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Offered languages
- German
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
Follow the steps of the notorious Rosa Damascena and learn about the cultivation of the flower and the traditions embedded in its history. On this tour, you will have the unique opportunity to enter a rose distillery and observe the process of rose oil extraction performed by the local people every year. Get the chance to taste some rose food specialities and learn more about the rosebud-picking rituals. Also, you will pass by some of the most historical towns in the valley which still preserve the rebellious spirit of the local population that lead to the wars against the Ottoman Empire. Driving up the scenic road towards Shipka Pass, you will have plenty of time to admire the breathtaking views which will open after every turn, revealing the beauty of the surrounding Balkan Mountain Range. The Shipka Monument is one of the symbols of the Bulgarian struggle for political, cultural and religious freedom and independence.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Your guide will meet you with a sign TEMPORA TRAVEL.
Your guide will meet you with a sign TEMPORA TRAVEL.
Itinerary
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1Karlovo
Early in the morning, we depart towards the small town of Karlovo, huddled in the outskirts of the Balkan mountain where you will immerse into the spirit of the 19th century Revival Period. Stroll around the ethnographic and cultural centre, popping in some of the best architectural examples built by the local population. Get familiar with the weaving legacy of the region and see the techniques embedded in these long-kept traditions.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2Damascena Ethnographic Complex
Our next stop will be the village of Skobelevo where our hosts will introduce you to the history of the famous rose-picking ritual. You will obtain the skills and techniques necessary to pick a rosebud. Take the opportunity to show what you have learned by filling a basket of roses by yourselves (May-June). Our next step will be the rose-distillery itself. A rose expert will guide you on this tour, explaining the various ways oil can be extracted from the roses and how the final product is achieved. It’s time for degustation! Taste the notorious rose products – liquor, Gyulovitsa and rose jam and sink into the delightful scent of roses and flowers. A traditional lunch follows all this.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included -
3
Passing by the town of Kazanluk – the birthplace of Rosa Damascena, we will continue to the impressive Shipka Memorial Church rising up the Balkan mountain and facing the whole Thracian Valley. The architectural style of the church fascinates its visitors from afar. The interior is decorated with gilded ornamentation and intricate paintings, dedicated to the Russian, Ukrainian and Bulgarian soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the Russo-Turkish War in 1877-78.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4Shipka Monument
Our journey will finish at Shipka Pass where the famous battle between the Russian and the Ottoman armies happened. Climbing up to Shipka Monument will open the fantastic view of the whole region revealing the entire beauty of the Balkan mountain range. The area is well-known with the production of the Bulgarian buffalo yogurt. You will have the chance to try the specialty and learn about the history of its making.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
5
According to your interests, on our way back to Plovdiv we can stop at one of the biggest and most significant Thracian tombs in the area – Golyama Kosmatka. You will have the chance to learn more about the Thracian lifestyle and traditions
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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