Cycling trip in Balkan Mountains
Come and join us on an exhilarating cycling adventure through the heart of the Balkan Mountains! During this trip, we will explore the northern and central regions of the mountains, which are renowned for their unspoiled natural beauty, verdant valleys, steep cliffs, and rolling hills that provide endless unique biking opportunities.
Day 1. Sofia. Arrival at Sofia airport and transfer to our hotel.
Day 2. Sofia - Goliam Izvor village - Ribaritsa village. Our journey begins with a transfer to Golyam Izvor village in the early morning, which is the starting point for our bike ride. From there, we pedal towards the town of Teteven, with an optional detour to the Glozhene monastery. Upon reaching Teteven, we will pause for a short break to discover the town and pay a visit to the local historical museum and church. Alternatively, you may opt for a brief bike and hike tour to a nearby eco-trail. Our ride continues as we make our way to Ribaritsa village, where we will spend the night.
Day 3. Ribaritsa village - Troyan monastery - Apriltsi. Our cycling adventure today begins with a challenging climb from Ribaritsa village to reach the highest point of the day, Bogoi pass (1185m a.s.l). After conquering the ascent, we will enjoy a thrilling downhill ride all the way to the town of Troyan, passing through the charming village of Shipkovo, where you can take a refreshing dip in the mineral water swimming pools. Following lunch in the town centre of Troyan, we will pay a visit to the nearby Pottery and Craft Exhibition "Oreshaka" and the renowned Troyan monastery. Our overnight stay will be in Apriltsii village.
Day 4. Apriltsi - Gabrovo - Etura. Following breakfast, we begin our cycling journey from Apriltsi to Gabrovo, traversing quiet village roads. Along the way, we will be treated to scenic views of small villages, verdant meadows, and river valleys. Our ride commences with a moderate climb, followed by an enjoyable descent before we reach the town of Gabrovo. After a brief rest in the town, we continue towards "Etura," an open-air ethnographic museum. Here, you may take a break or choose to extend your ride by an additional 6km to visit the nearby Sokolski Monastery. B/-/D
Day 5. Gabrovo - Tryavna - Bozhentsi. Following breakfast, we embark on today's cycling adventure from Gabrovo, commencing with a brief uphill ride, followed by a downhill journey towards the town of Tryavna. Upon arrival, we will take a short lunch break and take in the sights of the picturesque old town. We will then continue on to our final destination for the day - Bozhentsi.
Day 6. Bozhentsi - Dryanovo monastery - Elena. In the morning, we will be transferred to the Dryanovo monastery, where we will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Orthodox monastery and visit the nearby cave. From there, our cycling adventure will commence in the village of Yalovo, as we journey towards the town of Elena, passing through a number of small villages and enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Iovkovtsi dam along the way.
Day 7. Elena - Arbanassi - Veliko Turnovo - Sofia. Our cycling journey continues from Elena, as we pedal towards our final destination - the Arbanasi Architectural Reserve. Along the way, we will be treated to a diverse landscape, encompassing verdant meadows, sprawling pastures, cultivated lands, and hilly shrubbery, culminating in the beautiful plateau overlooking Veliko Tarnovo. Following a brief lunch break in Arbanassi, we will continue on to Veliko Tarnovo, where we will take a sightseeing tour to learn more about the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. In the afternoon, we will be transferred to Sofia, where we will spend our final night.
Day 8. Departure. Transfer to Sofia airport for departure.