Bulgaria is unlike anywhere else on earth. Steeped in history (it boasts the oldest continually inhabited city in the world), Roman roads, the largest castle in Europe, some of the best food anywhere (no modified foods or GMO’s and pretty much everything is farm to table), some of the purest water (Bulgaria sits on the third largest natural aquifer in the world), incredible mountains, lakes, and rivers, the actual Yellow Brick road from the Wizard of Oz, some of the greatest crafters and artisans, fresh air and amazing wildlife, and stars that are so close you can reach up and feel like you are touching the Milky Way. And this is just the start….
The Stone and Compass Center: Nestled in the foothills of the Balkan Mountains, this 2200-acre estate will be your home away from home. It has all the amenities you could hope for from a pool to meandering fields, hiking trails, many barns and hammocks to relax in and-on-and wonderful rooms that will be all yours. The main house at the center is a famous home of a Bulgarian Freedom fighter who fought for Independence from the Ottoman Empire in the 1880s. The home has been completely restored to its original form.
Flights from Boston’s Logan Airport
Contact us to discuss departures from other US airports: info@stoneandcompass.com
info@stoneandcompass.com
Overnight flight to Sofia, Bulgaria from Logan Airport. We only use major carriers (Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, British Air, Turkish Air) Flights typically leave in the evening (between 7-10PM)
Welcome to Sofia, Bulgaria’s 7000-year-old capital. After checking into our hotel and getting a little rest, we begin your adventure with a stroll down Vitosha Boulevard. This walking pedestrian area will give everyone a chance to stretch their legs after long flights. A traditional welcome dinner will fill you up and prepare you for a much-earned night sleep in the most comfortable beds in the city.
Lodging: Premier Best Western
Wake up refreshed and after a nice breakfast head out to explore the city. Walk down the “Yellow Brick Road” as you pass through the historic section of Sofia and view sites from the time of Constantine the Great to post-communism and through to the modern day. Walk on a Roman road in the Ancient Complex of Serdica, see iconography of the Eastern Orthodox church at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the second largest Orthodox church in the world! Then head deep down into catacombs and truly step back in time. In the afternoon we travel to the Stone and Compass Center!!! Your home away from home. In the evening we stroll out to a local “village” restaurant for a dinner that you will truly never forget! Enjoy a nice bonfire and some drinks after as we star gaze and truly let go and relax as we enjoy looking out upon the vast 2200 acres of forests.
Lodging: Stone and Compass Center
Caving!!! Yup that’s right…today you get to visit some caves! But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a spelunker or wear any crazy equipment. These caves are all about exploring while relaxing. One cave is so large that during WORLD WAR 2 the Bulgarian government stored oil drums inside it and trains drove right into the cave to get the oil! We will also visit Dryavno Monastery and take a hike up above the Monastery to a spot that is truly breathtaking.
Lodging: Stone and Compass Center
Here is where things get truly EPIC! Today we will head to an ancient Roman City that was once a bustling metropolis. We will be able to enjoy a picnic right in the ruins of this expansive archaeological site. After Lunch we head to Arbanasi to view some of the most incredible ancient art and also meander through the cobblestone roads and cafes.
Lodging: Stone and Compass Center
Travel through the Thracian Valley of the Kings with a visit to a Thracian tomb. Find out more about this unique culture and their magnificent golden hordes. Continue over the Balkan Mountains with a stop at the Shipka Church and Shipka Pass Monument celebrating liberation from 500 years of Ottoman rule.
Lodging: Stone and Compass Center
Step back in time as you enter the gates of Etara, a living museum featuring a traditional craft marketplace. Wind your way along the river while the waterwheels power machinery used for woodcarving, pottery, weaving, and silversmithing, among others. Try traditional apple pastry from the bakery or Turkish coffee brewed over hot sand while you watch the artisans at work and shop for unique handcrafted items. Return to The Center for a traditional dinner catered by a well-known Bulgarian chef. Celebrate with a Bulgarian performance group sharing music, song, and dance from a variety of different regions. Be prepared to join in and learn some of the steps along with local friends, including the mayor of Stolat himself.
Lodging: Stone & Compass Center
Explore Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of Second Bulgarian Empire. Climb the steps of the medieval fortress of Tsarevets, the largest castle complex in Europe! Enjoy panoramic views of this city and the river that winds around it. Learn about local history on a private tour with the director of the Regional Museum of History – Veliko Tarnovo. Shop for gifts and souvenirs or enjoy a gelato in this city where old meets new.
Lodging: Stone & Compass Center
Enjoy the Center! Today we will relax and enjoy the village and center hills and atmosphere. Take a hike to an actual Roman Tomb located right on our property! In the late afternoon we head back to Sofia for a farewell dinner and some rest before you head home the next day.
Lodging: Premier Best Western
Fly home
$2,200
Due: December 1, 2021
