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The Spartacus Trail Ride - Bulgaria from the Saddle

Exploring Bulgaria in 11 Days - 10 Nights and 5 Days in the Saddle

Day by day
The Spartacus Trail Ride Bulgaria from the Saddle, Entre Orejas.png

Day by day:

* Description below is an example of the program. The itinerary can be different during your travel week.
We will do everything possible to follow the indicated itinerary, although spot changes can occur due to unforeseen circumstances. Rides are subject to change depending on weather, location, accommodation and difficulty of terrain  In the unlikely event that this happens on your trip, we ask you flexibility and understanding.  
This is a sporty and adventurous vacation!

PART 1 OF THE TRIP – The Non-Riding Part

27 October – 01 November 2024

 

Day 1 : 27 October - Sunday 

Arrival at Sofia International Airport. 
We typically arrive on Sundays, offering you the option to explore Sofia for a couple of days before the adventure begins. Tonight, we'll be nestled in a charming hotel within Plovdiv's captivating Old Town—a cultural gem renowned as Bulgaria's most artistic city and Europe's oldest continuously inhabited settlement. Under the expert guidance of Gaby, your knowledgeable guide, you'll embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of this remarkable town. Together, you'll unearth its hidden treasures and delve deep into its rich tapestry of history, where every house echo stories of ancient times. As you explore the labyrinthine streets, prepare to feast your senses on the delectable cuisine that reflects centuries of culinary tradition, and marvel at the city's unique architectural blend, where ancient ruins stand juxtaposed with vibrant, contemporary art installations.

  • Accommodation: Hotel Evmolpia or similar. 

  • Travel distance and time: 1h 30 minutes, 130 km from Sofia 

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Day 2 :  28 October – Monday

Breakfast. Today, we journey to the Rhodope Mountains, an iconic region where ancient traditions still endure against the beats of modern times Here, in a remote village where only a handful still reside, we'll be welcomed into a local family home deep in the mountains. Prepare to immerse yourself in Bulgarian folklore traditions and the haunting melodies of the Rhodopean singers under a blanket of stars during an unforgettable cultural evening. Gaby’s most favorite place in the whole country - a hidden gem cherished by few, even among Bulgarians.

  • Surprise accommodation in Bosilkovo village.

  • Travel distance and time: 2 hours, 97km from Plovdiv

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Day 3 :  29 October – Tuesday

After a delicious homemade breakfast, you'll have time to explore the village and go on some small hikes in the mountains. Before noon, we set off for one of the most breathtaking destinations in the country: the Yagodina and Trigrad River Gorges. En route, we'll pause for a traditional village lunch in Shiroka Laka. After a brief time to relax and rejuvenate from the two-hour journey, locals will arrive with spacious 4x4 vehicles ready to embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure. We'll ascend to the highest point of the mountain to witness a mesmerizing sunset—a truly unforgettable experience!

  • Accommodation: Hotel Mursal, Yagodina or similar 

  • Travel distance and time: 3 hours, 115km from Bosilkovo

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Day 4 :  30 October - Wednesday

Breakfast. Today offers an optional early morning adventure with a hike along the Devil’s Eco Path, a marvel of natural beauty that promises stunning landscapes and invigorating tranquility. Next on the agenda is a visit to the legendary Devil’s Throat Cave, a place steeped in mystery and intrigue—rumored to have confounded even the most notorious National Geographic scientists. Prepare for an epic drive as we delve deeper into the secrets of this enigmatic cavern. Later, we embark on a picturesque two-hour journey to the architectural wonders of Leshten and Kovachevitsa, where our traditional guest house accommodations await. With free time to explore or perhaps even participate in a cooking lesson, the day promises immersion in both culture and cuisine. 

  • Accommodation: Leshtenska Idiliya Guest House or Lavanda Guest House in Kovachevitsa, or similar.

  • Travel distance and time: 2h 30 min, 97km from Yagodina

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Day 5 :  31 October – Thursday

After a hearty breakfast, we venture to the outskirts of the awe-inspiring Pirin Mountain—a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here, we have the privilege of meeting Baba Deshka, a beloved local figure famous for her culinary prowess and entertaining anecdotes. Prepare to be enchanted by her unique charm and the delectable flavors of traditional Bulgarian cuisine. In the afternoon, our journey continues as we pass to the highest train station in Bulgaria, driving through one of the most picturesque regions in the Rhodope Mountains. Finally, we reach the village of Dabravite (2h 30min drive) where we are spending the night at one of our signature guest houses. Expect a warm welcome from our delightful hosts, creators of these uniquely designed houses where you'll indulge in the most delicious organic cuisine, coming directly from our hosts’ garden. 

  • Accommodation: Cob Camp, Dabravite

  • Travel distance and time: 2h 30min, 110km from Kovachevitsa​

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PART 2 OF THE TRIP – The Riding Part

01 – 05 November 2024

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Day 6:  01 November - Friday

  • Early breakfast and departure from Cob camp. 

  • Arrival at the stable. Introducing the horses to the riders,  preparations and instructions by the guides.

  • Picnic in a nice wooden shelter next to Matenitsa village, situated in the foot of the mountain.

  • Afternoon ride to Krasnovo village, famous for its mineral baths situated on the southern slopes of Sredna Gora Mountain.

  • Accommodation and dinner in the Spa Hotel Aqua Termi. Before dinner you can have aquatic relaxation procedures and massages, and swim in the mineral water pool.

  • About 26 km (4,5 hours) of riding.

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Day 7 :   02 November - Saterday

  • Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Start from Krasnovo village, ride through rose gardens and up into the heart of the mountain.

  • Lunch at the beautiful Buntovna Hut at 1180 m altitude. It is located in an old beech forest in the historic area of Konska Polyana, Kulata and Kanara, offering an amazing view.

  • Afternoon ride through a deep forest and the lovely open mountaintop, ending up near the town of Koprivshtitsa. You will have time to explore the unique town after the ride – it hides one of the best preserved traditional architectural examples of the 18th century.

  • Accommodation in  hotel ”Eagle Rock”, situated in the middle of the mountain hills, where you can hear the sheep’s bells playing a song. The hotel has a swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and a sauna.

  • Dinner of local meals and wine.

  • About 35 km (6 hours) of riding.

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Day 8 : 03 November - Sunday

  • Breakfast

  • Ride through an untouched forest around Strelcha town and reach the very top of the beautiful peak “Wolf” – 1240m, with an amazing panoramic view of the Upper Thracian Plain and the surrounding mountains.

  • Picnic under a cosy wooden shelter just a few kilometers down the “Wolf” peak. We will visit the town of Panagyurishte after the ride. 

  • Overnight in cozy wooden hut with a hot jacuzzi and delicious homemade dinner. 

  • About 25 km (4.5 hours) of riding

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Day 9 : 04 November - Monday

  • Breakfast at the hut.

  • Ride through rose fields and nice vineyards, and along sandy lakes.

  • Picnic in a cherry garden next to the village of Krastevich.

  • Accommodation in the luxurious Wine & Spa Complex Starosel.

  • Before dinner you can enjoy the nice Spa centre or join a wine tour.

  • Dinner at a nice restaurant in the complex.

  • About 28 km (5 hours) of riding.

 

Day 10 : 05 November - Tuesday

  • Breakfast at the hotel.

  • Visit of the Starosel Thracian Cult Complex. It is the largest preserved Thracian King Complex with a temple-mausoleum in Southeast Europe. It dates back to the 5th century BC. You will get to learn about the mysterious Thracians and their amazing cultural heritage and historic significance.

  • Beautiful, long gallops among meadows, riding near Pyasachnik artificial lake – the biggest in the area – with a panoramic view of the mountain.

  • Picnic in the meadows near Panicheri village.

  • Afternoon ride across forests, meadows and along lakes, doing a full circle which ends in Hisarya.

  • Visit to the remains of a fortress wall, belonging to the ancient Roman town Diocletianopolis – the third largest in the ancient Thrace province. Hisarya was an active Roman Spa Resort and was at one point used as a rehabilitation centre for wounded Roman soldiers.

  • Farewell dinner in the evening. Accommodation in luxurious surprise tour location. 

  • About 25km (4 hours) of riding

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Day 11 : 06 November – Wednesday

After breakfast transfer to Sofia International Airport.


End of the program

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The Spartacus Trail Ride Bulgaria from the Saddle, Entre Orejas.png
The Spartacus Trail Ride Bulgaria from the Saddle, Entre Orejas.png
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