Explore the stunning Eastern Rhodopes on this 2-day tour from Sofia or Plovdiv, featuring a hike to the impressive medieval Fortress Minyak, panoramic views of the Studen Kladenets dam, and a visit to Bulgaria’s longest cable-stayed bridge near Lisitsite. On day two, discover the ancient Deaf Stones rock sanctuary, the historic Thracian tomb of Mezek, and the well-preserved Netotsikon fortress, set amid beautiful mountain scenery with authentic local culture and delicious traditional meals. This immersive journey blends nature, history, and architecture for a unique Bulgarian adventure.
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Lyubomir A. is the provider and guide of this trip
The provider speaks: English
We are happy to offer you high quality tours and holiday packages. As experts in sightseeing and driven by quality services, our tours and holiday packages are the best ways to immerse you in the traditions of Bulgarian land.
Our experienced tour guides have a lot to share with you regarding the Bulgarian history.
Tour highlights
Hike to the Medieval Fortress Minyak
One of the largest fortresses in the Rhodopes, with stunning views of Studen Kladenets dam and Bulgaria’s longest cable-stayed bridge.
Deaf Stones Rock Sanctuary
Explore the ancient rock sanctuary, a sacred Thracian cult site carved into the Eastern Rhodope cliffs.
Explore Netotsikon Fortress
Visit the well-preserved fortress and discover the rich heritage of Mezek village, famous for its historic winery and Thracian tomb.
Route details
Day 1
Rhodope Heights and Skywalk
If you’re starting from Sofia, our team will be ready to welcome you at the parking area behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral, or you can arrange a different pick-up location ahead of time with our booking team. For those departing from Plovdiv, the meeting point is in front of Hotel Ramada (Trimoncium Hotel Plovdiv), with alternative pick-up options available upon request.
From there, we’ll travel to the hiking trailhead near the village of Shiroko Pole, located about 4 kilometers from Kardzhali. The trek from this point takes approximately three hours and leads to the impressive medieval fortress Minyak (also known as Makan), one of the largest and highest strongholds in the Rhodopes. The fortress offers breathtaking views over the Studen Kladenets dam, the cable-stayed bridge near Lisitsite, and the village of Shiroko Pole.
We’ll pause for a relaxing picnic in this serene environment before hiking back to the starting point.
Next, a short transfer brings us to the village of Lisitsite, where we’ll enjoy a trek to the longest cable-stayed bridge in Bulgaria. Afterward, we’ll board the bus and head to the hotel for check-in. The evening is yours to unwind, enjoy a delicious dinner in a traditional atmosphere, and relax at your leisure.
Day 2
Sacred Stones and Thracian Legends
Difficulty
Easy
Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age
Tour provider's comments
Travelers should have a moderate to good level of physical fitness.
Accommodation
Comfort
Upscale
Hotel
1 night
1 night
3-star Hotel
Single room supplement - 40 leva extra.
Tickets to group meeting place
Group meeting place
Sofia Airport (SOF), булевард „Христофор Колумб“, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Partnered with
Weather during the tour
Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
- the forecasts for this season
- the statistics from previous years’ trips
Tour conditions
Included
- Returning transport will be by coach from pick up point and drop off point;
- 1x night in a 3 stars hotel;
- Breakfast;
- Professional guide;
- Insurance.
Extras
- Flights;
- Personal expenses;
- Entrance ticket for Mezek tomb and fortress Netotsikon 8 leva.
Group size
2-12 tourists, over 18 y.o.
Duration
2 days
1 night
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
Please wear comfortable hiking boots, warm clothes, dry food, water, raincoate.
∗ Windproof and waterproof jacket.
∗ Extra garment (fleece).
∗ Water bottle at least 1 liter.
∗ Hat/towel, sunscreen and sunglasses, raincoat.
∗ Insole (optional).
In bad weather conditions the program can be shortened or replaced.
What type of food will we have?
Are there any discounts for children, students or seniors?
Cancellation of booking
Dates and Prices
- fromApproximate6 – 7 Dec2 days 1 night
- fromApproximate31 Jan – 1 Feb, 20262 days 1 night
