Your adventure begins at Sofia Airport, where you embark on a scenic drive to the remote village of Yagodina, nestled deep within the Rhodope Mountains. As the journey unfolds, the landscape transforms from the bustling capital to rolling hills, dense forests, and rugged peaks, providing a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Bulgaria’s most enigmatic mountain range.

Upon your arrival in Yagodina, settle into a charming family-run guesthouse, where a warm welcome and a delicious home-cooked dinner await. 

Highlights of the Day:

• Enjoy a home-cooked dinner and savor the flavors of authentic Rhodope cuisine.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~230 km; Overnight in Yagodina (- / - / D)

The day begins with a brief transfer to Kastrakli Nature Reserve, a pristine wilderness celebrated for its rich biodiversity. This scenic hike leads through a deep, forested gorge, which is home to an impressive array of orchids, butterflies, and the elusive Balkan chamois that roam the rocky slopes. The tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled nature make this an ideal introduction to the hidden beauty of the Rhodope Mountains.

In the afternoon, after a scenic drive to the village of Chala, those eager for another adventure can embark on a second trek. The route follows a grassy ridge spur, offering spectacular panoramic views of Yagodina before descending into the Buinovo Gorge, a dramatic limestone canyon. From there, a short drive returns us to Yagodina for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.

For those seeking to experience even more breathtaking vistas, an optional 4x4 excursion leads to the Eagle’s Eye viewpoint, an extraordinary vantage point that offers uninterrupted views of the Rhodope Mountains and beyond.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike through Kastrakli Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for orchids, butterflies, and Balkan chamois.
• Walk along a grassy ridge near Chala, which offers sweeping views of Yagodina and the Buinovo Gorge.
• Optional 4x4 trip to the Eagle’s Eye viewpoint, one of the most stunning panoramas in the Rhodopes.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~50 km; Trekking distance: ~13 km; Time: ~4 h; Elevation: +350 m / -700 m; Overnight in Yagodina (B / - / D)

Today’s journey takes us deep into the rugged heart of the Trigrad Karst Plateau, an extraordinary landscape characterized by towering limestone cliffs, hidden gorges, and meadows adorned with wildflowers. The network of ancient shepherd trails and remote mountain paths provides an exhilarating trek through one of the most biologically diverse regions in Bulgaria.

Our first stop is at a viewpoint overlooking the dramatic cliffs, where we pause to search for the elusive wallcreeper. This striking bird, with its butterfly-like flutter and crimson wings, is one of the most sought-after species in Europe and a true highlight for birdwatchers.

Continuing through the plateau, the trail weaves between limestone outcrops and pristine wilderness, offering ever-changing vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This region is designated as a Prime Butterfly Area, home to a remarkable variety of rare and endemic species, as well as diverse alpine flora that flourishes in this unique habitat.

As the afternoon light casts golden hues over the plateau, we make our way back to Trigrad, where a warm meal and a well-earned rest await.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike through the Trigrad Karst Plateau, a breathtaking landscape of cliffs, gorges, and meadows.
• Spot the rare wallcreeper, a distinctive bird with striking red wings that flutters gracefully along rock faces.
• Discover a biodiversity hotspot that is home to rare butterflies and endemic alpine flora.

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~15 km; Time: ~5 h; Elevation: +400 m / -400 m; Overnight in Trigrad (B / - / D)

We set off from Trigrad, heading toward the remote borderlands between Bulgaria and Greece—an area of stunning natural beauty with a history as dramatic as its landscapes. The trail winds through rolling meadows, dense forests, and rocky outcrops, providing a glimpse into a region that was once heavily guarded during the Cold War.

Known as the Zone of Death, this restricted border area was patrolled by armed guards, serving as a final barrier for those attempting to escape across the Iron Curtain into Greece. Today, the region is a sanctuary of peace and wilderness, inhabited by wolves, brown bears, wild boar, and roe deer, which roam freely through the vast, untamed landscape.

As we hike along the old border zone, remnants of the past still linger—rusting military bunkers and stretches of the former border fence serve as silent reminders of a bygone era. Along the way, we pause to learn more about this dark yet fascinating chapter of Bulgarian history, reflecting on the region’s transformation from a site of conflict to one of conservation.

After a rewarding day in the mountains, we transfer to Devin, Bulgaria’s spa capital, where we check into a comfortable spa hotel. Here, you can unwind and rejuvenate in the town’s mineral-rich thermal waters, renowned for their healing properties—a perfect way to relax after days of trekking.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike along the former Iron Curtain, exploring a once-forbidden border zone that has now reclaimed by nature.
• Discover remnants of Cold War history, including abandoned bunkers and sections of the border fence.
• Relax in Devin, the spa capital of Bulgaria, and enjoy the rejuvenating thermal waters.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~40 km; Trekking distance: ~14 km; Time: ~5 h; Elevation: +475 m / -475 m; Overnight in Devin (B / - / D)

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive into the highest part of the Rhodope Mountains, where breathtaking panoramic views await. Upon reaching the end of the road, our ridge-top hike begins, guiding us through a stunning landscape of rolling alpine pastures and rugged peaks.

Our route takes us just below Mount Golyam Perelik (2,191 m), the highest peak in the Rhodopes, where a military base restricts access to the summit. Continuing along the ridge, we ascend Mount Golyam Snezhnik (2,188 m), a spectacular viewpoint that offers uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.

From this point, we begin a long descent through the dense forests of the Rhodopes, where towering pine trees flank the trail and the air is infused with the scent of mountain wilderness. Birds flit through the canopy, and the winding path guides us into the picturesque village of Gela, which is believed to be the legendary birthplace of Orpheus. Nestled among dramatic peaks, this ancient village exudes an aura of mysticism, making it an ideal place to pause and immerse ourselves in the rich history and cultural heritage of the Rhodopes.

After appreciating Gela’s serene beauty, we transfer to Devin.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike along the ridge of the Rhodope Mountains.
• Ascend Mount Golyam Snezhnik (2,188 m) for an unforgettable view of the surrounding peaks.
• Visit the legendary village of Gela, believed to be the birthplace of Orpheus.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~80 km; Trekking distance: ~14 km; Time: ~5-6 h; Elevation: +450 m / -900 m; Overnight in Devin (B / - / D)

The final morning in Devin provides an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing nature walk before returning to Sofia. After breakfast, we set off on a picturesque riverside trail along the Devinska River, a path designed to highlight the region’s diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty.

The trail winds through lush forests, wooden bridges, and cascading waterfalls, providing serene landscapes and excellent photo opportunities. This area is recognized as a Prime Butterfly Area, home to numerous rare and colorful species that add a vibrant touch to the tranquil surroundings. As we walk, we breathe in the fresh mountain air, listening to the gentle flow of the river and the harmonious sounds of nature all around.

After a picnic lunch by the river, it is time to bid farewell to the wild and mythical landscapes of the Rhodope Mountains. Transfer back to Sofia

Highlights of the Day:

• Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Devinska River, surrounded by verdant forests and cascading waterfalls.
• Discover rare butterfly species.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~210 km; Trekking distance: ~6 km; Time: ~2 h; Elevation:+200 m / -200 m; ; Overnight in Devin (B / - / D)

After breakfast, it’s time to conclude our journey through the wild and captivating landscapes of the Rhodope Mountains.

Travel Details: Departure from Sofia (B / - / -)