This spectacular new trip brings us to an unspoiled and little-known area of the South Balkans. We visit Bulgaria and Northern Greece, finding amazing areas as yet undiscovered by walkers.

Bulgaria is a fascinating country. We will walk amongst pristine mountains, enjoy the warm welcome of the local people and also observe the incredible social and economic changes that this developing Eastern European country is currently undergoing. During our walks, we will see Roman ruins, active Orthodox monasteries, churches and mosques in fascinating Balkan villages.

The highlight of Bulgarian walking is the Rodopi Mountains – the home of Orpheus and Dionysus. The Rodopi are a land of myth and wonder, where spectacular scenery and rural idyll go hand in hand. We enjoy delicious homemade local cuisine and will have unique opportunities to experience daily life in a traditional Bulgarian mountain village.

In Greece, we will walk the Chalkidiki Peninsula, visit the Stagira (birthplace of Aristotle) and enjoy Mt. Athos Cruise. Mount Athos – or Agion Oros, as it is locally known – is the oldest surviving monastic community in the world. It dates back more than a thousand years to Byzantine times.