Day 1: Riding the Central Balkan Mountains to Buzludzha and Plovdiv (345 kilometers / 214 miles)
Kickstart your journey amidst the thrill of the open road as you navigate through the breathtaking landscapes of the Central Balkan Mountains. Your first stop is the Russian Church at Shipka, a beacon of beauty and history. Marvel at its golden domes gleaming under the sun, a testament to Bulgarian-Russian friendship and a monument to the fallen heroes of the Shipka Pass battles during the Russo-Turkish War.
Continue your ride to the enigmatic Buzludzha Monument, an iconic structure standing solitary amidst the mountain's vastness. This architectural marvel, reminiscent of a UFO landed on Earth, offers a captivating exploration of Bulgaria's communist era. Inside, the echoes of the past tell tales of ideological fervor represented through its grandiose but now decaying mosaics and art. The panoramic views from this height are nothing short of spectacular, offering a moment of reflection on Bulgaria's tumultuous history.
The journey then leads you to Plovdiv, where you'll settle into your hotel before spending the evening in one of Europe's oldest cities. Plovdiv, with its bohemian vibe, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultural scene, offers a perfect backdrop to unwind. Explore its cobbled streets, dine in one of the many exquisite restaurants, or simply soak in the ambiance of this historic city under the stars.
Day 2: Discovering Plovdiv and Koprivshtitsa (190 kilometers / 121 miles)
Awake in Plovdiv, ready to delve deeper into its historical heart. The city, known for its Roman theatre, ancient stadiums, and beautiful revival houses, stands as a crossroad of civilizations, each layer adding to its rich mosaic. Walking through the Old Town, you'll experience the seamless blend of millennia-old history with the lively pulse of modern Bulgarian culture.
Your adventure continues as you ride to Koprivshtitsa, a town that seems frozen in time, famed for its role in the April Uprising of 1876 against Ottoman rule. This architectural reserve is dotted with colorful houses, each bearing stories of bravery, intellect, and the fight for Bulgarian independence. Enjoy lunch here, immersing yourself in the tales of heroism and the beauty of 19th-century Bulgarian architecture.
The return ride to Sofia marks the conclusion of your journey, a perfect time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and insights gained about Bulgaria's rich history, culture, and landscapes.
The road will be mountainous and scenic with curvy roads in good condition and well-marked. In some sections heavy traffic.
Skill Level
Beginner
- can ride for two to three hours
- minimal riding experience
- assistance required
- comfortable with curves and leans
- basic experience with unsurfaced roads
- short distance ascents and descents
Intermediate
- can ride for three to four hours
- average riding experience
- little assistance required
- comfortable with extreme curves and leans
- average experience with unsurfaced roads
- steep ascents and descents
Bikes:
- BMW F800R (Roadster)
- Yamaha Mt07 (Roadster)
- BMW F800GT (Roadster)
- BMW R1150RT (Sport-tourer)
- BMW R1200R (Sport-tourer)
- Honda Hornet 600 (Roadster)
- Yamaha Mt07 Tracer (Sport-tourer)