Bulgaria - Walking and Wildlife Holidays

Holiday Profile

Encircled by the rivers Mesta and Maritsa, the Rodopi (Rhodope) Mountains are the most extensive mountain range in Bulgaria, covering a vast area in the southern part of the country, and rolling on across the border into Greece. Until recently, one of the least-known and least-visited corners of Europe, the Rodopi (Rhodope) Mountains are a paradise for lovers of nature, the region's biodiversity internationally recognised as amongst the most varied and valuable in Europe. Due to its remoteness and the extensive range of habitats, the Rodopi (Rhodope) Mountains boast an amazing number of endemic plants, large stable populations of Wolf (Canis lupus), Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) and other rare mammals, as well as an outstanding mix of birds. Approximately 300 species, some 70% of Bulgaria's bird fauna has been recorded in the Rodopi (Rhodope) Mountains, including 37 species of birds of prey.

During the winter the Rodopi (Rhodope) Mountains often experience heavy falls of snow, which blanket the mountains in deep drifts making ideal conditions for winter sports. This exciting private guided one-week family winter adventure is offered for individual families or private family parties, and not only lets you try out a variety of different outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, caving and wildlife tracking, but is also educational, providing a first-hand opportunity to discover more about the amazingly rich history and culture of a remote, little-known region with an introduction to local crafts, folk music, dance and cookery.