Horse Riding in the Valley of Roses in Thracian Spirit: A Friendly Guide to Bulgaria’s Floral Treasure
If you’re dreaming of exploring Bulgaria’s famous Valley of Roses, but want a more personal, relaxed way to do it, then a horseback riding tour like this one from Thracian Spirit could be just what you’re looking for. This experience promises a scenic ride through stunning landscapes, with a focus on connecting with nature and local heritage.
What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s completely private, meaning you get a tailored experience without the hustle of large groups. Second, it’s perfect for beginners—no prior riding experience needed, thanks to the careful guidance offered. But, as with any outdoor activity, it’s worth considering that the tour can last anywhere from 45 minutes to around six hours, so your stamina and schedule should be taken into account.
A potential drawback is the flexibility in duration—unless you’re prepared for a longer ride or a shorter intro, you’ll want to pick your start time carefully. Also, since the price covers equipment and guide but not personal expenses or any additional costs, you might have to budget for extras if you’re planning to extend your day or explore nearby spots afterward.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a taste of Bulgaria’s countryside without a complicated itinerary, and appreciate the option to choose their start time. It’s particularly appealing if you like the idea of riding horses through beautiful scenery without the pressure of advanced riding skills.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience ensures you’re not just another face in a large group.
- No prior riding skills needed, making it accessible for beginners.
- Flexible timing allows you to tailor the experience to your schedule.
- Great value at just over $12 per person, with full equipment and guide included.
- Stunning scenery and a chance to see a part of Bulgaria most travelers miss.
- Free cancellation provides peace of mind if plans change.
Exploring the Valley of Roses on Horseback

We all know Bulgaria is famous for its roses—those fragrant blooms are the backbone of the country’s perfume and cosmetic industries. But beyond the scent-filled fields, there’s a whole lot more to love about this region. If you’re after a way to truly appreciate the landscape and culture, horseback riding offers a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
This tour, hosted by VisitBulgariaOn Bespoke Experiences, takes you on a journey through the Golyamo Dryanovo area, where the horse riding base is located. The price of just $12.80 per person seems like a steal for what you get—a personalized ride with full gear and an expert guide. It’s clear they focus on making it accessible, especially for first-timers, which is a big plus if you’re not comfortable with horses but curious to try.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins at the Thracian Spirit Horse Riding Ranch, a quiet spot that sets the tone for a peaceful outing. While the total duration can vary, the riding itself is designed to be flexible, lasting anywhere from about 45 minutes to 6 hours. This means you can choose a quick scenic ride or spend a leisurely half-day exploring the countryside.
The first stop is the horse riding base in Golyamo Dryanovo —a simple yet charming starting point. Beyond that, the itinerary includes nearby scenic spots, though specific stops aren’t detailed, which keeps the focus on the ride itself. The aim is to give you a personalized experience—your guide will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you feel secure regardless of your riding skills.
The Experience of Riding
If you’re new to horseback riding—or even if you’re experienced but want a relaxed pace—you’ll appreciate the careful introduction. As one reviewer shared, “The guide took us, as beginners, at a careful pace, and the horses appeared to be good natured, and patient with us and our inexperience!” That kind of reassurance is key for a successful ride, especially in a setting where comfort and safety matter.
Many travelers find that the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. Expect rolling hills, patches of wildflowers, and views that stretch beyond the fields of roses. The horses are described as good-natured, which makes all the difference when you’re just starting out. Plus, with the guide nearby, you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed.
What’s Included and What to Expect
For just over $12, you get full equipment and a guide, meaning there’s no need to worry about bringing your own gear. The company also provides a deposit to book your preferred date and time, which secures your spot in advance.
The tour operates every day from noon until late evening (12:00AM – 11:30PM), giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your schedule. Whether you’re a midday explorer or prefer an evening ride, you can choose what suits you best.
Considering the Price
At this price point, the value is excellent, especially since it’s a private tour. You’re getting personalized attention, guidance, and the chance to see a less-visited part of Bulgaria in a relaxed setting. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a memorable outdoor activity without sacrificing quality or safety.
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The Reviews Speak
While there’s only one detailed review available, it’s glowing: “A very pleasant horse-trekking experience. We enjoyed a pleasant morning, riding some beautiful horses through the stunning countryside. The guide took us, as beginners, at a careful pace, and the horses appeared to be good-natured, and patient with us and our inexperience! I fully recommend.”
This confirms that the tour lives up to its promise of being beginner-friendly and scenic. The fact that it’s rated a perfect 5 stars on the provider’s site also suggests consistent quality.
The Practical Side: Info You Need

Meeting point: Thracian Spirits Horse Riding Ranch in Golyamo Dryanovo. It’s a straightforward spot to reach, and the activity ends back at the starting point, simplifying logistics.
Duration: Rides can be as short as 45 minutes or as long as six hours, so plan based on your energy and interest.
Pricing and extras: The $12.80 fee covers full gear and the guide, but other personal expenses or extra costs are paid on the spot.
Cancellation policy: Totally flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is pretty generous for outdoor activities.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This horseback ride is ideal for beginners, nature lovers, or those wanting a personalized experience in Bulgaria. It’s perfect if you’re traveling solo, as it’s a private tour, but equally suitable if you’re with a small group or partner.
Since the ride is relaxed and scenic, it’s suitable for travelers who want a low-pressure outdoor activity, not an adrenaline-fueled adventure. If you’re particularly keen on exploring the Valley of Roses beyond just riding through it, you might want to pair this with nearby visits, which the tour doesn’t cover but you can do afterward.
Horse Riding in the Valley of Roses in Thracian Spirit
“We enjoyed a pleasant morning, riding some beautiful horses through the stunning countryside. The guide took us, as beginners, at a careful pace, a…”
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re after an affordable, authentic way to enjoy Bulgaria’s countryside, this horse riding tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The scenic views, gentle pace, and the chance to connect with local heritage make it stand out from typical sightseeing. Plus, the flexibility in timing and the private setup mean it can be tailored to your preferences.
However, keep in mind that the ride length is flexible, so if you’re short on time or want a quick snapshot of the landscape, a shorter ride makes sense. If you’re planning a longer ride or want to explore more deeply, check that the duration fits your schedule.
All in all, this experience is a straightforward, enjoyable way to add a touch of rural Bulgaria to your trip—without fuss, and with the chance to enjoy some peaceful countryside. Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, it’s worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, this tour is designed for beginners. The guide provides a careful demonstration, so you don’t need any previous skills.
How long can I ride?
You can choose a ride lasting from around 45 minutes up to 6 hours, depending on your preference and stamina.
What does the price include?
The fee covers full equipment, the guide, and the booking deposit to secure your date and time.
Can I book a specific start time?
Yes, you can pick a start time that suits your schedule, as the tour operates daily from noon to late evening.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Thracian Spirits Horse Riding Ranch in Golyamo Dryanovo.
What should I wear?
While not explicitly stated, comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes are advisable for riding.
Is it suitable for children?
While not directly mentioned, the tour’s gentle pace and focus on beginners suggest it can be suitable for older children who can handle horseback riding.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.
Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses and any extras are paid on the spot; the tour price covers gear and guide.
Would I enjoy this?
If you love scenic landscapes, gentle outdoor adventures, and cultural touches, this ride offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy Bulgaria’s famous roses and countryside.
If this sounds like your kind of experience—a peaceful ride through beautiful scenery with personal guidance—this tour in the Valley of Roses could be a highlight of your Bulgaria trip. It offers a real sense of connection with nature and local culture, all at a friendly price.
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