Trails and Tastes of Melnik

Difficulty

Easy

Comfort

Upscale

Group size

2-12 tourists,
over 18 y.o.

Step back in time on this cultural and nature-filled adventure through Melnik – the smallest town in Bulgaria, known for its rich wine-making traditions dating back over 5,000 years, and its connection to the Thracian tribe Maedi, birthplace of Spartacus.

Visit the mystical Rupite, home of Bulgarian prophetess Baba Vanga, and hike to the crater of the extinct Kozhuh volcano, followed by a relaxing picnic. Explore the ancient Heraclea Sintica, a Hellenistic city founded by Philip II of Macedon.

Unwind in natural thermal waters, enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight in charming Melnik.

On day two, tour the ethnographic and architectural town of Melnik, discover Samuel’s Fortress, and visit the museum in Petrich before returning to Sofia or Plovdiv.

A perfect blend of history, nature, culture, and local flavor.

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.

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Tour highlights

Explore the Ancient City of Heraclea Sintica

Founded by Philip II of Macedon, with remarkably preserved ruins, including a basilica and artifacts of Heracles and Artemis.

Discover Melnik

Bulgaria’s smallest town, famed for its unique architecture, 5,000-year-old wine-making tradition, and deep Thracian heritage.

Visit Rupite and the Extinct Kozhuh Volcano

All including a peaceful hike, natural thermal baths, and the memorial temple of the legendary prophetess Baba Vanga.

Route details

The journey begins with departure from Sofia at 09:00 or Plovdiv at 07:00, with pick-up arranged in advance. Our first stop is Rupite, home to the memorial temple of St. Petka of Bulgaria, where the famous Bulgarian medium Baba Vanga lived and is buried. A scenic two-hour hike follows to the crater of the extinct Kozhuh volcano, where you'll enjoy a tranquil picnic. We continue with a hike to the ancient city of Heraclea Sintica, a Hellenistic polis founded by Philip II of Macedon, known for its well-preserved basilica and artifacts of Heracles and Artemis. In the afternoon, unwind in the natural thermal waters of Rupite before heading to Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest town. After hotel check-in, relax with a delicious traditional dinner in a local atmosphere.

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

Guest House

1 night

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;
Professional guide;
Insurance.

Extras

Flights;
Personal expenses;
Entrance ticket for Heraclea Sintica;
Entrance ticket for the Samuel's fortress.

Group size

2-12 tourists, over 18 y.o.

Duration

2 days

1 night

It's important to know

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).

∗ Swimwear and flip flops.

In bad weather conditions the program can be shortened or replaced.