This spectacular adventure is rated by The Guardian in top 10 of the best scenic narrow gauge railway journeys in Europe. Visit Velingrad -the hidden gem of the Rhodopes and a SPA capital of Bulgaria.
Sofia (Google Map)
8:00
This is a journey for nature lovers, adventurers and travelers. On this unique experience you will admire unspoilt places in the Rila National Park including the magnificent Belmeken high mountain lake.
At Yundola mountain pass you will have the chance to try delicious local food and visit a local market with homemade products.
Then the highlight of the day – the scenic journey on the retro train – from Avramovo – the highest station in Bulgaria and on the Balkans @ 1267 m above the sea to Velingrad – the SPA capital of Bulgaria.
After relaxing in the hot springs we return back to Sofia.
We start or journey from Sofia towards the stunning Belmeken high mountain lake. Located in a beautiful and peaceful environment at nearly 2000 m above the sea, the area offers lots of amazing itineraries for all levels of mountaineering. We will admire that magical part of Rila mountain and then we return to Yundola high mountain pass where we will try some bargain in a local market – honey, jam, spices, herbs, mushrooms and more. Our day then continue to Avramovo – the highest train station on the Balkans – this is where our retro train experience starts. The section between Avramovo and Velingrad was a technical and engineering challenge since it covers a great altitude with many tunnels, serpentines, following a fascinating valley. We reach Velingrad – the hidden gem of the mighty Rhodopes and a SPA capital of Bulgaria. The town is famous for the natural mineral water springs and attracts hundreds and thousands of visitors all year around. Relaxing in the hot springs is the best end of an epic day in the mountains.
Then we return back to Sofia.
