Come explore undiscovered Eastern Europe on a private adventure through Bulgaria, a land of high peaks and crystalline glacial lakes, where fields of herbs and wild fruit stand alongside picturesque mountain hamlets. You値l trek through Pirin National Park, where gigantic spires of marble and granite hide hundreds of tiny lakes. And in the Rila Mountains葉he highest range in Southeastern Europe!遥ou値l hike to the source of the Iskar and Marica Rivers, and then explore the massive 10th-century Rila Monastery, originally built during the reign of Tsar Peter I. You値l explore this lush countryside on foot, delving into the heart of these impressive mountains and dense forests. For strong hikers who want to explore a hidden corner of Europe, Bulgaria offers exquisite scenery and old-world culture in a stunning locale that has yet to be widely visited.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Bulgaria, Europe痴 hidden wilderness gem, before everyone else catches on!
- Intensive hiking through a dramatic region of dense forests, craggy peaks, and endless lakes
- Experience old-world culture and charm as we visit the Rila Monastery as well as many picturesque mountain villages
DAY 1
Arrive in Sofia, Bulgaria, and tour this charming ancient city.
DAY 2
Hike in the Vitosha Mountains, one of the nine nature parks in Bulgaria and the first such ecological reserve established anywhere in the Balkans.
DAY 3
You値l make your way into the heart of the Rila Mountains, exploring the sacred Seven Rila Lakes.
DAY 4
Visit the Rila Monastery, the largest Orthodox sanctuary in the Balkans and a World Heritage Site. After, head for the picturesque village of Dobarsko in South Rila where you値l visit several Eastern Orthodox churches and have dinner in the home of a gracious local family.
DAY 5
After a stroll through the village of Bansko, head into the species-rich Pirin Mountains for a long hike through alpine meadows and pine forests. Continue to the tiny town of Melnick, an architectural reserve (96 of the buildings are classified as cultural monuments!).
DAY 6
Hike through a labyrinth of sandstone hills to reach the Rojen Monastery, originally built in 890. From a high pass you値l have expansive views of the Mesta Valley and the Rodopi Mountains. Overnight in the village of Kovachevitsa.
DAY 7
A choice of optional day hikes, including a long hike to the chapel of Saint Georgi.
DAY 8
Wind into the spectacular Rodopi Mountains by narrow gauge train, then disembark for a hike down to the flowery meadows of Velingrad, famous for its mineral baths.
DAY 9
Spend the day exploring the mountains near Velingrad, with a stop at beautiful Batak Lake.
DAY 10
Transfer to Sofia for departure.
Stay a Little Longer
Why Mountain Travel Sobek is Your First Choice for Adventure
Mountain Travel Sobek is the pioneer in active adventure travel. No other adventure travel company can lay claim to that title. We were the first to take Americans trekking in Nepal, raft the wild rivers of Africa, and open up many previously inaccessible corners of the world to curious travelers. We set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Since we are the leading adventure company, we have a lot to live up to, so we make sure we provide safe, quality trips and the best customer service to our passengers.
References
Don't take our word for how great our trips are. We'll be happy to provide you with references of satisfied past travelers. Just give us a call at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235).
Questions?
Feel free to call us at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235) if you still have any questions or concerns. We're here to help you.
Note on Itinerary
Although we will do our very best to adhere to the itinerary schedule as listed, it is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. Please read the Limitations of Liability and Booking Conditions in the four-page Participant Information Form.
This itinerary has been carefully designed for optimal value. You may wish to combine this tour with another or add extensions at the beginning or end of your trip. However, if you wish to customize this tour, other terms and conditions apply (ask us about information on customized adventures). Travel Agent commissions or any type of other discounts do not apply to this tour.
Conditions of Participation
Your participation on a Mountain Travel Sobek trip is subject to the conditions stated in the four-page Participant Information Form, which includes the Agreement and Release from Liability and the Booking Conditions. We urge you to read this information carefully, and to call us if you have any questions.
Note on Services
We often use local suppliers who provide services that may include transportation, equipment, logistic support, and other services (hotels, restaurants, etc.). We do not own or operate these independent suppliers. We work with service providers who share our commitment to safety and quality, and work closely with them to develop itineraries unique to Mountain Travel Sobek.
Ready to go? Signing up is easy!
Just call us at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235) or make a reservation request online. Immediately after we receive your deposit, we will request your preferred dates. Upon confirmation (usually within four business days), we will send you a packet with all the information you need to get ready for your trip, including clothing recommendations, suggested reading lists, and other details.
Approximately 30 days before your departure, we'll send you detailed, step-by-step instructions, with emergency contact numbers, a detailed map, and other important information. Upon arrival at your destination, you will be met by your in-country host who will help orient you and describe what to expect in the week to come.