A horse riding holiday in Bulgaria is without doubt a perfect way to discover one of the best kept secrets in Eastern Europe. Bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and North Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east, Bulgaria is a country rich in history, culture and natural beauty. As it evolves from its communist past and associations with Russia and the Soviet Union, tourism is expanding rapidly, making now the perfect time to explore this country before the crowds arrive. If you really want to go far, far away and forget all about traffic, budgets and time constraints, head to the mountains with the freshest air and the clearest rivers. Experience the culture of horsemanship, pleasant climate, super Balkan cuisine, good wine, and famous Bulgarian hospitality on a memorable horseback vacation in Bulgaria with Unicorn Trails.
Bulgaria also offers great value for money. While the official currency is the Bulgarian 'lev', euros are widely accepted. English is widely spoken, especially in the cities and larger towns, though you might enjoy the challenge of deciphering the Cyrillic alphabet on road signs and in shop windows!
Equestrian Traditions of Bulgaria
Although around 80% of Bulgaria's population is urbanized, the country has a strong equestrian tradition and vast open spaces ideal for riding. Several mountain ranges, including the central Balkan range, dominate the landscape, crossing the entire country from the western borders to the Black Sea in the east. Each region maintains its unique customs, dialects, and folklore. This rich cultural tapestry enhances the horse riding experience, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical depth.
Bulgaria's equestrian culture is deeply rooted in its history, with riding skills passed down through generations. The country's varied terrain provides an excellent backdrop for all levels of riders, from novice to advanced. The rural areas, in particular, have preserved traditional riding practices, making Bulgaria an ideal destination for those looking to experience authentic equestrian adventures.
Our Horseback Riding Trails in Bulgaria
All of our horseback riding trails in Bulgaria are suitable for confident intermediate riders and above, reminiscent of the superb horsemanship found in Eastern Europe. Our carefully planned itineraries ensure you experience the very best of what this beautiful country has to offer.
The Balkan Mountain range is known for its fresh mountain air and spectacular views. Our trail ride through the Kingdom of the Thracians and the Valley of Roses, located south of the Balkans, offers picturesque terrain of rose and lavender fields, allowing for a faster pace. The trail combines plenty of canters and spectacular scenery with ancient Thracian and Roman ruins, delicious wines and spa opportunities thanks to the healing properties of the mineral springs. Accommodation on this trail is in comfortable hotels, many equipped with swimming pools, saunas, and spas to soothe any aches and pains!
Another exceptional riding destination is the Rhodopes Mountains to the south, close to the Greek border. On our week-long Panorama Trail - Kingdom of Orpheus, you'll navigate a 150km route that highlights the diverse landscapes of the Rhodopes. This journey beautifully blends nature and culture, taking you through the protected area of 'Sredni livadi' and allowing you to visit the ancient Orthodox monastery of Bachkovo on horseback. The adventure begins with a tour of Plovdiv, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Accommodations are in cozy family-run hotels and guesthouses, with riders spending their first and last nights at the largest show jumping stable in southern Bulgaria.
If you're looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure, our Rila Mountain Explorer ride might be the perfect option for you. This fast-paced exploratory ride is tailored to intermediate and advanced riders who are eager to push their limits. Starting from a riding centre to the north of the mountain, each day brings a new direction to explore. And just when you think you've seen it all, we transfer to the south of the mountain to start a 3-day endurance trail. This point-to-point journey is not for the faint-hearted, covering up to 45km on some days.
Or, why not consider our Three Mountains trail. This exciting, fast-paced horseback ride takes in three mountain ranges – Plana, Verila and Rila. Riders explore numerous forests, hidden valleys and wide open meadows in this remote region of virgin forests and mountain scenery. The horse trail covers diverse terrain, sun-drenched villages with friendly hospitality. The itinerary also includes a visit to a water park.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Bulgaria
Summer is the best time of year to book a horse riding holiday in Bulgaria. The months from May to September typically offer the best weather conditions, with warm temperatures and long days perfect for riding. During this period, the landscapes are lush and vibrant, providing stunning backdrops for your rides.
Visiting in late spring or early summer allows you to experience the famous Valley of the Roses in full bloom. From mid-May to the end of June, the roses are harvested to produce rose oil, a unique and memorable experience for visitors. The summer months also ensure the trails are dry and accessible, making for safer and more enjoyable rides.
Getting to Bulgaria
Bulgaria is easy to get to, with Sofia, its capital, well-connected by major airlines from various international destinations. Sofia Airport serves as the primary gateway, with direct flights from many European cities and beyond. Once in Bulgaria, internal travel is straightforward, with good road networks and reliable transport services.
For our equestrian vacations in Bulgaria, transfers from Sofia Airport to the starting points of the trails are arranged, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Book your Trail Riding Vacation in Bulgaria with Unicorn Trails
At Unicorn Trails, we offer a range of horse riding holidays tailored to suit different preferences. Our trips in Bulgaria are designed to provide an immersive experience, combining the thrill of riding with cultural and historical explorations. When you book with us, you can expect expert guidance and support throughout your journey. Committed to delivering safe and enjoyable riding experiences, our team will ensure you have everything necessary for a successful trip.
Add-Ons to your Bulgarian riding holiday
We know that many of our clients like to follow their riding holiday with non-riding activities or tours. In Bulgaria, we recommend either relaxing on a golden beach along the Black Sea or spending a few nights in Sofia. If you have other interests or specific requests, just let us know, and we will arrange it for you.
Start planning your trail riding vacation in Bulgaria with us today an experience the very best that this country has to offer!
