Wellness Retreat

4 Days | From £1043pp

Bulgaria ( Best airport: Sofia or Plovdiv)

Escape the winter and immerse yourself in the healing waters of one of Europe’s premier equestrian and spa destinations. The boutique Trakiec Complex is truly one of a kind – not only in Bulgaria, but across Europe combining first-class equestrian facilities and a spa hotel. This unique retreat brings together small groups of riders (the maximum group size is 4) for exciting riding with lots of canter and a world-class spa based next to the Tikla River. Guests can unwind in jacuzzis, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas and steam baths, enjoy professional massages, or relax in beautifully designed wellness areas.

The equestrian centre was created with the idea of offering excellent facilities for both amateurs and equestrian sports professionals alike. It was built in 2012 on over 150 acres of pastures, paddocks and meadows. The spacious yard has state-of-the-art stables so the horses also get to enjoy a touch of luxury as well as several riding arenas.

The Riding

This trail offers fun, fast and safe riding in the scenic Bulgarian countryside. Enjoy long canters across open fields and vast meadows and ride through the famous vineyards of the Thracian Valley. You will ride in walk, trot and canter each riding day in small groups of up to 4 riders. Most days offer smooth riding terrain so there are plenty of opportunities for long canters.

Level of Riding and Fitness

This trail is suitable for riders from confident intermediate riders upwards. All participants should be in control at walk, trot and canter out in the open and over varied terrain. You will be spending between 4 and 5 hours in the saddle on the two riding days. The weight limit is 90kg.

Guides and Group Size

This trail is organised by a friendly, family-run equestrian centre. Your guide and host Bogan is a qualified vet, experienced guide and a very knowledgeable horseman. The maximum number of riders in a group is 4, and the trail is confirmed with 2 riders. Private groups of 8 can also be accommodated on request.

Any questions?

The Horses

The horses are the pride and joy of our partners in Bulgaria. They are much loved and well looked after. Their horses are a mix of breeds with Trakehners, Freisans, Shagya Arabs and Eastern Bulgarian horses, ranging from 14.3hh to 16.1hh. They are responsive, willing, behave well in a group, are not spooky and you can easily canter side by side.

Tack and Riding Equipment

The tack used on this trail is English style, mostly made by Wintec, and in good condition. Saddle bags are provided for carrying a bottle of water, camera and other small essentials during the day.

Accommodation and Dining

The accommodation during the trail is in athe Trakiec Complex spa hotel. Guests will have access to a swimming pool, sauna and optional spa treatments (not ncluded) with healing, warm mineral water. The hotel combines high-end equestrian facilities with a spa hotel. Guests can unwind in jacuzzis, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas and steam baths, enjoy professional massages, or relax in beautifully designed wellness and relaxation areas.

During the trail riders can enjoy the fresh, local cuisine. Breakfasts and dinners are served at the hotel which has it’s own on-site restaurant. Lunch is a picni/packed lunch on the first day and a delicious barbecue with wine, beer and soft drinks on the second riding day.

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at Sofia or Plovdiv Airport no later than 16:00 and transfer to the boutique Trakiec Complex, located in peaceful countryside near the village of Zhitnitsa. The transfer takes approximately 90 minutes. The equestrian centre is set in the heart of Southern Bulgaria’s Thracian Valley, the sunniest region of the country, with around 1,750 hours of sunshine each year—ideal for outdoor activities in every season. Before dinner, take time to unwind and settle in. You may enjoy the luxurious spa facilities, stroll around the equestrian centre, book a riding lesson, or simply relax and take in the beautiful natural surroundings.

Day 2 After a buffet breakfast at around 08:00–08:30, you will be transferred to the starting point of the trail. For this itinerary, the horses are transported early in the morning to a small local stable, located approximately 35 minutes from the equestrian hotel. Today’s ride lasts around 4.5 hours and covers approximately 30 km. The first part of the day follows the Stryama River across mostly flat terrain, offering excellent opportunities for long, enjoyable canters. Lunch is a relaxed picnic beside the riverbank. In the afternoon, the route becomes more hilly, with beautiful views towards the Balkan Mountains. The trail passes several scenic lakes and ancient Thracian tombs dating back more than 2,000 years.

Day 3 After breakfast your hosts will transfer you back to meet the horses. Your ride will take you back to your starting point but by a different route - again, with plenty of opportunity for some fast work. Lunch is organised by the support vehicle and includes a barbecue with wine, beer and soft drinks. After the ride, transfer back to the Trakiec Boutique Complex for your final night. An optional evening visit to the Old Town of Plovdiv can be arranged.

Day 4 After breakfast, you will be transferred back to the airport. Please book your return flight to depart earlier than 12noon.