Mountain Vacations

Arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Explore the city and visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Church of St Sophia, the Rotunda of St George. While navigating the small streets or the boulevards of the city’s center, stroll by the marvelous National Theatre, the National Art Gallery, the Parliament and the Presidency. Pass by Sofia University and visit the city’s biggest park- Borisovata Gradina.

Arrive at Borovets, the oldest and the biggest mountain resort in Bulgaria. Established back in the 19^th century, it was known as Chamkoria (Pine Forest) and was the destination for noble. But it is during the 1970s that the resort transformed into what it is today- large hotels and modern sport facilities.

The activity choices are endless- horseback riding, mountain biking as wells as a vast range of hiking trails, including a hike to highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula- Musala.

Or you can simply enjoy the scenery and the fresh pine- incented air.

In Borovets is also located Tsarska Bistritsa- the winter royal palace of the Bulgarian Royal family. Built between in the 19^th century, it served as the hunting lodge of Tsar Ferdinand of Bulgaria and his son Boris III. When Bulgaria became a communist state in 1945, the palace was nationalized, but the democratic changes in the 1990s led to the return of the palace to Simeon II, the last monarch of Bulgaria.
Overnight.

Depart to Velingrad, the spa capital of the Balkans, situated in the western Rhodope Mountains. Although the area was inhabited by the Thracians, Slavs, Byzantines and Romans, the real treasures are the natural mineral water springs. Velingrad has about eighty mineral springs, so the spa lovers can savor one or many of the procedures, massages and balneology treatments.
Overnight.

More time to enjoy the spas or explore the area.
The romantic travelers can enjoy a scenic ride on a narrow-gauge rail with marvelous views of mountains river ands gorges, the history enthusiasts can visit the nearby  small town of Batak, while the active travelers can take any of the numerous hikes around. Regardless of the activity, the Rhodope Mountain will be your constant companion.
Overnight.

Drive through the beautiful Jundola region and cross into Pirin mountain. Pirin is the country's second highest mountain, with highest peak Vihren (2,914m) and is home to 176 mountain lakes and about 100 varieties of rare plants, including the edelweiss and the famous Baikousheva fir. A large part of the mountain is encompassed in Pirin National Park and is included in the UNESCO Heritage List.
Bansko, the current most popular ski resort is situated at the foot of Vihren peak. The town of Bansko has developed into a ski resort of European and global magnitude, yet in the other seasons, Bansko is the focal point for hiking, horse back riding, golfing or simply enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Pirin.

The Old Town of Bansko preserves its historic character and charm and there are multiple museums and landmarks of national significance. Traditional restaurants, called mahanas, are plenty and serve local culinary specialties as well as the customary Bulgarian cuisine.
Overnight.

Back into the Rhodope mountains, but in a different corner. The day starts with a drive to the village of Kovachevitca where you will feel as if the time has stopped in 19^th century and is one of the many reasons why the village is used as a backdrop in film productions. The stone houses are beyond impressive and any new development follows the old architectural style. Later continue for overnight at the small mountain village of Leshten.

Depart for Bulgaria’s smallest town- Melnik. Melnik is as famous for the spectacular sand pyramids above it as for its unique sort of wine (produced form the wide Melnik grape vine). After some exploring, lunch and wine tasting, continue for Rila Monastery, nestled in the beautiful Rila Mountain. It is the biggest monastery in Bulgaria, remarkable for its location, architecture and murals.
Early evening arrival in Sofia.
Overnight.

Transfer to the airport for departure.