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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Bulgaria
Intro to Bulgaria
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Turkey
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Europe Overview
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Rhodope Mountains Ride - In the Land of Orpheus
Mountains
Bulgaria
The Rhodopes, occupying the southern part of Bulgaria and part of Greece, are the homeland of the mythological singer Orpheus. This ride spends 6 days of riding in this enchanting mountain – the land of high peaks and deep river gorges, unique rock formations, lush meadows and dense forests. The western part of the Rhodopes where our ride takes place, offers a variety of terrains in which one can experience of all types of riding and paces. We visit remote villages, stay with local people enjoying their hospitality, local food and excellent wines. We spend also some time in Plovdiv - Europe's oldest inhabited city and 2019 European Capital of Culture.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
Family Vacation
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
Ride with Western Tack
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Meeting:
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Sofia
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Airport:
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Sofia International Airport (SOF)
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Transfer:
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Sofia International Airport (SOF)
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
6 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2021
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All breakfasts and lunches + 4 dinners (from Day 3 to Day 6), 6 riding days, Luggage transport, Airport group transfers & Taxes
Helmets and saddle bags are provided upon request.
| A | 2021 | 8 day trip, MAP 6 riding days | 8d / 7n | €740 | $880 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2021
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Transfer from/to Sofia airport is included
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€
0
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$0
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2021
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Bachkovo visit, per car
- to be paid locally
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€
60
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$75
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2021
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Wine tasting of 3 wines in Todoroff wine residence, pp
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$25
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2021
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Private transfers to/from Sofia Airport to city centre or Plovdiv Airport to city centre, one-way, per vehicle
This is a "Group Rate"
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€
15
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$20
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2021
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Single supplement
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€
100
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$120
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Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Sofia Airport (SOF).
Transfer times are available anytime on the first and last day of the trip.
Transfers on days other than designated first and last day will be subject to a surcharge.
Tour Dates for 2021
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2021
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04/24
- 05/01
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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05/15
- 05/22
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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06/05
- 06/12
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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06/26
- 07/03
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
|
Reserve
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| A |
2021
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07/17
- 07/24
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
|
Reserve
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| A |
2021
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07/31
- 08/07
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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08/14
- 08/21
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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08/28
- 09/04
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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09/11
- 09/18
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2021
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10/02
- 10/09
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, MAP 6 riding da...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
3 dinners, Alcoholic drinks, Gratuities, Private airport transfer
Note:
Due to COVID-19 Corona virus pandemic and certain travel restrictions we are applying some temporary policy changes to some of our tours.
For Rhodope Mountains Ride - In the Land of Orpheus (IT-BGRT10):
We do have safety protocols but they will updated from April 1-st 2021
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrive Sofia
Transfer to our hotel in Sofia for overnight.
Meals included: None
Overnight at Hotel in Sofia
Day 2 (Sunday): Ride around Lyaskovo
Transfer to our riding base in Lyaskovo at the foot of the Rodopi mountains (2.5 hours drive from Sofia), where we meet the horses. Today we make a loop-like ride to get acquainted with the horses. The night is spent with a local family in their guesthouse, enjoying local specialities and bagpipe music.
Riding: 3 hours
Meals included: B/L/D
Overnight at Guesthouse in Lyaskovo
Day 3 (Monday): Lyaskovo to Borino
We start riding South-West, toward the SPA town of Devin, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we continue our ride in the direction of the small village of Borino, where we spend the night in a local family's guesthouse.
Riding: 6-7 hours
Meals included: B/L/D
Overnight at Guesthouse in Borino
Day 4 (Tuesday): Borino to Trigrad
We continue our ride, passing through the heart of Mursalista National Park, on our way to Trigard. The trail offers stunning views over the Trigard Gorge, a canyon made of vertical marble rocks. After lunch, we visit Devil's Throat Cave, a spectacular sight!
Riding: 6 hours
Meals included: B/L/D
Overnight at Hotel in Trigrad
Day 5 (Wednesday): Trigrad to Gela
Today, we start early. Our day's trail will take us to the ancient Chairski Lakes, surrounded by meadows full with orchids in summer. Passing through the picturesque village of Mougla we end the ride above the village of Gela.
Riding: 6 hours
Meals included: B/L/D
Overnight at Guesthouse in Gela
Day 6 (Thursday): Gela
The village of Gela is located at approximately 1500 m above sea level, at the foot of the most impressive peaks of the Rhodope Mountains - Grand Perelik (2191 m), Orpheus (2188 m) and Tourlata (1825 m). Scattered among 7 different hamlets, the village of Gela seems to have changed little over the last few hundred years. A legend associated with the history of the area says that it is the birthplace of Orpheus who came to search for Eurydice in the nearby Devil's Throat cave. Every summer the village hosts a National Bagpipe Festival.
The terrain is perfect for long trots and canters and we ride to the nearby villages Solishta and Stikul.
Free afternoon to relax or take a short tour to the famous village Shiroka Luka, visiting the local museum and school for folk music.
Riding: 3-4 hours
Meals included: B/L/D
Overnight at Guesthouse in Gela
Day 7 (Friday): Gela to Lyaskovo
Following the ridges of Mursalitsa we reach the quarters of Devin, then continue to Lyaskovo, where the ride ends. We say good bye to our horses and drive back to Plovdiv (1.5 hours) where we spend the night at a hotel in the old town.
Riding: 6 hours
Meals included: B/L/-
Overnight at Hotel in Plovdiv
Day 8 (Saturday): Departure
Transfer to Sofia airport for departure (1.5 hours drive).
Meals included: B/-/-
*B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Meeting:
Sofia
Airport:
Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Train station:
Sofia
Transfer:
Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Distance:
10 km / 6 miles
Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Sofia Airport (SOF).
Transfer times are available anytime on the first and last day of the trip.
Transfers on days other than designated first and last day will be subject to a surcharge.
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Tack:
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Western, but there is English tack available on request. Riding helmet is not mandatory.
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Horses:
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Most of the horses belong to the local East-Bulgarian breed with a mid-height of 150 cm, they are well known as responsive, careful and tough mounts, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the mountainous region of the Rhodope Mountains.
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Pace:
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(6-7 hours in the saddle each day).Ranges from a walk on the steeper slopes and rough terrain to trots and canters on the open spaces. Rough estimate is 50 % walking, 25 % trotting and 25 % cantering.
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
4
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Riding Level
The ride is suitable for confident intermediate riders. There will also be occasions where you need to dismount and lead your horse for short periods of time (20 – 30 min) – this can be both uphill as well as downhill so you will need to be reasonably fit.
Pace
This trip includes 6 days of riding in enchanting mountains, deep river gorges, lush meadows and dense forests. The trail offers a variety of terrains in which one can experience of all types of paces. We ride between 4 and 6 hours every day.
Horses
Most of the horses are crossbreeds between the local East-Bulgarian and Karakachan with a mid-height of 150 cm. They are well known as thoughtful and tough, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the mountainous region of the Stara planina (Balkan).
They we are well behaved and are used to each other so you will not experience any trouble with them walking, trotting or cantering in a group together.
Though our horses are suitable for riding, saddling etc. they are still working horses and they are taken care of just like the typical free grazing horses in the region. This might be quite different from what a rider with an experience abroad must have seen, but please, keep in mind that this is how the local people have raised their horses for centuries. As a company that has always tried to help the small local communities in Bulgaria by bringing tourists to them, we would like to ask you to respect and understand these traditions and practices.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Note: EU nationals are on. more
Plovdiv area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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41
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47
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56
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65
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75
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83
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87
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87
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79
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67
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53
|
44
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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27
|
30
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36
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43
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52
|
59
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63
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62
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55
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46
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37
|
29
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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5
|
8
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13
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19
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24
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28
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31
|
30
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26
|
19
|
12
|
7
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-3
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-1
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2
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6
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11
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15
|
17
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17
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13
|
8
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3
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-1
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
Temperatures expected during the time we operate our trips are mild to warm. Rainfalls can happen, but they are usually short. However, heavy showers are possible and can be more prolonged during spring and late autumn.
Spring (March to May)
During this season, it is warm but can be rainy.
Summer (June to August)
These months are usually pleasant and can get quite hot. August can also be a month of high rainfall.
Autumn (September to November)
This time of the year is mostly dry with mild temperatures.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is chilly with temperatures around the freezing point, and snow is common.
The most pleasant months to visit are May, June and September. At that time, it is usually warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and most tourists are gone.
Here is the rough list with things we think you should take with you when coming for an equestrian holiday in Bulgaria.
Recommended items
- Hard-toed boots with a heel
- Long jeans
- Gloves for hand protection
- Riding helmet (available to borrow, but please ask ahead of time)
- Spurs (only when necessary!)
- Fleece headband
- Lightweight windproof riding jacket
- Light casual shoes for walking and/or for travelling
- Loose, casual trousers
- Waterproof trousers
- Raincoat (must have)
- A set of T-shirts, sweatshirts and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton
- Warm shirt, possibly fleece and/or pullover
- Fleece windstopper jacket
- Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment (breathable if possible!)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
- Repellent (for mosquitoes, flies and ticks)
Optional items
- Personal basic first aid kit to include essential items
- Torch (head mounted preferable)
- Large handkerchief/bandana for neck
- Binocular
- AltimeterCompass
- Photo camera
We provide helmets for the riders. We do not provide chaps. The cell phone coverage in most of the territory of Bulgaria is covered well with a mobile connection. However these tours are done in mountainous areas where the signal can be weak or occasionally completely lacking from time to time. In such a situation normally you just need to change your location a bit in order to find available network. Electricity: 220 V
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights will be spent in different locations. You will be staying in 6 different locations total.
Description
You will stay overnight at local guesthouses and small family-run hotels in rooms with private facilities (except for maybe one night in Varhovrah – depends on accommodation).
WIFI will be available at all locations.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hotel in Sofia
Night 2: Guesthouse in Lyaskovo
Night 3: Hotel in Borino
Night 4: Guesthouse in Trigrad
Night 5 & 6: Guesthouse in Gela
Night 7: Hotel in Plovdiv
Hotel in Sofia
You will be warmly welcomed in this small family hotel. There is a beautiful garden with many flowers, where guests can relax. The hotel has 15 rooms, all equipped with TV, telephone and bathroom with toilet, shower or bath. Internet is also available at this property.
Guesthouse in Lyaskovo
This lovely guesthouse provides simple accommodations in private bedrooms that are fitted with a private bathroom and Wi-Fi access. It is possible to do laundry here for a small fee.
Hotel in Borino
This family-owned hotel offers 7 comfortable bedrooms, each equipped with a TV, internet access, heating and ensuite facilities. The hotel has a small patio where guests can relax while enjoying the view over the valley.
Guesthouse in Trigrad
This guesthouse benefits from a great location with lovely views of the village and surrounding mountains. Each of the 6 bedroom comes with free Wi-Fi access, a private bathroom and a TV.
Guesthouse in Gela
This charming guesthouse was built in 1927 and was recently renovated to provide all the modern comforts, while preserving its original charm. The decor and furniture feature mostly natural materials to keep a strong connection with the environment. The rooms all come with a TV, private bathroom and free internet access. There is also a small garden where you can enjoy the breathtaking view.
Hotel in Plovdiv
The hotel is located close to the old town and offers modern accommodation with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, ensuite bathroom and free Wi-Fi connection.
Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.
Meals
All breakfasts are included from Day 2 to Day 8. Also included are 6 lunch packs from Day 2 to Day 7 and 4 dinners from Day 3 to Day 6.
The food is locally grown and home-style.
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the rates.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions given prior notice.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Western, but there is English tack available on request. Riding helmet is not mandatory.
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Most of the horses belong to the local East-Bulgarian breed with a mid-height of 150 cm, they are well known as responsive, careful and tough mounts, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the mountainous region of the Rhodope Mountains.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
(6-7 hours in the saddle each day).Ranges from a walk on the steeper slopes and rough terrain to trots and canters on the open spaces. Rough estimate is 50 % walking, 25 % trotting and 25 % cantering.
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
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(2.5
to
4
out of 5) Low Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
70
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Weight:
|
|
Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
|
|
Min
2 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Riding Level
The ride is suitable for confident intermediate riders. There will also be occasions where you need to dismount and lead your horse for short periods of time (20 – 30 min) – this can be both uphill as well as downhill so you will need to be reasonably fit.
Pace
This trip includes 6 days of riding in enchanting mountains, deep river gorges, lush meadows and dense forests. The trail offers a variety of terrains in which one can experience of all types of paces. We ride between 4 and 6 hours every day.
Horses
Most of the horses are crossbreeds between the local East-Bulgarian and Karakachan with a mid-height of 150 cm. They are well known as thoughtful and tough, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the mountainous region of the Stara planina (Balkan).
They we are well behaved and are used to each other so you will not experience any trouble with them walking, trotting or cantering in a group together.
Though our horses are suitable for riding, saddling etc. they are still working horses and they are taken care of just like the typical free grazing horses in the region. This might be quite different from what a rider with an experience abroad must have seen, but please, keep in mind that this is how the local people have raised their horses for centuries. As a company that has always tried to help the small local communities in Bulgaria by bringing tourists to them, we would like to ask you to respect and understand these traditions and practices.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU member state. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Please note that validity of the documents - EU passport and/or ID card issued from one of the EU countries, should be at least three months on the day they leave Bulgaria. Possession of a return ticket and sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit is required.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following lengths of visit:
(a) nationals of EU countries for stays of up to 90 days; for stays longer than 90 days nationals will need to register with the local police and obtain the appropriate permit;
(b) 2. nationals of Australia, Canada and USA for touristic stays of up to 90 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/2 |
| USA |
No/2 |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Rhodope Mountains Ride - In the Land of Orpheus
Tour Code:
IT-BGRT10
8 days /
7 nights
~$880.00
Dates :
Apr-Oct
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Bachkovo Monastery
Tack:
Western, but there is English tack ava...
Horses:
Most of the horses belong to the local...
Pace:
(6-7 hours in the saddle each day).Ran...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Airport:
Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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