Outdooraholics South West (inc. Bristol) Hiking, Walking

To see other attendees on the trip, please check the following LINK

For this Bank Holiday we have something really special - our 3 day Gower trip plus we will visit the Brecon Beacons and do a Waterfall trail hike where you get the experience of walking behind one.

Dive into the rugged beauty and remoteness of the Gower peninsula with miles of diverse coastline to explore. Designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1956, Gower’s protected landscape has thankfully changed little ever since.

We’ve lined up a couple of superb and dramatic coastal hikes along some of the best beaches in Britain. Add to those a National Nature reserve, truly spectacular cliffs, Europe’s 3rd best beach and a ruined castle and we’re surely in for a memorable weekend.

In fact, Rhossili beach is consistently voted one of the TOP TEN BEACHES IN THE WORLD, let us show you why: LINK

Come along and experience Gower peninsulas' unbeatable charm and beauty

HIGHLIGHTS

• Extended 3 night Bank Holiday trip
• Stay on the tip of the spectacular Gower peninsula
• Hike through the Gower Coast National Nature Reserve with its tidal island of Worms Head and Rhossili Down - the highest point on the Gower peninsula (196m)
• See the ruins of the majestic Pennard Castle built in the 12th century
• Explore a remote and rugged stretch of coast around Rhossili
• Hike to breathtaking Rhossili beach - one of the top beaches in Europe
• Hike out to the tidal Worms Head Island (tide permitting)
• Hike the waterfalls trail, see the 3 best waterfalls in Wales and get to walk behind one

WEEKEND DESCRIPTION

There’s no way to fully appreciate Gower’s natural beauty, history and geology unless you take on one of the numerous footpaths which run across this stunning piece of rugged countryside. That’s why we’re exploring the Gower Peninsula in traditional Outdooraholics style - through spectacular hikes and viewed from the hiking trails.

Saturday, Sunday and Monday will be exhilarating hikes through landscapes ranging from dramatic and rugged cliffs to long and dreamy sandy beaches. We’ll explore the sanctuary for rich wildlife, habitats and the historical sights of Gower, while being surrounded by awe-inspiring coastal, hill, woodland and clifftops scenery.

ITINERARY

Friday

Head over to our exclusively booked hostel cottage on the tip of the Gower peninsula, with only sand dunes separating us from the beach.

Saturday

Hike: Oxwich Bay to Pennard Castle
Distance: 8 miles (12km)
Grading: Intermediate, two main tiring hills
Ascent: 370m
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

We explore a picturesque section of the coast. Accompanied by the deep blue waters of the Atlantic, we’re off to an 8 mile hike through the rich sand dunes Nature Reserve of Oxwich and Nicholaston Burrows. Our hike will take us past cliffs and heavenly beaches to eventually reach the hidden valley with the ruins of Pennard Castle. Perched high over the stunning Three Cliffs Bay and Penmaen Burrows, this 12th century castle is considered one of the most picturesque ruins on the Gower Peninsula making it a perfect stop for lunch.

Sunday

Hike: Rhossili circular (2 length options)
Distance: 2 versions upto 14km length
Grading: Intermediate, some hills, a good level of fitness required
Ascent: 460m (for 14km version)
Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

Today will be a memorable hike in one of the most spectacular areas in Wales rewarding us with stunning and varied coastal landscapes. The stretch of coast around Rhossili is rugged, wild and remote - mostly owned by the National Trust. This craggy coastline is a mixture of dramatic and towering cliffs interspersed with picture postcard sandy beaches.

We'll hike through the Gower Coast National Nature Reserve which consists of the tidal island of Worms Head and the Rhossili Down - the highest point on the Gower peninsula (196m). We’ll also pass and hike on Rhossili Beach - regularly on best beach in the world lists.

Rhossili Beach has been voted by Tripadvisor to be one of the top 10 beaches in the world: LINK

Monday

Hike: Brecon Beacons 3 Waterfalls
Distance: 4 miles (6km)
Grading: Intermediate, a few hills, steep in places
Ascent: 330m
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

Today we shall head into the Brecon Beacons for a waterfall walk through a deep and rich wooded valley, where we'll get to go behind a waterfall. This hike will be in the Brecon Beacons National Park which is where the trip will finish

COST & PAYMENT

£294. Click “Attend” to pay the £20 deposit by PayPal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 6th April, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

TRANSPORT, ACCOMMODATION AND START TIME

The trip starts at the venue and you will need transport to the hikes.
Lift share discussion - to offer/request lifts

The accommodation address is at the top of this page, you are welcome to arrive from 7pm or any time later.

FOOD

Breakfast and packed lunches are included and will be provided for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. You will need money for drinks for the trip and for dinner on Sunday night.

Breakfast is healthy and nutritious - typically cereal, porridge with fresh fruit, berries, nuts and seeds, fresh fruit salad, free range eggs, yogurt, toast and coffees, teas etc.

For lunch we provide fruit, crisps, cereal bars and a range of options to make your own sandwiches typically tomatoes, cucumber, houmous, peanut butter, honey, jam, ham, cheese and salami.

After the hike we enjoy Cream Teas - an English delicacy consisting of scones, clotted cream and jam, a tasty treat!

Meals are meat based with vegetarian options. To find out if the food being provided meets your intolerance/allergies/preferences/likes/dislikes etc, please email us. You are welcome to bring your own favourite items to meet specific requirements and there is a fridge and kitchen you can use.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights in hostel accommodation (4 - 6 bedded single gender rooms)
• Breakfast and packed lunches on Saturday, Sunday and Monday
• Tea (including herbal) and coffee
• Dinner on Saturday night
• Hikes by trained guides
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Transport to, from and during the trip
• Dinner on Sunday night
• Drinks and personal expenses

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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Join us for a trip to one of UK’s finest landscapes offering remote and tranquil moorland, spectacular coastlines, deep wooded valleys, high sea cliffs and crystal clear rivers. We have designed a great trip combining the very best of this spectacular region in 3 diverse and contrasting hikes taking in sea, hilly moorland, shady wooded valleys and the River Barle.

Dive into the enchanting and magical Exmoor whose landscapes are steeped in history, folklore and tradition spanning back to its days as an ancient royal hunting forest. This magnificent National Park is a true haven for wildlife and grand landscapes. Keep your eyes open for Exmoor ponies and the largest indigenous mammal in Britain - the Wild Red Deer, which often share the trails with us.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay at an Eco Hostel that’s been converted from a Victorian Farmhouse which produces its own electricity from a wind turbine and solar panels
• Hostel set in a tranquil and remote location deep on the National Park itself and surrounded by moorland and hills
• A fully catered trip including Saturday and Sunday night dinners
• 3 diverse hikes in the wild and untamed moorlands, valleys, coastline and oak woodlands of Exmoor
• Visit the incredible 3000-year-old stone "Clapper Bridge" of Tarr Steps. A Grade 1 listed scheduled ancient monument – nearly as old as Stonehenge
• Smaller than usual trip - 30 attendees
Video - LINK

Our accommodation for this trip (hired exclusively for us) is surrounded by divine countryside set in the depths of rural Exmoor's 692 square kilometres - it's so remote that the driveway is 1km long. Here we get a real taste of the enchantingly remote and wild Exmoor enjoying an abundance of peace, tranquillity and nature...

We have 3 stunning and contrasting hikes lined up - on the first day we will do a very diverse circular route taking in the famous Tarr Steps as well as the beautiful, dense and lush wooded valley of the River Barle.

Sunday sees us exploring the varied and dramatic landscape of Exmoor's coastline. We visit the villages of Lynton and Lynmouth - nestled in the mouth of a wooded valley in a picture postcard location.

Monday will be a hike up Dunkery Beacon - Exmoor’ s highest point boasting stunning sceneries towards Exmoor, Brecon Beacons and the English Channel.

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive in the evening to our hostel and we have time for drinks and socialising.

Saturday

Hike: Tarr Steps circular
Distance: 11 miles (17km)
Grading: Intermediate, a few hills, some tough terrain
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Today we do a diverse and wonderful circular hike taking in the famous Tarr Steps - the longest clapper bridge in the country, as well as one of Exmoor’s gems - the River Barle with its charming Barle Valley. Our route follows the River Barle as it meanders through ancient oak woodlands towards Tarr Steps offering a great diversity of mosses, lichens, wildlife and its babbling and dashing waters home to otters, salmon and trout.
We return to the hostel late afternoon with time to explore our remote and wild setting before enjoying a delicious group dinner together.

Sunday

Hike: Lynmouth Circular
Distance: 9 miles (15km)
Grading: Intermediate, a few hills
Hiking time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours

Our adventure begins from the trail-head of one of the most stunning stretches of the South West Coast Path and loops back inland to finish in the picture postcard fishing village of Lynmouth. Every inch of this trail winds along the undulating shore, treating us to stunning panoramic ocean views framed by the jagged coastline. The keen eyed can see Feral goats too.

We return to the hostel for a delicious barbecue to socialise whilst the sun gently sneaks away taking with it this ancient landscape.

Monday

Hike: Dunkery Beacon circular - the highest point in Exmoor
Distance: 7 miles (10km)
Grading: Intermediate

We start our hike from the nearby Dunkery Beacon, the highest point in Exmoor National Park at 519 metres, we can see all of Exmoor from this peak as well as to the sea.

We hike up slopes carpeted with heather and whortleberry while watching for red deer and ponies in the distance. It's a varied landscape of moorland and woods, sprinkled with streams onto which the sunlight dances and sparkles through the trees. Once we reach the summit of Dunkery Beacon, we will take some time to soak up the stunning views of rolling moorland and expansive ocean where we’ll have a well deserved rest and photo stop.

COST & PAYMENT

£278. Click “Attend” to pay the £20 deposit by PayPal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 6th April, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

TRANSPORT, ACCOMMODATION AND START TIME

The trip starts at the venue and you will need transport to the hikes.
Lift share discussion - to offer/request lifts

The accommodation address is at the top of this page, you are welcome to arrive from 7pm or any time later.

FOOD

Breakfast and packed lunches are included in the cost and will be provided for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Dinner on Saturday and Sunday is also provided. You will need drinks for the trip (both alcoholic and water) as there is nowhere to buy these.

Breakfast is healthy and nutritious - typically cereal, porridge with fresh fruit, berries, nuts and seeds, fresh fruit salad, free range eggs, yogurt, toast and coffees, teas etc.

For lunch we provide fruit, crisps, cereal bars and a range of options to make your own sandwiches typically tomatoes, cucumber, houmous, peanut butter, honey, jam, ham, cheese and salami.

After the hike we enjoy Cream Teas - an English delicacy consisting of scones, clotted cream and jam, a tasty treat!

Meals are meat based with vegetarian options. To find out if the food being provided meets your intolerance/allergies/preferences/likes/dislikes etc, please email us. You are welcome to bring your own favourite items to meet specific requirements and there is a fridge and kitchen you can use.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights hostel accommodation (4, 5 and 6-bedded single gender rooms)
• Breakfast on Saturday, Sunday and Monday
• Tea (including herbal) and coffee
• Packed lunches on Saturday, Sunday and Monday
• Dinner on Saturday and Sunday
• Hikes by trained guides
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Transport to, from and during the trip
• Drinks and personal expenses

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS - By signing up or attending you agree to these

© Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2025 E & OE

To see other attendees on the trip, please check the following LINK

Spain - the land of sunshine and street festivals is a colourful medley of contrasting scenery, rich culture and also amazing cuisine. Home to the legendary artists Picasso and Dali, Spain inspires with the unique character of each region and diversity of the landscapes.

Explore Spain’s first National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - the remarkable Picos de Europa, this is the largest limestone mountain range in all Europe. The National Park straddles the three provinces of Cantabria, Asturias and León. Deep rivers and glaciers have carved out a remote paradise of deep valleys and gorges.

We hike the narrow rocky cliffs of the Cares Gorge - along a stunning valley. We admire the crystal Lakes of Covadonga and summit some of the most spectacular peaks and viewpoints of the park - the striking Naranjo de Bulnes.

Our accommodation is in the pretty mountain town of Cangas de Onis.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Spain and discover its greenest and most picturesque region
• Explore Spain’s first National Park (1918) and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve - Picos de Europa
• Reach the base of the iconic limestone giant - Naranjo de Bulnes Peak (2519m)
• Complete the most popular path through the Cares Gorge valley
• Hike above 2000m and admire the rugged dramatic views over the park
• Admire the picture postcard Lakes of Covadonga
• Discover a wild and untamed area, home to rich wildlife including vultures, eagles and wild goats
• Experience the local tradition and sample the cuisine of Cangas de Onis

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

Picos de Europa - a mountainous region in Northern Spain has a charming blend of ancient mountain villages, jagged peaks, lush valley pastures and unique alpine wildlife. Picos de Europa is Spain’s first National Park and was formed at the same time as the Alps and Pyrenees, it’s the largest limestone mountain range in Europe and is UNESCO protected for its wildlife, history and unique geology.

We hike to the base of the towering Naranjo de Bulnes Peak and the mesmerising serene Lakes of Covadonga. We complete one of the most striking hikes in Spain - the Cares Gorge trail that is a true adventure through a winding narrow path carved into the stone high above a roaring river. We also reach spectacular beauty spots that strike us with endless lush vistas at more than 2000m above sea level.

The mountains sit within the Asturias region of Spain - famed for their local cider and cheese which there is ample opportunity to sample in our mountain village.

Important Notes

This trip is suitable for fit and experienced hikers. These are tough mountain hikes involving long uphill/downhill sections on steep and uneven ground as well as walking/scrambling over rocks and boulders. Some of the trails may not be suitable for anyone who suffers from vertigo and an above average level of fitness is required.

Driving - we are driving to the hikes every day, some days have long drives and on mountain roads. The drive to and from the airport is roughly 2.5 hours

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive at Bilbao airport and meet the guide. Complimentary transfer to the accommodation in Cangas de Onis.

Saturday

Hike: the Lakes of Covadonga and Mirador de Ordiales viewpoint
Distance: 12 miles (20km)
Grading: Intermediate
Ascent: 650m
Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours

We start off with an iconic hike to the crystal clear Lakes of Covadonga and the famous Mirador de Ordiales viewpoint also known as the "balcony of the mountain". Our path begins near one of the glistening lakes and we admire its legendary beauty and mirror waters that reflect the rugged mountain tops. We enjoy the idyllic beauty of the area and will see wild goats. We reach the Mirador de Ordiales viewpoint which offers such jaw dropping views that even the "founder" of the Picos de Europa National Park chose to be buried there.

Sunday

Hike: Cares Gorge
Distance: 15 miles (24km)
Grading: Intermediate
Ascent: 400m
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours

Today we follow one of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of Spain - the spectacular Cares Gorge also known as the "Divine Gorge". Piercing right through the heart of the mountain, the river Cares has formed a deep ravine between the central and the western massifs of Picos de Europa. Our path winds up surrounded by wild vegetation and dramatic views and takes us from the province of Asturias to the province of León. We pass through tunnels carved in the rocks and bridges hanging over the valley while we marvel at the splendour of the gorge. It’s a truly thrilling and memorable experience traversing through the towering rock walls along the edge of the cliffs.

Monday

Hike: Base of Naranjo de Bulnes peak (2000m)
Distance: 8 miles (13km)
Grading: Challenging
Ascent: 900m
Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

Today is saved for another must do hike to the base of one of the most recognisable and famous landmarks in the country - the Naranjo de Bulnes Peak. It’s considered to be the jewel of the Picos de Europa mountains with its rusty colour and majestic molar shape. The peak is veiled in stories and myth and is an endless source of inspiration with its high vertical walls and majesty. Starting in the village of Sotres, we gradually ascend to the base of the monolith reaching about 2000m above sea level. We stop for lunch and rest at the mountain refuge to admire the climbers attempting to conquer the staggering peak.

Tuesday - FREE DAY

Free time for you to relax and enjoy yourself or explore more of the local treasures and culture on a self guided hike.

Those of you who wish to truly discover the distinct character of the province of Asturias can visit and self explore its capital Oviedo. It’s a historical town and Spain’s oldest Christian settlement famous for its art and cuisine. You can wander around its cobbled streets and sample the local dishes. The region is famed for its world renowned cider which is poured from a great height to get that fresh fizzy taste.

Should you feel more adventurous, you can kayak along the River Sella through stunning mountain scenery with instruction (extra cost).

Wednesday

Hike: Cuetu Tejau Peak (2129m)
Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)
Grading: Challenging
Ascent: 800m
Hiking time: 5 to 7 hours

We’ve saved this day for an exploration of a different province in Spain - the lush Cantabria. This rather tiny province carries its own charm and offers an immense natural diversity. We conquer one of the highest peaks in the area - Cuetu Tejau Peak (2129m) and follow a path that reveals another face of Picos de Europa traversing the western slopes passing by the Andara mines. Our trail reaches a high mountain refuge before continuing up to the top of the peak. From our lunch spot we admire the broad views of the entire eastern and central massifs of the National Park and finish our memorable adventure with some mouth watering dinner and a well deserved rest.

Thursday

After breakfast we drive to Bilbao airport for the flight back home.

COST & PAYMENT

£786. Click “Attend” and pay the £100 deposit by Paypal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 30th March, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details:FAQ

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Spain are in Spanish time

We suggest an inbound group flight below, for anyone on this flight or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 12:50pm. If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flight if delayed).

Inbound flight 06.06.2025
Vueling 9:25am from London Gatwick (LGW) to Bilbao (BIO) landing at 12:25pm
Flight: VY6304

RETURN

The trip ends after breakfast and you will be transferred to Bilbao airport (approx 11am at the airport). However, due to the risk of delays etc or arriving later, we suggest exploring Bilbao and taking a late afternoon or evening flight.

FOOD

Breakfast and dinner (except 1 days dinner) will be provided each day, you can buy packed lunches from the local shops and the hotel. The local cuisine is diverse with strong Mediterranean features and influenced by the Romans and Arabs. Every region has a distinct cuisine with the most common ingredients being olive oil and garlic.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us to verify if they can be catered for first: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 6 nights accommodation in twin bedded hotel rooms
• Breakfast and dinner each day (except one dinner)
• Hikes by trained, local mountain guide (Outdoor First Aider)
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Flights
• Dinner on one night and meals other than the above mentioned (a typical lunch is approx 5-10 EUR)
• Drinks and personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Free day activities - optional and booked on arrival

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of hiking (up to 2200m in this case). It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.

There are lots of insurers who cover hiking, for example the BMC: LINK
You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Spain is within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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To see other attendees on the trip, please check the following LINK

Step into the heart of the Balkans where glacial lakes mirror soaring peaks and ancient thermal springs whisper tales of Thracian gods. Welcome to the majestic Rila Mountains – the crown jewel of Bulgaria and the highest range in the Balkan peninsula. Here, sparkling lakes, thundering waterfalls, and flower-dotted alpine meadows create a landscape of untamed beauty waiting to be discovered.

On this journey, we'll immerse ourselves in the raw splendour of this pristine wilderness. Trek through ancient forests alive with birdsong, marvel at the legendary Seven Rila Lakes, and soak in Europe's hottest mineral springs in the historic town of Sapareva Banya. Along the way, we'll explore paths once walked by Thracian tribes while embracing the fascinating blend of natural wonders and ancient healing traditions.

To make this really special we're staying in a lovely modern Guest House with swimming and jacuzzi, it's rated 4.9/5 from over 130 reviews: The Rock Guest House, Sapareva Banya LINK

Join us for an adventure where crystal-clear lakes, thermal waters, and Balkan culture merge to create an exhilarating mountain experience!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Just 2 days off work for a 3-night adventure in the heart of the Balkans!
• Explore the Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria’s most famous glacial lakes, each with its own unique charm and legend
• Soak in Europe's hottest mineral spring at Sapareva Banya's historic thermal healing baths - we enjoy an entire morning at the spa
• Hike through Rila National Park, home to Bulgaria’s highest peaks with rare wildlife and stunning alpine scenery
• Witness the unique geyser fountain of Sapareva Banya - the only one in continental Europe, firing out at 103 Celsius
• Stay in the historic spa town of Sapareva Banya, known since Thracian times for its healing mineral waters
• Visit the spectacular 39m-high Goritsa Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled in the lush foothills of Rila
• Experience the vibrant nightlife and culture of Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest cities
• Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine and hospitality in a picturesque mountain town
• Discover landscapes dotted with rare Balkan endemic flowers like Edelweiss and Rhodopean lilies
• Small group adventure, limited to just 8 participants to make it really special
• Stay in Hotels/Guest Houses - with twin bedded en suite rooms

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

The Rila Mountains – Bulgaria’s crown jewel and the sixth-highest mountain range in Europe – offer a breathtaking landscape of alpine lakes, endemic wildlife, and ancient thermal springs. This remarkable scenery combines pristine wilderness with centuries of healing traditions, creating an adventure that feeds both body and soul.

Our journey begins in the historic town of Sapareva Banya where we are staying, home to Europe's hottest mineral spring, where ancient Romans once sought healing in the therapeutic waters. From here, we’ll venture into Rila National Park to hike the mystical Seven Rila Lakes, a cluster of glacial lakes scattered across the mountains at altitudes reaching 2,500 meters. Each lake tells a story – legends of giants and celestial tears – as we ascend through an ever-changing panorama of ridges, waterfalls, and wildflower-dotted meadows.

We’ll balance adventure with relaxation as we soak in Sapareva Banya's healing mineral waters, before embarking on a gentle stroll to the picturesque Goritsa Waterfall, the second-highest in the Rila Mountains. Our adventure concludes in Sofia, where ancient Thracian treasures, Roman ruins, and vibrant nightlife create a fascinating finale to our Bulgarian journey.

From the breathtaking beauty of high-altitude lakes to the healing powers of Europe's hottest springs, this trip offers a unique blend of natural wonders, blissful relaxation and cultural heritage.

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive at Sofia Airport and transfer to the historic spa town of Sapareva Banya. Nestled at the foot of the Rila Mountains, this charming town is known for its thermal springs, valued since ancient times by Thracians and Romans. After check-in, enjoy a traditional Bulgarian dinner and relax before our adventure begins. We will also have time to enjoy our Guest House pool.

Saturday

Hike: Seven Rila Lakes
Grading: Intermediate/Challenging
Ascent: approx 500 to 600m
Hiking time: Approx 3.5 to 5 hours

Today, we embark on the highlight of our trip – the legendary Seven Rila Lakes. After breakfast, we take a scenic chairlift ride high into the mountains offering panoramic views of the Rila range. Our trail winds through alpine meadows with native mountain flowers, leading us to each of the seven glacial lakes nestled between 2,100 and 2,500 meters altitude.

The lakes are a true natural wonder, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky like liquid sapphire. We’ll hike past Salzata ("The Tear"), the highest and purest lake, Okoto ("The Eye"), a deep, mysterious oval pool, and Babreka ("The Kidney"), with its dramatic curved shoreline offering a panoramic viewpoint over the entire valley.

The landscapes here are nothing short of mythical. According to legend, the lakes were formed from the tears of a giantess mourning her fallen lover. Today, a rock near Babreka ("The Kidney") is said to resemble the lovers, standing as eternal guardians of their sacred land. Along the way, we might spot soaring golden eagles, agile chamois on rocky ledges, and delicate wildflowers unique to the Balkans.

After descending, we return to our Guest House in Sapareva Banya for a well-earned evening of relaxation and dinner.

This hike has quite a bit of ascent, but if you're a regular hiker and fit then it's intermediate, possibly bordering on intermediate/challenging due to the ascent. This is not a trip for beginners or anyone who does not hike regularly

Sunday

Morning at the Kotvata thermal pools and saunas Complex

Walk: Goritsa Waterfall
Grading: Beginners - very gentle, this is more of a stroll
Time: 1 to 2 hours

We begin our day with a relaxing morning at Sapareva Banya's mineral spa, where the healing traditions of Thracians and Romans live on. Soak in various pools of different temperatures, including waters from Europe's hottest spring (103°C), known for their ability to ease muscle tension and rejuvenate the body.

After a leisurely morning of relaxation and healing and lunch, we take a gentle walk to Goritsa Waterfall, a 39-meter cascade hidden in the lush foothills of Rila. The journey takes us through shaded forest trails, across wooden bridges, and up to a scenic viewpoint where the rushing waters create a refreshing mist in the summer air. This serene natural spot is the perfect way to round off our time in the mountains.

In the afternoon, we'll transfer to Sofia arriving later afternoon/early evening, where you'll have a free evening to explore Bulgaria's vibrant capital nightlife - a city where ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and modern boulevards coexist in harmonious contrast.

Monday

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Sofia, with free time to explore at your own pace - stroll through bustling markets, sip coffee in a historic square, or wander through ancient ruins. Then take a short metro ride or taxi to the airport for your flight back home.

COST & PAYMENT

£378. Click “Attend” and pay the £100 deposit by Paypal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 27th April, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Bulgaria are in Bulgarian time.

We suggest the inbound group flights below, for anyone on these flights or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 1:55pm, this will depart from Terminal 1. If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flights if delayed).

Inbound flights 13.06.2025
1. Ryanair 7:55am from London Stansted (STN) to Sofia (SOF) 12:55pm at Terminal 2
Flight FR1730
2. WizzAir 8:25am from London Luton (LTN) to Sofia (SOF) 1:35pm at Terminal 1
Flight W64302

RETURN

The trip ends at the hotel in Sofia and you can make your own way to the airport. The cheapest way to do this is via metro (underground) and it costs about 1.60 BGN (£1), taxis are also cheap.

FOOD

Breakfast will be provided in Sofia. In the spa town we will visit a local cafe. We will stop by a local grocery shop where you can buy your favourite items for lunches. For dinner you can explore the local cuisine for approximately £10-£15 excluding drinks.

Vegetarian food can be catered for. Some dietary requirements such as lactose free, nut free, gluten free or vegan cannot be catered for.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us to verify if they can be catered for first: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights Hotel/Guest House accommodation in twin en suite rooms, 2 of those with a swimming pool
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to Sofia
• Breakfast in Sofia
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Hiking pole hire
• Bulgarian/English speaking mountain guide

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Dinners, lunches, 2 breakfasts (approx £4 each), spa entry £9
• Chair lift pass - approx 30 Lev (£13)

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of hiking (up to 3000m in this case). It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.

There are lots of insurers who cover hiking, for example the BMC: LINK

You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Bulgaria is within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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