• Karlovo - Begin the day with a journey to the quaint town of Karlovo, nestled at the foot of the Balkan Mountains, where you can experience the essence of the 19th-century Revival Period. Wander through the ethnographic and cultural center, visiting some of the finest architectural examples crafted by the local community. Discover the region’s weaving heritage and observe the techniques preserved in these age-old traditions.
• Damascena Ethnographic Complex - The next destination is the village of Skobelevo, where hosts will share the history of the renowned rose-picking ritual. Learn the skills and techniques needed to pick a rosebud. Demonstrate your newfound knowledge by filling a basket with roses yourself (May-June). The journey continues to the rose distillery. A rose expert will lead the tour, explaining the various methods of oil extraction from roses and how the final product is created. It’s time for a tasting! Savor the famous rose products – liquor, Gyulovitsa, and rose jam, and indulge in the delightful aroma of roses and flowers. A traditional lunch will follow.
• Shipka Memorial Church - After passing through the town of Kazanluk, the birthplace of Rosa Damascena, the tour proceeds to the magnificent Shipka Memorial Church, which stands proudly on the Balkan Mountains, overlooking the entire Thracian Valley. The church’s architectural style captivates visitors from a distance. Inside, it is adorned with gilded decorations and intricate paintings, honoring the Russian, Ukrainian, and Bulgarian soldiers who perished in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78.
• Shipka Monument - The journey concludes at Shipka Pass, the site of the historic battle between the Russian and Ottoman armies. Ascending to Shipka Monument offers a breathtaking view of the entire region, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Balkan mountain range. The area is renowned for producing Bulgarian buffalo yogurt. You will have the opportunity to taste this specialty and learn about its history.
• Tomb of Seuthes III - Depending on your interests, on the return trip to Plovdiv, there is an option to visit one of the largest and most significant Thracian tombs in the area – Golyama Kosmatka. This stop provides a chance to learn more about the Thracian lifestyle and traditions.

• Private transportation
• Professional guide services
• Rose liquor, jam, and buffalo yogurt tasting
• Sightseeing as per program

• Lunch
• Gratuities
• Personal Expenses
• Entrance fees, Visits

Explore the fascinating journey of the renowned Rosa Damascena and discover the art of cultivating this exquisite flower, along with the rich traditions woven into its history. This tour offers a rare opportunity to visit a rose distillery and witness the annual rose oil extraction process carried out by the local community. Delight in tasting unique rose-flavored delicacies and gain insight into the traditional rosebud-picking ceremonies. Additionally, the tour includes visits to some of the valley’s most historic towns, which still embody the resilient spirit of the locals who resisted the Ottoman Empire. As you drive along the picturesque road to Shipka Pass, enjoy ample time to take in the stunning vistas that unfold with each turn, showcasing the majestic Balkan Mountain Range. The Shipka Monument stands as a powerful symbol of Bulgaria’s fight for political, cultural, and religious freedom and independence.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.