Vitosha Mountain - Panoramic View of Sofia, Boyana Waterfall, and Boyana Church

Vitosha Mountain - Embark on a trek starting from Aleko Hut to the peak of Kamen Del, known for its sporadically sculpted moraines, standing at an altitude of 1862 meters. From here, enjoy a unique panoramic view of Sofia. The ascent takes about 1.5 hours, and after celebrating with photos, we head to Momina Skala (Girl’s Rock) Hut for lunch. Next, we visit Boyana Falls, the highest waterfall in the mountain at 25 meters, described by Bulgarian poet Ivan Vazov as “out in the skies.” We then proceed to Boyana Lake to relax by the water and enjoy the butterflies and dragonflies. Our final stop is Boyana Church, known for its pre-Renaissance murals and recognized as a UNESCO heritage site.

Welcome dinner at Vodenicata restaurant, where we will witness barefoot dancers on hot coals!

Plovdiv - The Sixth Oldest Living City in the World

Plovdiv Old Town - Our journey continues with a transfer to Plovdiv, approximately 1.5 hours away.

Plovdiv ranks among the top 10 ancient cities globally. Inhabited since 4,000 B.C., starting as a Neolithic settlement, it has been conquered by the Thracians, Greeks, and Romans over the years.

The second-largest city in Bulgaria impresses with its rich cultural life, beautiful ancient architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. Plovdiv was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019.

What we will see:

• The Old Town - 19th century (History Museum)
• Ancient Amphitheater from the 1st century
• Roman Stadium from the 2nd century
• Bishop Basilica from the 4th century

After exploring Plovdiv, we will go on a wine tour to the village of Yustina, home to one of the wineries in the Thracian Valley. You will have the chance to taste five different wines.

We return to Plovdiv around 5 pm.

Plovdiv Roman Theatre - One of the world’s best-preserved ancient Roman theatres, located in the city center of modern Plovdiv. It was constructed in the 1st century AD.

Small Basilica - The largest late antique early-Christian church discovered in Bulgaria and one of the largest from that period in the Balkans, dating back to the early 4th century.

7 Rila Lakes – A Natural Heritage Gem

Seven Rila Lakes - After breakfast, we transfer to the first station of the chairlift at the Panichishte area, which will take us to the trailhead. The transport duration is 2 hours. We will explore the Cirque of the Seven Rila Lakes, situated between 2100 and 2500 meters (6900 and 8200 feet) in altitude. These famous glacier lakes offer a magnificent scenery. We will enjoy panoramic views of the Vitosha, Osogovo, and Stara Planina mountains. Relaxing at the natural hot springs is one of the highlights of the town.

In this town, you can see the only natural geyser in Bulgaria.

Overnight stay at Sapareva Banya – Hotel “Via Lakus”

Aqua Club Kotvata & Restaurant Kotvata - Relax at the natural hot springs! Sapareva Banya boasts the hottest hot spring in the country at 103°C.

The Goriza River Gorge – Rila Monastery and the Cave of Saint John of Rila

Rila Monastery - Transfer to Rila Monastery, which takes about 1 hour.

The monastery was established in the 10th century by the Bulgarian hermit John of Rila, who was declared a saint during his lifetime. Saint John of Rila lived between 876 and 946. The first monastery was located several kilometers higher in the mountain, where the hermit lived and prayed. It was a modest place, hosting the saint and his followers. The construction of the present structure began around the 13th to 14th centuries. The oldest surviving building today is a tower inside the monastery yard, known as Hrelyo’s Tower.

The current appearance of Rila Monastery dates back to the 19th century. The frescoes inside were created by the most famous and talented Bulgarian artists of the time.

At the end of the day, we will take a short walk (40 minutes) to the cave where St. John of Rila lived as a hermit for 7 years—a special, holy place.

Lunch at a restaurant by the Rilska River.

Climbing Vihren Peak – The Third Highest in the Balkans

Vihren - For active hikers, we offer a moderate hike to Pirin’s highest summit, Vihren, at 2914 meters above sea level.

To reach the summit, we will hike along the southern slope. The marble stones provide shelter to rare edelweiss flowers and mountain goats. The reward is a stunning view from the top, featuring numerous lakes and creeks, summits above 2500 meters, and expansive mountains and valleys.

The return route will pass along the north face of Vihren, towering over 300 meters (1000 feet).

Wine Tasting in Melnik and Visiting Rozhen Monastery

Melnik - The smallest Bulgarian town, Melnik, offers amazing scenery. The town is at the foot of a unique natural phenomenon – the Melnik sand pyramids. The houses in Melnik date back to the National Revival period, showcasing typical architecture. The Melnik region is also famous for its specific grape variety.

During the tour, you will get to taste wines from five carefully selected wine cellars, one of which is 100% organic.

Rozhen Monastery - Rozhen Monastery is the largest monastery in the Pirin Mountains, located in southwest Bulgaria. It is one of the few medieval Bulgarian monasteries well-preserved to this day. Enjoy this tour of the medieval Rozhen Monastery, the picturesque town of Melnik, and the best wines of this beautiful corner of Bulgaria.

Lunch at a Mehana.

Return to Bansko. Before heading to the hotel, we will relax at the hot spring in the village of Banya.

Transfer to Sofia Airport

Vrazhdebna - Departure for home.

• Accommodation
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Video and pictures

• Entrance fees each attraction is 10 euro

Experience the scenic beauty of Bulgaria’s alpine hikes in Rila and Pirin Mountains. Traverse expansive national parks featuring vast alpine meadows, jagged summits, glacial lakes, and rocky rivers. Spot unique flora and fauna.

We will go on a day’s hike with light backpacks – you’ll find trekking to be a lot more enjoyable without a heavy load.

The additional experience is a comprehensive introduction to Bulgarian wines through a guided tasting at local vineyards.

Key Features

• Four mountains trekking adventure
• Ascend some of the tallest peaks in the Balkans
• Venture on the finest alpine trails in unspoiled Bulgaria
• Explore the National Parks of Rila and Pirin
• Socialize with new faces
• Savor regional delicacies
• Sampling top-notch Bulgarian wines
• Visit to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Reside in one of the oldest cities in the world – Plovdiv

Optimum time: From July to October!

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