Bulgaria

Bulgaria, positioned within the eastern Balkans of Southeast Europe, is a country filled with enchanting mountains, beautiful beaches, and cities that buzz with nightlife, art, and culture. Founded in the 7th century, Bulgaria is one of the oldest states on the European continent, so those that like history there's plenty to see. Visitors are in awe at the gold-domed churches and religious art within. In the capital of Sofia see the Aleksander Nevski Church. Travel to the southwestern Rila Mountains and the UNESCO Rila Monastery built in the 10th-century. Then there are the Tryavna's wood carvings and Bachkovo's apocalyptic murals.

There is so much more than history as it's cities and towns now buzz with fabulous cafes, bars, and restaurants while beaches like Bulgaria's Black Sea coast beckon those that like the sun, sand, and all-night clubbing. Take the time to explore away from the cities and the resort's to the less-visited beaches and delightful seaside villages that hug the northern and southern coasts and the mountains to the west.

Plovdiv is one of the many charming towns to visit with an energetic art quarter, bars serving signature cocktails and fun-filled nightlife. The Pyrin Mountains draws hikers in summer. It's the Balkans' premier skiing and snowboarding destination during the winter, with more than 100 peaks towering higher than 2000 metres. The Pirin National Park boasts 75 kilometres of pistes that extend to a height of 2600m! It's a playground for all levels.

The local cuisine is hearty no matter what's your taste. There is such a variety to choose from, including signature baked Banitsa to Shopska Salata Bulgaria's salad.

Bulgarians know how to enjoy a festival. One of the most unique is the Humour Carnival, held in Gabrovo. Then there is the Cherry Festival in Kyustendil, Bulgaria's fruit garden's and the Rose Festival as Bulgaria is the biggest producer of rose oil in the world. Wherever you venture in Bulgaria, you'll be welcomed with open arms and open hearts.

Best time to visit Bulgaria

It's a European country still a little off the radar for most tourists. Bulgaria affords reasonable options for resorts offering winter sports that are cheaper than some of its neighbours. However, this will not last as people discover Bulgaria, its majestical landscape and welcoming people.

Winter means Bulgaria's pristine alpine areas are carpeted in thick snow. During the summer, which is typically long, hot and dry when the temperatures rise to the highest. Locations like the Black Sea are filled with local holidaymakers. Autumn is a great time for walks, cycling and city sightseeing.

The interior can experience bitterly cold winters. Bulgaria remains one of the least visited yet beautiful Eastern European countries, but we envisage not for long.