Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria
Reviews
“It was a fantastic experience. We were riding through the beautiful places in the Balkan Mountains on very hard working and brave horses. It was challenging and sometimes difficult but thanks to our guides always safe. Fantastic guide always polite and helpful. I was impressed with his knowledge of horses and the history of Bulgaria. He translated everything into French and English.”
Dorota S.
“The holiday was very good, beautiful scenery, mountains, forests & lakes. The accommodation was very basic but the food was excellent throughout the holiday both in quantity and quality. Alex was a terrific guide polite, knowledgeable and good fun.” Alastair M.
Horses
Type of horses:
East Bulgarian half breeds, Hanoverian and Arab
Nature of horses:
Well schooled, calm, forward going, tough, thoughtful and wise.
Height of horses:
13.2 hh -16.2 hh
Weight limit:
90 kg however, heavier riders can be catered for by arrangement, please inform us on your request if you weigh more than 90 Kgs.
Tack type:
Western only. All American imports.
Weather
Current Conditions:
Mostly Cloudy, 6 C
Forecast:
Fri - Light Snow/Fog. High: 4 Low: -2
Sat - Partly Cloudy. High: 6 Low: -1
Full Forecast at Yahoo! Weather
(provided by The Weather Channel)
Pricing
Balkan Mountain Trail
Far and Ride are pleased to offer 2009 rates for the 2010 season.
The price of £822 includes: full board accommodation in guesthouses (days one and seven), small monastery (day three) and mountain huts (rest of the days) all with shared facilities; pick up/drop off at Sofia airport at fixed times, riding, English-speaking guide; luggage transportation from point to point. Single supplement not an option.
The price does not include: tips, alcohol drinks and other personal expenses, maps. Please note: Accommodation change for 2010 as per itinerary.
Singing Rocks Trail
The price £822 includes:includes: full board accommodation in guesthouses (days one and seven), small monastery (day three) and mountain huts (rest of the days) all with shared facilities; pick up/drop off at Sofia airport at fixed times, riding, English-speaking guide; luggage transportation from point to point. Single supplement not an option.
The price does not include: tips, alcohol drinks and other personal expenses, maps.
Valley of Roses
£731 per person
Transport from / to the Sofia airport and from Svezhen to Hisarya. Accommodation for five nights in Hizha Svezhen in double or triple bed rooms with shower/toilets on the floor, two nights in the SPA hotel in double room with shower and toildet. Full Board, except lunch Friday in Hisarya. Mineral water for all meals in Svezhen, riding guide for five days & guide during the SPA stay.
Small Group supplement: £55 per person
Procedures and treatments at the SPA hotel are not included.
Balkan base
Price £645 per person
The price includes: Transfer from/to Sofia Airport, seven nights in private accommodation in double or triple rooms, with shower/toilet, full board, 'own horse' fully equipped and experienced guide for six days.
Hotel accommodation can be arranged on request. it is around 10 - 15 minutes away from the base.
Trail to Mount Botev
£827 per person
Includes: Full board (some lunches will be picnic lunches), various accommodation as per itinerary, pack horses for three days, transport of luggage on other days during the trail, return transfer from Sofia airport and a meeting with the Mountain Rescue Service and rep from the Central Balkan National Park.
Mini trail to Central Balkan National Park
£704 based on double or triple occupancy
Includes: Full board accommodation (lunch is sometimes a picnic), riding guide for six days, transfer from and to Sofia airport.
Family Nature Adventure
£704 based on double or triple occupancy.
Includes: six nights in full board accommodation (some lunches will be picnics) based on double/triple, one night in a Tipi full board, riding guide for five days, one day excursion as per programme and transfers from and to Sofia airport.
Availability/Booking Form
Ride Description
Bulgaria was once a well preserved secret of Europe. Nowadays thousands of foreigners enjoy the pleasant climate, the Balkan cuisine, the good wine and the famous Bulgarian hospitality. Horse riding offers the perfect opportunity to explore the mountains and learn about the culture.
You will find the riding base on the northern side of the Balkan Range, in the heart of Bulgaria. Here you will be surrounded by the most fantastic panorama to the highest peak Mt. Botev 2376 m. This is neighboured with the Central Balkan National Park.
The base is where you will find the stables, surrounded by beautiful fields and a little western bar, where riders can buy something to drink and enjoy the view over the mountains and watch the horses graze. They are set in an incredibly beautiful area, where you will find a little creek and mountain lake behind the stables, the green and blooming meadows with wild flowers and old trees.
We have several wonderful rides to offer, each trail is different but all the riding allows you to explore this wonderful country on horseback. There are several trails but also a based option suitable for children and non riders. For those interested in wildlife and panoramic views, then this is the destination for you.
We have a based option where family members may prefer not to ride or perhaps just enjoy the wildlife or take photographs. The local town offers swimming pools and you can rent a bike or hike in the mountains.
The closest 'larger' town is Troyan, this is about 25 km from Apriltsi. Troyan is a nice town with shopping streets and cafés. Near Troyan you find the third biggest monastery in Bulgaria: The Troyan Monastery. It is possible to visit by car for a daytrip. There are also local museums and buildings from medieval Bulgaria.
You may ride out and see a host of wildlife in its natural habitat and maybe get to see a brown bear. There are a variety of trails along the alpine parts of the Balkan Mountains or within the area of the Balkan National Park. We have a treks for riders who want to try everything, there are rides over challenging peaks, wild and untouched forests. The hilly paths and the open landscape on the top of the mountains are perfect for riding adventures.
The riding guides together with the horses are the foundation in all the Bulgarian tours. Their guides know exactly what they can expect of each horse and they know the mountains like the back of their hand. Some of them speak English and others German as well. Before you ride out, the guides explain to all riders the commands and instructions used during the ride as, safety is paramount.
All the guides have grown up in the mountains with horses as a natural part of their daily life. Some of them have been specially trained in horse management and others are just natural horsemen. The guides are always with the riders on the trails and take charge of the trails and the pace of the rides. Their experience in this country and the terrain enables you to have a safe enjoyable ride.
See Programmes.
Food & Accommodation
You can opt for private accommodation, but usually you will stay in a house together with the other riders in double rooms. The shower/toilet facilities are on the floor and the accommodation is basic.
Private accommodation in Bulgaria is to be compared with 'Bed & breakfast' in England and of course you have some privacy during the stay. The stay is with full board and all meals are enjoyed in the house or outside in the garden. During the daily rides a picnic is organised for lunch or you bring a lunch package.
Another option is to stay in one of the small, local hotels (additional fee), some of them offer swimming pool. We can arrange the accommodation to suit your needs and requirements.
During the trail rides accommodation varies, depending on the ride you choose, some may offer limited shower facilities due to the remote nature of the trail and mountain huts are very basic. Expect to find a mixture of hotels, chalets, shelters, mountain huts, and mountain monasteries during your trail ride.
The sun, the vine and wine have been symbols of Bulgaria since time began. Thracians the first known inhabitants of the Balkan peninsula were experienced vine growers and wine producers. It was believed that Thracian wine is a precious elixir which provided strength courage and inspiration. Today wine growing and wine production is an important part of Bulgarian life.
Beside the variety of wines there are local alcoholic drinks such as rakia (home made brandy), mastika and menta. All of these may be tried on your holiday.
Owing to the relatively warm climate and diverse geography the land hosts excellent growth conditions for a variety of vegetables, herbs and fruits, Bulgarian cuisine is particularly diverse. It is tasty, spicy and varied. Famous for its rich salads accompanying every meal, Bulgarian shopska salata is a common salad that blends tomatoes, roasted or raw red or green peppers, garlic, onion, parsley, sunflower oil, cucumbers, red-wine vinegar and feta cheese. Its preparation varies from household to household but it is the definitive Bulgarian salad.
Bulgarian cuisine is also noted for the diversity and quality of dairy products (the Bulgarians invented yoghurt) and also features a variety of hot and cold soups, an example of a cold soup being tarator. Every Bulgarian meal is accompanied by hearty white bread (khliab), similar to Serbian pogacha. Bulgarians love kachamak, a type of polenta known as mamaliga to Romanians. It is a common side dish when mixed with cheese. The Bulgarian diet is rich in legumes and grains. This particular legume from the Rhodopi Mountains is called smilianski bob and is like a buttery lima bean in flavour.
A sweet ending to a Bulgarian meal might be Bulgarian baklava or banitza, a flaky filo roll filled with sweetened pumpkin, apple-walnut or other fillings. All of this delicious food will help you to enjoy your hours out of the saddle too!
Activities
Hiking, cycling, visits to museum towns, monasteries, bird watching, swimming pool is Apriltsi.
In Apriltsi you can go to the swimming pool, rent a bike or hike in the mountains.
The closest, larger town is Troyan, about 25 km from Apriltsi. Troyan is a nice town with shopping streets and cafés. Near Troyan you will find the third biggest monastery in Bulgaria: The Troyan Monastery. This is possible to visit on a daytrip by car.
About 50 km from Apriltsi is the city of Gabrovo and here you find the famous ethnographical museum Etara with houses and buildings from medieval Bulgaria. Further on from this, heading north you will find the architectural city of Veliko Tarnovo, this was once the Capital, but is now well known for its architecture and the fortress of Tsarevets.
If monasteries are of special interest to you, then this is the right area to explore.
Further Details
Languages: English, German
Health requirements: No special requirements
Age limit: None within reason
Tuition: No
Included: Full board accommodation (varies according to the itinerary), transfers from and to Sofia airport and riding as per itinerary.
Not included: Flights, insurance, personal expenses.
Travel Information
The base is situated approximately 180 km from Sofia or about three hours by car. One transfer is arranged for arrival and one transfer for departure. You will be met in the airport by a transfer guide and will be provided with details before departure.
We recommend arrival to Sofia Airport not later than 18:00 and a flight for departure after 12:00. The transfer times from and to Sofia airport is arranged according to the timetable for latest arriving guest and earliest departing guest.
Individual transfer: Individual transfer or transfers at times not corresponding with the above are available at an additional fee of 150 EUR per car (up to three persons), one way. Individual transfer has to be confirmed in advance and the additional fee is to be paid on spot in cash. If the delayed arrival is later than 18:00 the extra charge is the same as for the individual transfer.
Airport: Sofia
Programmes
Balkan Mountain Trail
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Are you dreaming of a trail along ancient trails, over impressive mountains, through quiet mountain passes, along running water and roaring waterfalls? And further more enjoying the wonderful mountain scenery, crossing the pasture to small hidden and forgotten villages? This ride is for riders wishing to try everything. During the trail you ride over the Balkan Range through the National Park and the lower mountains of Sredna Gora and in between you ride through the famous Valley of Roses - not just a name but this is a spectacular vision of roses and the perfume is intoxicating. This trail follows the ancient paths that for hundreds of years have connected the North of Bulgaria with its Southern parts. Day 1: Arrival at Sofia Airport and transportation to the riding centre in the Balkan mountains. Transfer is around three hours. Day 2: Today is the introduction day where you will be matched with your horse. After that a leisurely ride out of the town of Apriltsi is planned in order to gain knowledge of your horse habits and the start of a partnership with your horse. After a picnic lunch the trek starts by climbing the mountains (roughly three hours) to the first chalet. Apriltsi is a small town, settled at the foot of the Central Balkan Range and it has a rich history. The combination of the local hospitality, the cosiness of the hotels and the guest houses with the beauty of the surrounding mountains nature will leave a lasting memory for visitors. Here is known as the kingdom of the rocks, inaccessible and steep rocks rise from all sides of the mountain. Day 3: The ride continues through the Central Balkan National Park and Mount Botev (2376 m a.s.l.) thus providing superb view towards the Thrace Plain. After six - seven hours ride the day ends in a small monastery where the riders and horses will find rest for the night. You will enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Day 4: In the morning some time will be spent on exploring the daily life in the monastery and the neighbouring small town. After lunch the trail continues through the “Valley of Roses” and after nearly five hours you reach the Sredna Gora Mountains where you will spend the night in a chalet. Day 5: The whole day is dedicated to riding over varying terrain around the riding centre “The Valley of Roses”. For centuries this place has been producing the priceless attar of roses. The extraction of attar from the roses is very important for the region of Kazanlak. This has been the means of livelihood of the native people and is a century – old cultural tradition. Here you get the opportunity to play games on the horses combined with relaxation at the edge of a small lake. In the fantastic meadows you can explore the land in trot or gallop together or with the riding guide in the remote surroundings. Day 6: In the morning you head north following other hidden trails and after some seven hours you reach the place where you will stay overnight. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed en route. Day 7: It is about time to ride back over the mountains to your starting point – Apriltsi. After six hours riding you finally see the stables marking the end of your journey. Day 8: After breakfast you say goodbye to the horses, guides and other guests. Transfer to Sofia Airport for departure. There is also an opportunity to extend your stay in Bulgaria and explore the Black Sea - this can arrange this for you. A great variety of accommodation can be offered - from home stays (no meals) to 2, 3 and 4-star hotels (BB or HB) on the Southern Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. |
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| Accommodation: |
The Balkan Trail is based on seven nights full board accommodation. Two nights are with private accommodation in Apriltsi, two nights in the chalet in riding centre “The Valley of Roses” and 3 nights en route in the mountains. The luggage is transported in a supporting vehicle and the riding guide is accompanying the party throughout the trail. Slight accommodation change for 2010: Two nights are with private accommodation in Apriltsi (double or triple) with showers and toilets, four nights in mountain chalets based on two, three or four bedded rooms with shower and toilets on the floor, one night in monastery based on double share with shared shower and toilet. |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate to experienced riders, you also need a fairly good level of fitness. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | 6-8 hours riding |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 1 May, 8 May, 15 May, 22 May, 29 May, 5 June, 19 June, 26 June, 10 July, 24 July, 31 July, 14 August, 21 August, 18 August, 4 September, 11 September |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Singing Rocks Trail
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High up in the Central Balkan National Park there is a place with rugged and impassable cliffs. A unique place with distinctive flora and fauna that have turned the place into a nature reserve. The Singing Rocks themselves are a set of unique natural formations that crown the ancient beech forest. When the wind blows in the right direction one can hear the “song” of the rocks and it was this phenomenon that has given the reserve its beautiful name. You also ride in the national park itself – among its rich wildlife and rare plants. The air is just as clear as the cold mountain springs you ride along. And the view towards the highest peaks of the Balkan mountain range is simply breathtaking. The trail offers a variety of landscapes and riding paces. The hilly terrain as well as the small plateau on top of the hills offer fantastic opportunities for an unforgettable ride. The Central Balkan National Park - the land of untouched wildlife and wilderness! The National park is the first PAN Park in Bulgaria (you can read about the European PAN Parks on www.panparks.org) and is characterised by deep caves, steep slopes and canyons, high waterfalls, and clear fresh water streams. In addition it is a stronghold of Bulgarian nationality and culture. The National park boasts the highest waterfall in Bulgaria, the 125-m high Raiskoto Praskalo. The highest of the Stara Planina peaks – Botev Peak 2376 m above sea level is located on the park’s territory. Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival at the airport and transportation to the stables in the Balkan mountains (the transfer is around three hours) in the mountain village of Apriltsi which is situated on the northern side of the Balkan Range about 180 km from Sofia. The riding base is placed in one of the small quarters of the village not far from the end of the road. The stables are placed in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Central Balkan and with the most fantastic panorama behind the buildings. Day 2: In the morning you will meet 'your' horse and friend for the week. After the first meeting you will take a leisurely ride out of the town of Apriltsi in order to gain an intimate knowledge of the horses and their habits. You ride about 10 km and you have a picnic near one of the rivers. After lunch and a rest you ride back to the stables in different paces. You overnight in Apriltsi. Day 3: The trail starts in the morning and you will ride in a north-eastern direction through some remote villages. You will make a short stop by a creek in order to eat your picnic lunch. Later on in the afternoon, after about five hours in the saddle you reach the little monastery named after the neighbouring town of Batoshevo. It is here you spend the night. If the weather is nice, dinner will be enjoyed outside so you can relax in the beautiful, open countryside. Day 4: From the monastery the path takes you through the forest and close to the picturesque villages of Stokite and Kupen. This is where the uphill part of your riding really begins. You have lunch on the way. Later on in the afternoon you reach the village of Todorcheta, your goal for today. Today’s riding is about 26km/seven hours. Day 5: Today’s ride begins straight after breakfast and takes you further up the mountain through a thick ancient forest. Three hours later you find yourselves by the mountain hut 'Partizanska pesen', where you will have a picnic lunch. The hut is situated on a small mountain top at an altitude of around 1000m. In the afternoon you ride west on the top of the Balkan range. You ride into the 'Central Balkan National Park' and after about one hours ride you are at the mountain hut 'Mazalat' (1620m), where you spend the night. Day 6: Today you ride in the 'Singing rocks' reserve. If you are fortunate, and the wind is blowing you hear the song of the beautiful rock formations. There are two places where you need to get off the horses and lead them (both of them about 10-20 m long). You ride for a total of 25 km (roughly seven hours) before you reach the 1450-metre mountain hut where you overnight. Day 7: After breakfast you ride in the northern direction. You ride down the mountains, leave the national park to arrive at Apriltsi. Today's ride is about five hours and finishes back at the base. You will spend the night in the same accommodation as the first two nights where you will receive a farewell dinner. Day 8: After breakfast you say goodbye to the horses, guides and other guests. Transfer to the airport for departure. The itinerary may vary. |
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| Accommodation: |
The trail is based on seven nights. Three nights with private accommodation in Apriltsi, four nights en route in the mountains. The trail is with full board during stay and only beer, wine and other alcoholic drinks are paid on spot. The luggage is transported in a support vehicle and the riding guide is accompanies the party throughout the trail. 2010 accommodation: Three nights with private accommodation in Apriltsi double or triple occupancy with shower and toilet, two nights en route in the mountain chalets double or triple occupancy with shower and toilet on the floor. Two nights in hotel style chalets double or triple occupancy with shower and toilet. |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate to experienced riders, you also need a fairly good level of fitness. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | 5-7 Hours a day |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates 12 June, 3 July, 17 July, 7 August, 18 September, 25 September, 2 October, 16 October. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Valley of Roses
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This week of trail riding combines varied scenery with the wonderful contrast of the Rose Valley and SPA treatments, providing an ever changing experience. The first part of your holiday is super active, riding through the gorgeous, yet challenging landscape in and around an ancient village with all its charm and patina. The week ends with a relaxed stay in the spa hotel with access to more than 100 different relaxing treatments and procedures. There is also the possibility of an excursion to the Thracian Tomb in Starosel. This ride is set-up for a mix of slow paced and fast riding, with varied rides through meadows, to the lake and "Manastira", on long forest trails and through the cobblestone village, where you will enjoy the feeling of riding through history. The open meadows are ideal for good gallops. You will ride through unspoilt land with the view of the Balkans on the one side and the Mariza plain on the other. It is here you will find the scent of lavender, roses and blooming grasses. As the day draws to an end you can enjoy the sunset behind the beautiful mountains. For centuries rose oil (otto) and other essential oils have been extracted in The Valley of Roses, which lies right in the heart of Bulgaria, surrounded by the Balkan and Sredna Gora mountains. The roses bloom late May and early June, harvesting takes place by hand in the early hours of sunrise. The roses are taken care of all year round, before extracting some of the world's most expensive raw material for the French and American perfume industry. Over 3,000 kg of rose flowers are needed to extract 1 kg rose oil. Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival day, transfer from Sofia Airport to Riding base ”The Valley of Roses”. Accommodation in the lodge and welcome dinner. You will receive an introduction to the programme for the week ahead. Day 2: After breakfast you will meet the horses together with the riding guides. Today's introductory ride starts out on the meadows behind the base, in the afternoon you ride down to the little lake for a swim. You return to enjoy dinner on the terrace and relax as the sun goes down behind the mountains. Day 3: After the horses have been tacked up your day starts by riding to the top of the mountain, over large and small fields along the river, through beautiful valleys and an ancient forest. It's just you, the horses and the nature. You eat lunch at the inn and visit the little church. In the late afternoon you arrive at the chalet. Day 4: After breakfast you will ride on the other side of the valley, experiencing breathtaking views over the red roof tops. You ride to "Manastira" and from there to the southern part of Svezhen where you eat lunch on the patio of Lelja Anka (lelja = aunt in Bulgarian). On this cosy courtyard you will enjoy a local, Bulgarian dish. From here you will ride through the village where you will find beautiful old houses, the old school, bakery and the grocery. Svezhen is a small forgotten village hidden far away in the mountains, close to the 'Valley of Roses'. Svezhen is full of exiting history and surrounded by mountains, old woodlands, open meadows with cows and fields no bigger than a stamp, still being cultivated by man and horse. This old village provides history and atmosphere and is more than 600 years old. Today it is like a living museum with a status of historical and architectural reserve. Many of the houses are several hundred years old. This was once a big town with over 5000 inhabitants, rich in cultural life and during the last weekend in August the village is celebrated, families and relatives from all over the country fill the old houses. Day 5: After breakfast you ride east to the Bratan lodge. You follow the tracks made by wild game in the mountains, this is the homeland to red deer and wild boar. If you are lucky you can see the stunning eagles circling over the mountains. You eat lunch along the way. In the evening you will enjoy a fine dinner, enjoy a glass of red wine at the riding base "Valley of Roses", while the sun goes down behind the mountains. Day 6: After breakfast you start riding to the rocket station before heading to the lake for a swim. In the late afternoon you leave the riding base "Valley of Roses" and the mountains behind and drive down through the hilly landscape to the well known Spa resort. Dinner is at the hotel. Day 7: The whole day is dedicated to you, spending time in the pools with mineral water; in the SPA and wellness enjoying relaxing procedures; in the small town or they can arrange an excursion to the famous Thracian tomb in Starosel. Breakfast and dinner at the hotel. Day 8: Breakfast at the hotel and time on your own until departure to the airport. |
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| Accommodation: | A mix of lodges, chalet and spa hotel. |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Intermediate to advanced, must be comfortable in walk, trot, canter and gallop and have a good seat to cope with the demands of the terrain. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | About two hours in the morning and two - three hours in the afternoon. |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 26 June, 3 July, 10 July, 17 July, 24 July, 31 July |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Balkan base
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The riding base is where the stables are situated, they train their horses and take care of them all the year round. A stay at the Balkan base is for all riders of all abilities, also ideal for groups/school groups and friends. There are plenty of lush hills and natural riding paths in the stunning valleys, up to the mountain peaks. Many of the tracks offer perfect opportunities for galloping. For the experienced rider there are many possibilities for challenging riding in the mountainous terrain. Ride through mountain rivers, up and down steep mountain paths and across open plains. The terrain offers rides for every type of rider. The riding guides have a great knowledge of the local area and know what to show you. The pace will be adapted to suit the group. Example Itinerary Day one: Arrival day. Meeting in the airport you will be transfered to the riding base and settle in. The evening will be spent having dinner and meeting the other guests. Depending on the time of arrival you will meet the riding guide and talk about the programme for the week. Day two: After breakfast you walk down to the stables to meet the horses. Their riding guides will introduce you to your horse and explain how they ride in the mountains there, about the horses and about rules in the mountains. You start your riding in the morning and lunch may be a picnic close to the stables. After lunch you leave the riding base for a horse riding tour around Apriltsi (12 km long), taking about three hours. Day three: After breakfast you will meet up with the horses and leave the village on horseback for a ride to The Green meadows. Here you ride in all paces and for the experienced rider there is a chance to have a good gallop. From the meadows you ride to the river and have lunch. After the break you ride for two more hours back to base. Day four: Today you ride up in the mountains and you’ll pass a wild life area. The ride will take place over 1000 m above sea level and you will have a relaxed lunch in the mountains. In the evening you might ride out to see the wild life in the area of Apriltsi. Day five: Following breakfast, you will ride over the hill top of Ostrets and Peperi, under the Black Peak (1500m) to a small monastery. Lunch is in the monastery garden. In the afternoon, you will ride back to the base through the field and meadows, along the riverbank. Day six: Today you ride into the National park. The ride will take you through the beautiful countryside to Vidima, a small village. You will continue to the Vidima Waterfall, one of the biggest in Bulgaria (1350 m above sea level). From here you will dismount and walk up a small eco-path while the horses rest. After lunch you ride in the park and will enjoy all the hidden treasures of the nature in that area. Day seven: Today you will get to choose your route as a group between all the possibilities in the area. If you and the group prefer mountain riding you’ll ride in the mountains. If you would like to ride to one of the small villages, a monastery or other sights you can do that. Whatever is chosen you will enjoy the picturesque landscape. In the evening you enjoy a farewell dinner. Day eight: After breakfast you will pack the car, say goodbye to the guides, guests and your equine friends before leaving for the airport. This is just an example itinerary, this may vary according to new paths that have been found, the ability and requirements of the group. |
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| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 10 |
| Ability description: | All abilities. |
| Type of ride: | Based with daily trails |
| Total riding time: | Flexible day rides |
| Departure dates: | Every Saturday all year round. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Trail to Mount Botev
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If you are looking for a unique nature experience and a riding challenge off the beaten tracks then this is the tour for you. This trail offers extreme riding in magnificent flora and fauna to reach the summit of Mount Botev on horseback. An unforgettable and tremendous chance to experience how horses survive and behave in rocky mountains of a high altitude! Christo and Toshko fulfilled a dream in successfully reaching the summit of Mt. Botev on the verge of the Severen Djendem Reserve, their discovery was accompanied by a pair of golden eagles. They now share this impressive experience with their experienced horse riding guests. Mt. Botev (2376m) is the highest peak in the Balkan Range from which you will experience the most dramatic views of northern and southern Bulgaria. Riding your horse up here is really something very special and even more spectacular once you have passed the reserve Severen Djendem. It is the highest reserve in the Central Balkan National Park, encompassing a beautiful, wild, and inaccessible section of the Central Balkan Range. The Reserve includes the near vertical northern slopes below Mt. Botev, looming rock tiers, short and steep watersheds, overhanging cliffs, rock bridges, and numerous waterfalls, as well as grassy terraces. From the top you will ride through the largest reserve centred on granite extrusion near Mt. Botev, combined with limestone outcroppings to form steep slopes, deep and narrow gorges, monumental rock cliffs, and huge waterfalls. The waterfall Raiskoto Praskalo (Paradise waterfall) is directly below Mt. Botev. Due to its specific geological and climatic conditions, the area is rich in endemic species and rare plants. The trail takes you right into the home of the Balkan chamois, bear, wolf, red deer, roe, golden eagle, the peregrine falcon, and wall creeper. This area actually comprises of the only rock complex with centuries-old forests, rock faces and precipices known in Bulgaria, as well as the mightiest rock belt in Bulgaria, Djendemite. To wake up in Hizha Rai (Rai is paradise in Bulgarian) is like a dream, you will experience the gorgeous view of the majestic cliffs and the waterfall. The next morning you will experience the complete contrary where you will wake up in the monastery and enjoy the quiet spirit and the overwhelming magic of this place. A new days ride along the Balkan mountain brings the sound of church bells and the heroic town of Kalofer where you will experience the atmosphere of the mountains and experience the nature and freedom of the Central Balkan National Park at Tazha. Here offers an incredible farewell view over the peaks and the endless meadows of the Balkan Mountains before the final decent ride to the base. For this trail ride they use only rather small horses with proven skills in extreme riding situations. They are in top condition and ready for this trail. From day three in the morning to day five in the evening you have only your luggage on their packing horses (limited baggage allowance). Itinerary: Day 1: You will be greeted at the airport by a rep from the base and transferred to the mountains. The night is spent in hotel accommodation in double rooms. After dinner you will receive the final information about the expected weather conditions, how to pack and how to ride the horses at steep crossings etc. Day 2: In the morning you will meet the horses that have been chosen and trained specially for this trail. Today's ride is to 'Mandrata' on the top of the Balkan Mountains, riding off the beaten horse tracks, on paths and through canyons. The first part of the ride is set at a fast pace where you will become acquainted with your horse, after that you start your climb. You will stay overnight in a former dairy at about 1450 m. Two to Four bedded rooms are offered with a shower and toilet. You'll enjoy dinner around the fire and watch the sun going down behind the mountain peaks of Maragidik (1889 m) and Botev (2376 m). Day 3: The morning starts by packing your belongings and heading to the top of the mountains. You ride along the magic Severen Djendem Reserve, they say 'the mountains divide the country into two parts' which will become evident to you after today. You’ll reach the summit in the afternoon and from there you only have a thirty minute steep descent to the shelter where you stay overnight. Day 4: Today’s ride is from 'hell to paradise'. When the sun rises you will ride downhill to the crossways and borders of the reserves and the nature park, you pass through challenging canyons and over the most fabulous of places. You’ll ride about 15 km in about five hours and ride through the Djendemja Reserve before reaching the big mountain hut Hizha Rai. In the afternoon they recommend a short walk to the highest waterfall on the Balkan Peninsula, Raiskoto Praskalo (124,5 m /408,4 ft). Day 5: From this captivating place you ride downhill through the old wood, to the open meadows at the foothill of the Balkan Mountains where the Valley of Roses starts. During today you will experience the magical atmosphere of this area and the horses will show you their skill of down hill riding! You’ll ride about 19 km in about five hours to the monastery where you will spend the night. After the ride they recommend a short walk to Byala reka (an eco-path in the canyon). Day 6: You leave the monastery's meadows and continue to the picturesque mountain village of Kalofer where you ride along the foothill of the Balkan Mountains. Lunch will take place on the terrace of a hospitable Bulgarian family. The trail brings you back into the 'Central Balkan National Park' in an altitude of about 1250 m were you stay overnight. Today you’ll ride about 20 km in five/six hours. Day 7: After breakfast you will ride in the northern direction. You will ride down the mountains, leave the national park and descend to Apriltsi. Today's ride take around five hours and the ride ends back at the base. Tonight's accommodation is in the same hotel as the first night. Dinner in the hotel. Day 8: Breakfast and free time until departure for the airport. |
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| Accommodation: | Two nights in Apriltsi based on private accommodation double or triple rooms with shower/toilet; Five nights in shelters, mountain huts and a mountain monastery. |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Experienced riders, fit and secure in the saddle. You need to be fully confident and competent riding in the open. On this trail the rider weight limit is 90 kg and physical fitness is required. In addition you should have a good head for heights. Due to the mountainous terrain the pace is mostly slow but challenging asking for a quiet and patient mind. But there are opportunities for trot, canter and some fast gallops. This ride is therefore only suitable for experienced riders with a spirit of adventure. |
| Type of ride: | Trail |
| Total riding time: | as per itinerary. |
| Departure dates: | Two dates only: 21 August 2010 and 4 September 2010. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Mini trail to Central Balkan National Park
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Experience fantastic panoramic views of the highest peak, Mt. Botev 2376 m. The mini trail to the Central Balkan National Park is a two-centre based ride. It is the perfect choice for riders who would like to combine the riding opportunities at the base and its surroundings as well as experience riding high up in the mountains through a protected area. This programme is perfect to try out mountain riding and the pleasures of trail riding or to prepare yourself for the other trails on offer in the Balkans. The riding areas provide opportunities for riding through woods, open fields and galloping along the meadows and pastures. Western saddles with saddle bags are used. Itinerary Day 1: You will be greeted at the airport by a rep from the base and transferred to the mountains. You will spend the night in private accommodation in double rooms and receive dinner. Day 2: The morning starts by meeting with the guide and horses at the base and riding out in the wonderful terrain surrounding the little town of Apriltsi. You ride about 10 km and will have a picnic close to one of the rivers. After lunch and a rest you ride back to base in different paces. The night is spent in Apriltsi. Day 3: The trail starts in the morning and you ride round the outskirts of small villages. Lunch is served at a creek. After lunch you ride into the National Park and up in the mountains for around three hours to the nights stop over of Mandrata (1450 m), a former dairy that is now renovated with bedrooms with own shower/toilet facilities. Dinner will be enjoyed around the fire as you watch the sun going down behind the mountain peaks. Day 4 and Day 5: These two days are devoted to riding in the Central Balkan National Park. You will explore the park on a horse back or on foot. There is a chance to meet with one of the rangers from whom you can receive information of the local flora and fauna. There is also the possibility to ride to the mysterious mount Maragidik (1889m) or Mt. Botev (2376m) (this is dependant on the weather conditions and the riding skills of the group), the riding guide will let you know the options available during that time. Another option is to ride out in search of wild horses. Hours will depend on the options taken at the time. Day 6: After breakfast you leave the National park and head north down the mountain slopes towards Apriltsi. Today's ride is about five hours back to base. Accommodation is in the same house as the first two nights. Day 7: Today’s ride is over the hill tops of Ostrets and Peperi to a small monastery, which is situated below the Black Peak (1500m). A picnic lunch will be enjoyed in the monastery garden. After lunch you ride back to base through fields, meadows and along the river. Day 8: Breakfast and goodbye to your guides, horse and other guests. Free time until departure for the airport. The weather: It is always changeable in the mountains. The difference between the temperature in the night and during the day might be rather big and even on the very best summer day you must bring jacket and the rain gear. |
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| Accommodation: | Seven nights. Four nights spent in private lodging in Apriltsi and three nights in the Balkan Mountains. Please note there is limited access to electricity in the mountains. |
| Minimum group size: | 1 |
| Maximum group size: | 10 |
| Ability description: | Strong novice/intermediate and above, with a basic good level of fitness. |
| Type of ride: | Based trails and mini trail |
| Total riding time: | As per itinerary. |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 22 May; 29 May; 5 June; 12 June; 19 June; 26 June; 31 July; 7 August; 14 August; 21 August; 28 August; 4 September; 11 September; 18 September; 25 September. |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |
Family Nature Adventure
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A summer holiday to be enjoyed by all the family at the riding base! An outdoor adventure offering a back to nature experience as well as spending time relaxing around an open camp fire with the horses grazing around you. Svezhen is full of exciting history, surrounded by mountains, old woodlands, open meadows with grazing cows and sheep and land that is still being cultivated by man and his horse. The mountains invite for all kinds of riding tours, the open meadows are great for canter, the longer paths are great for trotting and the hilly slopes can be enjoyed in walk. There are more than 20.000 hectares offering possibilities you would never dream of. You will ride in unspoilt countryside with views of the Balkans all around. The Maritsa plain presents a smell of lavender, roses and blooming grassland. At the end of the day you can enjoy the sunset falling behind the beautiful mountains. Full and half day rides can be enjoyed, with a picnic lunch offered on the full day options. The programme also allows for flexibility to camp overnight around an open fire. The beauty of this environment invites you to relax and enjoy picking flowers and berries from the most aromatic mountain trees as well as hiking in the mountains. There are endless opportunities to be experienced. The family adventure weeks are organised for the active, outdoor family with children from the age of 9 years which includes horse related activities at the centre. Adults preferring to watch or walk rather than riding are welcome as well. It’s a holiday for the whole family, everybody is welcome!! Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival day. Meeting in the airport you will be transfered to riding base. You will settle in, the evening will be spent having dinner and meeting the other guests. Depending on the time of arrival you will meet the riding guide and talk about the programme for the week ahead. Day 2: After breakfast you meet the horses together with the riding guides. You will have plenty of time to get acquainted and the riding guides will tell you about the life of the horses in the mountains, how you ride in the mountains and how to ride in a western saddle. You ride out on the meadows behind the base and in the afternoon you have the chance to go for a swim. Dinner will be enjoyed on the terrace whilst you watch the sun go down behind the mountains. The day ends with pancakes made on an open fire. Day 3: Today you ride out on a mini trail. The ride starts by climbing the mountains before reaching the plateau where you will enjoy lunch with panoramic views. After lunch you slowly descend down the mountains to lake. At this perfect spot you can fish and relax until you build up the camp for the night. Overnight is spent in big tepees and you will eat a hearty western style dinner around the roaring, open camp fire. Day 4: Once you have taken down your tepees and saddled up the horses you ride along the river, through valleys and a very ancient forest. This is a wild and beautiful area where you and the group are alone with your horses, close to nature. After lunch the afternoon ride is a long one as you make your way back to Hizha Svezhen. Day 5: Today provides you with a break from the saddle with a chance to explore the town and if you wish to do some shopping. If shopping is not of interest then the group may opt for a different experience - it is possible to go mountain climbing on a 1200 m long adrenaline fuelled climbing path. A professional mountaineer will take you through the canyon over a river. Climbing equipment is available to hire on spot. You continue to a small monastery situated at the foothill of the Balkan Mountains where you relax and enjoy lunch in the garden. After lunch you walk the track of a very exciting eco-path in the Central Balkan national Park. On the path you will be guided and receive information of the wildlife. After an action-packed day you drive back through the Valley of Roses to Hizha Svezhen. Day 6: Today's ride takes place in the mountains before you ride to the village and explore the local way of life. You pass the local grocery, library, old school, the small church and other interesting sights. You will stop for a refreshing drink at the inn before lunch in the garden of an old farmer family. Day 7: Today you follow the tracks of the wildlife and you stop of at a high seat where you will experience amazing views. You continue to the 'rocket square' where you witness the way the clouds are moved under special climatic conditions. After this unusual experience you ride back to the lake for a swim. In the evening you all get together and enjoy your farewell dinner. Day 8: Following breakfast you say goodbye to the horses, guides and guests before being transfered back to the airport. Please note: All riding days could easily be changed for hiking or cycling, making it ideal for the non rider. However, the terrain is mountainous. Activities may change according to the weather. Other possibilities: Beside all the activities on offer, you also have the chance to visit Plovdiv for a half or a whole day trip (not included in the price). In Plovdiv you can see the old roman theatre as well as other sites. |
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| Accommodation: | Six nights in full board accommodation (some lunches will be picnics) based on double/triple/quadruple rooms, one night in a Tepee full board. |
| Minimum group size: | 2 |
| Maximum group size: | 8 |
| Ability description: | Strong novice and above, you must have some riding experience and be confident before embarking on this trip and need to be fairly fit and active. However, non riders are welcome. |
| Type of ride: | Based adventure and trails |
| Total riding time: | As per itinerary |
| Departure dates: | 2010 dates: 3 July; 10 July; 17 July; 24 July |
| Pricing: | See Pricing |