Early in the morning, we depart towards the small town of Karlovo, huddled in the outskirts of the Balkan mountain where you will immerse into the spirit of the 19th century Revival Period. Stroll around the ethnographic and cultural centre, popping in some of the best architectural examples built by the local population. Get familiar with the weaving legacy of the region and see the techniques embedded in these long-kept traditions.

Our next stop will be the village of Skobelevo where our hosts will introduce you to the history of the famous rose-picking ritual. You will obtain the skills and techniques necessary to pick a rosebud. Take the opportunity to show what you have learned by filling a basket of roses by yourselves (May-June). Our next step will be the rose-distillery itself. A rose expert will guide you on this tour, explaining the various ways oil can be extracted from the roses and how the final product is achieved. It’s time for degustation! Taste the notorious rose products – liquor, Gyulovitsa and rose jam and sink into the delightful scent of roses and flowers. A traditional lunch follows all this.

Passing by the town of Kazanluk – the birthplace of Rosa Damascena, we will continue to the impressive Shipka Memorial Church rising up the Balkan mountain and facing the whole Thracian Valley. The architectural style of the church fascinates its visitors from afar. The interior is decorated with gilded ornamentation and intricate paintings, dedicated to the Russian, Ukrainian and Bulgarian soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the Russo-Turkish War in 1877-78.

Our journey will finish at Shipka Pass where the famous battle between the Russian and the Ottoman armies happened. Climbing up to Shipka Monument will open the fantastic view of the whole region revealing the entire beauty of the Balkan mountain range. The area is well-known with the production of the Bulgarian buffalo yogurt. You will have the chance to try the specialty and learn about the history of its making.

According to your interests, on our way back to Plovdiv we can stop at one of the biggest and most significant Thracian tombs in the area – Golyama Kosmatka. You will have the chance to learn more about the Thracian lifestyle and traditions