t i o n : ture and habitats. All overnight accommodation will be cycling - 750 m) as Brasov, Sighisoara and Sibiu. High-roofed wooden We stay overnight in Sighisoara (39,4 km/52,3 km Small pensions and hotels with private facilities. spent in the town of Devin (situated at 715 m, or 2,345 Day 7. Cycling from Devin upstream Trigradska River churches, citadels, legendary castles, troubled his- depending on the choice of the group). Boarding is based on bed & breakfast (7 nights). ft) with daily transfers to neighbouring areas. to the village of Trigrad, passing through the Trigrad tory, splendid mountain scenery and alpine peaks, Day 5. Another day of riding among scattered villages Detailed roadbook will be provided upon arrival. There I t i n e r a r y : Gorge and The Devil’s Throat Cave. Cycling back. (53,7 scattered villages …these are just a few of the entire and low hills is expecting us. We start from Sighisoara is a supporting vehicle throughout the whole trip. region’s assets! And since no visit to Transylvania to the town of Fagaras, where we overnight (64,7 km). Tour type: IT + / GT / IG Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer km; 4,30 h; uphill cycling - 500 m; downhill cycling would be complete without visiting the castle of the Day 6. From Fagaras we have a short transfer to Sercaia. Difficulty grade: A to Devin, where you are going to stay for the next 7 - 500 m) literary Count Dracula, the dramatic Bran Castle is also This is the starting point for today. Cycling continues Group size: Min. 2 nights. Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for Day 2. Transfer the starting point for cycling to The one of the stops there. further to the road, leading to the Bran Castle, where the Best period: May-September departure. Miraculous Bridges (unique rocky phenomenon). I t i n e r a r y : bus waits to take us there for a tour among the legendary Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), supporting Accommodation & luggage Biking back through the mountain village Zabardo. Day 1. Arrival at Bucharest airport and transfer to Sibiu walls of the Dracula’s home. Overnight in Brasov (47, 5 km). vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer from/to the airport, guid- transportation: Transfer back. (38, 6 km; 3,30 h; uphill cycling - 800 m; for overnight. Day 7. In the morning we spend some time on ing according program, accommodation and boarding downhill cycling - 850 m) 3 star hotel (7 nights) with private facilities on HB Day 2. Sightseeing Sibiu and aclimatisation biking sightseeing Brasov, before proceeding further to mentioned (excluding alcohol drinks, cigarettes and other Day 3. Transfer to Progled village (1350 m a.s.l.). Biking (breakfast & dinner included). Detailed roadbook will be around Cisnadie. Overnight in Sibiu (25 km). Sacele. The stage from now on passes through beech personal expenses), VAT and all local taxes. to the meadows of Rozhen Pass and provided upon arrival. village. End of the day in Banite village, famous for its Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer mineral springs. Transfer back. (53, 4 km; 4 h; uphill holiday offers at page 35) cycling - 400 m; downhill cycling - 1200 m) Tour type: IT + / GT Day 4. Transfer to the countryside Kartela (1700 m Difficulty grade: B a.s.l.). Biking to the blue waters of Beglika Dam and Group size: Min. 2 further – to Shiroka Poliana Dam. Descent to the town Best period: May-September of Devin and the village of Borino. The final stop is Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), guide/driv- Buynovsko Gorge, housing Yagodina Cave (where a er with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer cave tour will be performed). Transfer back. (70 km; 5 from/to the airport and as per itinerary, accommoda- h; uphill cycling - 600 m; downhill cycling - 950 m) tion and boarding as mentioned above, VAT and all local Day 5. Biking from Devin along Vucha River and taxes (no entrance fees included!). Tryavna, centre-based cycling trip in Balkan Mountains

Introduction: Day 5. Biking from Tryavna towards the town of The area encompassing the central Balkan mountains Gabrovo. En-route visit to Etura – an open-air eth- is a crossroads for many tourist routes leading to nographic museum. Sightseeing. Biking uphill to the Bulgaria’s major natural and cultural attractions, beautiful . Transfer back. (29, 2 km; including the towns of Tryavna, Dryanovo, Gabrovo, 3,30 h; uphill cycling: 550m; downhill cycling: 300m) Apriltsi, Troyan, Veliko Tarnovo and so on. This region Day 6. Transfer to Dryanovo Monastery for a short features a number of monasteries, cobbled-stoned visit. Biking to Kilifarevo Monastery and further to streets, ancient houses and museum villages which the town of Elena. Transfer back. (48, 5 km; 5 h; uphill remind one of the Bulgarian National Revival Period. cycling: 600m; downhill cycling: 650m) Overnight accommodation will be based in the town of Day 7. Transfer to Elena. Cycling to the reserve village Tryavna (450 m, or 1,476 ft) with daily transfers taking of Arbanasi. Sightseeing and biking to Veliko Turnovo. place to various neighbouring areas. Sightseeing and transfer back. (43 km; 3 h; uphill I t i n e r a r y : cycling: 450m; downhill cycling: 450m) Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv airport for departure. to Tryavna, where you are going to stay for the next Accommodation & luggage 7 nights. transportation: Day 2. Transfer to Kilifarevo village. Visit to Kilifarevo 3 star hotel (7 nights) with private facilities on HB Monastery, cycling to Kapinovo Monastery and further (breakfast & dinner included). Detailed roadbook will be to Merdana Monastery. Transfer back. (45 km; 4 h; provided upon arrival. uphill cycling: 500m; downhill cycling: 550m) Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer Day 3. Transfer to Debeli Dyal village. Cycling to holiday offers at page 35) Batoshevo Nunery and Batoshevo Monastery. Biking Tour type: IT + / GT further to Apriltsi and Troyan Monastery. Visit to the Difficulty grade: B Pottery and Crafts Exhibition “Oreshaka“. Transfer Group size: Min. 2 back. (66, 7 km; 6 h; uphill cycling: 600m; downhill Best period: May-September cycling: 700m) Included: equipped bike (without helmet!), guide/driv- Day 4. Start from Tryavna to the picturesque archi- er with a supporting vehicle, map, roadbook, transfer tectural reserve village of Bozhentsi and further to from/to the airport and as per itinerary, accommoda- Tsareva Livada village. (52 km; 5 h; uphill cycling: 850m; tion and boarding as mentioned above, VAT and all local downhill cycling: 1000m) taxes (no entrance fees included).

23 horseriding tours The Iskar Ranch rides The Balkan riding trek – Ride trek over two mountains

Introduction: I t i n e r a r y : Accommodation: Introduction: a small lake. In the fantastic meadows you will have Do you dream of a vacation where you are taken care Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer to Seven nights with full board as per the above itinerary. Ever dream of riding along ancient trails over the opportunity to break into trot or gallop, or to be a of from arrival to departure, and your biggest worry the Iskar Ranch. Rooms with private or shared facilities on the same magnificent peaks, through mountain passes, along pathfinder together with the riding guide in the remote is whether you have enough room for dessert? Here Day 2-7. Normally we ride for 2-3 hours in the morning floor. running water and roaring waterfalls? And further surroundings near the village of Svezhen. Day 6. In the morning we head north following other the whole family can be together amongst horses and 2-3 hours in the afternoon. The rides take place Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer on through wonderful mountain scenery crossing pastures encountering small, hidden and forgotten hidden trails and after some 7 hours we reach the place and nature. Experience wildlife at close range or just within the surrounds of the Iskar Ranch in coniferous holiday offers at page 35) villages? On the Balkan Trail we ride over the Balkan where we stay for overnight. We will enjoy the lunch in relax on the dam’s shore, while the kids amuse them- and broad-leaved woods among numerous grazing Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian half-breeds, selves in the calm water. A stay at Iskar Ranch is a real flocks of Red deer, Fallow-deer, Roe deer and Wild boar range – through the Central Balkan National Park and a small village in a local house with a local family. Hanover and Arabic horses. Well-trained, patient and family vacation even if some family members are – offering visitors a truly amazing experience! On one the lower mountains of Sredna Gora passing through Day 7. It is time to ride back over the mountains to the calm. Saddling is Western and military type. not that enthusiastic about horse-riding, preferring a day you maybe prefer to stay by the small private the famous Valley of Roses, not simply a name, but starting point at Apriltsi and the Balkan Riding Base. Tour type: IT+/IG/GT photo safari or simply walking to riding. lake and enjoy your lunch there. Another day you a spectaculous scene of roses and their wonderful After 6 hours’ ride we will arrive at the stables and complete the circuit marking the end of the journey. Iskar Ranch: may wish to go looking for pictures on horseback… Difficulty grade: 1-2-3 fragrance. This trek is for riders who want to try everything. The Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. Iskar Ranch is situated 60 km, or 37 miles, south of All the riding tours can be combined with picnics in the Group size: Minimum 2 tour follows the ancient trails that for hundreds of Accommodation & luggage Sofia and spreads over 4,000 hectares (10,000 acres) woods, campfires and so on. Other options include Best period: All year. Included: transfers from to Sofia/Plovdiv Airport; years have connected the north and southern parts of transportation: across wide, open meadows, fields, a forest and a visits to some places of interest in the form of one- Bulgaria. The daily rides are from six to eight hours. Seven nights with full board as per the above itinerary. saddled horse; luggage transportation; English- small lake. The ranch itself is like a large playground day trips. We recommend excursions to: Sofia, Plovdiv, I t i n e r a r y : Two nights with private accommodation in Apriltsi, for riders – there are no cars, hardly any asphalt, lots the Rila Monastery or Borovets. speaking guide; accommodation and board as Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer to two nights in the Svezhen chalet at the Valley of of natural paths and plenty of nice horses. Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. outlined above; VAT and all local taxes. the Balkan Riding Base in the Balkan mountains. Roses Riding Centre and three nights en route in the Day 2. Get acquainted with your horse, before riding mountains. Accommodation in two or three-bedded out of Apriltsi to learn more about the horse and its rooms. WC/shower is shared on the floor. The luggage habits. After that the trek begins ascending the moun- is transported in a support vehicle and a riding guide tains (roughly 3 hours) to the first chalet for overnight will accompany the party throughout the trail. accommodation. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer Day 3. The ride continues through the Central Balkan holiday offers at page 35) National Park and Mount Botev, providing superb view Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian breed and towards the Thrace Plain. After 6-7 hours’ ride the crossings with Arabian and local horses. Tough, day ends in a small monastery where the riders and thoughtful and wise, perfect for challenging mountain horses rest for the night. rides. Average height: 160-165 cm, or 5-5.5 ft. Western Day 4. From the monastery the ride continues saddles (Australian or American). through the neighboring small town and through the Tour type: IG/GT Valley of the Roses. After almost 5 hours we reach the Difficulty grade: 2-3 Sredna Gora mountains where we stay overnight in Group size: Minimum 4 / Maximum 8 the Svezhen chalet. Best period: May 15 – October 15 Day 5. The whole day is dedicated to riding the Included: transfers from to Sofia/Plovdiv Airport; terrain around the The Valley of Roses Riding Centre. saddled horse, luggage transportation; English- Fun and playtime with the horses is combined with speaking guide, accommodation and board as some much needed relaxation time by the edge of outlined above, VAT and all local taxes. Balkan Riding Base – the Balkan rides

Introduction: peaks, huts, waterfalls, alpine meadows and many One week of riding in the heart of the Balkan Moun- more. These can be complemented with daily tours tains. You ride out with local guides eager to show (out of the programme and paid for additionally during their little piece of paradise in an area known as the your stay) to neighbouring monasteries, museum- Bulgarian Switzerland. Every day has its own rides towns, hiking, cycling or birding tours. and no two days are the same. Usually you ride in the Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. morning and in the afternoon for 4-6 or 7-8 hours a Accommodation: day. You can also ride out into the mountains to the Seven nights with full board as per the above itinerary. edge of the Central Balkan National Park. We can’t Accommodation in two or three-bedded rooms. guarantee that you will be successful every time, as WC/shower is shared on the floor. we are not riding in a zoo park, but we guarantee a Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer good chance of seeing a host of wildlife in its natural holiday offers at page 35) habitat – including the Brown Bear. Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian breed and Balkan Riding Base is the name of an all-year-round crossings with Arabian and local horses. Tough, riding establishment at the foot of the Balkan moun- thoughtful and wise; perfect for challenging mountain tains offering fantastic panoramic views. It offers a rides. Average height: 160-165 cm, or 5-5.5 ft. Western variety of riding trails either along the alpine parts of saddles (Australian or American). the Balkan Mountains or within the area of the Central Tour type: IT+/IG/GT Balkan National Park. Difficulty grade: 1-2-3 I t i n e r a r y : Group size: Minimum 2 Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer Best period: All year to the Balkan Riding Base, situated in the Balkan Included: transfers from to Sofia/Plovdiv Airport; mountains. saddled horse, English-speaking guide throughout the Day 2-7. Centre-based rides including one-day trips tour; accommodation and board as outlined above, VAT to different areas of interest – including mountain and all local taxes.

25 horseriding tours The Rila Mountains riding trek The Balkan mountains trek to the “Singing Rocks”

Introduction: ski resort of Borovets. The horses will remain there. along the stream of Dzherman River to the Lovna hut, Introduction: the longest day with 7 hours’ riding. Overnight at the Are you a fan of challenging peaks, wild and untouched Transfer back and stay overnight at the Iskar Ranch. then on to Vada hut, where we stay overnight. This trail in the Balkan Mountains goes through a Smesite hut. forests and staying in mountain huts? If so, this trip is Day 3. A visit to the Bulgarian king’s hunting lodge at Day 7. Descend along the Cherni Iskar river valley to reserve of 1,700 hectares (some 4,200 acres) called Day 6. Journey through the Central Balkan National Park. just for you. The Rila mountains are the highest on the Bistritsa. The ride resumes with an upstream route the village of Goverdartsi. The final destination for the “Peeshti Skali” (or the “Singing Rocks”) in Bulgarian. Day 7. Descent (5 hours) to Apriltsi and the Balkan Balkan Peninsula, with many of its summits almost leading to the Zavratchitsa mountain hut along the day is the tiny village of Madhzare where the horses The “Singing Rocks” themselves are a set of unique Riding Base for overnight accommodation. 3,000 m, or 9,842 ft, in height. These mountains Prava Maritsa river. In the afternoon the ride continues remain. From here we will be transferred back to the natural formations that crown the ancient Beech Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. resemble a rough sea of ridges, gorges and more to the Marichini lakes, situated at the foot of Musala, Iskar Ranch for an overnight stay. forest. For centuries the place has been known by this Accommodation & luggage than 190 lakes. During this trip we pass the Seven Rila the highest peak in the Balkans (2,925 m, or 9,596 ft). Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. name, probably because the locals heard voice-like transportation: Lakes, which sit like pearls on a thread. Spectacular views await us as we ride towards the Accommodation: sounds from the rocks. In this reserve you may find Seven nights with full board as per the above itinerary. Our riding trek starts at the Iskar Ranch and passes day’s final stop – Grunchar hut. Seven nights with full board as per the above itinerary. rare animals as the Balkan Chamois, the Brown Bear Three nights with private accommodation in Apriltsi, the popular ski resort of Borovets, where you will see Day 4. The ride from Grunchar leads to our next base Three nights spent in Iskar Ranch, four nights en route and the Golden Eagle. The hilly paths and the open four nights en route in the mountains. Accommoda- the hunting lodge of the Bulgarian King Ferdinand. The at hut. The mountain path passes along in the mountains. WC/shower is shared on the floor landscape on the top of the mountains are perfect for tion in two or three-bedded rooms. WC/shower is ride continues at an elevation of 1,900 m (6,233 ft) to several glacial lakes. Around noon we reach the Iskar (exceptions may occur in some of the huts, where a riding adventures. You will experience why the Balkan shared on the same floor. The luggage will be trans- 2,400 m (7,874 ft) passing several remote mountain river right above the Beli Iskar dam. The route takes in shower is not always available). range divides Bulgaria into its northern and southern ported by support vehicle. lakes that offer breathtaking views. One of the high- heights of 2,200 m (7,217 ft) and 2,700 m (8,858 ft). Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer sections and after a while you will understand the Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer lights of the tour is the visit to the biggest and most Day 5. Ride among the glacial lakes Sinioto (The Blue), holiday offers at page 35) Bulgarian name of the Balkan range “Stara Planina” holiday offers at page 35) important Orthodox monastery of Bulgaria – Rila. It Ribnoto (The Fish), Smradlivoto (The Stinky) and a few meaning “The Old Mountains”. Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian breed and was founded in the 9th Century and contains more others. Note: you are very likely to see semi-wild Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian half-breeds, Hanover and Arabic horses. They are well-trained, pa- I t i n e r a r y : crossings with Arabian and local horses. Tough, than 1,200 murals. The ride continues through tradi- horses, which may react unpredictably to your own Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer to thoughtful and wise, perfect for the challenging tional Bulgarian agriculture highlands and lowlands, ride. We then descend along the stream of Rilska tient and calm. Saddling is Western and military type. Tour type: IT+/IG/GT theBalkan Riding Base in the Balkan mountains. mountain rides. Average height: 160-165 cm (5-5.5 ft). concluding back at the Iskar Ranch. river to the Rila Monastery. Stay overnight in a nearby Day 2. Become acquainted with the horses. Rides Western saddles (Australian or American). Difficulty grade: 2-3 I t i n e r a r y : guesthouse. around Apriltsi and overnight. Tour type: IG/GT Group size: Minimum 4 Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer to Day 6. Ride through old beech woods towards the Day 3. Five hours ride to Villa Rositsa. Overnight. Difficulty grade: 2-3 Best period: July – September Iskar Ranch. Rila Mountains peaks and a plateau situated at a height Day 4. Rides through woods and farmland and Group size: Minimum 4 Included: transfers from to Sofia/Plovdiv Airport; Day 2. This day is a chance for the riders and horses of 2,600 m, or 8,530 ft. The alpine meadows and mountain creeks. Lunch we enjoy in the field. Over- Best period: May 15 – October 15 saddled horse; luggage transportation; English- to get to know each other. Taking in the largest dam in pastures here provide magnificent views over the night after 5 hours’ ride at the Partisanska pesen hut. Included: transfers from to Sofia/Plovdiv Airport; speaking guide; accommodation and board as Bulgaria – Iskar, the ride leads across the rolling hills of Urdini and the Seven Rila Lakes. This is one of the most Day 5. Journey to the top of the Balkan range through saddled horse; luggage transportation; English- the ridges of the Sredna Gora and Rila Mountains to the exciting places in the mountains. We continue further outlined above; VAT and all local taxes. the Central Balkan National Park to the Mazalat hut speaking guide; accommodation and board as and further on to the “Singing Rocks” reserve. This is outlined above; VAT and all local taxes. Horseriding at the Black Sea

Introduction: In June and August/September the Balkan Riding base facilitates horse riding on the Black Sea coast – still part of the Balkan Mountains, but over to the east where the sun rises on the sea’s horizon and the mountain range ends – right by Cape Emine. On the rides you will enjoy the panorama over the bay. You will see the picturesque or the hectic Sunny Beach on the horizon. The coast here is with long sand beaches and rocky cliffs. If the weather and the circumstances are optimal we will ride along the beaches. Every day you can relax on the beach, go swimming and enjoy the summertime. Special highlights: - Balkan mountains, Cape Emine, Nesebar, Sunny Beach, , amongst others. I t i n e r a r y : Day 1. Arrival at Bourgas Airport and transport to the Forest Lodge. Day 2-7. We ride in a group of eight with a riding guide. The daily rides are planned in advance but of course you will hear about the options from the riding guide. There are plenty of possibilities. On a typical day you ride about 4-7 hours, enjoying a siesta on the beach, in the woods, or with a view to the sea. Some days we arrange picnic and others we take the lunch packages with us or we have lunch in the big garden of the Forest Lodge. Every day you can go swimming in the Black Sea. Wednesday: this day is dedicated to excursions. It is up to the group to decide whether to relax at the beach or perhaps visit the small town of Nesebar and experience the culture there. Day 8. After breakfast we say our goodbye to the horses and guides. Transfer to the airport for departure. Accommodation & food: The stay in the Forest Lodge is based on seven nights with full board. Accommodation in twin-bedded rooms with private facilities. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer holiday offers at page 35) Horses & saddling: East-Bulgarian breed and crossings with Arabian and local horses. Tough, thoughtful and wise, perfect for challenging mountain rides. Average size: 160-165 cm (5-5.5 ft). Western saddles (Australian or American). Tour type: IT+/IG/GT Difficulty grade: 1-2-3 Group size: Minimum 4 Best period: May-June; August-September. Included: transfer from Airport to the Forest Lodge (one for the whole group – individual transfer upon request); riding guide throughout the week; Wednesday: optional excursion to Nesebar/Sunny Beach /Obzor; saddled horse; accommodation and board as outlined above, VAT and all local taxes.

27 birdwatching tours Spring birding tour “200 + specialties” Spring birding intense tour for keen birders

Introduction: short strolls to a few watchpoints and to the “vultures Introduction: Kaliakra where some of the last steppe habitats in the Incredible birding tour, expressing both the diverse restaurant”. In the afternoon we continue for a short A birding tour established especially to those, who country are still presented. Overnight in the town of Bulgarian nature and the great variety of birds that trip along the Krumovitsa River. Evening transfer back do not have much time, but who would like to see as or . could be seen in the country. This trip shows you to . much as possible! Although quite intensive with more Day 6. After breakfast we head to the easternmost everything – from the alpine meadows of Vitosha Day 6. Departure from the Eastern Rodopi Mountains traveling, we still have enough time to enjoy some part of Bulgaria – the area of and its lakes. Mountains, to the gorges of the Western Rodopi for a diverting journey to the town of Bourgas on the of the most representative birding areas in Bulgaria. Then we continue to Dourankoulak Lake – a wetland Mountains; from the Eastern Rodopi Mountains (with Black Sea Coast. Our trip will pass through several rich The trip almost covers the itinerary and the checklist of international importance. In the afternoon we pass remarkable diversity of more than 20 species of in birds habitats in Sakar Mountains. We spend the of the Spring birding tour “200+ specialties”. However through the region of Ludogorie, reaching the raptors), to the wetlands and steppe habitats along the next two nights by the town of Bourgas. this program remains a good choice as regards time- River, where we stay overnight. Black Sea Coast and the Danube River… This particular Day 7. The tangible contrast from the mountain value-long species list! Day 7. Srebarna Lake is probably the most famous tour promises a checklist, exceeding 200 species! habitats in the previous days, compared to visiting the Highlights: wetland in Bulgaria. We spend few hours there in Do not miss the chance and see for yourself! wetlands by the town of Bourgas (Atanasovsko, Man- See Spring birding tour “200+ specialties” order to enjoy its inhabitants. Quite long transfer is Special highlights: dra and Poda lakes) offers a delight of a whole new I t i n e r a r y : expecting us to the city of Sofia - the last stop of the White Pelican, Dalmatian Pelican, Pygmy complex of species. Many waders and water-con- Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and transfer to journey. Evening gala dinner. Cormorant, Black Stork, Purple Heron, Squacco nected birds use these areas during their breeding Plovdiv for overnight. Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. Heron, Ruddy Shelduck, Ferruginous Duck, period and migration. Day 2. Morning stroll along Maritsa River with quite Accommodation: Black Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Day 8. After breakfast we set off northwards to the interesting species. Noon transfer to the realm of the We stay overnight in small hotels on HB (breakfast and Imperial Eagle, Short-toed Eagle, Booted Eagle, Northern Black Sea Coast with a few stops of great birds of prey in Eastern Europe – the Eastern Rodopi dinner included). All rooms are equipped with private Long-legged Buzzard, Honey Buzzard, Scops interest as the hyperhaline Pomoriisko Lake, “Goritsa” Mountains, where we spend two nights. Walks in the facilities. Owl, Stone-curlew, Whiskered Terns, Collared forest etc. A visit to the steppes of Cape Kaliakra is area. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer Pratincole, Kentish Plover, Pallid Swift, Hoopoe, planned for the afternoon. We spend the next two Day 3. A trip to the spectacular area of Studen Klad- holiday offers at page 35) Roller, Bea-eater, Blue Rock Thrush, Rock nights in the town of Kavarna or Balchik. enets dam. Highlight here is the “vultures restaurant” Tour type: GT / IG Thrush, Rock Nuthatch, Wallcreeper, Sombre Day 9. A short trip in the morning around the village and the adjacent broken grounds. Afternoon observa- Difficulty grade: A. No special physical condition Tit, Masked Shrike, Woodchat Shrike, Orphean of Kamen Briag and among the ancient tombs in the tiona long Krumovitsa River. required. 3-5 km per day walking along dirty roads Warbler, Subalpine Warbler, Rock Bunting, Cirl archeological reserve “Yailite” will provide us with some Day 4. A visit to the foothills of the rocky cliffs by and flat paths. Bunting, Black-headed Bunting, Golden Oriole, new interesting species. Then we head to the wetlands Madzharovo, observing a huge variety of passerines Group size: Min. 2 Calandra Lark, Short-toed Lark, Pied Wheat- by the town of Shabla and further to Dourankoulak Lake. and raptors. Transfer through Sakar Mountains to the Best period: April 15 – July ear, Isabelline Wheatear, Paddyfield Warbler, In the evening we go back to the hotel. town of Bourgas, where we stay overnight. Included: transfers from/to Sofia or Plovdiv airport; Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler , Olivaceous Warbler, Day 10. After a trip through the Dobroudzha fields we Day 5. A visit to the most interesting among the private transport throughout the trip; English-speak- Red-rumped Swallow, Semi-collared Flycatcher, reach Srebarna Lake around noon. The wetland is the wetlands by Bourgas – the hyperhaline Atanasovsko ing guided throughout the trip; accommodation as per Rose-coloured Starling, Nutcracker etc. earthly paradise for birds, being also the most promi- Lake. Around noon we continue northwards to cape program; organized feeding of vultures; I t i n e r a r y : nent reserve in Bulgaria. Situated along the Danube Day 1. After arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport and River it is of international importance due to its breeding transfer to the hotel in Vitosha Mountains, where we inhabitants. We spend the night by the town of Rouse. will stay overnight. Day 11. Early in the morning we will undertake a few Day 2. Morning birding in the spruce and alpine parts hours walk along the canyons of Rousenski Lom of the mountains. In the afternoon we head for the Nature Park. Transfer to Sofia and evening gala dinner. Birdwatching in Southern Bulgaria village of Trigrad in the Western Rodopi Mountains, Day 12. Transfer to the airport for departure. where we stay overnight. Trigrad Gorge is one Accommodation: of the most popular European sites for watching We stay overnight in small hotels on HB (breakfast and Introduction: enets dam. Highlight here is the “vultures restaurant” Wallcreeper. dinner included). All rooms are equipped with private Hotspots on hot places! Giving a special attention to the and the adjacent broken grounds. Afternoon observa- Day 3. In the morning we will go to the gorge, trying facilities. southern parts of Bulgaria is mostly recommended tiona long Krumovitsa River. to find the elusive Wallcreeper. Other rock-dwelling Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer to those, who do not want to spend their time in Day 5. Departure to the town of Bourgas on the Black species are also numerous between the 250 m high holiday offers at page 35) traveling instead of carrying out detailed observa- Sea Coast with stops in Sakar Mountains. We spend vertical cliffs. In the afternoon we head for the town Tour type: GT / IG tions in several places, where the diversity of bird the next two nights by the town of Bourgas. Difficulty grade: A. No special physical condition of Plovdiv where we stay overnight (with short stops species is really fabulous. Choosing this tour you will Day 6. Invsetigation of the avifauna of the wetlands by en-route on the hills by the town of ). required. 3-5 km per day walking along dirty roads have enough time to explore both the local area and Bourgas (Atanasovsko, Mandra and Poda lakes). Many Day 4. Transfer to the Eastern Rodopi Mountains. and flat paths. its avian complex, comprising primarily more than waders and water-connected birds use these areas Exciting observations along the broken grounds of the Group size: Min. 2 pax 20 species of breeding birds of prey as well as huge during their breeding period and migration. valley of Arda River will add to our species list many Best period: April 15 – July variety of small passerines. A well balanced tour, birds of prey and passerines. We spend the next two Included: transfers from/to Sofia or Plovdiv airport; Day 7. In the morning we start the journey back to providing the opportunity to enjoy some really rare Sofia or Plovdiv. Evening gala dinner. nights in Madzharovo. private transport throughout the trip; English-speak- species, requiring more time and patience for their Day 5. In the morning we make a trip to the spectacu- ing guided throughout the trip; accommodation as per Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. observation! Accommodation: lar area of Studen Kladenets dam. There we will have program; organized feeding of vultures. H i g h l i g h t s : We stay overnight in small hotels on HB (breakfast and See Spring birding tour “200+ specialties” dinner included). All rooms are equipped with private I t i n e r a r y : facilities. Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport and transfer to the village of Trigrad in Rodopi Mountains for overnight. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer Trigrad Gorge is one of the most famous places in holiday offers at page 35) Europe for watching Wallcreepers. Tour type: GT / IG Day 2. Exploration of the gorge and attempts to find Difficulty grade: A. No special physical condition the elusive Wallcreeper. Afternoon transfer to the required. 3-5 km per day walking along dirty roads town of Plovdiv where we stay overnight. Short stops and flat paths. en-route by the steppe hills of Pazardzhik. Group size: Min. 2 Day 3. Morning stroll along Maritsa River with quite Best period: April 15 – July interesting species. Noon transfer to the realm of the Included: transfer from/to the airport and through- birds of prey in Eastern Europe – the Eastern Rodopi out the whole journey, guiding according program, Mountains, where we spend two nights. Walks in the accommodation and boarding mentioned (excluding area. alcohol drinks, cigarettes and other personal ex- Day 4. A trip to the spectacular area of Studen Klad- penses), VAT and all local taxes.

29 birdwatching tours Autumn birding along the spectacular “Via Pontica” flyway Winter birding tour “Red-breasted Goose”

Introduction: spend the next two nights by Bourgas. Day 4. Visits to the wetlands by the town of Shabla Introduction: for its nesting steppe species of birds during summer. Conditionally named “Autumn tours”, these are usually Day 2. Watching the delightful autumn migration of and Dourankoulak Lake. Afternoon extension to the The wetlands along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast However wintering surprises are not unusual. Around realized at the end of the summer. Lying over two of soaring birds from different watchpoints by Bourgas. steppes of Kamen Briag before going back to Bourgas are traditional hotspots for birding during this time of noon we head to our next major stop – the Southern the biggest migratory routes in Europe (“Via Pontica” Day 3. In the morning we continue tracing the Black for overnight. the year. Spectacular variety and numerous flocks Black Sea Coast and the town of Bourgas, where we and “Via Aristotelis”), the territory of Bulgaria is an Sea coast northwards to Cape Kaliakra, situated Day 5. Transfer to the Eastern Rodopi Mountains, of waterfowl could be seen in the larger lakes or in spend the next three nights. important stop-over for many migrating birds during among the most valuable steppe habitats in Bulgaria. famous for their breeding vultures and many other the shallow coastal lagoons by the sea coast. These Day 5. After breakfast we will have a trip around the this season. The Black Sea coastal wetlands (lakes We spend the next three nights in the town of Balchik birds of prey. We spend the next two nights in Madzha- easily accessible sites of international importance hiperhaline shallow coastal lagoons Atanasovsko and and lagoons) provide some of the best conditions for or Kavarna. rovo. house approximately 70% of the world’s wintering Pomoriisko lakes. These are renowned as some of watching thousands of soaring migrants in Europe! Day 4. Visits to the wetlands by the town of Shabla Day 6. A trip to the spectacular area of Studen Red-breasted Goose population. Globally threatened the best places for watching soaring migrants during Huge flocks, comprising hundreds and thousands and Dourankoulak Lake. Afternoon extension to the Kladenets dam and its vicinity, where we will visit the species like Pygmy Cormorant, Dalmatian Pelican passage, but now they provide safe place for feeding of White Storks, White Pelicans and Honey Buzzards steppes of Kamen Briag and the archeological reserve “vultures’ restaurant” and enjoy dozens of feeding and White-headed Duck also occur. The rest of the list and resting to many other species of birds. could be seen per one day only along with many other Yailite. vultures. comprises many other water-connected birds, but not Day 6. Visits to Poda Lagoon, Mandra and Bourgas birds of prey like Montague’s Harrier, Black Kite, Short- Day 5. Transfer through the Dobroudzha fields to Day 7. In the morning we depart to the town of only... A magnificent quantity of high quality – unforget- lakes, which are just a few minutes drive from Bourgas. toed Eagle, Levant Sparrowhawk etc. And not the least Srebarna Lake by the Danube River. The wetland is the Bourgas through some interesting habitats in Sakar table view, recommended for each real birdwatcher! Day 7. Return journey to the town of Plovdiv for most prominent reserve in Bulgaria. Journey back to this is the best time to combine sea holiday with some Mountains. Overnight in Bourgas Highlights: overnight. The biggest night roost of Pygmy Cormo- the town of Balchik or Kavarna. Dalmatian Pelican, Pygmy Cormorant, Bittern, rant in Bulgaria (numbering between 2000 and 4000 excellent birding. Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. Day 6. Transfer to the Southern Black Sea Coast, visit- Great Egret, Black-necked Grebe, Red-breast- individuals) will be visited in the evening. Highlights: Accommodation: ing en route Cape Emine. Due to its location this place ed Goose, White-fronted Goose, Red-crested Day 8. Transfer to Sofia or Plovdiv Airport for Dalmatian Pelican, White Pelican, Pygmy We stay overnight in small hotels on HB (breakfast and is perfect for watching migration of storks and birds of Pochard, White-headed Duck, Velvet Scoter, departure. Cormorant, Black Stork (2), Glossy Ibis, Night dinner included). All rooms are equipped with private prey. Afternoon transfer to Bourgas and overnight. Marsh Harrier, Rough-legged Buzzard, White- Accommodation: Heron, Squacco Heron, Purple Heron, Ferru- Day 7. Watching migration by Bourgas. Overnight. facilities. tailed Eagle, Bewick’s Swan etc. We stay overnight in small hotels on HB (breakfast and ginous Duck, Griffon Vulture (2), Black Vulture Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure. Extension: Black Sea coast (check our summer I t i n e r a r y : dinner included). All rooms are equipped with private (2), Long-legged Buzzard (2), Honey Buzzard, holiday offers at page 35) Day 1. Arrival at Sofia or Plovdiv airport. Transfer to the facilities. Levant Sparrowhawk, Short-toed Eagle, Itinerary 2: Via Pontica + East - Tour type: GT / IG town of Balchik or Kavarna on the Northern Black Sea Extension: Ski holiday in Bansko, Borovets or Pamp- Imperial Eagle (2), Mediterranean Gull, Roller, ern Rodopi Mountains Difficulty grade: A. 2-4 km per day walking along dirty Coast for overnight (for the next 3 nights). orovo (check our winter holiday offers at page 34) Bea-eater, Calandra Lark, Short-toed Lark, Pied Day 1. Arrival at Plovdiv or Bourgas Airport. We will roads and flat paths. Day 2. In the morning we will try to find for the first Tour type: GT / IG Wheatear, Paddyfield Warbler, Rock Nuthatch spend the next two nights by Bourgas. Group size: Min. 2 pax time Red-breasted Goose grazing in the coastal fields. Difficulty grade: A. 3-5 km per day walking along (2), Rock Bunting (2), Woodchat Shrike (2), Day 2. Watching the delightful autumn migration of Best period: August-September The rest of the day we spend around the lakes by the dirty roads and flat paths. Calandra Lark, Short-toed Lark etc. soaring birds from different watchpoints by Bourgas. Included: transfers from/to Plovdiv or Bourgas town of Shabla, rich in waterfowl. Group size: Min. 2 Day 3. In the morning we continue tracing the Black airport to Bourgas and throughout the whole journey Day 3. Early in the morning we will have the chance Best period: January – March 15 Itinerary 1: Via Pontica + Sea coast northwards to Cape Kaliakra, situated as per itinerary; English speaking guide; accommoda- to enjoy the numerous goose flocks taking off from Included: transfers from/to Sofia or Plovdiv airport (by Northern Black Sea Coast among the most valuable steppe habitats in Bulgaria. tion and boarding mentioned; organized feeding of Dourankoulak lake – an amazing view, attracting night train from Sofia if the group is 4 pax or less); private Day 1. Arrival at Plovdiv or Bourgas Airport. We will Overnight in the town of Balchik or Kavarna. vultures (for Itinerary 2) birdwatchers form all over Europe. transport throughout the trip; English-speaking guided Day 4. Transfer to the Cape Kaliakra – a place, famous throughout the trip; accommodation as per program;

Special interest tours

In addition to our dedicated tours we have created 2. Capercaillie tour (5 days) specialised tours, requiring flexible programmes and Virgin coniferous woods in the Rodopi Mountains guiding throughout their duration (depending on the still house some of the last, vital populations of the local or weather conditions, animals’ behaviour and Capercaillie in Europe. The way of watching this so on). Here are some of the options: species demands very early mornings, walking in deep snow before sunrise, staying silent at all times 1. Brown Bear & Balkan and surprise meetings with other wary wild animals Chamois tour (5 days) like Hazel Grouse, The Three-toed Woodpecker, Deer, Specialised tour for observing wild Brown Bears Red Deer and others. But the mystery of enjoying (one of the most endangered large carnivores displaying male Capercaillie, walking like Indians in the in Europe) and the Balkans subspecies of the woods, makes this tour worth the effort. Best period: Chamois (the Balkan Chamois – Rupicapra rupicapra March-April. balcanica) provide the opportunity the whole tour to We recommend combination with Brown Bear & be concentrated around one or a very few cautious Balkan Chamois tour of week duration in total (8 species, inhabiting a restricted area. Tracking wild days/7 nights). Brown Bears in unfenced territories is quite thrilling and exciting. This tour is a real touch with nature and 3 . P h o t o t o u r s its mysterious creatures. You will see Bear’s trails With its rich biodiversity, Bulgaria provides unique and evidence of their different activities and many possibilities for wildlife picture tours and photo- other wild animals as a side attraction through the seeking safaris for any kind of preferences – birds, century-old woods of Rodopi Mountains. We give dragonflies, butterflies, orchids and other plants, more than 90% guarantee of observing wild Brown reptiles, insects, large mammals and not least for Bear if you come during the best period for that: April- landscape lovers. We are fully aware of the needs May and October-November and 100% guarantee for of photographers, and will ensure the have enough Balkan Chamois outside the winter months. time to take pictures as well as with choosing the Additional options during the tour: birdwatching and best places and time for organising their holiday. seeking Capercaillie, Tengmalm’s Owl, Black and Individuals and fellows are most welcome on these Three-toed Woodpeckers, Nutcracker etc. tours. This gives us the flexibility to change the Making a tour of 8 days duration is also possible in programme at any time making it the optimum one combination with “Capercaillie tour”. for each particular group.

31 SPA & wellness spa & wellness Devin SPA Hotel – 4****

The Devin SPA hotel is located in the centre of the town and treatment of different diseases of the lоcomotory ulgarian mineral springs are a source of Devin, at the heart of the Central Rodopi Mountains. and cardiovascular system as well as functional of national wealth and a gift from nature. The abundance of water in the area is considerable disturbances of the nervous system. There are about 550 natural springs with B and it is one of the most significant natural resources, The SPA centre offers: medical examination, electro temperatures ranging from 10oC to 101oC. These including a multitude of warm mineral springs with revitalising waters differ in their chemical compo- cardiograms, massages, zone therapy, pearl-bath, temperature from 16 to 76oC. The transitional-conti- sition, mineral and mineral salt content, curative covered swimming pools with special area for nental climate is characterised by a cool summer and gases and biologically active micro-components. children, a water jet, an air current; Jacuzzi (which mild winter. There are 285 sunny days per year. All Bulgaria spa resorts have the advantage of be- seats six), therapeutic swimming-pool, small open ing located in favourable climatic regions, offering Accomodation: swimming-pool, bath “Vichy”, therapeutic bath, music visitors the chance to combine spa and climatic The Devin SPA hotel offers 116 normal beds and 30 ex- chromo-therapy bath, cosmetics, lye and mud tra beds in six studio suites, 48 double and eight cosy, treatments. therapy cabins, physiotherapy, inhalations (with single rooms. All rooms are equipped with a mini bar, Most Bulgarian spa resorts have been in existence mineral water, medicine or herbs), magnetic therapy, satellite TV, radio and a luxury bathroom with shower since ancient times and have been used by the physiotherapy part, a “Techno gym” fitness suite, cubicle, phone and hairdryer. The hotel specialises in Thracians, Romans and Slavs. They have success- vibro sauna, sauna and “Ergo-line” and “Artificial sun” fully treated people throughout the centuries. balneology and spa tourism. Guests can also enjoy the 150-seat Restaurant-Bar- solariums. Abundant natural resources and modern facilities The centre also offers a variety of therapeutic and create amazing possibilities for the year-round becue “Bulgarian village”, a night club (seating 50), a spa programmes, which combine the quality of the treatment of widespread modern diseases. Viennese Cafe with space for 50, a Lobby-bar with 24 seats, as well as an Electronic casino and Seminar hall mineral water and the natural resources, including: We can offer SPA & WELLNESS breaks at three of for 100 people. “ODA” (a locomotory system programme); Rheumatic Bulgaria’s newest centres, situated near the small SPA & Wellness arthritis (remission); Inflammation of joints; Behterev’s mountain towns of Bansko, Devin and . The DEVIN BALNEO-SPA CENTRE operates with mineral disease; arthritis – mono and poly; “Ostheoporosis”; water from the “Bedenski” natural spring. According “Rodopean”; “Relax”; “Wellness weekend”; “Rational to specialists, this water is suitable for prevention weight reduction” and many more.

Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena – 5 ***** Katarino SPA – 4****

The Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena is located in the town Shiatsu may also include gentle stretching and limb The Katarino Complex is located at base of the Rila of Bansko, at the foot of the Pirin Mountains. The town manipulations, incorporating a wide variety of com- Mountains range, close to Bansko and its cobbled is one of the biggest and fastest developing winter mon massage techniques. streets and tavernas. resorts in the country, which together with its archi- Thai massage Accomodation: tectural and historical value, makes it very popular Thai massage is a unique form of body work dating The complex comprises a four-star hotel and 46 destination for winter and summer holidays. back thousands of years. The treatment incorporates holiday houses. It offers 112 standard double rooms, Accommodation: elements of Yoga stretches, ‘Sen Line’ stimulation (en- four luxury double rooms and 21 apartments. The It offers high class entertainment – whatever the ergy meridians) and acupressure in gentle rhythmic attractive holiday houses are one and two-storey, season. Accommodation is offered in 159 rooms: 110 movements to create a unique therapeutic massage. featuring a bedroom, dining room, shower and bath, Deluxe Rooms, 22 Executive Club Rooms, 17 Junior Performed on a special Thai-bed, this experience WC and balcony Suites, seven Deluxe Suites, three Alpine Suites and 36 enhances flexibility and balances the ‘Chi’ of the body. The facilities at Katarino include – a restaurant, lobby Non-smoking rooms. This hotel’s superb cuisine and Softouch Ayurvedic centre bar, club/tavern, modern SPA and wellness centre, unrivalled facilities are complemented by impeccable The Softouch Ayurvedic centre offers not only indoor and outdoor swimming pools, bowling, ten- service. Guests have the opportunity to spend time treatment of some diseases and rejuvenation of nis courts, bridge hall, snooker hall, table tennis, a playing their favourite sport in all seasons and to relax the spirit but a completely different “way of life”. This hairdresser’s and a beauty parlour. in a comfortable yet distinctive atmosphere close to system of science focuses on both the prevention SPA & wellness The Spa centre is equipped with massage rooms, the mountain. and cure of ailments. The tradition of natural healing SPA & Wellness Pedicure, Precious stone cabin, Aroma steam bath, philosophy has been a part of culture and daily life Zalez Spa & Wellness Centre Turkish bath, Laconium, Water-massage showers, in India since 3000 BC. It is the most natural way to Unique in its size and variety of services, the Zalez “Hammam” massage, Floatation tank, Skincare, refresh and eliminate all toxic imbalances from the Spa & Wellness Centre at the Kempinski Hotel Grand Hydrotherapy, Thermal therapy, Kiva sauna, Finnish body, and regain resistance and good health. At the Arena is situated across an area of 1,200 sq m (12,916 sauna, Seraglio bath in healing mud, Cleopatra’s bath sq ft) and comprises a fitness centre, two saunas, 13 Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena a team of experienced and Fitness facilities. Each guest will find a specific treatment rooms, a steam aroma bath, solarium, a and professionally trained masseurs, headed by Dr therapy suited to their needs. Some of the latest facili- hammam Turkish bath, massage rooms, beauty area, Kiran K Rajan, run the first Softouch Ayurvedic centre ties include: Floatation, Warm-Stone Massage, Wraps, two Jacuzzis, an indoor pool, two outdoor swimming in Bulgaria with no compromise on quality or service. Thelasso-therapy, Precious Stones, Body Polish, pools and a Vitamin Bar. A heated all-season outdoor With its four treatment rooms blending the modern Serail-bath, Special showers and an Outdoor pool. pool is also available to hotel guests and the members and traditional Eastern philosophy, the Ayurvedic cen- of Zalez Spa & Wellness Centre. It offers the unique tre presents a whole new universe of rejuvenation. experience of outdoor swimming with magnificent Guests enjoy all kinds of value-added services from views. traditional Ayurvedic treatments to innovative and Shiatsu Massage modern methods of healing and revitalisation. One A technique that has been practiced for thousands of can choose among over 20 different body massages years in Asia, particularly in Japan, Shiatsu is a mas- and head and face treatments each done by experi- sage that alleviates muscle fatigue and tension by enced professionals and with genuine oils and herbs applying pressure to specific points along the body’s from the Far East. The modern Softouch Ayurvedic energy meridians. Using their fingers, hands, elbows centre is also proud to present a series of signature and knees our Shiatsu massage specialist release treatments and tailor-made health packages lasting and stimulate the flow of energy. between one and 28 days.

33 holidays winter Holidays Summer Holidays

now, lots of snow, blazing sunshine and every- lthough it is called the Black Sea, for most of thing you need for an unbeatable winter holiday. the year it is actually azure, calm and warm. SWelcome to Bulgaria! AThere are no tides, seaweed or dangerous sea This fast-growing destination offers three animals, and its sandy base slopes gently. The mild major ski resorts – Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo climate, pleasant temperatures, fresh and clean air – now all greatly improved thanks to significant invest- and curative mineral springs make it a favorite spot ment in recent years. Bulgaria’s natural resources during the summer months. A hospitable shore that make it an excellent venue for skiing. The diverse relief offers something for everybody – for those on the – different mountains with equally different features lookout for a fun-filled, thrilling and exciting holiday, and the specific climate conditions, together with a or those who want to “return to nature” in search of well-developed infrastructure, have transformed peace and quiet, the gentle murmur of the waves and Bulgaria into a paradise for skiers of all levels. The cool freshness of virgin flowers. winter resorts have always had a reputation for low prices, virgin nature, plenty of snow and sunshine, We offer you the unique opportunity to extend your but these days they also boast modern hotels and holiday by one or two weeks after you complete facilities, an excellent network of lifts and après-ski to one of our activity programmes. You also have the suit all tastes. option of staying in a variety of accommodation: from home stays (no meals) to 2, 3 and 4 star hotels on the Bansko Borovets Southern Black Sea coast:

Housing the best and the most modern ski centre of Borovets is the oldest Bulgarian winter resort with a all the Bulgarian winter resorts, Bansko is Bulgaria’s history dating back to 1896. Nesebar number one skiing destination. Bansko has the best Established at the end of the 19th Century as a hunting snow record and the longest ski season (15 Decem- base for the Bulgarian kings, Borovets gradually Nesebar is one of the oldest towns in Europe, revered for its monuments from antiquity, its fascinating ber – 15 May) of all the Bulgarian resorts. In the last few evolved into a modern ski resort with high-class architecture which dates from the Middle Ages and the National Revival Period. The town is situated on a small years the area has attracted substantial investment, and luxury hotels, haute cuisine restaurants and an rocky peninsula in the northern part of the bay of Bourgas. The beach of Nesebar is 4 km, or 2.4 miles, long. which can be seen in the form of new developments, excellent network of ski runs and lifts along the slopes The old quarter, situated on Nesebar Peninsula and linked to the mainland by a narrow stretch of land, is an hotels and resort facilities, restaurants, clubs for of Rila Mountains. Borovets offers a wide range of official UNESCO heritage listed architectural and archaeological reserve. North and south of the peninsula you entertainment and so on. winter sports — from Alpine to cross-country skiing, will find beaches with the finest sand along the Black Sea coast. To the north, these beaches join with those The excellent ski runs comply with FIS standards and ski jumps and biathlon. The resort has twice hosted of Sunny Beach. are located in two main ski-centres – Chalin Valog World Cup Alpine skiing rounds, while the biathlon (1,100-1,600 m, or 3,608-5,249 ft) and Shiligarnika (1,700- track is one of the best in the world. 2,500 m, or 5,577-8,202 ft). They are situated some 10 There are over 45 km (27 miles) of ski runs (19 in total) km (6.2 miles) away from the town on the northern varying in difficulty and length across three regions. Sunny Beach slopes of Pirin Mountains and are easily accessed via Sitniakovo, Markoudzhik and Yastrebets provide skiers cable car from Bansko. with perfect conditions for their favourite sport. Borovets This holiday venue, shaped by nature, lies only 35 km, or 21.7 miles, north of the city of Bourgas, offers a wide Sozopol is a small town, founded by the ancient I n b r i e f : usually enjoys snow coverage from mid-December bay and a warm sea with a gently sloping sand floor. It enjoys around 1,700 hours of sunshine from May to Greeks, comprising picturesque old quarters and Altitude of the ski runs: 1,100-2,560 m (3,608-8,398 until mid-April or for about 120-150 days in total. October, along with a refreshing breeze. The biggest and most modern resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast a special atmosphere. It is one of the most popular ft) I n b r i e f : comprises more than 100 hotels, cafes, pubs, casinos, night clubs, bars and discos, water sport facilities and so beach resorts, preferred by people who appreciate Highest ski point: 2,560 m (8,398 ft) Height of resort: 1,350 m (4,429 ft) on. The beach is 8 km (4.9 miles) long. its casual ambience and ancient atmosphere. Two Marked ski runs: 65 km (40 miles) Highest ski point: 2,560 m (8,398 ft) You will find that every conceivable form of watersport is catered for: from surfing, water skiing, parachuting and beaches are presented along the coastline near Main slopes exposure: North Total length of runs: over 45 km (27 miles) hang-gliding to banana boats, sailing vessels, yachts, paddle boats, cutters, scooters and rowing boats. You will also Sozopol. There are: 6 chair lifts, 1 gondola lift; 7 drags and 10 Longest run: 5.8 km (3.6 miles) find tennis courts, beach volleyball, playing grounds, mini-golf, skittle alleys, bowling, riding ground, fitness halls as baby drags Main direction of slopes: North well as sports tournaments for amateurs and professionals. Sunny Beach is also a genuine children’s paradise – of- Longest ski run: 3.5 km (2.1 miles) Cross country tracks length: 18 km (11 miles) fering plenty of fun and games, children’s pools, slides, carting, a Rolba water slide, inflatable trampoline and sporting The cross-country skiing course is 9 km (5.5 Lift system: 2 chair lifts, 6 drag lifts, 1 gondola, few schools. In addition you will enjoy special discounts, children’s menus and a 24-hour kindergarten. miles) long baby drag lifts Pamporovo

Known as the sunniest and southernmost ski resort in Europe, Pamporovo enjoys mild winters with a lot of snow and a number of sunny days during a minimum 120-day season that runs from December to May. It is situated in the Rodopi mountains, famous for being the birthplace of the mythical singer Orpheus. The ski runs of Pamporovo are located between 1,450 and 1,926 m (4,757 to 6,318 ft) on the northern, eastern and western slopes of Mount Snezhanka. All the major ski runs start at the peak of the mountain, where the high TV transmission tower is located. Freeride areas are abundant in the mountains, however we recommend using a local guide when going off-piste. I n b r i e f : Average height of resort: 1,650 m (5,413 ft) Lozenets Highest ski point: 1,932 m (6,338 ft) Total length of runs: 17.5 km (10.8 miles) alpine tracks with various grades of difficulty; 34 km (21 mile) long- Lozenets is a peaceful small village with a beautiful beach. distance running tracks It is 60 km (40 miles) south of Bourgas and only 4-5 km Longest run: 4 km (2.4 miles) (2.4-3 miles) from the forests of the Strandzha Mountains Total runs: 25 where you can go walking or biking. This small part of Main direction of slopes: North, East, West paradise has begun attracting tourists looking to escape Lift system: 6 chair lifts, 13 surface lifts, 1 gondola, few baby drag lifts the big and noisy commercial resorts. The village has a One of the best ski schools in Europe long and picturesque beach with two campsites.

35 hostels & rent-a-car Sofia & Plovdiv Guesthouses

Dear Guests, Please allow us to extend an invitation to visit one of our guesthouses in Sofia and Plovdiv. They are both new and located in the very heart of these cities – just 5-10 minutes’ walk from the most famous points of interest. They exist to provide guests with a cosy atmosphere, international quarter, tranquility and excellent levels of cleanliness among the unique historical atmosphere and serenity in the two biggest Bulgarian cities. Below you will find a detailed guide to both hostels:

Sofia Guesthouse Plovdiv Guesthouse

10 rooms with a total of 50 beds 6 rooms with a total of 38 beds AC, TV, WC/shower in each room 7 showers/WC private lockers Accommodation 50 private lockers art café with permanent exhibitions TV lounge security access entrance air-conditioned dining room (cards for the rooms)

Cooking; Bike storage; Cooking; Laundry; Ironing; Facilities Laundry; High-speed Internet access; International Ironing phone calls

Sightseeing Sofia and Plovdiv, Rila Sightseeing Plovdiv and Sofia, Bachkovo Monastery, Bachkovo Monastery, Monastery, hiking and mountain biking Daily trips birding tours around Sofia, hiking in in Rodopi mountains, trips to Thracian Vitosha and Rila mountains and so on sanctuaries amongst others

Sofia Airport; Central bus/ Plovdiv Airport, Sofia Airport, Pick up railway station Central bus/railway station

From 9 euros per person From 9 euros per person Prices (Bed & Breakfast in a dorm); (Bed & Breakfast in a dorm);

Sofia, 27 Patriarch Evtimiy Blvd Plovdiv, 20 Saborna Str. Tel: +359 2 981 36 56 E-mail: [email protected] Contacts E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.plovdivguest.com Website: http://www.sofiaguest.com Rent-a-car

“BulgariaCarRent” is a fast-growing branch of Pen- guin Travel – Bulgaria. The company’s diverse fleet consists of 50 cars and vans. The cars are an aver- age two years old, modern, convenient, and above all, reliable. Internet booking and virtual offices has enabled us to maintain some of the lowest rates in the Bulgarian car hire market, whilst at the same time providing new cars without initial deposits and hidden charges and with full insurances. With the accession of Bulgaria into the European Union, “Bul- gariaCarRent” has expanded its flexibility and range of services. Upon request, transfers, chauffeur- driven services and car delivery can be arranged to any point in Bulgaria and to the main airports of the Bulgarian neighbouring countries. According to the customer preferences and requirements the cars are grouped into different classes from small economy cars, mid-size, full-size cars, 4WD and 8+1-seater vans.

For additional information, rates and booking please visit: http://www.bulgariacarrent.com