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	<title>Horseriding holidays in Bulgaria. Mountain and stationary adventures on horseback. Horse riding vacations in Bulgaria. Active horseback holidays, trailriding, riding by the sea, trekking.</title>
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	<description>Horseriding, horseriding Bulgaria, horseriding bg, bulgaria horse, bulgaria horseriding, bg horses</description>
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		<title>Trail to Mt. Botev through Hell and Paradise</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/trail-to-mt-botev-through-hell-and-paradise-bulgaria/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/trail-to-mt-botev-through-hell-and-paradise-bulgaria/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:34:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Trail to Mt. Botev]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=18</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you have the courage to be challenged in a rough terrain? Do you want to  be impressed by brilliant horse skills? If yes, this trail is something for you.
The trail passes by the Northern Hell reserve (Severen Dzhendem), famous for  its game abundance, inaccessible rocks and dense forests of several hundred  [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you have the courage to be challenged in a rough terrain? Do you want to  be impressed by brilliant horse skills? If yes, this trail is something for you.<br />
The trail passes by the Northern Hell reserve (Severen Dzhendem), famous for  its game abundance, inaccessible rocks and dense forests of several hundred  years old Beech trees, deep ravines and countless waterfalls. After the ascent  to Mt. Botev we continue down on the other side of the mountains to Paradise  hut, famous for the highest waterfalls in the Balkans – the Paradise waterfalls  (124,5 m), washing the vertical rocks just above the hut. The exposure of this  rock formation stand in sharp contrast to an almost unbelievable magic silence,  which continues all the way down to the small monastery at the foot of the  Balkan Mountains. The way back crosses again the ridge of the mountains, leading  this time to the Central Balkan National Park. The peak parts there offer  stunning views over both southern and northern Bulgaria. The trip ends in our  riding base by Apriltsi.</p>
<p><strong>Tour Highlights<br />
</strong>• Balkan  Mountains (&#8221;Stara planina&#8221;) &#8211; the longest (550 km), the biggest of all mountains  in Bulgaria (highest peak: Mt.Botev 2376 m. a.s.l.)<br />
• The Central Balkan  National Park &#8211; the land of untouched wildlife and wilderness!<br />
• The Valley  of Roses – this place has been producing the priceless attar of roses for  centuries .<br />
• Apriltsi -  a small town, situated at the foot of the Central  Balkan Range. The town is rich in history and incredible with its nature and  landmarks.<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
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<th>Departure dates:</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>04 September 2010</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Balkan Mountains</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>899.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan:</strong><br />
<strong>Day 1.</strong> Meeting with the rep from Riding base Balkan at the  airport and drive to the mountains (the transfer takes about 3 hours).<br />
<strong>Day 2.</strong> In the morning you will meet the horses we have  chosen and trained specially for this trail. Our ride today is to “Mandrata” on  the top ridge of Balkan Mountains – riding off the beaten horse riding tracks.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 4-5/<br />
</em><strong>Day 3.</strong> We ride along  the magic Severen Djendem Reserve and our preparations to this trail are tested.  The say “the mountains divide the country in two parts” will be so very evident  to you after today. Hopefully we’ll reach the summit in the afternoon and from  there we have only 30 minutes of steep downhill riding to the shelter where we  stay overnight.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 6-7/</em><br />
<strong>Day  4.</strong> Today’s ride is from “Hell to Paradise” – literally spoken (may  be). We’ll ride about 15 km in about 5 hours and we will ride through the  Djendemja Reserve before in the afternoon we will reach the big mountain hut  Hizha Rai.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5-6/</em><br />
<strong>Day  5.</strong> From this alluring place we ride downhill through the old wood and  to the open meadows at the foothill of the Balkan Mountains where the Valley of  Roses starts. During the whole day you will experience the magic atmosphere of  this area and the horses will show you what down hill riding means!<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5/</em><br />
<strong>Day 6.</strong> We start at the  monastery meadows and continue riding along the foothill of the Balkan  Mountains. The trail brings us back into the “Central Balkan National Park” and  in an altitude of about 1250 m we stay overnight in the Hizha Triglav.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5-6/</em><br />
<strong>Day 7.</strong> After  breakfast we ride in the northern direction and the circle ride is closed and we  end in Riding base Balkan.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5/</em><br />
<strong>Day  8.</strong> After breakfast we say good-bye to the horses and guides. Transfer  to the airport for departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food: </strong>The trail is based on 7 nights with full  board. Mineral water is included at all meals, but other drinks are to be paid  on spot in leva.nFirst and last overnight are in a good 3-star hotel in a double  /triple room with shower and toilet on the floor. In the mountains we overnight  in shelters (one night in a dorm), mountain huts and a mountain monastery.  Sleeping bag is not needed as you will get a pillow and blankets. You will have  access to warm water and a shower all days, but please note that electricity and  water supply is limited and the bathing facilities are quite primitive.</p>
<p><strong>Luggage transport: </strong>From day 3 in the morning to day 5 in the evening  you have only the luggage our packing horses can have on their bag. (Limited  baggage allowance). The rest of your luggage is safe behind the monastery  walls.</p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services: </strong>-</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price: </strong>Transfers to/from Sofia or Plovdiv Airport;  equipped horse; accommodation and boarding in guesthouses and mountain huts as  per program; fullboard; English-speaking guide; luggage transportation from  point to point</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price: </strong>insurance, tips, alcohol drinks, cigarettes  and other personal expenses</p>
<p><strong>Practical information: </strong>HORSES AND SADDLING: For this trail ride we  only use our rather small horses with proven skills in extreme riding  situations. They are in top condition for this trail. Most of the them are of  the Eastbulgarian breed and crossings with Arabians and local horses.The East  Bulgarian breed is well known as tough, thoughtful and wise, and in harmony with  the famous strength and power of the Arabian it gives a combination that fully  satisfies the riders and the challenges in the nature. The average size is  160-165 cm. For the trail you’ll ride on western saddles (Australian or  American). There are small saddlebags available. EXTENSION AT THE BLACK SEA  COAST: we have a unique proposal, which gives you the opportunity to stay on a  sea holiday for extra week after your active tour at an incredibly low price in  Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, Lozenets, St. Vlas, Golden Sands etc. and all  this with arranged transportation right after your tour and before your  departure flight. For more information please check &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below.  LOW COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please check: Wizz Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky  Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/; Easy Jet &#8211; http://www.easyjet.com/;  Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/; My Air &#8211; http://www.myair.com/;  Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/; Norwegian Air Shuttle &#8211;  http://www.norwegian.no/. in summer time there are loads of opportunities to  book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of landing at Sofia  Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the starting point of  the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway station in these towns,  picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa at the end of your tour  (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the bus/train ticket price  itself). For detailed information and prices, please look at the trip  dossier.</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year: </strong>June &#8211; September</p>
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		<title>Trail To The Singing Rocks (Bulgaria)</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/trail-to-the-singing-rocks-bulgaria/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/trail-to-the-singing-rocks-bulgaria/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:34:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Trail to the Singing Rocks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=16</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[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 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>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. The trail offers  a variety of landscapes and riding paces. The hilly terrain as well as the small  plateaus on top of the hills offer fantastic opportunities for an unforgettable  ride.</p>
<p><strong>Tour Highlights</strong><br />
• Balkan Mountains (&#8221;Stara  planina&#8221;) are the longest (550 km), the biggest of all mountains in Bulgaria  (highest peak: Mt.Botev 2376 m. a.s.l.)<br />
• The Central Balkan National Park &#8211;  the land of untouched wildlife and wilderness! It is characterized by deep  caves, steep slopes and canyons, high waterfalls, and clear fresh water streams.  The National park boasts the highest waterfall in Bulgaria, the 125-m high  Raiskoto Praskalo.<br />
• Apriltsi is a small town, situated at the foot of the  Central Balkan Range. The town is rich in history and incredible with its nature  and landmarks.<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
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<th>Departure dates:</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>03 July 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17 July 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>07 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18 September 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25 September 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>02 October 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>09 October 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16 October 2010</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Balkan Mountains</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>840.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan:</strong><br />
<strong>Day 1.</strong> Arrival at the airport and  transportation to the Riding base “Balkan” in Apriltsi situated at the foothills  of the Balkan mountains.<br />
<strong>Day 2.</strong> In the morning you will meet  “your” horse and friend for the week. After the first meeting we take a leisure  ride out of the town of Apriltsi in order to gain an intimate knowledge of the  horses and their habits. We have a picnic near one of the rivers. After lunch  and a rest we ride back to Riding base Balkan in different paces. We stay  overnight in Apriltsi.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 4-5/</em><br />
<strong>Day  3.</strong> The trail starts in the morning in a north-eastern direction through  some remote villages. We make a short stop by a creek in order to eat our lunch.  Later on in the afternoon, we reach the little monastery named after the  neighbouring town of Batoshevo. It is the place where we stay overnight today.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 6/</em><br />
<strong>Day 4.</strong> From the  monastery the path takes us through the forest and by the picturesque villages  of Stokite and Kupen. This is where the uphill part of our riding really begins.  We have lunch on the way. Later on in the afternoon we reach the village of  Todorcheta, our goal for today.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle:  7/</em><br />
<strong>Day 5.</strong> Today’s ride begins right after breakfast and  takes us further up the mountain through a thick old forest. We reach the  mountain hut “Partizanska pesen”, where we have lunch. In the afternoon we ride  west on the top of the Balkan range. We ride into the “Central Balkan National  Park” and reach mountain hut “Mazalat”, where we spend the night.<br />
<em>/Hours  in the saddle: 5-6/</em><br />
<strong>Day 6.</strong> Today we ride in the  “Singing rocks” reserve. If we are fortunate, there is a wind that lets us hear  the song of the beautiful rock formations. There are two places where we need to  get off the horses and lead them (both of them about 10-20 m long). We stay  overnight in a mountain hut .<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle:  7/</em><br />
<strong>Day 7.</strong> After breakfast we ride in the northern  direction and the circle ride is closed. We ride down the mountains, leave the  national park and come down in riding base &#8220;Balkan&#8221; in Apriltsi, where the tour  started.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5/</em><br />
<strong>Day 8.</strong> After  breakfast we say good-bye to the horses and guides. Transfer to the airport for  departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food: </strong>The trail is based on 3 nights with  accommodation in Apriltsi, 3 nights en route in the mountains, 1 night in a  little monastery. Accommodation in 2 or 3 bedded rooms. There is a bathroom  everywhere we overnight, but on some of the days the facilities are shared. The  trail is based on full board. nMineral water is included at all meals, but other  drinks are to be paid on the spot in leva.</p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services: </strong>-</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price: </strong>Transfers to/from Sofia or Plovdiv Airport;  equipped horse; accommodation and boarding in guesthouses and mountain huts as  per program; fullboard; English-speaking guide; luggage transportation from  point to point.</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price: </strong>tips, alcohol drinks and other personal  expenses, maps, additional daily excursions</p>
<p><strong>Practical information: </strong>HORSES AND SADDLING: There are more than 25  horses in the riding base – all of them in good condition and trained to ride in  the mountains. Most of the horses are of the Eastbulgarian breed and crossings  with Arabians and local horses : The East Bulgarian breed is well known as  tough, thoughtful and wise, and in harmony with the famous strength and power of  the Arabian it gives a combination that fully satisfies the riders and the  challenges in the nature. The average size is 160-165 cm. The saddles are  Western (Australian or American). There are small saddlebags. EXTENSION AT THE  BLACK SEA COAST: we have a unique proposal, which gives you the opportunity to  stay on a sea holiday for extra week after your active tour at an incredibly low  price in Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, Lozenets, St. Vlas, Golden Sands etc.  and all this with arranged transportation right after your tour and before your  departure flight. For more information please check &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below.  LOW COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please check: Wizz Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky  Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/; Easy Jet &#8211; http://www.easyjet.com/;  Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/; My Air &#8211; http://www.myair.com/;  Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/; Norwegian Air Shuttle &#8211;  http://www.norwegian.no/. in summer time there are loads of opportunities to  book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of landing at Sofia  Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the starting point of  the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway station in these towns,  picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa at the end of your tour  (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the bus/train ticket price  itself). For detailed information and prices, please look at the trip  dossier.</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year: </strong>June 1 &#8211; October 31</p>
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		<title>The Balkan Trail (Bulgaria)</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-balkan-trail-bulgaria/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-balkan-trail-bulgaria/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:34:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[The Balkan Trail]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=14</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you dreaming of a ride along ancient trails over impressive mountains,  through waste mountain pass, along running water and roar waterfall? And further  in the wonderful mountain scenery crossing the pasture to small hidden and  forgotten villages? On the Balkan Trail we ride over the Balkan Range – through  the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Are you dreaming of a ride along ancient trails over impressive mountains,  through waste mountain pass, along running water and roar waterfall? And further  in the wonderful mountain scenery crossing the pasture to small hidden and  forgotten villages? On the Balkan Trail we ride over the Balkan Range – through  the Central Balkan National Park and the lower mountains of Sredna Gora and in  between we ride through the famous Valley of Roses – not only a name but a  spectaculous scenerary of roses and the most fantastick scent of roses.</p>
<p><strong>Tour Highlights</strong><br />
• A ride over two mountains,  bringing new challenges, new terrains, and new experiences every day<br />
• The  Central Balkan National Park &#8211; the land of untouched wildlife and wilderness,  characterized by deep caves, steep slopes and canyons, high waterfalls, and  clear fresh water streams.<br />
• The Valley of Roses – this place has been  producing the priceless attar of roses for centuries, which has been the means  of livelihood of the native people for centuries.<br />
• Visits to Apriltsi and  Kalofer – ancient Bulgarian towns with typical architecture and impressive  history.<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th>Departure dates:</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>01 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>08 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>05 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10 July 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24 July 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31 July 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>04 September 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11 September 2010</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Balkan Mountains</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>840.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan:</strong><br />
<strong>Day 1.</strong> Arrival at the airport and  transportation to the riding base “Balkan” in Apriltsi situated at the foothills  of the Balkan mountains.<br />
<strong>Day 2.</strong> In the morning you will meet  “your” horse and friend for the week. After the first meeting you will make a  leisure ride out of the town of Apriltsi in order to gain an intimate knowledge  of your horse and its habits. After lunch the trek starts going up in the  mountains to the first chalet.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: around  3/</em><br />
<strong>Day 3.</strong> The ride continues through the Central Balkan  National Park close to Mount Botev thus providing a superb view towards the  Thrace Plain. After 6-7 hours ride the day ends in a small monastery where the  riders and horses will find a rest for the night.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle:  7-8/</em><br />
<strong>Day 4.</strong> From the monastery the ride continues  through the neighboring small town and through the “Valley of Roses” . After  nearly 5 hours we reach the Sredna Gora Mountains where we overnight in the  chalet Svezhen.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 5-6/</em><br />
<strong>Day  5.</strong> The whole day is dedicated to riding in the terrains around the  Riding centre “The Valley of Roses”. Play and fun with the horses combined with  needed relax at the edge of a small lake – a really exciting experience. In the  fantastic meadows you have all possibilities to break into trot or gallop or to  be a pathfinder together with the riding guide in the remote surroundings to the  village of Svezhen.<br />
<em>/Hours in the saddle: 4-5/</em><br />
<strong>Day  6.</strong> In the morning we head north following other hidden trails and after  some 7 hours we reach the place where we stay overnight.<br />
<em>/Hours in the  saddle: 7-8/</em><br />
<strong>Day 7.</strong> It is about time to ride back over  the mountains to our starting point – Apriltsi. After 6 hours ride we finally  see the stables and the ring marking the end of the journey.<br />
<em>/Hours in  the saddle: 7-8/</em><br />
<strong>Day 8.</strong> After breakfast we say good-bye  to the horses and guides. Transfer to airport for departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food: </strong>The Balkan Trail is based on 7 nights with  full board. Mineral water is included at all meals, but other drinks are to be  paid on spot in leva.nTwo nights in private houses in Apriltsi, 4 nights en  route in the mountains and 1 night in a monastery up in the mountains.  Accommodation in 2 or 3 bedded rooms. You have access to a bathroom every day  (on the floor).</p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services: </strong>-</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price: </strong>accommodation in guesthouses (days 1 and 7),  small monastery (day 3) and mountain huts (rest of the days) all with shared  facilities on fullboard; pick up/drop off at Sofia or Plovdiv airport; equipped  horse; English-speaking guide; luggage transportation from point to point.</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price: </strong>tips, alcohol drinks and other personal  expenses, maps, additional daily excursions</p>
<p><strong>Practical information: </strong>HORSES AND SADDLING: There are more than 25  horses in the riding base – all of them in good condition and trained to ride in  the mountains. Most of the horses are of the Eastbulgarian breed and crossings  with Arabians and local horses : The East Bulgarian breed is well known as  tough, thoughtful and wise, and in harmony with the famous strength and power of  the Arabian it gives a combination that fully satisfies the riders and the  challenges in the nature. The average size is 160-165 cm. The saddles are  Western (Australian or American). There are small saddlebags. EXTENSION AT THE  BLACK SEA COAST: we have a unique proposal, which gives you the opportunity to  stay on a sea holiday for extra week after your active tour at an incredibly low  price in Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, Lozenets, St. Vlas, Golden Sands etc.  and all this with arranged transportation right after your tour and before your  departure flight. For more information please check &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below.  LOW COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please check: Wizz Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky  Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/; Easy Jet &#8211; http://www.easyjet.com/;  Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/; My Air &#8211; http://www.myair.com/;  Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/; Norwegian Air Shuttle &#8211;  http://www.norwegian.no/. in summer time there are loads of opportunities to  book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of landing at Sofia  Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the starting point of  the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway station in these towns,  picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa at the end of your tour  (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the bus/train ticket price  itself). For detailed information and prices, please look at the trip  dossier.</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year: </strong>May 1 – October 15</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Balkan Rides (Bulgaria)</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-balkan-rides-bulgaria/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-balkan-rides-bulgaria/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:33:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[The Balkan Rides]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=12</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you really want to explore Bulgaria &#8211; do it on a horseback. It’s simply  one of the best ways to experience the country and the people. On the horseback  you will gain knowledge of the nature, flora and fauna, historical sights,  architecture etc. You will pass through the most fantastic landscapes [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you really want to explore Bulgaria &#8211; do it on a horseback. It’s simply  one of the best ways to experience the country and the people. On the horseback  you will gain knowledge of the nature, flora and fauna, historical sights,  architecture etc. You will pass through the most fantastic landscapes and you  will have the most impressious views. And at the same time you will meet the  people were they are in the country side: In a harmony between nature – horses  and the famous – still existing – Bulgarian hospitality.</p>
<p><strong>Tour  Highlights<br />
</strong>• Apriltsi is a small town, settled at the foot of the  Central Balkan Range, rich in history and incredible with its nature and   landmarks.<br />
• Balkan Mountains (&#8221;Stara planina&#8221;) are the longest (550 km),  the biggest of all mountains.  The highest peak is Mount Botev (2376 m  a.s.l.).<br />
• The Central Balkan National Park &#8211; the land of untouched wildlife  and wilderness! It is characterized by deep caves, steep slopes and canyons,  high waterfalls, and clear fresh water streams. The National park boasts the  highest waterfall in Bulgaria, the 125-m high Raiskoto Praskalo.<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
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<th>Departure dates:</th>
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<tr>
<td>01 January 2010 &#8211; 31 December 2010 &#8211; every saturday</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Balkan Mountains</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>680.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Day 1.</strong> Arrival at the airport and transportation to the  Riding base “Balkan” in Apriltsi at the foothills of the Balkan  Mountains.<br />
<strong>Days 2-7.</strong> In the morning of the first riding day  you will meet “your” horse and friend for the week. After the first meeting you  will be riding a leisure ride out of the town of Apriltsi in order to gain an  intimate knowledge of your horse and its habits. The whole package is based on a  stationary program in Riding base ”Balkan” and one-day trips towards different  sights of interest. Here are some examples of riding tours: 1. &#8211; 18 km:  Sightseeing riding around the town. In its full length Apriltsi is more than 12  km long and between the quarters you have the best landscape for various riding  and a scenery in front of you, you didn’t knew existing. 2. &#8211; 25 km: Over the  hill top of Ostrets and Peperi – under the Black Peak (1500 m a.s.l.) to a small  monastery. Lunch in the monastery garden. Back to the riding base ”Balkan”  through fields and meadows and along the river. 3. &#8211; 26 km: Up in the mountains  to the highest placed bates for the wild in the area. You will ride in over 1100  m most of the day. 4. &#8211; 20 km: Riding over Vidima hut to the highest placed  waterfall in Bulgaria “Praskaloto” (125 m), situated over 1350 m a.s.l. Another  possibility is to ride up to one of the mountain chalets and have an overnight.  Sunrise and sunset high in the mountains could be an experience for a  lifetime.<br />
<strong>Day 8.</strong> After breakfast we say good-bye to the  horses and guides. Transfer to the airport for departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food: </strong>The stay in Riding base Balkan is based on 7  nights with full board. Mineral water is included at all meals, but other drinks  are to be paid on spot in leva. We stay in local houses, situated close to the  riding base itself. Accommodation in 2 or 3 bedded rooms. Single room on request  only (against additional fee). You have access to a bathroom every day (on the  floor).</p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services: </strong>Single room supplement: 100 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price: </strong>Transfers to/from Sofia or Plovdiv Airport;  equipped horse; accommodation and boarding in guesthouses by the base in double  rooms with shared facilities (accommodation with en-suite facilities available  upon additional charge – please ask); fullboard; English-speaking guide.</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price: </strong>tips, alcohol drinks and other personal  expenses, maps, additional daily excursions</p>
<p><strong>Practical information: </strong>HORSES AND SADDLING:There are more than 25  horses in the riding base – all of them in good condition and trained to ride in  the mountains. Most of the horses are of the Eastbulgarian breed and crossings  with Arabians and local horses : The East Bulgarian breed is well known as  tough, thoughtful and wise, and in harmony with the famous strength and power of  the Arabian it gives a combination that fully satisfies the riders and the  challenges in the nature. The average size is 160-165 cm. The saddles are  Western (Australian or American). There are small saddlebags. EXTENSION AT THE  BLACK SEA COAST: we have a unique proposal, which gives you the opportunity to  stay on a sea holiday for extra week after your active tour at an incredibly low  price in Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, Lozenets, St. Vlas, Golden Sands etc.  and all this with arranged transportation right after your tour and before your  departure flight. For more information please check &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below.  LOW COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please check: Wizz Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky  Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/; Easy Jet &#8211; http://www.easyjet.com/;  Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/; My Air &#8211; http://www.myair.com/;  Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/; Norwegian Air Shuttle &#8211;  http://www.norwegian.no/. in summer time there are loads of opportunities to  book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of landing at Sofia  Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the starting point of  the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway station in these towns,  picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa at the end of your tour  (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the bus/train ticket price  itself). For detailed information and prices, please look at the trip  dossier.</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year: </strong>All year round</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>On a Horseback In the Land of Orpheus</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/rodopi-mountains-bulgaria-on-a-horseback-in-the-land-of-orpheus/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/rodopi-mountains-bulgaria-on-a-horseback-in-the-land-of-orpheus/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:31:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[In the Land of Orpheus]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=5</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you enjoy riding? Do you like mountains? If yes, then we have just the  right holiday for you: six days of riding in the Rodopes –the land of high peaks  and deep river gorges, weird rock formations, lush meadows and dense forests.  The region has a wealth of traditional architecture and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you enjoy riding? Do you like mountains? If yes, then we have just the  right holiday for you: six days of riding in the Rodopes –the land of high peaks  and deep river gorges, weird rock formations, lush meadows and dense forests.  The region has a wealth of traditional architecture and folklore: en route we  visit remote villages, old churches and one of Bulgaria’s finest monasteries  Bachkovo. According to mythology, this is the homeland of Dionysus, the God of  wine. Today this is the area where a native grape variety Mavrud is cultivated.  The robust Mavrud red wine can be sampled at the well-known wine cellar Villa  Vinifera, included in our itinerary.<br />
Beautiful landscapes, picturesque small  villages, exotic sites, great wines – come join us for an unforgettable  holiday!<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
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<th>Departure dates:</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30 May 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>03 July 2010</td>
</tr>
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<td>17 July 2010</td>
</tr>
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<td>07 August 2010</td>
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<td>21 August 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>04 September 2010</td>
</tr>
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<td>19 September 2010</td>
</tr>
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<td>03 October 2010</td>
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<td>10 October 2010</td>
</tr>
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<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Southern Bulgaria</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>590.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan</strong>:<br />
<strong>Day 1.</strong> Our guide welcomes you at  Sofia / Plovdiv Airport. Transfer to Plovdiv – the second biggest city in the  country.<br />
<strong>Day 2.</strong> A short transfer takes us to Brestovitsa,  where we meet the horses. Today we make a loop-like ride, passing along the  small town of Perushtitsa and back to Brestovitsa, to visit a local winery,  where we have lunch and taste local wines. In the afternoon we head back to  Plovdiv for a short stroll in the old quarters of the town and dinner.<br />
/hours  in the saddle: 3/<br />
<strong>Day 3.</strong> We start in Brestovitsa again, this  time heading south and up in the mountains, to reach Varhovrah resort, where we  stay overnight.<br />
/hours in the saddle: 4-5/<br />
<strong>Day 4.</strong> We  continue the ride, passing through several tiny villages, following Varhovrah  ridge with great panorama views, to reach Persenk hut, where we stay overnight.<br />
/hours in the saddle: 5/<br />
<strong>Day 5.</strong> The ride today takes us  to Chudnite Mostove – a unique rock formation in the heart of the mountain.  After lunch we take the bus to visit Batchkovo Monastery. The horses will be  waiting for us at Orehovo village, where we stay overnight.<br />
/hours in the  saddle: 4/<br />
<strong>Day 6.</strong> We head up towards Chernatitsa ridge, pass  through deep woods and vast meadows, along Biala Cherkva and down to Studenets  area where we stay overnight.<br />
/hours in the saddle: 5-6/<br />
<strong>Day  7.</strong> On our last ride we reach the meadows of Leshten, where we say  goodbye to the horses, and have transfer to Plovdiv for a farewell  dinner.<br />
/hours in the saddle: 4/<br />
<strong>Day 8.</strong> After breakfast  we get a transfer to the airport in Sofia/ Plovdiv for departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food</strong>: We stay overnight at local guesthouses and  small family-run hotels in rooms with private facilities. Breakfast, lunch pack  &amp; dinner included (first meal dinner on day 1, last meal breakfast on day  <img src='http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif' alt='8)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services</strong>:   Single room supplement: 85 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price</strong>:   7 overnights in guesthouses and family-run  pensions in en-suite rooms on fullboard; riding guide; English-speaking  interpreter; saddled horse; luggage transfers from point to point; pick up/drop  off at Sofia or Plovdiv airport; VAT and all local taxes.</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price</strong>:   map (could be requested in advance when  booking the tour); insurance; alcoholic drinks; tips; other personal  expenses.</p>
<p><strong>Practical information</strong>:   HORSES: Most of the horses belong to the  local East-Bulgarian breed with a mid-height of 1,50 cm, they are well known as  thoughtful and tough, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the mountainous  region of the Rodopi Mountains. The maximum weight limit of the riders is 95  kg.EXTENSION AT THE BLACK SEA COAST: we have a unique proposal, which gives you  the opportunity to stay on a sea holiday for extra week after your active tour  at an incredibly low price in Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, Lozenets, St.  Vlas, Golden Sands etc. and all this with arranged transportation right after  your tour and before your departure flight. For more information please check  &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below. LOW_COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please check: Wizz  Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/; Easy Jet &#8211;  http://www.easyjet.com/; Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/; My Air &#8211;  http://www.myair.com/; Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/; Norwegian  Air Shuttle &#8211; http://www.norwegian.no/. In summer time there are loads of  opportunities to book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of  landing at Sofia Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the  starting point of the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway  station in these towns, picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa  at the end of your tour (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the  bus/train ticket price itself).</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year</strong>:   June &#8211; September</p>
<p><strong>Group Size: </strong>4-8 riders</p>
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		<title>The Rodopi Trail (Bulgaria)</title>
		<link>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-rodopi-trail-bulgaria/</link>
		<comments>http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/the-rodopi-trail-bulgaria/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:27:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Horseriding Bulgaria</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Rodopi Trail]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://horseridingbulgaria.com/?p=3</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Rodopi Mountains in southern Bulgaria are what many would call a mystery.
Historians believe that the Rodopi are the birthplace of the legendary  musician Orpheus and his wife Eurydice, as well as the cradle of the Dionysus-  cult. For most Bulgarians, it is the numerous caves from prehistoric time, the  Roman roads [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Rodopi Mountains in southern Bulgaria are what many would call a mystery.<br />
Historians believe that the Rodopi are the birthplace of the legendary  musician Orpheus and his wife Eurydice, as well as the cradle of the Dionysus-  cult. For most Bulgarians, it is the numerous caves from prehistoric time, the  Roman roads and the beautiful medieval monasteries that account for the Rodopi’s  charm. For others it is the picturesque mountains villages, their authentic  lifestyle and the warm local hospitality. Or perhaps the mellow green fields and  the reflection of the sun in the bright blue highland lakes. We give you an  opportunity to make up your own mind about the mesmerizing atmosphere of the  Rodopi – together with our horses we get as close to the heart of the Rodopi and  to the authentic life of its people as possible.<br />

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th>Departure dates:</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12 June 2010</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21 August 2010</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Country region: </strong>Southern Bulgaria</p>
<p><strong>Price without flight ticket: </strong>690.00 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Trip plan:</strong><br />
<strong>Day  1.</strong> Our guides welcome you at Sofia / Plovdiv Airport. Transfer to the  small town of Devin in Rodopi mountains, the starting point of the tour. Dinner  and overnight at the home of our local guide in Devin.<br />
<strong>Day 2. </strong>We meet the horses and set off to our first riding day through a thick  pine forest and along gorgeous open fields with spectacular views over. We reach  the village of Borino, where we stay overnight.<br />
<em>/hours in the saddle:  5/</em><br />
<strong>Day 3.</strong> The trail continues from Borino to the tiny  village Chala and further to Buinovo vilage.<br />
<em>/hours in the saddle:  5/</em><br />
<strong>Day 4.</strong> Today we visit Yagodina cave (optional) and  continue through pine forests and potatoe fields to the village of Trigrad. Overnight  in Trigrad by the famous Trigrad Gorge with 250m vertical cliffs.<br />
<em>/hours  in the saddle: 5/<br />
</em><strong>Day 5.</strong> We continue the exploration of  the territories southwards from the village, making a loop-like ride along  Trigradska River back to Trigrad.<br />
<em>/hours in the saddle:  4/</em><br />
<strong>Day 6.</strong> In the morning we start early as the trek  today is a bit longer. It will take us to the ancient Chairski Lakes, surrounded  by meadows full with orchids in summer. Passing through the picturesque village  of Mougla we end the ride above the village of Gela.<br />
<em>/hours in the  saddle: 6/</em><br />
<strong>Day 7.</strong> Time to get back. Following the  ridges of Mursalitsa we reach the quarters of Devin, where the trek ends. In the  afternoon we can relax at one of the mineral swimming pools in the city.<br />
<em>/hours in the saddle: 4/</em><br />
<strong>Day 8.</strong> After breakfast we get a transfer to  the airport in Sofia/ Plovdiv for departure.</p>
<p><strong>Accomodation and food: </strong>We stay overnight at local guesthouses  and  small  family-run hotels in rooms with private facilities. Breakfast, lunch  pack &amp; dinner included (first meal dinner on day 1, last meal breakfast on  day <img src='http://www.horseridingbulgaria.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_cool.gif' alt='8)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><strong>Price of extra services: </strong>Single room supplement: 85 EUR</p>
<p><strong>Included in the price: </strong>accommodation in guesthouses and family-run  pensions in en-suite rooms on fullboard; riding guide; English-speaking  interpreter; saddled horse; luggage transfers from point to point; pick up/drop  off at Sofia or Plovdiv airport; VAT and all local taxes.</p>
<p><strong>Excluded from the price: </strong>map (could be requested in advance when  booking the tour); insurance; alcoholic drinks; entrance fees for the caves and  procedures in the hot springs complex; tips; other personal expenses.</p>
<p><strong>Practical information: </strong>HORSES AND SADDLING: Saddling is Western,  but English saddles are also available upon request. Most of the horses belong  to the local East-Bulgarian breed with a mid-height of 1,50 cm, they are well  known as thoughtful and tough, and are thus extremely well-adapted to the  mountainous region of the Rodopi Mountains. The maximum weight limit of the  riders is 95 kg.EXTENSION AT THE BLACK SEA COAST: we have a unique proposal,  which gives you the opportunity to stay on a sea holiday for extra week after  your active tour at an incredibly low price in Sozopol, Nessebar, Sunny Beach,  Lozenets, St. Vlas, Golden Sands etc. and all this with arranged transportation  right after your tour and before your departure flight. For more information  please check &#8220;Vacation extensions&#8221; below. LOW_COST FLIGHTS TO BULGARIA: please  check: Wizz Air &#8211; http://wizzair.com/; Sky Europe &#8211; http://www1.skyeurope.com/;  Easy Jet &#8211; http://www.easyjet.com/; Germanwings &#8211; http://www.germanwings.com/;  My Air &#8211; http://www.myair.com/; Penguin Travel – http://www.flybulgarien.dk/;  Norwegian Air Shuttle &#8211; http://www.norwegian.no/. In summer time there are loads  of opportunities to book a cheap flight to Bourgas or Varna Airport instead of  landing at Sofia Airport. We can arrange for you a bus or train ticket to the  starting point of the active tour with transfer to the central bus/railway  station in these towns, picking you up at the airport upon arrival or vice versa  at the end of your tour (this would only cost you appr. 20-30 Euro per car + the  bus/train ticket price itself).</p>
<p><strong>Recommended travel period of the year: </strong>June &#8211; September</p>
<p><strong>Group Size: </strong>min. 6</p>
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