Horseback Riding Vacations in Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, there are unequalled roads and tracks for equestrian tourism, starting at the Balkan Mountains that reach across the country and into the Black Sea. To explore them on the back of a Bulgarian horse is an unforgettable experience.

Bulgaria: a country yet to be discovered on horseback

Bulgaria is a horse country. The Bulgarian state was founded by the proto Bulgarians - nomads coming from Mongolia on horseback.

Bulgaria is the perfect horse riding destination. Like Mongolia this is a country where fences and gates are a rare sight especially in the mountain regions where our rides take place.

Horse riding holidays in Bulgaria are always fascinating. You will discover mountains, forests and monuments with a lot of history. Mingle with locals and learn about their lifestyles or taste some great Bulgarian wine.

The wild landscapes of Bulgaria are ideal for a horseback trip.

Seven major mountain ranges, glacial lakes and dense forests are home to wolves, bears and lynxes.

Thanks to a varied network of trails, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views from the Stara Planina or a breath-taking sunrise from Mount Vihren (2,915 m), the second highest mountain in the country, to name just a few attractions.

If you love nature and horseback riding, this country has a lot to offer. Discover the charming villages in the Rhodope Mountains, or watch out for birds in Pirin National Park.

Bulgaria is known as the Land of Roses. The Valley of Roses, near Kazanlak, is a must-visit destination, especially in June when the famous Rose Festival takes place.

About Bulgarian horses

Horses have long played an instrumental role in the life and society of the people in Bulgaria, from transportation to war they were an essential element.

The East Bulgarian horse is of relatively new creation and comes from the stud farms of Kabiuk (near Sofia).

Their development began late in the 19th century using local animals, Arabian, Anglo-Arabian & Thoroughbred bloodlines. The goal was a half-bred horse that was suitable for sports. The breed was officially recognized in 1951.

Some interesting facts about Bulgaria

The Republic of Bulgaria is located in south eastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. It is bordered by Romania to the north, Greece and Turkey to the south, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west and by the Black Sea to the east.

Geography

Bulgaria is mainly mountainous and it is home to two major rivers: the Danube, to the north, and the Maritsa, to the south.

The Balkan Mountains lie east-west across the country, dividing it in two.

It is mostly covered by dense and impenetrable forests. Although mountains are the main landform, the plains and the lowlands in Bulgaria cover large areas in the north and the southeast.

Also in Bulgaria, there is another major mountain range – the Rhodope Mountains, the largest mountain formation in Bulgaria.

The coastline of the Black Sea is the lowest point of the country. In the north, there are rocky headlands and cliffs, while the southern coast is known for its wide sandy beaches.

Climate

In general, the climate in Bulgaria is continental, with dry and hot summers and wet and very cold winters.

Since the country is split into northern and southern Bulgaria by the Balkan Mountains, the climate is continental in the north and close to Mediterranean in the south.

Fauna and flora

Despite its small size, Bulgaria’s different ecosystems are home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

Among the deciduous forests, we can find tilia and oak trees. There are also different types of pine trees.

As for animal life, we can find bears, hares, wolves and wild boars, among others. There are about 258 species of birds and 81 species of mammals.

About its History

Bulgaria's history is bathed in blood, gold and wine.

The ancient Thracians were its most famous settlers. They were great horsemen, who loved wine and singing, and left behind piles of gold.

All around Bulgaria, we can find imposing churches and fortresses built by the medieval Bulgarian tsars, whose battles lasted for centuries.

Then came the Greeks, who founded ports on the Black Sea; the Macedonians and, later, the Romans who built impressive cities.

With the arrival of the Huns and the Goths, the first Bulgarians appeared struggling against the Byzantine Empire.

It was Asparuh who founded the First Bulgarian Empire in 681.

Bulgarian citiese

Bulgaria is also called Old Europe due to its cobbled streets and tiled roof houses, the remains of Roman amphitheatres, Crusader bastions and medieval monasteries.

Sofía is considered one of the oldest capital cities in Europe and probably the most beautiful city in the country.

The city of Plovdiv is located in the lowlands of Thrace and from there you can enjoy some panoramic view of its seven hills. Other tourist attractions include the Roman theatre, which can host between 5,000 and 7,000 spectators.

Other important cities are Varna, Nesebar and Ruse which is located on the banks of the Danube.

Horse Riding Holiday provider in Bulgaria

Ampascachi suggests the provider Horseriding Bulgaria for your horse routes.

Horseriding Bulgaria

They are located in the Balkans and offer horse rides from the Mountains to the Black Sea.

Their experience in horse riding holidays dates back to 1991 when they sent the first riders to Strandza and Rila mountains. They run their own riding bases and stables in Gulubovo and Krivina with about 20 very well trained horses.

The riding centres are located in Rodopi (just 20-minute drive from Plovdiv) and Teteven Balkan (one hour drive from Sofia).

His horses

Their horses are carefully selected, surrounded by plenty of pastureland, where they graze freely. Horses’ welfare is of primary importance for them.

He horses are locally bred Karakachan along with East Bulgarian and Arab crosses.

Their withers are between 140 cm and 160 cm, so all weights can find an adequate tour companion.

The horses are strong, agile and used to hard work. Their stamina and agility are outstanding and they are tough and extremely sure footed over rocky, even snow-covered mountains.

Their horseback rides

They have a total of 12 programs, ranging from one-day rides to 8-day trips.

With their different programs, you can explore the Balkans, the Sredna Gora Mountains, the Rhodope Mountains or the Black Sea.

Characteristics of their rides:

• On their Sredna Gora rides, they use Shagya Arabs from Hissar riding centre.
• Most of their guests are intermediate riders, confident with trot and canter.
• From Krivina riding base, they can arrange rides for novices.
• The maximum group size on all their trails is 6 riders.
• Their rides have an average duration of 6 days and each day you ride for about 6 hours.
• Regarding their saddles, they use Western and English saddles.

Balkan Village Trek Tour

This 8-day program runs through Teteen Balkan, an area where picturesque valleys with sparkling rivers and ancient forests with hidden meadows combine.

You will climb to the top, crowned with rocky peaks, where you will enjoy spectacular views.

Apart from the overnight at a hotel in Teteven, all other nights we will stay at guest houses where the food is cooked by the hosts or in small rural restaurants.

The trek runs in the relatively low part of Stara Planina - between 400 and 1100 m asl. You will ride along dirt roads and trails. The terrain is rugged and rocky in places, with an option to trot and canter.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this beautiful Bulgarian area, dotted with small villages and monasteries, on a tour combining horseback rides with cultural sights.

Go to their website to see all their horse riding programs: horseridingbulgaria.com.

Bulgaria, a country amidst the Balkan mountains. Riding around these landscapes and enjoying the views of the Black Sea will be unforgettable! Enjoy its wilderness, history and people.

Are you also passionate about the idea of travelling the world on horseback?

Argentina is a country with a long-standing tradition of horses. Exploring the country on horseback is something unique – a highly recommended experience. In our eBook "Discover Argentina, the Land of the Gaucho, on Horseback" you will find our options to enjoy Argentina on horseback.