Walk in the Heart of the Balkans

Bulgaria

Walk in the Heart of the Balkans

Self-Drive

Les point forts du voyage

Avis Balkania Tour

All UNESCO sites in Bulgaria are included in the program!

We offer you a journey that will allow you to discover the most important sites in Bulgaria. Listed as World Heritage sites by UNESCO, these places will expose you to the history, culture, amazing monasteries and churches richly decorated with frescoes, picturesque villages from the Bulgarian Revival era, ancient traditions still alive today, medieval fortresses, Thracian temples and domed tombs. Above all, you will be able to familiarize yourself with a hearty and hospitable people.

The route, despite its short duration will allow you to visit numerous sites, such as:
-    The Bulgarian capital Sofia and its architectural and historical wealth (Boyana Church –UNESCO site)
-    Rila Monastery (UNESCO site)
-    Picturesque Rhodope villages and the centuries-old traditions (Kovachevitsa and Shiroka Laka- overnight stay)
-    Bachkovo Monastery
-    Old Town of Plovdiv
-    Kazanlak and the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO site), located in the Valley of the Thracian Kings and the Valley of the Roses.
-    The beautiful mountain village of Zheravna (overnight stay)
-    Walk along the southern coast in the Old Town of Nesebar (UNESCO site – overnight stay)
-    Walk along the northern coast in Varna and Balchik (overnight stay)
-    The Shumen region and the Madara Horseman (UNESCO site)
-    Ruse and the Danube River
-    Ivanovo Rock Churches (UNESCO site)
-    Veliko Tarnovo, the previous capital of Bulgaria, rich in antiquities (overnight stay)
-    The pretty village of Koprivshtitsa and its many house museums.

The route can be changed according to places of your interest and the time you wish to spend there. You will no doubt be surprised by the wealth of the country and the diversity of cultural and natural sites. For more information, take a look at the destinations listed below. You can also download and print a detailed program of the trip by clicking on the Download button.

We remind you that the proposed trips are created by our team. Feel free to contact us if you wish to make corrections to either the route or its duration. We are at your disposal to answer all your questions about the trip or any possible changes (if you want to make changes to the trip, please fill out the Tailor-Made Request form).

Thoughts from Balkania Tour:
We believe that this is a more fleshed out version of the Promenade in the Land of the Roses tour, lasting 8 days/ 7 nights. You will have the opportunity to visit not only the Balkan region, but also the Rhodopes, the Danube, and the Black Sea. The trip will paint a more comprehensive picture of Bulgaria, immersing you deeper into the cultural mosaic of the country. You will be able to see its regional peculiarities, developing in its own way somewhere between traditional and modernism. In order to limit the travel and have more time to visit sites, we recommend adding 2-3 additional days (not including any additional days at the Black Sea).

Vous decouvriez...

Melnik
Plovdiv

Votre conseiller

Georges KANEV

+44/ 79.69.72.96.83 gkanev@balkania-tour.com

Request a change Book

Duration

12 days/ 11 nights

choisissez vous meme les dates du depart

start from

630 €

par personne, hors vols internationaux

details du prix

Period	per person in double room	per person in single room
from 01 April from 30 April	630 €	990 €
from 01 May from 30 June	720 €	1150 €
from 01 July from 31 August	770 €	1190 €
from 01 September from 30 September	720 €	1150 €
from 01 October from 31 October	630 €	990 €

Price includes

- Private Transfer Airport > Hotel > Airport- Delivery of the car on the day of departure from Sofia and return of the car at the hotel the night before departure.- Rental Car - Economy class (2 passengers - example Opel Corsa , Ford Fiesta , etc . ) , Middle class (3 passengers - example Opel Astra, Renault Megane , Ford Focus , etc . ) Or high class (4 passengers - Ford Mondeo example , Skoda Octavian , Opel Vectra and others. ) , unlimited mileage , insurance Auto Casco , vignette for Bulgaria, included option for a second driver , emergency line 24/24 ) - Accommodation (based on accommodation - double room) .- Board - Breakfast- Electronic guide with practical tips- Access to the Balkania Tour team 24 hours a day- Exclusive special discounts for customers of Balkania Tour

Price does not include

- Flight ticket / return (check the price of flights in real time and book directly on our website)- Airport taxes- Cancellation insurance, repatriation and medical expenses ( Cancellation - 3.3% of the travel price with a minimum of 16 € / person ; all risks - 4.8% of the travel price with a minimum of 32 € / person).- Drinks and personal expenses- Local guides - We can offer you a guided tour in Bulgarian of the following cities - Sofia, Plovdiv , Veliko Tarnovo 120 lev for half a day and 200 lev for all day.- Visits to sites mentioned in the program- Fuel- Parking fees for sites mentioned in the program- Travel expenses

Additional information

Plane tickets - you can check the prices of plane tickets at any time and book them from our Airline Tickets page, accessed from the home page.

No maximum number of participants. For groups larger than 6 people, please send us an inquiry to make you a custom offer for your group. If you do not use the designated hotels in the program, there will be no compensation and hotels will be at your expense.

Rental car
A depost of 100 € to 300 € must be paid upon delivery of the car, depending on the category of the car. It will be refunded upon return of the vehicle, if there are no damages to it.

Rental car with a driver or with a driver/guide
In the case of traveling with a driver/guide, they are responsible for the vehicle, and no deposit is required.

Tour with rental car with driver
Driver services are limited according to the instructions previously specified by Balkania Tour and the customer. Drivers speak the language of the destination and English.

Tour with rental car with driver/guide
In addition to driving throughout the journey, the guide will provide you with information on the different aspects of life in the destination you are interested in, and provide you with tips for a more rational and succesful trip.

GPS
IMPORTANT: In the event of a failure or problem with a GPS during the journey, Balkania Tour does not replace the faulty unit with a new one.

Hotels
The proposed hotels can be replaced with others of the same category.

Route
The proposed route may be changed without notice in the event of unforseen circumstances, bad weather conditions, or local circumstances. During national or religious holidays, some visits may be limited or eliminated, and will not be eligible for compensation.

Sofia {"0":{"name":"Sofia","km":"1 m - 1 minute"},"1":{"name":"Sofia","km":"Total: 0 km - 0 heure 0 minutes"}}

SofiaRilski manastirMelnik {"0":{"name":"Sofia","km":"127 km - 1 heure 41 min"},"1":{"name":"Rilski manastir","km":"119 km - 1 heure 58 min"},"2":{"name":"Melnik","km":"Total: 247 km - 3 heure 39 minutes"}}

MelnikKovachevicaTrigradShiroka Laka {"0":{"name":"Melnik","km":"82,9 km - 1 heure 55 min"},"1":{"name":"Kovachevica","km":"100 km - 2 heures 13 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Trigrad","km":"38,2 km - 54 minutes"},"3":{"name":"Shiroka Laka","km":"Total: 221 km - 5 heure 1 minutes"}}

Shiroka LakaBachkovoPlovdiv {"0":{"name":"Shiroka Laka","km":"66,4 km - 1 heure 20 min"},"1":{"name":"Bachkovo","km":"26,3 km - 33 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Plovdiv","km":"Total: 93 km - 1 heure 53 minutes"}}

PlovdivSlivenZheravna {"0":{"name":"Plovdiv","km":"177 km - 1 heure 51 min"},"1":{"name":"Sliven","km":"48,4 km - 58 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Zheravna","km":"Total: 226 km - 2 heure 49 minutes"}}

ZheravnaBurgasNessebar {"0":{"name":"Zheravna","km":"117 km - 1 heure 29 min"},"1":{"name":"Burgas","km":"37,3 km - 40 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Nessebar","km":"Total: 155 km - 2 heure 9 minutes"}}

NessebarVarna {"0":{"name":"Nessebar","km":"101 km - 1 heure 48 min"},"1":{"name":"Varna","km":"Total: 101 km - 1 heure 48 minutes"}}

VarnaMadaraSveshtariRuse {"0":{"name":"Varna","km":"76,1 km - 55 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Madara","km":"108 km - 1 heure 25 min"},"2":{"name":"Sveshtari","km":"84,3 km - 1 heure 27 min"},"3":{"name":"Ruse","km":"Total: 269 km - 3 heure 47 minutes"}}

RuseVeliko TarnovoArbanasi {"0":{"name":"Ruse","km":"107 km - 1 heure 31 min"},"1":{"name":"Veliko Tarnovo","km":"6,2 km - 12 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Arbanasi","km":"Total: 114 km - 1 heure 43 minutes"}}

ArbanasiEtaraKazanlakKoprivshtitsa {"0":{"name":"Arbanasi","km":"58,2 km - 58 minutes"},"1":{"name":"Etara","km":"42,2 km - 51 minutes"},"2":{"name":"Kazanlak","km":"112 km - 1 heure 40 min"},"3":{"name":"Koprivshtitsa","km":"Total: 212 km - 3 heure 29 minutes"}}

KoprivshtitsaSofia {"0":{"name":"Koprivshtitsa","km":"108 km - 1 heure 45 min"},"1":{"name":"Sofia","km":"Total: 108 km - 1 heure 45 minutes"}}

Sofia {"0":{"name":"Sofia","km":"1 m - 1 minute"},"1":{"name":"Sofia","km":"Total: 0 km - 0 heure 0 minutes"}}

Tour Info

Hotels

Optional services

Cultural Events

Day 1

Sofia

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Day 2

From the capital to the Greek border

SofiaRilski manastirMelnik

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

National Museum of History - Sofia

Sofia

Boyana Church - Sofia

Sofia

Rila Monastery

Rilski manastir

Rozhen Monastery

Rozhen

Melnik

National Museum of History - Sofia

The National Museum of History is located at the foot of mountain Vitosha. The former residence of President Todor Zhivkov, presents many magnificent cultural sites and the turbulent history of the Bulgarian people. The museum is one of the biggest in the Balkan Peninsula. Inside you can learn about the history of Bulgaria through numerous exhibits, halls, and monuments which have preserved the spirt of the Bulgarians over the centuries.

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Boyana Church - Sofia

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Vitosha, the Saints Nicholas and Panteleimon Church, more commonly known as the Boyana Church, is located in the Boyana neighborhood in sofia and is made up of three parts. The eastern part was built in the 10th century. The second story of the church was built and painted in 1259 by the painters Vasiliye and Demetrius, with the money being donated by the Sevastokrator Kaloyan. The third part was built in the mid-19th century. In this section you can see the unique medieval artwork. The Boyana Church is a monument of Christian art, and was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1979.

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Rila Monastery

You will leave towards the capital to visit the largest and most famous monastery in the Balkans, the Rila Monastery.

The monastery is the emblematic symbol of the Bulgarian orthodoxy protected by the UNESCO for the quality of its iconostases, its architecture and its history. It is built on the right bank of the river Rilska in the Rila National park. This is the most-visited place in Bulgaria It occupies an area of 8800 m², has 4 sections and 300 cells for monks.

The monastery was founded by St. John of Rila in 930, but its structure as we know it dates back to 1335 under the regency of Hrelio whose interior defensive tower still bears his name.

Its arches, columns, woodwork and paintings are of exceptional beauty. The church of the Dormition of the Virgin is regarded as the best decorated in frescoes in Bulgaria. Its carved wooden iconostasis is unique in its kind.

The Monastery Museum introduces us to its long history with objects of great value: icons, holy books, altar crosses among which the exceptional Cross of the monk Raphail, sculptured on wood that took him 12 years to finish, glagolitic manuscripts from the 19th century, the Gospels on parchment from the 13th century.

The monastery is the conservatory of the Bulgarian identity, an emblem of resistance, located in a beautiful setting of forested mountains.

Impressive!

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Rozhen Monastery

The Rozhen Monastery, founded in the 13th century, fits beautifully into its surroundings – the Melnik Pyramids. A plain wooden structure, its shady courtyard, magnificent frescoes, and beautiful iconostasis make this a powerfully emotional place.
You can reach the monastery by taking a morning nature walk from Melnik (about two hours). Revel in the ambience and fill yourself up with positive energy!

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Melnik

You will reach the small town of Melnik. The natural pyramids that surround it are unique natural phenomenon. The nature as a prime contractor has created a picture that reminds us of an unusual succession of pyramids, formed at the mercy of the weather.

The town is centered around a single main street running alongside the riverbed from where you can admire the special architectural style of this region. You can visit house- museums, especially the one of Kordopulov ; also stop in the friendly taverns and leave yourself to be carried away by this detached atmosphere.

Melnik is a town with traditions in wine-making. The winery of Damyanitsa will offer you full-bodied red wine which will surprise you by its quality...

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Rila Monastery Museum

Rilski manastir

Stob Pyramids

Stob

Melnik Wine Villa

Melnik

Kordopulov House - Melnik

Melnik

Rila Monastery Museum

The museum at the Rila Monastery gives us an opportunity to learn about the long history of its high value items: icons, holy books, altar, the exceptional Cross of Raphael, and wood carvings which took 12 years to complete. Also, there are Glagolitic manuscripts from the 19th century, and Gospels written on parchment from the 13th century.

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Stob Pyramids

The Stob Pyramids, although overshadowed by the formations in Melnik, are some of the most remarkable and picturesque natural phenomena in Bulgaria. They are located 4 kilometers from the village of Stob, near the main road leading to the Rila Monastery. The formations have various shapes, and stand at heights from 6 to 12 meters. Some of the formations have tops resembling “crowns”. of stone, which gives them a strange shape resembling an umbrella or a mushroom. The beauty and importance of this site has been recognized since 1964, when it was included into the list of natural phenomena of national importance.
To fully enjoy this fabulous landscape, you can go for a walk along the manmade trail.

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Melnik Wine Villa

The family-owned Melnik Wine Villa is located about 8 kilometers from the town Melnik. Here on this 30 hector plot, a wide variety of typical Bulgarian strains of grapes are produced (including Shiposhka Melnishka vine, and Mavrud) as well as some international strains. The owners have developed their own methods for the production and storage of the grapes. Tourists can visit and look around the winery with a special guide, taste the wines and learn more about the techniques used to produce them. Don’t be surprised if the owners come and have a drink with you, and ask you for your opinion and impression of the wine.

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Kordopulov House - Melnik

The Kordopulov House is the largest preserved Renaissance house in Bulgaria. Built in 1754, it is a great example of the classic architecture in Melnik. It consists of four floors and a wine cellar carved in local tradition. Access to the cellar is provided by a 150 meter long tunnel dug into the rock. The largest barrel in the cellar has a capacity of 12.5 tons, and the total capacity of the cellar is about 300 tons.
The interior of the house is decorated with Venetian paintings, antique furniture, carvings, and stained glass. Here you can immerse yourself in the winemaking traditions of the region with a glass of wine made from the famous local Wide Melnik Vine
Today, the house is a private museum and enjoys great interest, with about 30,000 tourists visiting it annually.

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Day 3

In the Rhodopes

MelnikKovachevicaTrigradShiroka Laka

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Kovachevitsa

Kovachevica

Trigrad Gorge

Trigrad

Shiroka Laka

Kovachevitsa

You will enter the Rhodopes on the way to the small village of Kovachevitsa, a place still preserved for tourism. The village will allow you to dive into life in the 19th century, as time seems to have stopped there. Situated along the river Kanina, its existence dates back to the early 17th century; this is where the Bulgarians who fled the Turkish Islamization settled.
Today it has retained the atmosphere of the past with its beautiful house, with tiled rooves and impressive architecture. The surroundings and nature there are very beautiful.

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Trigrad Gorge

Driving through the Rhodopes is exceptionally pleasant, despite the many twists and turns.

The Trigrad Gorge bears the name of the small village nearby, where the Trigrad River has carved a 7 kilometer gorge in the marble rocks, which is rather narrow in certain sections. In some places, the distance between the cliffs is 300 meters.
Some feel anxiety when they are confronted with the sight of these huge cliffs, but that fear is quickly replaced by a sense of wonder and breathtaking beauty.

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Shiroka Laka

You will arrive in Shiroka Laka.

The village of Shiroka Laka (an architectural reservation) is famous not only in Bulgaria, but around the world for its Rhodope style architecture, traditions, and musical past.
Nearby Shiroka Laka are the villages of Stoykite, Gela, Stikal, and Solitsa, where the Christian ancestry mixes with the Bulgarian Muslims in the area (Islamization of the Rhodope region took place during the Ottoman rule - 17th century).
The natural features, uncertainty during the Ottoman period, economic prosperity, and national consciousness of the people are reflected in the architecture of the houses, which are built in a large Rhodope style. They have two floors with bay windows and tall stone chimneys, small windows, wooden staircases, and a small cellar with a hiding place. The rooms are furnished with cupboards in the walls. Fountains sit in the middle of the cobbled courtyards. All of this is designed with taste and in harmony with nature.
A few kilometers higher, the mythical singer Orpheus was born in the village of Gela. In the spirit of the traditions there, a music school was established in Shiroka Laka, which can be seen today. Also, one of the best folklore and music festivals is held every August in Gela.

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Delchevo

Gotse Delchev

Nicopolis ad Nestum

Garmen

Leshten

Dolen

Dospat Resevoir

Dospat

Devil’s Throat Cave

Trigrad

Buinovo Gorge

Yagodina

Yagodina Cave

Yagodina

Eagle's Eye Panoramic Terrace

Yagodina

Devin

Church of the Assumption - Shiroka Laka

Shiroka Laka

Ethnographic Museum - Shiroka Laka

Shiroka Laka

Delchevo

You can make a visit to the village of Delchevo, located in southwestern Bulgaria, 9 kilometers from the town of Gotse Delchev and 18 kilometers from the Greek border. It has a population of 40 people.
The village arose in the 17th century near a Turkish farm, and was under Ottoman rule until 1912. Until 1934 it was known as Yuch Duruk.
In the 19th century the main activities of the population where related to agriculture and livestock. By the end of the century the village had 560 inhabitants – Bulgarians, most of which were killed by the Turkish army during the preparation of the Ilinden Uprising. In 1934 the village was renamed after the Bulgarian revolutionary Gotse Delchev.
Many of the houses in Delchevo were built by local craftsmen in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Church of the Assumption was built in 1838. It is found in the center of the village, and features some impressive murals.
The village of Delchevo is a great example of the soul and traditions of the Rhodope Mountains, do not hesitate to visit it.

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Gotse Delchev

The road passes through the town of Gotse Delchev located in southwestern Bulgaria, in the Blagoevgrad municipality. The town’s name comes from the name of the Bulgarian Revolutionary Georgi (Gotse) Nikolov Delchev, head of the Macedonian Revolutionary Organization-Edirne. Located 547 meters above sea level, its origin is closely linked to the nearby Roman site of Nicopolis ad Nestrum.
Today, Gotse Delchev is a small and peaceful mountain town with a nice and well maintained pedestrian area, surrounded by cafes and shops. The town is a wonderful place to rest, with a close proximity to several traditional villages, as well as Greece and the Aegean Sea.

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Nicopolis ad Nestum

Seven kilometers east of Gotse Delchev at the entrance of the village of Garmen, in an area of 14 square kilometers, are the ruins of the Roman town Nicopolis ad Nestrum – more than 16 centuries old.
This is the only place of its kind in the Rhodope Mountains, but also one of the few partially preserved Roman towns in Bulgaria. The town’s name means “City of Victory”, and it sits on the river Mesta. It was founded in the year 106, on the foundations of Alexandopolis, during the rain of Emperor Trayan in honor of his victory of the Dacians. Avars and Slavs ravaged the city in the 6th century, which ceased its development. It was reborn from the ashes in the 9th and 10th centuries under the name Nikopol and stood until the 13th century when it was destroyed, this time by the Crusaders. The population gradually moved west, to create the town of Nevrokop – now known as Gotse Delchev.

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Leshten

Before heading to Kovachevitsa, you will have the chance to take a short walk through the village of Leshten.

Leshten is located in the Western Rhodopes, 8 kilometers from Garmen and 15 kilometers from the town of Gotse Delchev. The village still holds the soul of the Bulgarian Revival in its old house, with roofs covered in tikli (stone bricks). Walking through the cobbled streets of the village will make you feel the atmosphere of the past and forget the problems of the present.

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Dolen

The village of Dolen is found in the northern part of the Rhodopes, about 26 kilometers from the town of Gotse Delchev. It has existed since the 17th century, a dark period marked by forced Islamization of residents in the Rhodopes. Bulgarians came to seek refuge in this remote mountain village, which sits at an altitude of 1020 meters.
The village began its development during the Renaissance (18th -19th centuries) with the production of tobacco and livestock, as well as the transport of goods and silverware.
Today the village is an architecture reserve with more than 70 preserved Renaissance houses, making it one of the most beautiful Bulgarian villages. The small cobbled streets keep the spirit and memory of the past. This is a different destination where you can relax, and breathe the pure air of the surrounding environment.

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Dospat Resevoir

The small town of Dospat is located in a mountainous area in the western part of the Rhodopes. Near the town is a resevoir that bears the name of the city, the highest resevoir in Bulgaria at an altitude of 1200 meters. It is also the second largest resevoir in Bulgaria with an area of 22 square kilometers. It is mainly fed by the Dospat River and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful resevoirs in the country.

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Devil’s Throat Cave

Near Devin, in the beautiful Trigrad Gorge, is the mysterious and fearsome Devil’s Throat Cave. You will be fascinated by the deafening noise of the river, which flows into the gulf. The entrance resembles a devil’s head, and an impressive roaring waterfall pours into the throat. The cave his stimulated the human imagination for many years, and there are many legends told about it.

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Buinovo Gorge

The Buinovo Gorge is among the longest gorges in Bulgaria. It is located between the villages of Yagodina and Teshel. This beautiful natural phenomenon was formed by the devastating force of the Buinovo River, which over time has carved through the marble layers of the mountains. The mountains that surround the Buinovo River reach several hundred meters in places.
The narrowest part of the gorge is called the “Wolf Jump”. According to local legends, wolves gather there to attack the chicken pens.
Karst activity is high in the region. In the village of Yagodina there are no less than 36 caves, the most famous being the Yagodina Cave, which is electrically lit and equipped for visitors. In the area there are other natural phenomena accessible to tourists, such as a natural rock bridge, beautiful waterfalls, and others.

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Yagodina Cave

The Yagodina Cave is located in the Rhodopes and is part of the beautiful karst cliffs of Buinovo. With a length of over 10 kilometers, and divided into three levels, only the bottom part is illuminated and accessible to tourists. The tour lets visitors explore over a kilometer of the cave, and discover a plethora of rock formations, but what makes it an interesting and original place and distinguishes it from other caves in the area are the numerous cave pearls. They are formed in small pools, drop by drop, by grains of sands caught in water which over many years are converted into calcite, and form a round shape.

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Eagle's Eye Panoramic Terrace

The Eagle Eye Panoramic Terrace is one of the sights worth visiting in the Rhodopes. Its construction was funded with revenues from tours of the Yagodina Cave nearby. The terrace rises to 1563 meters in altitude and offers truly breathtaking views of the eastern Rhodope Mountains, the Buinovo Gorge, and various small villages. There are two ways to reach the terrace – walking from the village of Yagodina or a ride in a 4x4 SUV. The adrenaline and fresh air of the climb is definitely worth it.
The powerful structure is designed to hold up to three tons, and the railings provide additional security for visitors. However, in order to enjoy the scenery in peace, and for optimal safety, only five people are allowed on the terrace at a time.

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Devin

Devin is located a few kilometers from Shiroka Laka. It is a small town with superb nature, and is known for its mineral waters. Therefore, do not hesitate to go to even a public swimming pool to enjoy and experience the healing properties of the water, as well as the peace and comfort in the air.

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Church of the Assumption - Shiroka Laka

After the Russo-Turkish War of 1828 and 1829, reforms were undertaken by Sultan Mahmut II, giving Christians greater religious freedom, and allowing them to build schools and churches.
Shiroka Laka was one of the first settlements in the Rhodopes that received permission to build a church, in 1834. The location selected had been used for hundreds of years to perform spiritual rituals, sacrifices, and local traditions. Despite opposition from a Turkish officer, Smail Aga and the Muslim population, the village was to begin building the church. On the first day of construction, Smail Aga raised his weapon against the builders and ordered them to stop working. Todor the Crazy replied that the village would revolt and that the foundations would not be moved. The Muslims interfere with every aspect of their work.
This clash ended with a complaint filed in Plovdiv, and a representative was sent to Shiroka Laka to calm tensions and to promote the development of the work, which had to be completed in 40 days. The whole village was involved in the construction of the church and it was completed in 38 days, according to historians. The church is 19 meters long, 12 meters wide and 8 meters high. The walls have a thickness of one meter. Eight columns hold up the leaning roof covered in stone bricks. The massive doors are overlaid with thick iron plate for more protection against attacks and bullets. A 5 to 10 meter high wall also protected the church. The church was consecrated in 1835 and was dedicated to the Assumption.

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Ethnographic Museum - Shiroka Laka

The Ethnographic Museum, which is located in the Zgurovski Konak building, lets you rediscover the architectural style, customs, and folklore of the town from the inside. The house was built by local craftsmen in 1853, on behalf of a particularly wealthy villager.
According to legend, the house was never occupied by its owner. Offended by the contempt towards them, the builders cursed the house and its owner, who eventually sold it. The new owner was the administrative officer, and the house was named “Konak” after him.

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Day 4

The Millenial City

Shiroka LakaBachkovoPlovdiv

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Pamporovo

Snezhanka Television Tower

Pamporovo

Chepelare

Bachkovo Monastery

Bachkovo

Plovdiv

Ancient Forum and Odeon - Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Ancient Stadium - Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Dzhumaya Mosque

Plovdiv

Old Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Saints Konstantin and Elena Church - Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Hisar Kapia (Fortress Gate)

Plovdiv

Nebet Tepe

Plovdiv

Ancient Roman Amphitheater - Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Pamporovo

On the way to Plovdiv, you will pass through Pamporovo.

This is a ski resort in the southern part of the Rhodope Mountains, the sunniest in Europe, with snow throughout the whole season. Pamporovo is situated 1650 meters above sea level at the foot of the Snezhanka Peak, from which you can see the shores of the Aegean Sea, according to legend. Pamporovo is 260 kilometers from Sofia, 85 kilometers from Plovdiv and 16 kilometers from Smolyan. Its existence as a resort dates back to the 1960s.

Pamporovo enjoys an exceptional climate, mild winters, and 120 sunny days during the ski season. The average temperature during the season is -3 Celsius, and 5.5 Celsius annually. The many slopes in Pamporovo are ideal for both beginners and advanced riders. All runs have been checked for safety, and are maintained in excellent condition. Over 100 high-level instructors fluent in several languages are available for beginner skiers and snowboarders.
The runs in Pamporovo are located at an altitude of 1444 to 1930 meters, east and west of Snezhanka Peak, with the toughest track called The Wall. The longest run is 5.1 kilometers and the maximum height is 476 meters. There are 9 ski lifts and 6 chair lifts available, as well as a track that is illuminated at night by 28 spotlights. The Snezhanka 2, with a length of 1176 meters and a width of 60 meters, allows riders to experience a different feeling. Snowmobiles are also available.

Pamporovo is recommended for family holidays or for those seeking a relaxing vacation in the mountains. Activities besides skiing in Pamporovo begin much earlier than sunset. The Rhodope Mountains are renowned for their local cuisine and folk traditions. Most of the hotels in the resort have at least one restaurant and bar. At the station and near the tracks, you will find various types of restaurants, each serving their own specialties. Don’t forget to try the culinary delights of the region, such as Kavarma, Banitsa, and Cheverme, and if you still have energy, the resort offers lots of night life.

Although Pamporovo is known mainly for its winter attractions, it also offers many activities in the summer. There are many marked hiking trails in the vicinity. The Tava trail for instance leads to Shiroka Laka, which can be reached on foot or by bicycle. There is also horseback riding. The Buynov Gorge, Trigrad, Yagodina and Devil’s Throat caves, Uhlovitsa, Rozhen Observatory and Planetarium, Shiroka Laka, Gela, Stoykite, Smilyan, and Arda are some of the many attractions that make the region popular during the summer season.

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Snezhanka Television Tower

With a height of 1926 meters, the Snezhanka Peak is one of the highest in the Rhodopes. At the top there is a television broadcasting tower, which has become a symbol of the Pamporovo winter resort. The tower rises 2082 meters and offers stunning views of the mountains, making it a great place to visit.
The tower can be reached on foot by following the marked trails that start from Pamporovo (about 30-45 minutes), by car, or chair left. The balcony (360 degrees at the top of the tower) allows us to appreciate the true value of the gorgeous landscape. It depends solely on solar energy. Fortunately, the number of sunny days is large, with over 240 days a year. During thunderstorms, the emotions that you may experience are powerful. You will feel the flutter of the wind, but not to worry, as the tower is designed to withstand leaning more than 2 meters.
Legends say that the shores of the Aegean Sea are visible on a clear day. Myth or reality, you can see it for yourself.

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Chepelare

Chepelare is a small town and ski resort in the southern part of Bulgaria. It is located in the Smolyan province, about 10 kilometers north of Pamporovo. It features long slopes, about 20 kilometers with different levels of difficulty. The 9 minute ride on the ski lift will take you up to a height of 2700 meters, near the Mechi Chal area. The only ski museum in Bulgaria, opened in 1998, is found in Chepelare. The museum exhibits the development of winter sports in the city and country. The pictures on the walls are dedicated to the success of the best Bulgarian skiers, such as Ekaterina Dafovska, Borislav Kiraikov, Mitko Harzheev and many others.
Also in Chepelare is the Museum of Karst Topography in the Rhodopes, the only one of its kind in the Balkan peninsula. There you can find unique minerals, crystals, the lower jaw of a jaguar that lived in the area in the distant past, and the skeleton of a bear 4.5 meters tall. The Church of Athanasius the Great, built in 1834 in only 40 days is also found in Chepelare, as well as the Olympic Square, which offers a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation.

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Bachkovo Monastery

Before reaching Plovdiv, you will stop at the Bachkovo Monastery.

The village of Bachkovo is famous for its legendary monastery, a very important place for Bulgarians. Nestled amidst a beautiful valley, it was founded in 1083 by the Georgian Prince Gregory Pakourianos, a Byzantine Commander. Many Bulgarian kings have contributed to the expansion of the monastery. Even under Ottoman rule, it continued to receive support and donations from the Christian population. The beautiful Cathedral Church of the Virgin Mary was built in the courtyard of the monastery in 1604, and contains rare sculptures and items from the 17th century.
The monastery was last restored in the years 1830-1840, with frescoes by Zahari Zograf and his students. The monastery church is the location of the beautiful and “miraculous” icon of the Virgin Mary. You can still see the library with its collection of old Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Georgian books, as well as Byzantine musical manuscripts from the 13th century and wonderful religious manuscripts written in Georgian.

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Plovdiv

You will arrive in Plovdiv.

Situated on the banks of the Maritsa River and on seven hills, Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria, and is a major tourist location with lots of culture and history. It is one of the oldest cities in all of Europe.
Plovdiv has been through many changes throughout the centuries. A prehistoric village was discovered on one of the hills, and in the 12th century B.C. this village became the city of Plovdiv. In the 4th century B.C. the city was captured by the army of Philip II of Macedonia and was renamed Filipopolis.
The city became the administrative center for the Thrace region during the time of the Roman Empire. It was known then as Trimontium, the name referring to the three main hills of the city. The city reached the height of its development in the Roman era. During this period there were many improvements made to the city, such as the construction of large public buildings, paved streets, a large temple, a beautiful amphitheater, temples, baths and aqueducts, all surrounded by massive walls. In 1956, Plovdiv was declared an architectural reserve and in 1979 received an award for the protection of its heritage. Some places to visit are the St. Constantine and Elena church, where you can see icons made by the renowned Bulgarian artist Zahari Zograf, the Cuma Mosque, the Roman amphitheater found in the Old quarters of the city, and the main pedestrian street “Prince Alexander Battenburg”, which features a wonderful neo-Baroque architectural style. With many museums and attractions to visit, there will be no shortage of things to see in this city.

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Ancient Forum and Odeon - Plovdiv

You can start your tour of the city at the Central Square, located at the start of the pedestrian street. Behind the post office you can see the ruins of an ancient Roman forum.

The Ancient Odeon was central to life in Plovdiv during the time of the Romans. Many important political, economic, and social events took place here. Built late in the 1st century, it is the largest Odeon in Bulgaria. It is located in the northern part of the stadium. The Odeon has a capacity of 300-500 people and served the needs of the city council. Today it is used for musical, theater, and literary events.

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Ancient Stadium - Plovdiv

Continuing along the pedestrian street, you will reach the Ancient Stadium in Plovdiv, which was built at the start of the 2nd century during the reign of Emperor Adrian. It is located in the northern part of the city, between the hills of Taksim Tepe and Sahat Tepe. The stadium accommodated 30,000 spectators who came to enjoy the events there. It was the largest stadium of its time, with a length of 240 meters and a width of 50 meters.
Today, the visible part of the stadium is a small part of the whole. It was a preferred meeting place for the locals, and a great starting point for exploring the Old Town and the other ancient landmarks found here.
The Ancient Stadium has a small museum with a space designed for showing 3d movies depicting Plovdiv as it was in the 2nd century (entrance fee required).

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Dzhumaya Mosque

The Dzhumaya Mosque is a Muslim shrine located in the center of Plovdiv, in the front part of the ancient ruins of the stadium. The mosque was built soon after the city was conquered by the Turks (1363-1364), in place of the St. Petka of Tarnovo Cathderal. During the reign of sultan Murad II the mosque was fully restored to its current appearance.
It is built in a rectangular shape with nine lead covered domes. The prayer room is 33 by 27 meters squared. In the northeast corner rise decorated minarets, built from red bricks. The interior of the mosque is filled with rich artwork depicting twigs, flowers, and wreaths, and quotes from the Koran. The frescoes are thought to date back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Today, the Dzhumaya Mosque is an active Muslim temple, open not only to worshippers but also to visitors. The mosque is a witness to the national respect for other cultures and religious tolerance.

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Old Plovdiv

If you follow the road on the right side of the mosque you will enter the "Old Quarters".

Old Plovdiv is a place admired by all visitors, with its various preserved architectural structures spanning many different eras.
The remains of the Thracian civilization mingle with Roman monuments, while the old Turkish mosque adds some oriental flavor to a city where many consecutive and sometimes antagonistic civilizations have managed to combine the best of each other, giving Plovdiv its unique identity. But above all are the many preserved houses from the years of the National Awakening, which give this lively city a unique charm.

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Saints Konstantin and Elena Church - Plovdiv

Continuing further up the hill, you will reach the Saints Konstantin and Elena Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in Plovdiv.
In the year 304, in the place where the church is found today, the martyrs Severiyan and Memnos were beheaded, along with 38 of their followers. The church was founded about 30 years later to commemorate their sacrifice for the Christian faith.
The church was destroyed many times during Ottoman rule, and the current one dates back to 1832. Located in the heart of Old Plovdiv, it is the most visited religious site in the city.

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Hisar Kapia (Fortress Gate)

The Hisar Kapia (Fortress Gate) is one of the symbols of Plovdiv. It is found in Old Plovdiv and fits right in with the historic architectural style of this part of the city.
The Hisar Kapia seen today dates back to the 13th – 14th century, but its foundations existed long before the Roman era. After numerous invasions in the area, the defenses of the city were strengthened in the 2nd century.
At the time of the Bulgarian Revival, the gate and wall were slightly modified to permit their smooth integration into the structure of the surrounding buildings, including the Saints Konstantin and Elena Church and the Kuyumdjioglu House.

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Nebet Tepe

If you continue along the main cobblestone road, you will reach the top of the hill Nebet Tepe, which holds the first evidence of life in Plovdiv, dating back to the 6th millennium B.C. Around the 12th century B.C., the Thracian city of Pulpudeva was one of the most developed southeastern Europe. The ruins of the fortress, still preserved today, show the various stages of Thracian, Roman, and Bulgarian history in the city.
The research and restoration project makes this one of the most interesting sites in Plovdiv, and will allow visitors to look into the phases of the city’s development during its lengthy history. Currently the main attraction of this site is the wonderful view of the city from atop the hill.

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Ancient Roman Amphitheater - Plovdiv

On the way back to the center of the city, a final, but no less important site awaits you.

The Roman Theater in Plovdiv is one of the most famous monuments in Bulgaria. It is located between two hills (Dzhambaz Tepe and Taksim Tepe). The lower level has 14 rows of seats, seven staircases define 6 vertical sections. The highest level is not fully intact and only the foundations remain. In its time, the theater could seat about 3,500 spectators. It was excavated and restored from 1968 to 1984. It has become a major tourist attraction and is home to many events, such as the Verdi Festival and the International Folklore Festival.

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Kosovo

Fortress of Ivan Asen - Asenovgrad

Asenovgrad

Pottery studio of Elena

Plovdiv

Hindilyan House - Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Kosovo

The village of Kosovo is located in the Rhodope Mountains, 5 kilometers from the Narechen spa resort. Founded in the 17th century, it developed in the nineteenth century thanks to the raising of livestock, agriculture, and masonry. Most of its Renaissance style houses date from around this period. Surrounded by beautiful nature, this is one of the most charming villages in the Rhodopes. In fact, some of the houses here were built by the same craftsmen who built the Kuymdjioglu and Georgiadi Houses in Plovdiv.
Forgotten in the 20th century, today the village is struggling to regain its rightful place among the most beautiful villages in Bulgaria.
The surrounding area offers many opportunities for hiking and picnics. Located slight off the beaten path, here you can find peace and quiet. The narrow streets of the village are a great place for a walk, which will take you back through history.

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Fortress of Ivan Asen - Asenovgrad

The Fortress of Ivan Asen, more famously known as the Petrich Fortress, is located three kilometers from the town of Asenovgrad. A paved road leads to the ruins of the fortress perched on a cliff, where the only entirely preserved building is the church. The church is one of the first in the Christian world, to feature a square tower that serves as both a bell tower and a watchtower. This is due to the limited space in the fortress.
The foundations of the castle date back to the time of the Thracians. Due to its strategic location in the Rhodope Mountains, it was supported by Constantinople, and later Veliko Tarnovo. In the year 1231, Bulgarian Tsar Ivan Asen II expanded the fortress and reinforced its defenses. During his reign, the fortress played an important role in the defense system of the Bulgarian state. Today, the road leading to the fortress is a favorite place for the residents of Asenovgrad to take walk. There are many chapels in the vicinity.
If you want to learn more about the history of the fortress and the surrounding area, visit the Historical Museum of Asenovgrad.

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Pottery studio of Elena

The Old Town of is one of the must see locations in the city of Plovdiv. A visit in this historic region includes a visit to the craftsmen who work there. We recommend going to the Pottery Studio of Elena, nestled in a wonderful cozy room in the rear area of the Saint Constantine & Elena church, a few meters from Hisar Kapia (the Fortress Gate) and the revival exhibition of the History Museum.
Elena gladly welcomes visitors in her studio, and enjoys showing the works that are created there. Here you will find handcrafted works of clay, ceramics, and painted jewelry, all the fruits of her labor. Enjoy a cultural discovery where company is always welcome.

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Hindilyan House - Plovdiv

The Hindilyan House is the most ornate, and among the most preserved Renaissance houses in Plovdiv. The house was built in 1834-1835 by unknown builders on behalf of a wealthy merchant who often travelled to India, hence the name Hindilyan.
The house was decorated with murals on the walls and ceilings, made by two craftsmen from the village of Chirpan. This project took them over six months. The murals are still preserved in very good condition. The courtyard also shows a careful attention to detail.
The house is the jewel of all the unique Old Plovdiv houses, and is one of the most visited places in the city.

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Day 5

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Free time in Plovdiv

Plovdiv

Sliven

Zheravna

Free time in Plovdiv

The city is famous not only for its famous monuments, but also for the many opportunities for recreation, shopping, and entertainment that it offers. Numerous cafes and shops are located on the sides of the pedestrian area. Feel free to take advantage of this great opportunity!

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Sliven

The historic town of Sliven, town of the 100 chieftains and a glorious past, is located at the foot of the Balkan Mountains. Its massive buildings and wide pedestrian zone in the center of the city show that the town was the richest and most prestigious in the country, during its prime.
Today, the peacefulness of its large park, friendly inhabitants, and proximity to unspoiled nature make this medium sized town an interesting starting point to explore other regions. The main one would be the Blue Rocks National Park above the city, which immerses visitors in a magical atmosphere.
While on a walk around the town, do not hesitate to visit the Old Elm in the town center, which is about 1000 years old. It was voted the European tree of the year in 2014.

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Zheravna

Zheravna is one of the most beautiful typical Bulgarian villages, pleasantly situated in the stunning Bulgarian nature. It will charm you with an atmosphere that only it possesses, with museum houses, taverns, and warm hospitable people. There plenty of things to see here – the Church of St. Nicholas, the collection of icons from the 16th and 17th centuries, and the Yordan Yovkov museum house, where you can discover the traditional style of the village. Also, there is the Rusi Chorbadzhi house, in which can be found a small collection of carpets, and the house of Sava Filaretov.
Walking tours of the region are also very nice because you have the opportunity to learn more about the nature in the area. There is great fish and game diversity, which is proven by the local specialty dishes in the taverns.
This village allows you to touch feel the hospitality and mountain spirit that permeates through its streets.
Many villages in the region, such as Ichera, Katunishte Gradets, Medven, and Kotel specialize in the production of carpets. We recommend a visit to the museum of carpets in the town of Kotel.

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Stara Zagora

Stara Zagora History Museum

Stara Zagora

Neolithic Dwellings Museum - Stara Zagora

Stara Zagora

Yambol

Sliven

Blue Rocks Nature Park - Sliven

Sliven

Rusi Chorbadzhi House - Zheravna

Zheravna

Sava Filaretov House - Zheravna

Zheravna

Church of St. Nicholas - Zheravna

Zheravna

Zheravna Art Gallery

Zheravna

Yordan Yovkov House - Zheravna

Zheravna

Kotel

Carpet Museum - Kotel

Kotel

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Stara Zagora History Museum

The History Museum in Stara Zagora is situated in the center of the town. Inside there are thousands of important objects that trace the history of the town and the region from the 8th millennium B.C. A special map shows the presence of more than 120 prehistoric burial grounds found in and around the town of Stara Zagora. Many of the objects found in these mounds during archaeological excavations are displayed in the museum.
The region was conquered by the Romans in the year 46 B.C. In 107 A.D, after the victory over the Dacians, Emperor Trajan passed through the region and decided to establish the city of Augusta Traiana. The city was of great regional importance, and was partially self-governing, with its own city council and National Assembly. The museum houses an impressive collection of glassware, bronze lamps, statues, jewelry and coins from this era. The museum is based on part of the main street of the Roman city, which connects to the southern and northern gates of the city. This part can be visited on the ground floor of the museum, the place where it was discovered. The street has a width six meters, and has sidewalks 11 meters wide on both sides.
The other halls of the museum follow the history of the town in subsequent periods, from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, up to the time of the great fire in 1887, which almost destroyed the town entirely. Here, in the summer of 1887, one of the biggest battles of the Russo-Turkish war was fought. Despite the courage and heroism of Russian troops and Bulgarian volunteers, the city was conquered by Ottoman troops and burned. After the liberation from the Ottomans, the city began to rebuild on October 5th 1879. The date is now a holiday for this town, which was reborn from the ashes into a new life.

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Neolithic Dwellings Museum - Stara Zagora

The museum contains artifacts that are very important for our history – two houses from the Neolithic Period, the best preserved in Europe from this time period. Dating from the 7th century B.C, their preservation is due to a fire that destroyed the village the houses belonged to. The houses were buried for millennia, and contain many everyday objects from the time period, still in very good condition.
They share a roof made of straw and clay, but are separated by a common wall, thereby forming two homes. The houses are built out of wooden stakes, interlaced with thin rods, coated with a mixture of clay and straw.
The site was discovered in 1968, where a significant amount of ceramic artifacts (around 80-120 containers per house) were also found, as well as burnt grains of wheat, barley, lentils, and instruments that indicate the level of agricultural development in the early Neolithic period.
The Museum houses a permanent exhibition – “Prehistoric Art in Stara Zagora”, which consists of pottery, ritual objects, and ornaments made of marble, bone, clay and shells. The objects provide information about people’s beliefs at the time, including the cult of the sun, fertility, and the Mother Goddess. The museum also contains the most ancient marble figure (dated to the 7th millennium B.C.) found in Bulgaria, and models of the Neolithic houses found during excavations, which provide a clear idea of what they looked like.

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Blue Rocks Nature Park - Sliven

The Blue Rocks Nature Park is found in the southern part of the Balkans, north of Sliven. These are rock formations that have a bluish reflection at sunset or sunrise. The scientific explanation for the blue color of the rocks is due to their geological composition. This is one of the largest deposits of quartz-porphyry in Europe.
The park has a total area of 11,380 hectares. The choice of outdoor activities is wide and varied. The Blue Rocks Park is situated above the city and immersed in a magical atmosphere.
Many trails allow visitors to explore the park. The most famous and traversed path is the Haidushkata path. If you want to visit the park but are short on time, you can take a chairlift to the top of the mountain and enjoy a pleasant stroll with stunning views.

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Rusi Chorbadzhi House - Zheravna

The Rusi Chorbadzhi House is one of the oldest houses in the village of Zheravna. Spared from time and attacks from bandits, it was built for a wealthy merchant in the village. His personal fortune amounted to more than 30,000 animals. He was involved in trade. Local legends add to the interest in this house, which does not differ in outer appearance from the other houses. This was probably to not attract attention from malicious people.
The decoration of the interior of the house is much more extravagant, with special attention given to small details. Today it houses a number of exhibits that trace the various crafts from the Renaissance period, such as tools used for weaving and fine linen fabrics. The house museum allows you to go back in time and witness history.
On the second floor, the house hosts an ethnographic collection that reveals the lifestyle of the rich families of the village during the Bulgarian Revival. The well maintained yard, laden with flowers, complements the atmosphere of the architectural complex, which dates back to more than 300 years.

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Sava Filaretov House - Zheravna

Sava Filaretov is one of the greatest personalities of the Bulgarian Revival. A teacher, he was one of the founders of modern Bulgarian academia.
His thirst for knowledge led him from Bulgaria to Istanbul, and then to Odessa to complete his education at the University of Moscow. He was nicknamed Filaret – lover of virtue. After his return to Bulgaria, he performed miracles with the education system of Bulgaria. He quickly became an inconvenience for Turkish authorities and fled to Russia. Soon thereafter he contracted tuberculosis and died in Cairo in 1863. He was 37 years old.
Today, his birthplace, which is more than 200 years old, is open to visitors. His house is full of richly decorated wood carvings and is one of the best preserved houses in the village. The rooms in the house vary according to their purpose, which is characteristic of the Renaissance houses.
The house, now a museum, depicts the life of Sava Filaretov and his family, and their everyday life. The exhibition provides rich and detailed information about life in Zheravna during the Renaissance.

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Church of St. Nicholas - Zheravna

The Church of St. Nicholas was built and blessed in 1834. It was decorated from 1834 – 1840 by iconographic artists from Tryavna and Elena. During the years of Ottoman rule, the church played an important role in maintaining Christianity in the region. Today, whether it’s a religious holiday or an exhibition of its icons, some of which are double-sided, the church is one of the most visited in Zheravna.

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Zheravna Art Gallery

The Zheravna Art Gallery is located across from the Church of St. Nicholas and is housed in the school building, built in 1867. The exhibit includes over 450 works by local and foreign artists. The gallery hosts the annual temporary exhibitions of paintings and ethnographic exhibitions of Bulgarian museums

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Yordan Yovkov House - Zheravna

The birthplace of the great Bulgarian writer Yordan Yovkov (1880-1937) is at “High Hill” in Zheravna. The writer lived here until age 13, when he left the village to live with his family in northern part of Bulgaria, in the Dobrudzha region.
In 1957 the house was converted into a museum and shows the conditions in which he grew up. The house is modest and small, with rooms, crockery, and furniture typical of the region. The works of Yovkov are translated into more than 20 languages.

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Kotel

Kotel is found in a picturesque valley in the eastern part of the Balkans. It is a historical and cultural center, a fortress of the Bulgarian soul. Many revolutionaries and artists have lived here and left an incredible mark on its resilient character. In the old Galata neighborhood sits the school Galantskoto, which is an architectural monument from 1869. There, in the “Old Kotel Fabrics” exhibit, you can find many colorful carpets, original carvings and a collection of panels with religious themes. The surrounding villages beautifully complement this “ethnographic exhibition”.

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Carpet Museum - Kotel

Handed down from generation to generation, the production of carpets in our country has a long tradition. In Bulgaria there are two distinguished schools in the craft, those in Kotel and Chiprovtsi. They glorified Bulgarian carpet making, and of course the craftsmen themselves, worldwide.
Carpets produced in these areas are of a very high quality, which makes for a good local and international market.
There are two theories pertaining to the origin of weaving in Kotel. According to the first, the business came from Chiprovtsi after manufacturers fled the city following a bloody massacre in 1688. According to the second, contacts of local merchants with George brought the craft and enabled the development of trade in Kotel.
Historical information on the Kotel carpet industry is very limited, as the majority of the town was ravaged by fire in 1894. Fortunately, the Ethnographic Museum has preserved 34 carpets, the oldest of them dating back to 1860.
The carpets impress with their beauty, vitality, and harmony of colors. It would be fair to say that their production involved talented artist who have shown their affinity for beauty in their work. Kotel carpets emanate the great spirit of Kotel women – wives, mothers, and master artists. Many companies owe their origin to the raising of sheep. Men were often in the north, in the region of Dobrogea breeding sheep and the woman remained in Kotel to look after the homes and raise children. Contact with the Ottoman Empire led to the development of trade and manufacture of carpets.
Each rug is a unique expression of spirituality, and the creative mix of aspiration towards perfection, beauty, freedom, and sadness of the oppressed Christians. That is why each carpet has its own name in accordance with the image recreated on the carpet. The carpets are adorned with images of the letter K (for Kotel), swords as a call for freedom, or objects used in Christian rituals. At the end of the 19th century, women used natural colors extracted from plants and herbs from the surrounding mountains. Today, the colors of the carpets are still sharp and expressive, unlike that of those painted with aniline dyes.
During the communist period the business was industrialized, but trade declined due to the closing of the weaving and art schools. Today, new weavers continue to perpetuate the tradition, with domestic production of carpets using old techniques.
The manufacturing techniques are presented in the Museum of Carpets, which is housed in the Galantskoto school and dates back to 1869. It is the only public building that survived the fire in 1894. The exhibition presents the evolution in the production of carpets from its inception. You can see carpets from the 18th – 19th centuries, an explosion of colors that will long stay in your memory.

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Day 6

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Burgas

Nesebar

Nessebar

Church of St. Stephen

Nessebar

Burgas

Burgas is located on a large bay of the Black Sea. Two lakes surround this city, which was founded over 2000 years ago by the Romans. A fishing town during the 19th century completely destroyed by a fire in the 19th century, today it is the most important industrial port and the 4th largest city in Bulgaria. Varna is considered the capital of coastal Bulgaria, but what distinguishes Burgas is without a doubt is its artistic imprint and way of life. It is said that the residents of the city are very warm, friendly, and welcome guests. Their Identity and artistic spirit is inseparable from the Black Sea. In the city of Burgas there is a beautiful garden which winds all along the coast of the Sea.

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Nesebar

Founded by the Thracians at the end of the second millennium before Christ, Nesebar has a rich history and great sea resort, due to its strategic location. The town’s exceptional Byzantine architectural style, famous churches, Renaissance houses, and cobblestone streets have earned it a spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. When walking the Byzantine-esque streets it feels as though you have been immersed in another time, and that feeling is reinforced by the fact that vehicles are prohibited on the peninsula. The St. Stephen, St. John Aliturgetos, St. Spas, and Christ Pantocrator are some of the many churches available to visit here. Nesebar is a town that combines a rich culture and history with a festive atmosphere, with many beaches and seaside resorts nearby.

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Church of St. Stephen

The Church of Saint Stephen was built somewhere from the 11th to 13th centuries and underwent two expansions in the 16th and 18th centuries. It is a basilica made of stone blocks and bricks. The craftsmen utilized many decorative elements from early Christian monuments in its construction.
The frescoes found in the church date back to the year 1599 and were illustrated by three master painters. Over 1000 figures are presented in 258 different combinations. The rich architecture, 11th century iconostasis and brilliant frescoes, this church is a true monument to the cultural heritage of Bulgaria.

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Minkov Brothers Winery - Venets

Venets

Burgas Archaeological Museum

Burgas

Ethnographic Museum - Burgas

Burgas

Burgas Saltpans

Burgas

Antique Beehive Tomb - Pomorie

Pomorie

Salt Museum - Pomorie

Pomorie

Pomorie Natural Reservation

Pomorie

Nesebar Archaeological Museum

Nessebar

Church of the Holy Saviour (St. Spas) - Nesebar

Nessebar

Church of Christ Pantocrator

Nessebar

Ethnographic Museum - Nesebar

Nessebar

Sunny Beach

Minkov Brothers Winery - Venets

The Minkov Brothers Winery is located on the main road between Sliven and Karnobat, near the village of Venets. Built on a small hill, the winery boasts stunning views of the vineyard (300 hectares), and the surrounding region.
The offered tastings of red and white wines will take you to the land of Dionysus. You can take a tour of two underground tunnels that store more than 6,000 French and American oak barrels, maintained at a consistent temperature.
The location of the winery was not chosen at random. In fact, the local and tribal traditions of winemaking in the area allow the production of high quality wines with character. The winery holds some of the awards given to the Minkov brothers, who made wines famous in the region during the late 19th century. Their wines won several awards at international competitions, including the first gold medal in Brussels, in 1894. In a specially built museum complex, there are several preserved old vessels for storing wine, as well as 5th and 6th century red ceramics found in the region. This will help give visitors a clear idea of the region’s history and the Minkov family.

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Burgas Archaeological Museum

The archeological exhibition shows remains dating from prehistory to the Middle Ages. A special collection is dedicated to the history of navigation from the beginning of the 2nd millennium B.C.

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Ethnographic Museum - Burgas

Adjacent to the Saints Cyril and Methodius Cathedral in the town of Burgas, is an old house dated from the mid-19th century, which houses the Ethnographic Museum. The museum depicts the culture and ancient traditions of the inhabitants of the region. The exhibition presents the most comprehensive collection of traditional costumes from all local ethnic groups, as well as unique articles of clothing from the 19th century, typical of the Burgas region.

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Burgas Saltpans

More than 1,000 people a day come to the Burgas Saltpans to receive free salt and mud treatments. In fact the rumors of their healing effects have been going around for about 14 by word of mouth, leading to this becoming the largest makeshift outdoor sanatorium in Bulgaria. People from all over the country, as well as foreigners, come to witness their miraculous qualities.
One can find numerous testimonials on the Internet, but it would be best to see it yourself. It is a unique and fun experience. As for the health benefits, according to testimonials you must visit 10 to 15 times to feel the effects.

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Antique Beehive Tomb - Pomorie

The Ancient Thracian Tomb in Pomorie is situated in the western part of the town, near the main road between Burgas and Pomorie. It dates back to the 2nd or 3rd century; historians believe that it was used as a mausoleum for a wealthy family from the ancient city Anhialo, and a place for pagan cult celebrations.
The tomb consists of a corridor (dromos) with a length of 22 meters, and a circular chamber with a diameter of 11.60 meters and a height of 5.5 meters. Built out of stone and brick, it differentiates itself with its hollow circular column, a unique architectural structure in the Balkans. Inside the column there is a spiral stone staircase that allows access to the top of the tomb. In the inner wall of the tomb there are 5 niches, which housed the urns of the deceased. Historians suggest that the walls were covered with paintings, of which there are only traces of green plaster.
The perfection of the architecture and construction are very impressive. Historians are still trying to figure out the secrets of the sponge-shaped dome. Some believe that the stairs leading underground allowed the priests to communicate with the dead, and talk to the gods when on top of the mound.
This amazing place is definitely worth a visit, and the secrets that it holds will certainly make you think.

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Salt Museum - Pomorie

The Salt Museum in Pomorie was opened in 2002, and tracks the city’s experience of extraction salt by means of solar evaporation through the centuries. This is the only museum of its kind in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe.
The museum collections present the technology of our ancestors, used in the production of sea salt in Pomorie. The museum has a hall of expositions and two acres of saltpans. Photographs, maps and solar tools depict the development of activities that have taken place in the region over the past two centuries.
The methods used for the production of sea salt in the museum are the same as those used in ancient times. Visitors can see the all the different steps of the production first hand, exchange information with specialists and experience the work and its local significance. In fact, according to historians, salt pans have existed here from the 5th century B.C. and were instrumental in the founding and development of the town.
The Pomorie Reserve Museum is located near the Salt Museum.

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Pomorie Natural Reservation

Pomorie Lake is located north of the town of Pomorie. It is a very salty, naturally formed lagoon which is part of the Burgas Lakes. A sandy shore and an artificial dike separate it from the Black Sea. The sand on the shore is black, due to its iron oxide contents.
The lake has a rectangular shape, with a length of 6.7 kilometers and a width of 2 kilometers. It is connected to the Black Sea through a channel on its southern side. The climate is particularly favorable, with plenty of sunshine and moderate temperatures in the summer.
The bottom of the lake is covered with black mud, rich in minerals and trace elements. This gives the mud healing properties, which have been utilized since ancient times. Pomorie is a preferred destination for spa and wellness vacations in the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Today, the mud is used to treat skin diseases and musculoskeletal ailments, as well as for cosmetics and beauty treatments.
The northern part of the lake has been used for salt extraction for more than 20 centuries. The high salinity has created a unique environment that is suited for a variety of plant and animals organisms.
There are over 87 different plant species, as well as 71 species of algae in the waters of Lake Pomorie. There are 200 types of fish, and 17 types of amphibians and reptiles, some of which are rare and endangered globally: the Greek Tortoise (Testudo Graeca), Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo Hermanni), plain pond turtle (Emys Orbicularis), Balkan Green Lizard and the Crimean Lizard (Podarcis Taurica). The sand that separates the lake from the sea is host to many different species of vegetation.
The second largest bird migration route in Europe – the Via Pontica – passes over Pomorie Lake. This explains the great variety of birds here. There are about 269 bird species which nest here and migrate during the winter. There are 57 species which nest in the lake area year round.
There are 31 species of mammals, including the smallest mammal in the world, the Etruscan pygmy shrew (Suncus Etruscus).
To protect its biodiversity, Pomorie Lake was declared a protected area, with a total area of 760 hectares. Internationally, the lake is classified as a Ramsar site by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
You can get more information at the center dedicated to the conservation of the lake. In the halls there are many pictures and information about the lives of the inhabitants of the lake, as well as movie screenings. The second floor offers a beautiful view of the reservation where you can monitor the wild residents of the reserve with the provided binoculars.
You can also take a walk along two marked trails. The first is great for bird lovers, the second for lovers of botany.

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Nesebar Archaeological Museum

The Nesebar Archaeological Museum is among the most visited places in Nesebar. Its four halls preserve the ancient history of the town and present it in a modern and entertaining way for visitors.
In the “Mesembria and Thracians” exhibit you can find everyday objects used by the Thracians, the oldest of which date back to the 12th century B.C. The second hall, “Pontic Polis Mesembria”, contains rare funerary objects found, such as the four urns found in the Nesebar Necropolis. The third hall, “Mesembria under Rome, Byzantium, and Bulgaria”, houses objects from these three eras. The town went through its greatest period of development during the era of the Second Bulgarian Empire, attested to by the various 13th and 14th century churches found throughout. The final exhibition hall is devoted to iconic art. After Bulgaria was freed from Ottoman rule, the town established the School of Painting, which reached its peak in the 15th – 16th century. The museum preserves about 250 icons created by local painters who decorated the dozens of churches in the town. The oldest icons found here date back to the 13th century.

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Church of the Holy Saviour (St. Spas) - Nesebar

The Church of the Holy Saviour (St. Spas) was constructed in 1609 with donations from wealthy residents of Nesebar (their names are inscribed above the south entrance). It is built in a single nave and apse form, with a length of 11.7 meters and a width of 5.7 meters. The eastern side of the church is half dug into the ground. Inside, the church is completely covered with frescoes made by an unknown artist in the early 17th century. It is used today as a museum.

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Church of Christ Pantocrator

The Church of Christ Pantocrator was built in the 13th – 14th century. This is one of the most impressive and best preserved churches in Nesebar, characterized by its picturesque architectural style. The church is a rectangular structure with dimensions of 15.95 meters by 6.7 meters. It has two entrances, one to the west and one to the south. The interior has traces of the frescoes that covered the old church in the past.

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Ethnographic Museum - Nesebar

The Ethnographic Exposition is located in the Moskoyani House of Nesebar, which was built in 1840 for a wealthy Greek merchant. A two story house with a first floor of stone and second floor of wood, it is a typical example of the local architecture. Inside, you can discover the main history of the town and important events that ensured the prosperity of the city in the past. Engravings and descriptions of travelers who visited the town during the 17th – 19th centuries can be seen here, as well as traditional costumes and household items from the early 20th century. One room is furnished according to local tradition, the other contains traditional clothing of settlers from Vardar Macedonia, a female costume from enidzhevardarsko, parts of male and female costumes, and a collection of forged buckles.

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Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach is the largest beach resort in Bulgaria, established in 1958. Situated on a beautiful sandy beach, this complex has more than 160 hotels, lots of entertainment, and night life is in full swing until dawn. A frequented modern summer resort, what makes it attractive is its proximity to the beautiful ancient city of Nesebar. It is possible to reach Nesebar by the train, which runs along the coastal road. The other options are by boat, by car or by bus. If you go to Sunny Beach by car, be careful while parking, the barrier is not far away.

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Day 7

NessebarVarna

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

Varna - The Pearl of the Black Sea

Varna

Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

Varna

Varna Archaelogical Museum

Varna

Varna - The Pearl of the Black Sea

The ancient city of Varna, still known today as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, has an international reputation for its past and its continuous development. In fact, this seaside resort has preserved many relics of the past, but also offers visitors beautiful sandy beaches, green gardens, and a modern downtown area. The numerous shops, restaurants, trendy cafes, and cultural sites create a very genuine atmosphere. During the summer, Varna becomes one of the main cultural centers of Bulgaria.
Some famous and interesting places to visit in the city are the Archaeological Museum (where you can see the oldest worked gold in the world), the Naval Museum and Botanical Garden, the magnificent gilded dome Cathedral, and the Roman Baths. Varna is a city full of charm, with a rich historic past, and a dynamic present.

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Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral

The Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral in Varna was opened in 1886 and is a symbol of the city. The rich decorations, ornaments and paintings leave visitors amazed. In 2002, a renovation which enriched the Cathedral’s domes with gold and silver was completed.

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Varna Archaelogical Museum

The Varna Archaeological Museum, housed in a neo-Baroque style building built from 1892-1898, is sure to be a thrill for anyone with an interest in history. The ground floor exhibits are dedicated to prehistory and antiquity. This is where the oldest gold jewelry in the world, discovered in the necropolis nearby, are kept. The upstairs depicts important events in Bulgarian history and the development of the iconographic schools.

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Kamchia Nature Preserve

Kamtchia

Kamchia Boat Ride

Kamtchia

Roman Baths (Thermae) - Varna

Varna

Aladzha Rock Monastery

Varna

Kamchia Nature Preserve

About 34 kilometers from Varna is the mouth of the Kamchia River, one of the most beautiful places on the coast. The nature preserve is located 25 kilometers south of Varna, and is in close proximity to the Kamchia and Shkorpilovtsi resorts. One of the largest deposits of leucojum flowers in Bulgaria is found on the preserve grounds. There are also many animals found in the forest, such as deer, wild boars, foxes, wild cats and many others. There are lots of different kinds of birds in the region, some of which (56 in total) are included in the Red Book of Bulgaria. The Kamchia river is home to about 25 species of fish, which make up the majority of the Bulgarian freshwater fish population. The Kamchia preserve helps protect this wealth of diverse flora and fauna.

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Kamchia Boat Ride

Take a boat ride on the river Kamchia; discover and enjoy the beauty of this natural reservoir. The relaxing ride lasts about 40 minutes.

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Roman Baths (Thermae) - Varna

The Roman Baths, dating back to the end of the 3rd century, attest to the greatness of Odessos (Varna) and its inhabitants during the Roman Empire. Although only the ruins remain today, they still retain traces of the delightful architectural spirt of the past.

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Aladzha Rock Monastery

The Aladzha Monastery is located 16 kilometers from Varna. It is one of the few monasteries in Bulgaria (4 in total) that is cut into the side of a mountain, and has not been active for a long time. Not much is left from the monastery life except a couple of frescoes on the ceilings. It began being carved in the 4th century, and took its final shape during the 12th century. The two-level chambers of the monastery are carved into a tall limestone cliff. Near the monastery you can find a small archaeological museum, a large courtyard, and some grassy areas with benches and tables. Also nearby is a similar monastery complex (with catacombs), which is smaller and less well preserved.
The Aladzha Monastery is one the many monasteries carved into the mountains on the north coast during the 13th and 14th centuries. According to researchers, it was one of more than 500 monasteries dedicated to Hesychasm (the teachings of the Divine Energy).

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Day 8

VarnaMadaraSveshtariRuse

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Premade route

Additional detours

Map of sites

The Stone Forest

Varna

Madara Horseman

Madara

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Sveshtari

Tomb of Demir Baba Tekke

Sveshtari

Ruse

The Stone Forest

About 18 kilometers from the city of Varna is found one of the most unbelievable natural phenomenon of Bulgaria – Pobitite Kamani, or “Stone Forest”. These strange stone pillars, some of which reach up to 6 meters, are located in a 7 square kilometer area. Their origin is still up for debate. Some say they are natural formations, while others believe that they are ruins of an ancient city. Legends claim that the pillars are actually petrified soldiers on a battlefield.

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Madara Horseman

One place associated with Bulgarian history that deserves to be seen. A couple kilometers from Shumen, you will discover the Madara Horseman.
The stone relief is carved into the side of a mountain, and is about 23 meters above the ground. It depicts the first proto-Bulgarian symbol, a horseman with a spear in his hand pointed towards a lion with a snake in its mouth. Accompanying the rider are the images of two animals, a dog and an eagle. The inscriptions depict events that took place between the years 705 to 831, including many wars with the Byzantine Empire and their resulting negotiations. The Madara Horseman is a designated UNESCO world heritage site; the symbolic power of this monument can be found on the Bulgarian coins. Getting to the Horseman is no small task, visitors must climb a flight of 225 stairs. The museum found in the Madara reservation welcomes you to learn more about this unique monument and its time period.

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Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Descending into the South, you can visit part of the country's history. Discovered near Isperih, the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, dates back to the 3rd century BC. The Royal Tomb especially, is a Thracian funerary art in all its splendor, that rivals even the finest Egyptian tombs. In 1985 it was included in the world heritage list by UNESCO, and its visit is a must!

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Tomb of Demir Baba Tekke

Just 2 miles West of Sveshtari, you can visit Demir Baba Tekke, the shrine of a 16th -century Muslim holy man.

It has a simple structure, a seven-sided temple topped by a dome. A Neolitic settlement has been discovered, and the site was subsequently home to a Thracian sanctuary, so the place’s importance as a spiritual centre predates the arrival of Islam in the 14th century.

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Ruse

You will continue to the Danube, which forms the border with Romania to discover the town of Rousse.

The city is surprisingly multi-ethnic, it has the blend of ancient traditions and modern European spirit, of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. Its fascinating architecture, historical monuments and beautiful buildings pay tribute to the varied mix of architectural styles: Classical, Baroque, Renaissance, Gothic and Rococo.

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Osmar Wine Cellar

Osmar

Osmar Wine Cellar

The Osmar Wine Cellar, founded in 1999, carries on the local traditions of producing the famous “Pelin” (Wormwood) wine using fruits and herbs, according to legend. However, this is the best place to enjoy this local specialty, and see its production process. Some secrets will never be revealed, but that’s part of the charm of the wine.
The cellar has an area of 11,000 square meters and uses more than 30 plants and fruits in the production of its red and white wines. The oak barrels hold up to 5 tons, and are filled up to 2/3rds of their capacity with 3 tons of grapes, along with some apples, quinces, and herbs. Lastly the remaining 3rd is filled with wine. The end result varies with the use of red or white wine. The mix of grapes, fruits, herbs and wine sits for 45 days and, if you believe the locals, if there is a snowy winter the wine will yield fantastic results.

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Walk in the Heart of the Balkans

Les point forts du voyage

Avis Balkania Tour

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Votre conseiller

Georges KANEV

Duration

12 days/ 11 nights

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630 €

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Sofia

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From the capital to the Greek border

National Museum of History - Sofia

Sofia

Boyana Church - Sofia

Sofia

Rila Monastery

Rilski manastir

Rozhen Monastery

Rozhen

Melnik

Melnik

National Museum of History - Sofia

Boyana Church - Sofia

Rila Monastery

Rozhen Monastery

Melnik

Rila Monastery Museum

Rilski manastir

Stob Pyramids

Stob

Melnik Wine Villa

Melnik

Kordopulov House - Melnik

Melnik

Rila Monastery Museum

Stob Pyramids

Melnik Wine Villa

Kordopulov House - Melnik

In the Rhodopes

Kovachevitsa

Kovachevica

Trigrad Gorge

Trigrad

Shiroka Laka

Shiroka Laka

Kovachevitsa

Trigrad Gorge

Shiroka Laka

Delchevo

Delchevo

Gotse Delchev

Gotse Delchev

Nicopolis ad Nestum

Garmen

Leshten

Leshten

Dolen

Dolen

Dospat Resevoir

Dospat

Devil’s Throat Cave

Trigrad

Buinovo Gorge

Yagodina

Yagodina Cave

Yagodina

Eagle's Eye Panoramic Terrace

Yagodina

Devin

Devin

Devin

Church of the Assumption - Shiroka Laka

Shiroka Laka