Day 1 (200 kilometers/124 miles)
Start your adventure riding along the foothills of the majestic Central Balkan mountain range, where every turn offers a new stunning view. Your first stop is Koprivshtitsa, a living museum and architectural reserve. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful 19th-century houses that whisper tales of Bulgaria's late Ottoman period. Learn about the April Uprising of 1876, a pivotal moment in Bulgaria's fight for independence, as you visit historic homes and monuments commemorating the heroes of this tumultuous era.
After soaking in the spirit of rebellion and Bulgarian resilience, head to Plovdiv, the city of seven hills and one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Spend the afternoon exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town, marvel at the ancient Roman Theater, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Kapana Creative District. As night falls, enjoy the lively ambiance of the city with its charming cafes, art spaces, and restaurants offering authentic Bulgarian cuisine. Overnight in Plovdiv ensures you’re well-rested for the next leg of your adventure.
Riding time for the day approximately is 3.5 hours.
Day 2 (200 kilometers / 120 miles)
TFuel up with a hearty traditional breakfast in Plovdiv before starting your ride north. The journey takes you to the Valley of the Thracian Kings, a land steeped in mystery and ancient history. Explore some of the remarkable Thracian tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, and uncover the legacy of this enigmatic civilization renowned for its warrior kings, gold treasures, and fascinating burial practices.
Transitioning to a starkly different historical period, your next stop is the Buzludzha Monument, a colossal relic of Bulgaria’s communist era. This striking, spaceship-like structure perched atop a mountain is a powerful reminder of the country's 20th-century history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The adventure continues as you ride through the breathtaking Shipka Pass, a route rich with history and natural beauty. This iconic mountain passage played a critical role during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878. The views here are as inspiring as the stories of courage tied to the region.
Your final destination for the day is Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital. As you arrive in this picturesque city, marvel at the stunning Tsarevets Fortress, perched on a hill and illuminated beautifully at night. Enjoy the evening in the historic town, where winding streets and traditional Bulgarian architecture transport you to a bygone era.t.
Riding time for the day approximately is 3.5 hours.
Day 3 (150 kilometers / 90 miles)
We’ll begin our day riding towards the northern part of Bulgaria, a region with landscapes that contrast beautifully with the mountains we’ve already explored. Our first stop is a breathtaking waterfall, where we’ll take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty and snap some photos.
From there, we’ll continue our journey on scenic secondary roads, surrounded by rolling fields and tranquil farm landscapes. This route offers a peaceful and immersive way to experience the countryside. Around midday, we’ll stop for a hearty lunch below the medieval city of Cherven, where we can savor freshly grilled meat in a rustic setting. The historic ruins of Cherven Tower above us, reminding us of Bulgaria’s rich medieval history.
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at the pearl of the Danube, the city of Ruse. Known as "Little Vienna," Ruse’s charming historical center is filled with elegant 19th- and early 20th-century architecture. A stroll through the streets of Ruse reveals its unique cultural and architectural heritage, influenced by its proximity to the Danube and its role as a gateway to Europe.
We’ll end the day by relaxing and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Tonight, we’ll stay in Ruse, where you’ll have time to enjoy the lively streets, cozy restaurants, and views of the Danube.
Riding time for the day approximately is 3 hours.
Day 4 (360 kilometers / 200 miles)
Our final day promises to be challenging yet unforgettable as we begin our journey back to Sofia. This will not be a simple return ride but a day packed with stunning landscapes, fascinating stops, and thrilling mountain passes.
Our first destination is the enchanting Krushuna Waterfalls, known for their cascading turquoise pools surrounded by lush greenery. We’ll take some time to explore the area, soak in the tranquility, and capture the perfect photos of this natural wonder.
Next, we’ll ride to the impressive Devetaki Cave, аnd we will track its history between being a secret airforce base during the Cold War and becoming the shooting ground of The Expendables 2.
After exploring these highlights, we’ll continue south for one last exhilarating crossing of the Central Balkan mountain, this time via a different breathtaking passage. With its sweeping curves and jaw-dropping views, the ride will be an absolute thrill. At the summit, we’ll pause for a well-earned lunch, enjoying local dishes while taking in the panoramic scenery.
Post-lunch, we’ll descend and follow the same scenic road that we rode on Day 1, making our way back to Sofia. As the circle of our adventure closes, we’ll end this remarkable journey in the capital, carrying memories of Bulgaria’s beauty and history with us.
Please note that accommodation in Sofia is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to arrange your stay for your stay in Sofia.
Riding time for the day is approximately 5 hours.
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
- comfortable with curves and leans
Intermediate
- can ride for three to four hours
- average riding experience
- little assistance required
- comfortable with extreme curves and leans
- steep ascents and descents
Bikes:
- BMW F800R (Roadster)
- BMW F800GT (Roadster)
- BMW R1150RT (Sport-tourer)
- BMW R1200R (Sport-tourer)
- Honda Hornet 600 (Roadster)
- Yamaha Mt07 Tracer (Sport-tourer)