A great week walking in the Alps, magnificent views, changing terrain, good company and food, pleasant accommodation and a very competent leader

Bulgaria Walking Tours
Our Best 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.
Rodney Hall Tour du Mont Blanc Week
Cindy Burke Tour du Mont Blanc WeekA challenging, awe inspiring hike!
Cool evenings and unseasonably warm days in the valleys. Great friends made. Wildlife discovered. Windy cold and amazing summits. Fresh local produce and cheeses.
Scott Sugarman Highlights of the DolomitesI offer the following comments
First, Jenny and Mark were extraordinary tour leaders. They were thoughtful, attentive and kind. and very knowledgeable
Second, the walks were great; the scenery delightful.
Third, while I am not a coffee drinker, I heard a number of our group wish the hotel’s dining room would offer coffee/tea before the 730 am start to breakfast. some of the group awoke early and would have dearly liked a good cup of coffee, and there was none to be had. please consider.
Fourth, we started each day with a bus ride. However, the local buses were often late or the lines of riders very very long, thus delaying the start to our hikes. Please consider having a bus available for the group to start the day.
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