This exciting new itinerary provides a unique opportunity to discover more about some of Bulgaria's most important and intriguing archaeological sites associated with the Thracian Period, including several unique megalithic monuments and tombs which lie hidden away within the recesses of stunning mountain scenery. These include the mysterious rock sanctuaries of Tatul, Perperikon, Belintash and Starosel, as well as the unique "Rock Womb" Cave. During the week we explore remote rural villages and enjoy some superb walking and birdwatching in one of the most important regions for raptors in Europe. Our journey will also include wine tasting in a royal villa, a night in the spa town of Hisarya and sightseeing in both the Bulgarian capital Sofia and the vibrant city of Plovdiv.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Sofia; transfer to Asenovgrad. 2 Visit Asenova Fortress; drive into Eastern Rodopi Mountains and explore the Borovitsa Valley; walk to the "Rock Womb" Cave. Continue via Kurdzhali to Momchilgrad. 3 Morning visit to "The Tomb of Orpheus" at Tatul; afternoon walking and raptor watching. 4 Morning visit to rock citadel of Perperikon; afternoon drive via Kamennite Gubi to the Gradishte Massif. 5 Walking in Gradishte Massif including an exploration of Belintash rock sanctuary and the Sushitsa Valley. 6 Morning guided tour in Plovdiv; afternoon transfer through Sredna Gora Mountains to Valley of Roses; wine tasting in a royal villa; overnight at spa hotel in Hisarya. 7 Morning visit to the temple-tomb at Starosel; transfer to Sofia; guided tour of the Bulgarian capital. 8 End Sofia.

Mode of travel: Travel by comfortable bus. Reasonable fitness required for short daywalks.
Group size: Min. 7, max. 14, plus leader and driver.
Accommodation: 5 nights hotels, 2 nights village house.
Food: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners included.
Trip Reference: AVK
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an "R" in the dates and prices table below.