Cycling through the Bulgarian rose fields

Producing around 85% of the world’s rose oil, the Bulgarian rose fields are not only a valuable economic asset, but also part of a centuries-old tradition, and there is hardly a better way to enjoy these ancient lands than crossing them on bike. This is a 5-day cycling experience which is going to immerse you in one of the most unique regions of the country, filled with beautiful sceneries and rose flavor. Besides the natural sceneries you will also be able to enjoy the landmark wine of the region and some sites left by Thracians the most ancient inhabitants of the area.

To get the best experience on this trip we strongly recommend booking it at the beginning of June when the roses are collected and the area is full of life and rose flagrance!

View Full Itinerary

Day 1. Arrival
Arrival in Sofia airport and transfer to the hotel.-/-/-

Day 2. Anton - Koprivshtitsa
We are transferred to the city of Anton where our tour start. We head to Koprivshtitsa, which is a small town situated in a picturesque valley among the mountains in the central part of Bulgaria. Cycling trough Koprivshtitcsa, we will see its charming colorful houses and you’ll enjoy some last glimpses of the unique beauty of the Revival Period. If you have a chance to visit any museum you can further enrich your knowledge for the Bulgarian Revolutionary history. B/-/-
20km, flat/undulating +200m

Day 3. Koprivshtitsa – Panagyuriste
Today we will continue to enjoy the Bulgarian nature. In the middle of the route we will pass through the town of Strelcha, but even before that we will have passed by the Skumsale Thracian Megalith Site and the old rose factory of the town. This is how we will get to Panagyurishte, the city of the world-famous Panagyur treasure and the beginning of the April Uprising. B/-/-
36km, undulating -400m

Day 4. Panagyuriste – Starosel – Hisarya
The whole area is a combination between renaissance Bulgaria and mighty Thracians. Starosel is a city of their tumulus and temples, also famous for its wineries. On our flat terrain we will be surrounded by rose and lavender plantations. Our final destination is the city of Hisarya, famous for its mineral waters and a favorite place of the Romans. B/-/-
56km, flat/undulating +/-300m

Day 5. Hisarya – Svezhen
Today we cycle trough flat and hilly terrain. We will pass by from rose fields and forest to cattle farms and military base. There is a chance to take some dirty roads near the city of Banya, popular with its mineral water springs. Then we will continue to the hills of Mrachenik village on our way to Svezhen B/-/-
40 km, flat/undulating +300m

Day 6. Svezhen – Pavel Banya
On this day we are surrounded mostly by hills and forests. We will pass by Svejen dam and couple more water sources. If we have time, after some climbing we can visit the kitschy hornbill - 700 years old tree. Then we will continue to descent to the village of Turia and the city of Pavel Banya, also famous with its mineral water springs B/-/-
50km, undulating +/-500m

Day 7. Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for departure. B/-/-

Included in the price: ►6 nights at family run hotels with breakfast included ►rooms with private facilities ►supporting vehicle and English-speaking guide/driver ►technical bike support

Not included: ►Bike rental ►Rent of Pannier bags ►flights ►travel insurance ►tips ►entrance fees ►drinks and meals not mentioned in the program ►alcohol drinks and other personal expenses ►helmets: 5 EUR (per week, per person)

Gallery

Cycling through the Bulgarian rose fields (Rated 4.71 / 5 Based on 284 Reviews.)

Tour difficulty B
C

Most of you, who are used to walking/cycling during a long weekend, will be in condition to cope with a tour of this level. You should be in a good health condition. We have successive days of longer and more difficult walking and days of lighter walking/cycling. Some parts of the day routes are done at a higher altitude. The paths are in good condition. We walk/cycle for 5/7h a day.

These tours include trekking which is a little harder, normally on a challenging terrain. We take it for granted that you are in good condition and fit. You should be physically prepared at home to get the maximum of the tour. Most of the trekking is done at a greater height (max 3000m).

Group Size

Min. 2