Bulgaria - Walking and Wildlife Holidays

Holiday Profile

Encircled by the rivers Mesta and Maritsa, the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains are the most extensive mountain range in Bulgaria, covering a vast area in the southern part of the country, and rolling on across the border into Greece. Until recently, one of the least-known and least-visited corners of Europe, the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains are a paradise for lovers of nature, the region’s biodiversity internationally recognised as amongst the most varied and valuable in Europe. Due to its remoteness and the extensive range of habitats, the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains boast an amazing number of endemic plants, large stable populations of Wolf (Canis lupus), Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) and other rare mammals, as well as an outstanding mix of birds. Approximately 300 species, some 70% of Bulgaria's bird fauna has been recorded in the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains, including 37 species of birds of prey.

During the winter the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains often experience heavy falls of snow, which blanket the mountains in deep drifts making ideal conditions for snowshoeing. This one-week winter walking and wildlife holiday not only provides the opportunity to enjoy some excellent snowshoeing, but also offers plenty of natural history and cultural interest, as one discovers more about the amazingly rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. As we explore some of the remotest and wildest parts of the Rhodope (Rodopi) Mountains, we will encounter a maze of animal tracks and trails criss-crossing the snow, and if we are lucky, even have a chance to catch a fleeting glimpse of secretive wildlife such as Wolf (Canis lupus), Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) and Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), as well as many interesting birds including the elusive Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria).

Furthermore, by basing ourselves at small family-run hotels in the remote mountain villages of Arda and Yagodina, we are making a direct contribution to the economy of local communities, as well as supporting the development of eco-tourism in the region and the preservation of its habitats, flora and fauna. Furthermore, the interest in the traditional local handicrafts shown by clients on our previous tours, and their enthusiasm to purchase such items as souvenirs, has provided a useful source of extra income for local families. It has also promoted a resurgence in pride amongst the local people for their old crafts and traditions and has helped prompt a revival in their manufacture.