A less obvious holiday destination for most of us are the Balkan nations like Albania, Bulgaria and Croatia. But if you are looking for an active holiday that is off the tourist radar and where slow travel is the only way to go about, Bulgaria’s Balkan Mountains should be high on your list.

Time Travel

When you set foot in these gentle rolling hills, it literally feels like you’ve just travelled in a time machine. Narrow roads meander through valleys with sheep grazing peacefully in their pastures, through forests, and quaint villages that haven’t changed for centuries. Where else can you find places where horse and donkeys still pull wooden carts? Where farmers still make hay with a pitchfork? And where herders camp in the mountains to protect their cattle? Combined with the superb mountain vistas and a visit to 14^th century Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's most famous monastery, this is your ultimate slow-travel holiday destination.

Balkan Mountains

The Balkan Mountains are home to vast alpine meadows, glacial lakes, rare vegetation and a rich variety of fauna. The hidden villages and slow pace of life make for a fantastic, off the beaten track travel destination. Bulgaria’s mountains are a welcoming place that combine natural beauty and rich culture with warm hospitality and friendly locals. Feel like visiting this country that simply teems with history and beautiful natural landscapes? We have several walking and cycling holidays to please your appetite for a slow travel holiday experience. Just have a look at our Bulgaria holidays or get in touch with our team of travel experts.