5 independent reviews for Bulgaria mountains and monasteries Tour
Reviews for Bulgaria mountains and monasteries Tour
Peter Lowles review 26 Sep 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The monasteries and frescoes, especially Bachkovo.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take your own tea and coffee bags. Be prepared for lots of steps (about 1,000 up to the war memorial!) Stay on in Sofia, there's so much to see.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It benefited local businesses as all our hotels and restaurants (and souvenirs) were locally owned. No recycling though.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Bulgaria was great, but our local guide wasn't very good. Don't think they usually use him.Fenella Williams review 15 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The wonderful food and hospitality given to us by 'the three Babas' (Grandmothers) in a remote village house. Much singing, dancing and wine - no wonder we got lost on our way back to the guesthouse! Also memorable were the incredible frescoes which covered the walls of several churches and chapels. The chapel in the village of Apriltsi was breathtaking.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
There are some lengthy stretches of winding mountain roads - take travel sickness pills if you suffer. Luckily our minibus was comfortable and the driver was excellent. I took a travel kettle and tea bags, and was glad as none of the hotels provided them in the rooms. The tea in most places was the local herbal brew - very healthy! Maybe learn the Bulgarian for 'Where can I get some milk?'3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Without doubt the vacation benefited the villagers who had joined forces to provide our guest house accommodation. Our guide explained that tourism is relatively new in rural areas and a welcome source of income. All food there was home cooked, and we were told that nothing we left would be wasted - there were plenty of pigs and chickens to feed. I don't think our vacation reduced environmental impacts - though one bus was better than six cars, I guess. The maximum number which the operator take on this vacation is twelve, which felt right in terms of impact.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I had a fall on day three and smashed my glasses, so had to wear sunglasses for most of the trip. This was difficult when we were inside or when the light was dim. I would still rate the vacation highly, not least because of our friendly, well-organised and knowledgeable guide, who got me medical help very promptly and was caring without making a fuss.Jill Parks review 15 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The reproduction Thracian Tomb at Kazenlak which we were able to enter 4 at a time with Stoyan helping us. Absolutely amazing.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Because of the large, irregular cobbles in some places my comfortable, light-weight walking shoes were perfect for me. However I did not go on the more difficult hike on the last day but spent a lovely morning walking local lanes and village (with cafe) with half our group. We had a choice. Better if you are interested in history and, in our case, learning something new. Learn even 2 or 3 words. It makes such a difference. People seem genuinely pleased. I think it is too hard for visitors to bother with but Microsoft Translate is wonderful with written and spoken words and phrases. 'Could we have 2 more pillows please' was incredibly useful to show on my phone.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Food was fresh and local and specially cooked or baked or brewed (local herb tea) for us. No pre-wrapped. I hope local people found this tourist employment useful. People often cooperated to house, feed and entertain us.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. We loved everything about it. Could find no faults. The local people we met were friendly and pleased to see us, especially if we smiled and spoke to them.Marilyn Gould review 8 Oct 2019
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Seeing Plodiv2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Some of the backroads are rough and there are many guesthouses which are basic at best.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
See belowStuart Bates review 2 Oct 2018
Overall, this was an exciting and enjoyable trip with numerous highlights. The most outstanding things for me were the: frescoed monasteries and churches, the mountain scenary including the gorges and caves, the historical and attractive city of Plovdiv and the interesting heritage villages with their traditional architecture. The accommodation was clean and comfortable and in good locations. The transport was comfortable and all journeys were less than 2 hours. The guide was very knowledgeable, patient and considerate. The driver was safe, helpful and pleasant. Suggestions --- More time in Sofia at either the start or end of the tour. More detailed trip notes to save long explanations from the guide at the site. Maybe less included meals ( with a subsequent reduction in the trip price) My wife and I are not used to having a 3 course lunch and a 3 course dinner every day. ( although others may disagree!). Some indication of the level of fitness required would have been helpful -- there were a lot of steps, steep slopes and hills to negotiate. Overall it was a great trip which I would recommend to like- minded friends.Holiday Reviews
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