This tour itinerary will leave you breathless by giving you the opportunity to ride on some of the most interesting, beautiful, and scenic roads. You will see the most famous natural beauties of the Rhodope Mountains and the region. We will ride around the Vucha dam, Trigrad gorge, and next to the Central Balkan mountain. In addition to these sites, you will also be going to visit and explore very interesting historical places related to the mysterious civilization of the Thracians, the Romans, the Ottomans, and the Bulgarians. You will be guided by a highly educated and experienced guide. You will stay during the nights in recommended hotels with wonderful locations. For this short period of time, we can guarantee that you will have positive memories for life.
We pick up our travelers from their hotels/accommodations in Sofia
Your adventure begins bright and early at 9:00 AM as you rev up your motorcycles and hit the highway, heading East from Sofia. On this initial stretch, you’ll ride parallel to the legendary Via Diagonalis, an ancient Roman road that once connected the great cities of the Empire. Imagine centuries of traders, emperors, and armies traversing this path as you blaze through modern-day Bulgaria on your iron steed.
The journey soon takes a scenic turn as we leave the highway and enter one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque roads, winding along the shores of Vacha Dam. Prepare to be amazed as you hug the curves of this stunning route, flanked by emerald waters and steep forested hillsides - a feast for both the eyes and the soul.
By midday, you’ll delve deeper into the rugged beauty of the Rhodope Mountains, entering the awe-inspiring Trigrad Gorge. Here, nature truly shows off its grandeur with towering cliffs that seem to reach the heavens. The highlight for the day awaits: the Devil’s Throat Cave. This legendary spot is said to swallow anything that dares to enter its depths - forever. Venture inside to discover the roaring underground waterfall and hear the tales that have haunted this place for generations.
By late afternoon, you’ll check into a cozy hotel nestled in the mountains. As the day winds down, indulge in a hearty traditional Rhodope dinner.
Riding for the day 230 km. Riding time 5 hours.
Accommodation: 3* Hotel.
As the morning light illuminates the majestic Rhodope Mountains, your second day of adventure kicks off with a thrilling ride eastward. The road takes you through a captivating landscape of verdant forests, rolling hills, and charming villages where time seems to stand still. With every turn, the scenic beauty of the Rhodopes continues to unfold, offering countless opportunities for photo stops and moments of awe.
The highlight of the day is your visit to the famous Devil’s Bridge (Sheytan Kyupriya), a marvel of early Ottoman architecture and engineering. This 16th-century bridge, perfectly preserved, spans the Ardino River with its iconic three arches. As you stand on its ancient stones, you’ll feel the weight of centuries of history beneath your feet, and perhaps even a touch of the mystery that surrounds its legends. Some say the devil himself aided in its construction - an eerie tale that only adds to the allure of this magnificent site. The bridge’s reflection in the river creates a mesmerizing scene, making it a dream for photographers and storytellers alike.
After immersing yourself in the mystique of the Devil’s Bridge, the ride continues deeper into the heart of the Eastern Rhodopes. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Zlatograd, an enchanting architectural reserve. This historic town is a living museum, showcasing traditional Bulgarian architecture and cultural heritage. Stroll its cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved houses, each adorned with wooden balconies and intricate details. The town exudes an old-world charm, inviting you to step back in time.
In the evening, settle into your accommodation in Zlatograd and enjoy a hearty dinner featuring regional specialties. Reflect on the day’s journey as you prepare to dive even deeper into the wonders of the Rhodope Mountains tomorrow.
Riding for the day 175 km. Riding time 4 hours.
Accommodation: 3* Hotel in Zlatograd.
This day will take you to the northern reaches of the Rhodope Mountains, offering a completely different perspective on this majestic region. After breakfast, you’ll saddle up and ride to Tatul, one of Bulgaria’s most enigmatic archaeological sites. This ancient Thracian temple, carved into the rocky landscape, is steeped in mystery and legend. Believed by many to be the burial place of Orpheus - the mythical musician who could charm all living things with his lyre - Tatul exudes an aura of spiritual energy that has drawn visitors for millennia. As you explore the site, marvel at its intricate carvings and alignments, which whisper secrets of the Thracian civilization.
Once your imagination has been stirred by the wonders of Tatul, the journey continues with a scenic ride toward Kardzhali Dam. This serene location offers a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, where you can enjoy local dishes while gazing out over the shimmering waters, surrounded by lush greenery. The adventure resumes as you traverse a picturesque mountain passage, winding through stunning landscapes that will make your heart race with excitement. The road leads you to Plovdiv, one of Bulgaria’s most remarkable cities and a true gem of European culture. Recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2019, Plovdiv’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere will captivate you from the moment you arrive.
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the highlights of this ancient city. Stroll through its beautifully preserved Old Town, where cobblestone streets, colorful Revival-era houses, and Roman ruins transport you to another era. Highlights include the impressive Roman Theater, still in use today, and the Ancient Stadium, nestled in the heart of the modern city.
As the sun sets, settle into your accommodations in Plovdiv’s historic center. The evening is yours to soak in the city’s vibrant ambiance.
Riding for the day 210 km. Riding time 4 hours
Accommodation: 3* hotel in the historical part of Plovdiv.
The final day of your journey takes you through the Central Balkan Mountains, promising yet another day of unforgettable riding. After breakfast, you will bid farewell to Plovdiv and set off on the winding roads that lead to the architectural and historical gem of Koprivshtitsa.
Nestled in a picturesque valley, Koprivshtitsa is a town steeped in history and charm. As an architectural reserve, it showcases the best of Bulgarian Revival-era architecture with its vividly painted houses, each a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship. Koprivshtitsa holds a special place in Bulgarian history as a center of revolutionary spirit during the country’s struggle for independence in the late Ottoman period. It was here, in 1876, that the first shot of the April Uprising rang out - a moment etched into Bulgaria’s path to freedom..
From Koprivshtitsa, the road will take you through more stunning mountain landscapes as you head back to Sofia. Enjoy the ride, reflecting on the diverse beauty, history, and culture you’ve experienced over the past four days.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Sofia, completing your epic motorcycle adventure. While the official tour concludes here, the memories of the Rhodope Mountains, historical treasures, and cultural experiences will stay with you long after you park your bike.
Please note: Accommodation in Sofia is not included in the tour price, but they are happy to provide recommendations or assistance with arrangements upon request.
Riding for the day 180 km. Riding time 3 hours
