Riding in Bulgaria
A horse-riding holiday in Bulgaria is without doubt a perfect way to discover one of the best kept secrets in Eastern Europe. Bulgaria is changing from its communist past and associations with Russia / Soviet Union and tourism is expanding, so now is the perfect time to come before the crowds arrive. If you really want to go far, far away and forget all about traffic, budgets and time, head to the mountains with the freshest air and the clearest rivers. There are not a lot of places like this left in Europe but we know a few of them in Bulgaria.
Although around 80% of the population is urbanised, Bulgaria has a very strong equestrian tradition and vast open spaces ideal for riding. The country is dominated by several mountain ranges including the central Balkan range, which crosses the entire country from the western borders to the Black Sea in the east. Each region still clings to its own customs, dialects and folklore.
Most of our rides are centred around the Balkan Mountain range. The scenery is incredible with fresh mountain air and spectacular views. Another good place for riding is in the Rhodopes Mountains to the south, near the border with Greece. Our riding holidays here are mainly trail rides with some centre based rides. Some of the rides also cater for novice riders onwards, unusual in Eastern Europe. There are, of course, some fast trails suitable for confident riders only, as seems to be common in Eastern Europe where the horsemanship is generally superb.
Bulgaria offers great value for money and whilst you can pay in the official currency of the Bulgarian 'lev', euros are also accepted. English is widely spoken, especially in the cities and large towns. You'll have fun trying to decipher the cyrillic alphabet though when you see it written on things such as road signs or in shop windows!
The culture of horsemanship, pleasant climate, the super Balkan cuisine, the good wine and the famous Bulgarian hospitality are all waiting for you.
