8 days/7 nights
Specific Tour
Unlimited
English, French, German, Italian, Spanish
This immersive 8-day journey takes you through some of the most enigmatic and underexplored corners of western Bulgaria — where sandstone cliffs rise like ancient sentinels, prehistoric art hides deep within caves, and the rhythms of village life echo through weaving looms and monastery bells. From the rock sanctuaries of the northwest to the alpine heights of Rila and the sunlit vineyards of Melnik, this tour blends history, nature, craftsmanship, and taste into a rich cultural adventure. Begin in Sofia, where layers of Thracian, Roman, and Ottoman history reveal themselves under a modern cityscape. Journey through the dramatic Iskar Gorge, hike among the surreal Ritlite Rocks, and descend into the crystal-lit halls of Ledenika Cave. In Belogradchik, discover a fortress carved into towering red cliffs, and in Magura Cave, view some of Europe’s oldest cave paintings and taste wines aged in prehistoric silence. In Chiprovtsi, meet the guardians of a UNESCO-listed carpet tradition and enjoy craft beer infused with mountain herbs. Continue to Kyustendil, a town shaped by Roman spa culture and medieval fortresses, before soaking in the healing waters of Sapareva Banya. Experience the spiritual grandeur of Rila Monastery, the thrill of rafting on the Struma River, and the serenity of the Seven Rila Lakes, a high-altitude natural amphitheater steeped in legend. End the journey among the sand pyramids of Melnik, where history, architecture, and wine flow together beneath golden cliffs. Whether sipping cave-aged wine, wandering monastic cloisters, or tracing ancient symbols across the landscape, this journey invites you to reconnect with Bulgaria’s sacred past and vibrant living traditions.
Begin your journey in Bulgaria’s vibrant capital. Explore Sofia’s most iconic sites: the golden-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the ancient ruins of Roman Serdica, the Rotunda of St. George, and the neoclassical façade of the National Theatre. Enjoy time in the city center with options for museums, artisan shops, or cafés. Overnight in Sofia.
Head north to the wild beauty of the Iskar Gorge. Begin with a scenic hike along the Ritlite rock formation – a geological phenomenon resembling giant stone walls rising from the riverbed. Enjoy a wine and food tasting near the river canyon, where local wines are paired with cheeses, cured meats, and homemade delicacies. Continue to Ledenika Cave – a marvel of crystal formations and legends beneath the Balkan mountains. Overnight in Belogradchik area.
Climb the stairs of Belogradchik Fortress, nestled among crimson rock towers sculpted by nature and time. Discover the legends etched into their shapes – of monks, maidens, and warriors. Continue to Magura Cave, known for its Neolithic rock art and exceptional acoustics. Within the cave itself, enjoy a wine tasting session of sparkling and still wines matured in the natural cellars. Overnight in Belogradchik area.
Travel west to Chiprovtsi, known for its UNESCO-listed carpets and strong weaving traditions. Visit the local museum and meet artisans preserving these ancient techniques. Enjoy a tasting at a craft brewery, where mountain herbs flavor small-batch beers.In the afternoon, continue to Kyustendil to explore the Hisarlaka Fortress and the well-preserved Roman Thermae, reflecting the town’s rich spa heritage since Roman times. Arrive in Sapareva Banya by evening — a mineral spa town nestled at the foot of the Rila Mountains. Overnight stay.
Start the day with a visit to Rila Monastery – Bulgaria’s largest and most sacred Orthodox monastery. Admire its vivid frescoes, arcaded balconies, and peaceful courtyard surrounded by forested peaks. In the afternoon, embrace a more adventurous spirit with a rafting experience on the Struma River – a wild yet accessible ride through canyons and forested banks. Return to Sapareva Banya and relax in the healing mineral baths. Overnight in the area.
Set off on a high-altitude hike to the Seven Rila Lakes – a natural wonder and spiritual symbol for many Bulgarians. Each lake has a name, a legend, and a distinct character, connected by a scenic trail that climbs above the clouds. Weather permitting, reach the uppermost lake for a breathtaking view of the glacial amphitheater. Overnight in Sapareva Banya area.
Drive south through the slopes of Pirin to reach Melnik, a town famed for its distinct sandstone formations and well-preserved architecture. Once home to wealthy merchants and more than 25 wine cellars, Melnik is now a tranquil open-air museum. Visit the 18th-century Kordopulova House and explore the narrow streets set beneath golden cliffs. Continue to Heraclea Sintica — an ancient Roman city being unearthed from the earth. Walk through column-lined avenues and learn about its ties to the Hellenistic world. Overnight in Melnik.
After breakfast, transfer back to Sofia for your departure
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