Danube River and the Black Sea

On this tour, you'll discover the rich heritage of Bulgaria and the epic wilderness of the Black Sea coastline, uncovering 7,000 years of history in the far eastern reaches of the European Union. This itinerary includes the iconic Thracian Royal Tomb in Sveshtari, a UNESCO monument!

This guided cycling tour weaves its way from the UNESCO-preserved lakes along the dynamic Danube River to the astonishing cliff coast of the Black Sea. Cycling on comfortable standard bikes, you'll follow carefully planned routes on secondary roads with some gravel/dirt roads and paths. You'll ride through the peaceful villages of local Bulgarians, Romanians, Turks, Romani, and Alevis, and pass by lively old towns with remnants of Roman, Greek, Thracian, Bulgarian, and Ottoman settlements.

Cycle past abundant farmland, sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, fields of golden sunflowers and dazzling lavender, and meadows of fragrant wildflowers. All meals unlock the essence of the tasty Balkan cuisine, including delicious local wines.

Highlights

• Lake Srebarna – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Cape Kaliakra – nature and historical remains
• Kayak trip to Pojarevo Islands in the Danube
• City of Varna, ancient Odessos (350 000 p.)
• Town of Balchik – between the Mediterranean and the Orient
• Balchik Palace and Bothanical Garden
• Silistra – the Medieval see of Dristra and the Roman remains of Durostorum
• Tutrakan – the traditional fishing port of Lower Danube
• Romanian Orthodox monasteries of Dervent and St. Andrei
• World Oldest Golden Treasure from Varna Necropolis, 4500 BC
• Durankulak Lake and The Big Island Neolithic Site – 5000 BC.
• Oltina and Garlica Lakes – important bird sanctuaries in Romania
• Shabla coast – cliffs, beaches, lakes and lighthouse
• Yailata Archaeological Reserve – coastal hewn graves, dwellings, sanctuaries and churches
• Vama Veche Resort & Mangalia on the Romanian coast