7 DAYS IN BULGARIA

Nestled at the foot of Vitosha Mountain, Sofia exudes enchanting charm with its diverse architectural landmarks, from the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout the city. As a dynamic European hub, Sofia captivates visitors with its lively atmosphere, bustling markets, and thriving culinary scene, making it a compelling destination.

Boyana Church

You will visit the Boyana Church. A visit to the Boyana Church is a journey through centuries of artistic mastery, as this UNESCO World Heritage Site features some of the finest examples of medieval Bulgarian frescoes. Nestled on the outskirts of Sofia, the meticulously preserved interior of the church offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Morning Walking Tour of Sofia. Embark on a fascinating walking tour of Sofia, starting at the iconic St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the largest church in Bulgaria. Your journey will pass through the famous yellow sidewalks, a symbol of Sofia’s city center, and a path to key landmarks such as the National Assembly, the Council of Ministers, and the National Theater. Walking along these cobblestones, you will encounter architectural jewels such as the Sofia City Baths, the Banya Bashi Mosque, the Central Sofia Halls, the Synagogue, the Church of St. Nedelya, and the National Palace of Culture, each of which reveals a unique aspect of the city’s heritage. To truly immerse yourself in the contemporary spirit of Sofia, your walk can end with a visit to the pedestrian Vitosha Blvd., where you can enjoy a nice lunch or coffee.

Departure to Plovdiv - transfer approximately 2 hours (150 km).

With over 6,000 years of history, Plovdiv proudly calls itself the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe. Wander its charming cobblestone streets, where well-preserved Roman ruins harmonize with a vibrant art scene and lively cafes, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Morning Culinary Tour Begin your journey through the charming streets, where the enticing aroma of traditional Bulgarian delicacies fills the air. Our local guide will take you to hidden treasures in the old town and immerse you in the lively atmosphere of the Kapana district, where you can choose between trendy cafes and traditional taverns, offering a delightful blend of contemporary and timeless Bulgarian flavors. Along the way, you will also discover the city’s passion for wine as you sample local varieties and learn about the rich winemaking in the region.

Roman ruins

As part of your walking tour, you will also explore the Roman ruins of Plovdiv. The entire city is built on ruins dating back to the Roman Empire, which are still being excavated today! The Ancient Theater of Philippopolis, a marvel of Roman engineering, is a testament to the city’s rich past. Built in the 2nd century AD, this amphitheater once hosted grand performances and gatherings, and today its well-preserved seats offer panoramic views of Plovdiv. The Roman Stadium, another striking relic, lies beneath the city’s bustling streets. Originally used to host sporting events, this well-preserved structure showcases the grandeur of Roman architecture. As you wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you will come across remains of Roman walls, gates, and buildings, revealing the lasting impact of Roman civilization on Plovdiv’s cityscape.

Bachkovo Monastery

Considered the second largest and most significant Bulgarian monastery, this sacred site is a cultural crossroads, blending influences from Byzantine, Old Georgian and Bulgarian traditions. Founded in 1083 by Georgian brothers, the monastery preserves the oldest carved wooden iconostases in the region, along with a treasure trove of original icons, frescoes, church artifacts and manuscript book covers. A jewel within its walls is the revered icon of the Virgin Mary of Blachernae, encased in silver and revered for its miraculous aura, although its origin has remained shrouded in mystery since its discovery in the early 19th century. The monastery’s extensive library, with a wealth of books and manuscripts dating back to the 1930s, adds another layer to its cultural and historical richness.

Transfer to Gela village. Approximately 2.5 hours (100 km)

Legend has it that Gela, nestled in the enchanting Rhodope Mountains, is the mythical birthplace of Orpheus, who ventured into the nearby Devil’s Throat cave in search of Eurydice. Founded by the Thracians, Gela boasts the remains of a Thracian fortress near its borders, reflecting stories from times gone by. Situated high in the mountains, Gela feels like a secluded haven. Known as one of the three main energy centers of Bulgaria, Gela is blessed with fresh mountain air and the refreshing Fion wind from the Aegean Sea, offering a paradise for respiratory health. The village exudes a peaceful atmosphere, encouraging a deep connection with nature and a sense of peaceful solitude. Gela’s appeal extends beyond its natural beauty, drawing music enthusiasts to the annual National Bagpipe Festival held in the heart of summer. Nestled in the Rhodope Mountains, a world center for bagpipers, Gela becomes a stage for over 10,000 visitors who enjoy the magical symphony of this iconic instrument, adding another layer to the village's cultural significance.

Afternoon Village Walk. Embark on a fascinating walking tour through the picturesque village of Gela in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains, where ancient history and natural beauty merge. Your walk with our guide will take you through impressive landscapes, and part of the adventure will include mushroom picking, learning about different edible mushrooms and traditional picking practices passed down through generations.

Today you will head to the Tuscany of Bulgaria. Upon arrival in Zornitza Family Estate Relais & Chateaux, you will embark on a tour of the estate, starting with a walk through the vineyards and learning more about the winemaking process. Continue your journey through the olive groves, where the estate produces its exceptional olive oil. As the tour progresses, immerse yourself in the luxurious atmosphere of the boutique hotel and spa in the estate, where modern elegance and nature combine and you will enjoy true privacy. The culinary journey that awaits you will impress you with sophisticated flavors, discover the secrets behind the philosophy of our cuisine "from farm to table".

Stay for 3 nights at Zornitza Family Estate Relais & Chateaux

Start your day with a scenic drive to Melnik, the smallest town in Bulgaria, but rich in cultural and historical charm. Stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with traditional Bulgarian houses, many of which are national monuments. You may wish to visit the Kordopulova House (not included), a well-preserved 18th-century mansion showcasing the architectural heritage of the region. Rozhen Monastery Continue your journey to Rozhen Monastery, a significant cultural and religious site. Explore the monastery complex, including the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, decorated with remarkable frescoes and icons. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery’s surroundings and enjoy panoramic views of the Pirin Mountains. Lunch and Free Time After Rozhen Monastery, you will stop for lunch, and the afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy some of the spa treatments and facilities at Zornitza Family Estate.

Today you can indulge in some free time to relax and enjoy some of the spa treatments and facilities at Zornitza Family Estate.

Dinner

Tonight you will enjoy a five-course gourmet dinner prepared by the Chef of Estivum Restaurant. Each dish will be paired with exceptional wines from the estate's winery.

Enjoy lunch by the river on the way to Rila Monastery. Rila Monastery Founded in the 10th century by the revered hermit Saint Ivan of Rila, the UNESCO-listed monastery has undergone expansions and renovations over the years, now revealing a harmonious blend of architectural styles incorporating elements of the Bulgarian Renaissance. The main church, decorated with vivid frescoes depicting biblical scenes, grabs visitors’ attention with its stunning iconostasis and gilded altar.

Transfer to Sofia. Approximately 2.5 hours (175 km).