Balkan Cycling (Bulgaria)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an exhilarating 8-day cycling tour through the heart of Bulgaria, a journey that combines physical challenge with cultural exploration. Starting from the capital city of Sofia, this multi-day tour will take you through quaint villages, historic towns, and stunning landscapes. You'll pedal through Golyam Izvor, Teteven, Ribaritsa, Troyan, Apriltsi, Gabrovo, Tryavna, and Bozhentsi, before concluding your journey in Veliko Tarnovo. Along the way, you'll visit fascinating attractions such as the Glozhene Monastery, the Troyan Monastery, the Etura Ethnographic Museum, and the Arbanasi Architectural Reserve. This tour is not just about cycling; it's about immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Bulgaria. So, gear up for an unforgettable adventure!
Included
7 breakfast
4 dinners
vegetarian, vegan, meat
7 nights at family-run hotels and guest houses in rooms with private facilities
English-speaking guide/driver
Supporting vehicle
Map and roadbook
Technical bike support
Airport transfer on day 1 and 8 and all local transfers
Transport services throughout the duration of the tour.
Destinations
Sofia
Gabrovo
Tryavna
Troyan
Veliko TarnovoMap
Attractions
Glozhene Monastery
Sokolski Monastery
Troyan MonasteryDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Sofia
- Sofia - Arrival day
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Welcome to Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria! Upon your arrival at Sofia airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Golyam Izvor to Ribaritsa
Day 2: Golyam Izvor to Ribaritsa
- Glozhene Monastery
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Kickstart your day with a transfer to Golyam Izvor village, the starting point of our cycling adventure. Pedal your way towards Teteven, with an optional detour to the historic Glozhene Monastery. After exploring Teteven, continue your ride to Ribaritsa village, where you'll spend the night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Ribaritsa to Apriltsi
- Troyan
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- The Bloody Well (Benkovski)
- Troyan Monastery
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Start your day with a challenging ascent from Ribaritsa to Bogoi pass, followed by a thrilling ride down to Troyan. After a refreshing bath in the mineral water pools of Shipkovo, visit the Pottery and Craft Exhibition 'Oreshaka' and the famous Troyan Monastery. End your day in the serene village of Apriltsi.
Day 4 – Day 4: Apriltsi to Gabrovo
- Gabrovo
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- Damascena Ethnographic Complex
- Sokolski Monastery
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Cycle from Apriltsi to Gabrovo, passing through picturesque villages and verdant meadows. After a short break in Gabrovo, continue to the 'Etura' Ethnographic Museum. You can choose to rest here or add an extra 6km of cycling to visit the Sokolski Monastery.
Day 5 – Day 5: Gabrovo to Bozhentsi
- Gabrovo
- Tryavna
- Bozhentsi
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- Bozhentsi Village - Architecture Reserve
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Start your day with a ride from Gabrovo to Tryavna, where you'll take a break to explore the charming old town. After lunch, continue your journey to the final stop for the day - the enchanting Bozhentsi architectural reserve.
Day 6 – Day 6: Yalovo to Elena
- Bozhentsi
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- Sokolski Monastery
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A morning transfer brings you to the Dryanovo Monastery. After exploring the monastery and the nearby cave, start your ride from Yalovo towards Elena. Enjoy the scenic route along the magnificent Iovkovtsi dam and through several small villages.
Day 7 – Day 7: Elena to Sofia via Veliko Tarnovo
- Veliko Tarnovo
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- Bozhentsi Village - Architecture Reserve
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Cycle from Elena to the Arbanasi Architectural Reserve, passing through beautiful landscapes. After a lunch break in Arbanasi, continue to Veliko Tarnovo for a sightseeing tour. Learn about the history of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom before transferring to Sofia for your last night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Sofia
- Sofia - Departure day
- More
Your Bulgarian cycling adventure comes to an end. You'll be transferred to the airport for your departure. Take home not just memories of a physical challenge, but also of the rich history and culture you've experienced along the way.
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