It is a little known fact that over 60% of the worlds rose oil is produced in a few Bulgarian small valleys tucked between impressive mountain ranges. This is an exciting full day trip that will take you to a fairytale scenery of fields of roses, lavender and sunflowers towered by the rugged peaks of the Balkan Mountain. There your guide will be revealing the secrets and splendour of the Bulgarian rose oil production at a renowned distillery. Later you will be visiting also the elegant Russian style church of the Nativity and if time allows to the Shipka peak for great panoramic views. The famous Thracian tomb of Kazanluk (UNESCO) dating back from 4th century BC is also on your list of the Valley of Roses wonders list. On the way back the ride will be on a different road with completely different views to gaze at. Your English-speaking driver will stop you for a short break in Koprvishtitsa, a small town showcasing in the best way the Bulgarian Renaissance architecture.
Guided tour in English
Your activity-packed day starts at 7:00 am from the parking behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral. Hop aboard on a small minibus (usually with Wi-Fi) to head south and enjoy a scenic drive through the Bulgarian countryside.
You will meet your local guide at the town of Kazanluk. The town is located in the heart of the Valley of Roses where over 60% of the world's rose oil is produced and more lavender oil than in the famous Provence, France. From here starts your guided exploration of the lush natural beauty of the valley locked between the Balkan and Sredna Gora mountain ranges. Kindly note that the roses are blooming only once a year from mid-May till mid-June. For the rest of the year, you will not be able to observe blossoming rose fields.
You will pay a visit to the Damascena rose distillery where the whole process of rose picking and rose oil production will be revealed and explained to you. It will be one of the most aromatic experiences you will experience in your lifetime.
You will make your own way to the meeting points