Before noon, we venture to Sasha’s Secret Garden, located in the picturesque mountain village of Tazha. The favorable climate here is perfect for Sasha’s cherished hobby – plants and gardening. In her private botanical garden, she has lovingly curated over 500 plant species, making this haven a true paradise for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The garden becomes an enchanting space for spiritual and artistic experiences, where we can revel in the feast of colors, shapes, harmony, and vitality that only Nature can provide. Sasha herself will be our guide, sharing captivating stories about the specific nature and cultivation techniques of various plant species, offering us a personal glimpse into her life’s journey.
As the afternoon approaches, we head further south to the “Valley of the Thracian Kings,” a name derived from the abundance of historical tombs and ancient Thracian remains in the area. To gain a glimpse of the lifestyle of this ancient tribe, we’ll partake in some of the Thracians’ favored activities – uncovering treasures and indulging in wine.
In the village of Starosel, we visit a renowned winery, where we’ll enjoy a short tour of the technological halls. The highlight of the visit awaits in a magical setting as we experience a wine-tasting within a hall designed to replicate a Thracian ritual temple. Historical evidence has firmly established that as early as the 6th to 5th centuries BC, the Thracians were already producing and relishing wine.
Our journey then takes us to Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, where we’ll settle for two nights, ready to explore and revel in the rich culture and history that awaits us.
Accommodations: Hill House Boutique Hotel (Breakfast, Lunch)