Rila Monastery

Bulgaria’s oldest, largest and most beautiful monastery set in a stunning location high, in the Rila Mountains.

Explore the magnificent Byzantine-style cloisters and clock tower, admire the incredibly ornate church, then walk through glorious meadows and woodland to the cave of St John of Rila. Will you attempt to climb through the cave’s chimney? It is said only the righteous can pass!

Price: 45€ per person (Minimum group size 2)
Departs: Bansko 9am daily

Narrow Gauge Railway

Settle back and take life at a slower pace as the narrow gauge train trundles through the magnificent scenery of the Rhodope mountains. As you pass through tiny rural communities take note of the loops, bridges and tunnels that allow the train to climb to Avramovo, 1267 metres above sea level. They are a very impressive feat of engineering

Price: 45€ per person including train fare and return by minibus. (Minimum group size 2)
Departs: Bansko 10.20am daily

Brown Bear Sanctuary

The Bridget Bardot Foundation and Four Paws Charity joined forces to rescue Bulgaria’s ‘dancing bears’ and build this fantastic new home for them. After a short video introduction to the history of the park, a guide will show you around.

Price 30€ per person
Departs Bansko daily 12 noon

Melnik

Bulgaria’s smallest town, Melnik is as equally famous for the excellent wine it produces as it is for the striking sandstone spires which form such a unique backdrop.

Nestled into the sandstone cliffs and surrounded by lush vineyards, this vibrant little town attracts visitors from all Bulgaria and beyond. Climb St. Nicholas Hill to see the ruins of Despot Slav’s fortress, visit the Kordopulova Kushta once home to wealthy wine merchants and finish off the day with a tour and tasting at one of the area’s finest wineries.

Price: 75€ per person including a tasting of 5 wines (minimum group size 2)
Departs: Bansko 9am daily