Mountain Symphony: Rhodopes & Pirin
The Spirit of Travel
Mountains with soul, villages with history, and mystical caves that echo with legends. This program takes you into the heart of the Rhodopes and introduces you to Pirin – a mountain of fresh air, traditions, and wine. You’ll cross ancient towns, explore breathtaking caves and viewpoints, taste local cuisine, and unwind in the mineral springs of Devin. The journey ends with a worthy finale – the Rila Monastery and the magic of Sofia.
Program
Day 1: Welcome to Bulgaria – Sofia → Plovdiv
Arrival at Sofia Airport and transfer to Plovdiv, a city marked by Thracians, Romans, and
Bulgarian revivalists. Hotel check-in and free time for rest or a stroll. Optional: cocktail in the
lively Kapana district. Dinner and overnight in Plovdiv.
Day 2: History & Spirituality – Plovdiv → Bachkovo Monastery → Rhodopes
Morning walk through Old Plovdiv – cobblestone streets, revival-era houses, and the
Ancient Theatre. Afternoon visit to Bachkovo Monastery, a peaceful sanctuary in the
mountains. Continue to the Rhodopes with accommodation in the Smolyan / Shiroka Laka
area or a traditional guesthouse. Evening folklore program with music and dance. Overnight
stay.
Day 3: In the Heart of the Rhodopes
Morning visit to Uhlovitsa Cave, one of the region’s most beautiful. Afternoon activities of
your choice: hike to the Canyon of Waterfalls, explore Golubovitsa Cave, jeep safari, cooking
class with a local chef, or yoga in nature. Dinner and overnight in the Rhodopes.
Day 4: Rhodope Authenticity & Spa Relaxation – Shiroka Laka → Devin
Stroll through Shiroka Laka, famous for its traditional architecture and strong musical
heritage. Continue to Devin, a mineral spa town perfect for relaxation and recovery. Check
into a spa hotel, free time, dinner, and overnight.
Day 5: Caves & Panoramas – Natural Wonders of the Rhodopes
Explore Devil’s Throat Cave, descend into Yagodina Cave, and climb up to the Eagle’s Eye
viewpoint for breathtaking mountain views. Evening return to Devin for dinner and
overnight.
Day 6: Lake Views & Pirin Hospitality – Devin → Dospat → Bansko
After breakfast, head to Dospat Lake for lunch with a view of the vast waters. Continue to
Bansko, the jewel of Pirin. Walk through the Old Town, enjoy local wine tasting, visit
museums, and end the day with dinner and live music. Overnight in Bansko.
Day 7: History, Faith & the Capital – Bansko → Rila Monastery → Sofia
Morning stroll in Bansko, then travel to the Rila Monastery – Bulgaria’s greatest spiritual
landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afternoon arrival in Sofia for a panoramic city
tour with highlights such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. George Rotunda, and Vitosha
Boulevard. Overnight in Sofia.
Day 8: Farewell
Breakfast and transfer to Sofia Airport. Departure with memories of an unforgettable journey.
Prices on Request
The price includes:
✔️ 7 nights in selected hotels or traditional guesthouses
✔️ Meal plan of your choice (breakfast only, half board, or full board)
✔️ All transfers and transportation as per program
✔️ Airport pick-up and drop-off (Sofia)
✔️ English-speaking guide services
✔️ Organized visits to:
✔️ Plovdiv Old Town
✔️ Bachkovo Monastery
✔️ Uhlovitsa Cave
✔️ Devil’s Throat Cave
✔️ Yagodina Cave
✔️ Eagle’s Eye viewpoint
✔️ Shiroka Laka
✔️ Rila Monastery
✔️ Sofia panoramic tour
✔️ Folklore evening in the Rhodopes
✔️ Wine tasting & dinner with music in Bansko
✔️ Lunch with lake view at Dospat
The price does not include:
✘ International flights
✘ Personal expenses and drinks outside included meals
✘ Travel insurance (optional)
✘ Optional activities:
✘ Jeep safari
✘ Cooking class
✘ Yoga in nature
✘ Golubovitsa cave
✘ Canyon of Waterfalls
All that’s left is to pack your bags!
To make sure you feel comfortable during your trip, we’ve prepared a list of recommended items that might be useful depending on the season and route.
Here’s what’s good to take with you:
– Valid passport or ID (at least 6 months validity)
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Seasonal clothing:
- Sping/Autumn – jacket, scarf, sweater
- Summer – light clothes, hat, sunscreen
- Winter – warm coat, sturdy shoes
– Camera or smartphone
– Charger / power bank
– Small backpack
– Swimwear (for spa hotels in Devin & Bansko)
– Personal first aid/medication
– Cash for small purchases and tips