Rose Festival 29th -30th May 2020 - Full Activity Karlovo Package from Sofia

Rose Festival 29th -30th May 2020 - Full Activity Karlovo Package from Sofia

The Rose Festival, with its 116-years-old history, represents a true amalgamation of the senses - folklore music, scents of roses, delicious culinary specialties, crafts workshops, and traditional dances. Become part of this cultural adventure and immerse yourself into the authentic lifestyle of one of the oldest rituals in Bulgaria - rose-picking. You will actively participate in all the events of the festival, learning at first hand about the mastery of oil making and rose cultivation. The constant interaction with the local people will let you hear the intriguing stories about the notorious Rosa Damascena and her first arrival in Bulgaria. On top of that, you will get to explore the charming streets of the historical city of Koprivshtitsa and to taste the exquisite selection of wines from the Thracian Valley. A further leap back in time will lead you to the ancient world of the Thracian tribes by visiting the oldest Royal Thracian tomb ever discovered.

Itinerary

Day 1: Sofia - Koprivshtitsa - Starosel

Stop At: Municipality Koprivshtitsa, Koprivshtitsa, Lyuben Karavelov St 16, 2077 Средна махала, Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria
Embark on a journey through the most picturesque part in the country- the central Balkans. Our first goal on this trip will be one of the most charming small towns in Bulgaria- Koprivshtica which still preserves the atmosphere of the 19th century Revival Period. As a protected architectural town, it boasts the highest number of authentic houses and monuments in Bulgaria (383), most of which have been restored to their original appearance. You will have the chance to pop in some of the most notorious house-museums, relishing the unique architectural details adorning the interiors and hearing about the stories of their dwellers. After absorbing the spirit of 19th century Bulgarian history and traditions, you will have time to taste one of the most delicious specialties of the region for lunch.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Thracian Temple of Starosel, Starosel village, near Hissarya city, Hissarya 4180 Bulgaria
The day will continue in the Valley of the Thracian kings where you will visit one of the most prominent Thracian tombs dating back from the end of the V century BC. The complex is the oldest ever found Royal Thracian settlement with a mausoleum. Your leader will reveal you the intriguing history of the religious rituals performed there and the most exciting facts about Thracians daily life and tribe hierarchies.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Starosel Winery, Винарска Изба "Старосел", Wine & Spa, 4175 Starosel, Bulgaria
It’s time to head to our place for the night which will welcome you with its authentic atmosphere and bright spirit. We spend the night in the central wine region of Bulgaria where picturesque landscapes will greet you on every corner. Our hosts will present an exceptional selection of their wine, telling you more about the mystery behind Bulgarian winemaking practices. After indulging in this rich palette of wine tastes, you are free to enjoy your afternoon in the delightful atmosphere of our hotel.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight at Wine & Spa Complex Starosel / or similar

Day 2: Starosel - Karlovo - Sofia

Stop At: Karlovo Old Town, Karlovo 4300 Bulgaria
Early in the morning, we depart for the town of Karlovo, where we will have the chance to join Bulgaria’s most famous festival - The Festival of the Roses. Our first stop will be the rose gardens near the town where local people will tell us the story about how Rosa Damscena was brought centuries ago to these lands from the Near East. The legend hides the secrets of a beautiful love tale. Our host will reveal the necessary skills and technique to pick a rosebud.

Having gone through the first process of rose picking successfully, we continue following the events of the Festival – traditional welcome with bread and salt, demonstration of rose – oil making and tasting of products from rose, folklore programs, crowning the Queen of Roses and many more. For a retreat, there is a selection of charming garden restaurants to enjoy lunch by yourselves.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Karlovo Old Town, Karlovo 4300 Bulgaria
Having gone through the first process of rose picking successfully, we continue following the events of the Festival – traditional welcome with bread and salt, demonstration of rose – oil making and tasting of products from rose, folklore programs, crowning the Queen of Roses and many more. For a retreat, there is a selection of charming garden restaurants to enjoy lunch by yourselves.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.