A lovely week in an undisturbed mountain environment. We hardly saw anyone else on our walks, and Yagodina village is completely calm. It feels such a healthy week – unspoilt and wholesome.
Bulgaria Walking Tours
Bulgaria Walking Tour
Top 5 Animals to Spot on Bulgaria Walking Trips
Brown Bears: Found roaming the forests and mountains, it’s estimated there are 700 brown bears in Bulgaria, with the majority of the population in the Central Balkans and Central Rhodope. The bear is one of the most iconic and captivating of Bulgaria’s animals and there are ongoing conservation projects to protect it. As you walk along ancient forest trails, there’s a chance you’ll see evidence of bear activity such as their tracks on the ground and where they’ve scratched at trees.
Griffon Vultures: While there are several species of vulture found in Bulgaria, the Griffon vulture is arguably the most impressive. Following near extinction just decades ago, the population now continues to grow, with many of them found in the Rodopi Mountains. Its distinctive ruffled neck, finger-like wings and beautiful colourings make it easily recognisable. Griffon vultures feed on carcases and tend to hunt in groups high up in the mountains where you’ll see their nests tucked into cliffs and rocky outcrops. They start to mate in December and then build their nests in January where they’ll lay just one egg in March.
Wolf: The Rodopi Mountains are home to one of the greatest populations of wolf in Bulgaria and their diet consists mainly of hoofed mammals such as roe deer, red deer, wild boar and chamois. There are believed to be around 1,200 grey wolves living in the mountains of Bulgaria and while you might spot one on Bulgaria walking trips, they are extremely shy and will stay out of the way of humans. Highly fascinating creatures, wolves are known for their intelligence, and you’ll most likely see them roaming the forests and mountains between October and May.
Red Deer: Mostly found in the Rodopi Mountain forests and pastures, the red deer is one of the animals you’re likely to see on Bulgaria walking trips. You’ll also see many paintings of the deer inside ancient churches and monasteries. Rewilding teams have gone to great efforts to protect the animal and reintroduce them into the Rodopi Mountains. Autumn is the mating season and when you’re likely to see the males rut, which is a fabulous wildlife spectacle. Only the stags have antlers and they are the most distinctive feature of the red deer, measuring approximately 70cm.
European Bison: A relative of the North American bison, the European bison became extinct in the early 20th century, however, due to its reintroduction to Bulgaria in the 1960s and following huge conservation efforts, it can now be found in the Eastern Rhodopes. It is the largest surviving wild land animal in the continent and an adult male weighs between 400kg and 920kg. They typically feed on shrubs, trees and grass and play an integral role in the ecosystem of the forest.
Paul Masters Bulgaria: Rodopi Mountains
Simon Guinn Mont Blanc HighlightsAn unbelievably beautiful part of the world, crossing corners of three countries each as beautiful as each other. Based in Les Houches, just 20 minutes outside Chamonix, we stayed in Chalet Chalupa, a modern, spacious comfortable chalet with all the amenities you would need and more. Big bedrooms, all with en-suite and most with a balcony. A hot tub outside for relaxing the aching bones after the walks just adds to the luxury.
Whilst we were a bit out of Chamonix, the public bus service was excellent, every 30 minutes promptly. Equally, there is plenty on offer in Les Houches if you want to stay local to the chalet.
Our hosts, Laura and Gonzalo, had treats to welcome us, provided breakfast, lunch (packed) and dinner of excellent standards every day (apart from the free day of course when breakfast is provided but not lunch or dinner). We didn’t go hungry!
Paul Adams Mont Blanc HighlightsI really loved the week. The walks were stunning, and it was great to be able to have to plan nothing, just be taken for amazing day walks. More solo walkers in the group than I had expected which was good for me being one myself (rather than being the odd one out amongst couples) and the group were really good company. I stayed in Chalet Chocolat, the location was great, a 20 min walk outside the lovely Chamonix, or a few mins on the train the station for which is just a couple of minutes away (and you are given a weeks ticket on arrival). The food provided was very tasty (many thanks Sol and Tomas), the bedrooms a bit basic but wasn’t staying for a luxury trip, rather for the walking so that was fine, and they were ensuite which is what matters for me. Highly recommended, I just wish I could do the week for the first time again.
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