Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria, located in the south west of the country on picturesque hills. The town has centuries’ old traditions in wine making and is one of the most unique vine growing areas in Bulgaria. This fascinating place is surrounded by sand pyramids – a natural phenomenon with different pyramids, varying in shape and size.
Rozhen Monastery is the largest monastery around Melnik. A middle age orthodox temple, it is built on a remarkable location in the south west of Pirin mountains.
Rupite is area, known for its sacral and thermal energy. It is located at the food of Kozhuh volcano, which is not active. However there are geothermal springs of mineral water. The place was chosen by the very famous Bulgarian prophetеss Vanga for her residency. Lots of pilgrims visit the temple to worship her.
Bansko (Google Map)
9:00
This is a wonderful full day adventure around the picturesque Pirin Mountain. The journey is very dynamic and panoramic, providing breathtaking views around another mountains in the southwest of Bulgaria. Melnik is the smallest Bulgarian town, very famous for its unique architecture and the wine traditions. Some of the finest Bulgarian wines are made in the region. Rozhen Monastery is the largest in the area, a depository of the National Bulgarian spirit and culture. Rupite temple, located at the food of the volcano Kozhuh (not active) is a special energizing place, chosen by the famous Bulgarian prophetess Vanga for her home.
We start a fascinating adventure around Pirin Mountains – from Bansko, located on the north slopes of the mountain, towards Melnik – the smallest town in Bulgaria, laying on the south side of Pirin. The journey cannot be described with words, you must see it – its truly breathtaing.
We reach Melnik after 2.5 -3 hours drive and then start exploring this archaeological town – museum. Walking around the cobbled streets and enjoying the unique houses with chimneys in a shape of minaret, nesting in layers on the hillside town and surrounded by the sand pyramids – such an amazing place. Melnik is famous for the old wine traditions and of course for the finest sorts of wine, some of them unique only to this place – like Melnik 55, Shiroka melnishka loza. Furthermore in Melnik you can try traditional specialties like Papuda.
We will visit the largest monastery in the region – Rozhen. From the temple we will admire fascinating views towards the surrounding mountains and the sand pyramids.
Our adventure continues towards Rupite and the temple of the famous Bulgarian prophetess Vanga. She chose her residence in the heart of the volcano Kozhuh, the only volcano in Bulgaria, since she believed in the magical energy of the place. It is also home to unique plants and animals.
Nearby you can enjoy the power of the hot springs. Water is naturally heated and you can boil a tea directly on the surface. Get advantage and relax into the natural pools to get the most of this fabulous day.
