Introduction
History at a crossroads – this is Bulgaria. And at the greatest crossroads since recorded history: the crossroads between East and West. For nearly six thousand years, the world has been divided like this, and it is still divided like this today.
Land of seven civilizations – this is Bulgaria:
prehistoric civilization, Thracian civilization, Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian-Slavic, Ottoman. There is no other place on the planet where so many civilizations have lived.
The oldest surviving name for a country in Europe is Bulgaria. The country has been called that for more than thirteen centuries.
The oldest city in Europe – Philippopolis/Plovdiv. The oldest processed fine gold in the world – Varna. The most famous mythical and magical singer in the world – Orpheus. The Slavic alphabet, the Cyrillic alphabet, which hundreds of millions still write and read today, is a Bulgarian work – of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius. The most famous and inexplicable prophetess of our time – Baba Vanga, is a Bulgarian from Petrich...
Yes – and this is Bulgaria.
The highest peak in the Balkans. The largest river in the center of Europe. The largest freshwater sea in the world. The most protected natural areas per capita. The first wine in Europe. The most hot mineral springs. The Creator has given everything to Bulgaria.
Yogurt. Rose oil. Rhythmic gymnastics. Opera. Stoichkov. Musical time 7/8. Saving the Jews. Yes – and this is Bulgaria.
The only monarch in history to be elected as prime minister through democratic elections is the Bulgarian Simeon II, who in 2007 signed the country's accession treaty to the European Union.
Or the European Union towards Bulgaria, if we look at the roots of Europe.
Who we are, history
Select Boutique Experiences is a free association of like-minded people, true enthusiasts in creating memorable experiences in the world of hospitality, cuisine and wine, of everything we call hospitality.
Hospitality, understood as the uncompromising quality of the individual approach to service, of the personal attitude towards everyone.
Hospitality, understood as preserving personal space, intimacy and discretion, as the absence of the usual tourist flow, even if it is a flow of millionaires.
Hospitality, understood as preserving the majestic Bulgarian tolerance, honesty and openness that have passed through the centuries.
Hospitality, understood as the presentation of pure and unique nature and food, striking history and millennial traditions.
We are ten dreams of idealists fulfilled, ten lovingly created objects in eight corners of Bulgaria, which we want to give with unforgettable experiences to everyone holding this book-album, which will meet us, our future guests and friends. We are ten inspired visions of hoteliers, winemakers, gastronomes, aesthetes, dreamers and this selection of our boutique experiences is intended for those who will discover beautiful Bulgaria as a hidden treasure, an oasis of tranquility and high quality in an increasingly chaotic world.
And last but not least, we believe that in this way we are also laying the beginning of an aesthetic unification of those in Bulgaria who strive not just for tourism, but for a high-value experience for all the senses.
H. V. Tsar Simeon II
When I first heard about the idea of Select Boutique Experience, I was initially surprised that a similar project had not yet been developed in Bulgaria. The rich palette of natural, historical and folklore features, combined in harmony with luxury, is an incredible chance for Bulgaria to stand out on the map of the highest class of tourism.
Boutique tourism is something that is increasingly appreciated in Southeastern Europe. It is wonderful that a free association of professional hoteliers and restaurateurs is giving a strong impetus to its development and popularization. Moreover, using the enormous potential of the wonderful Bulgarian natural resources, the unique combination of sea, mountains and mineral waters, of wine and roses, of tolerance and pride.
The book you are holding is a kind of roadmap for unique experiences that will surprise and fascinate you. ╖The “steps” in Bulgaria, which have been selected and united by Select Boutique Experience, will give you a new perspective on Europe and the world.
As someone who has also participated in the World Tourism Organization, and as a Prime Minister, I know how important tourism is for peace and understanding. I am convinced that anything done with love, dedication and perseverance will be crowned with success!
View all properties
