Rural Getaway to Orehovo Village

About

Orehovo village is known for the large number of natural landmarks in its vicinity. Just within walking distance are the Duplevo, Skakaloto and Kosten Kamak waterfalls and the latter’s eponymous rock formation as well as the Cheleveshka Cave. Enjoy a trip to the remarkable Asen's Fortress from 13th century and the second largest monastery in Bulgaria - Bachkovo Monastery, with the Miracle Working Icon of the Holy Virgin.

Highlights

• The unrivalled beauty of the Rhodope mountains

• Visit to Bachkovo Monastery and Asen's Fortress

• Duplevo, Skakaloto and Kosten Kamak Waterfalls

• The Kosten Kamak rock formation and Cheleveshka Cave

• Overnight stay with breakfast and dinner

 Description

The village of Orehovo is the starting point of several tourist routes and ecotrails, making it perfect for enjoying some peace and quiet with the option to travel out to many interesting destinations within the region. It is situated in a picturesque part of the Rhodope mountains, a little over an hour away from Plovdiv where it overlooks the Oreshitsa river. Among the many natural marvels in the area are the three waterfalls nearest to the village and the Kosten Kamak protected natural landmark. This is where “At Niko’s” guest lodge resides.

With breakfast and dinner provided, the food can be prepared according to the guests’ preferences or if they so choose, they can take over in preparing the meals. And for guests looking to treat something other than their taste buds, they can enjoy a wonderfully relaxing massage on request or let off some steam in the infrared bath or so called dry sauna.

Here you have the freedom to decide where the day will take you. Going for hikes in the mountains, exploring the region of the mountains or simply sitting back and enjoying the view. A place where friends and family can gather for a fun vacation with opportunities for many activities.

For the inquisitive there is much to learn from the friendly hosts who’ve accumulated many interesting facts about all aspects of the region. During the summer, guests can partake in organized hikes to Persenk peak or walks through “Sunny plains” to The Wonderful Bridges and excursions to: Krastova Gora, Devil’s Throat cave, Yagodina cave. Other activities include mountain bike riding, cooking traditional Bulgarian dishes and visiting wine cellars.

While there is much to see near Orehovo village that could be reached on foot, there's even more waiting just a short drive away! Founded in the 11th century, Bachkovo Monastery, the second largest in Bulgaria, is an important cultural landmark and the first place you will be able to explore. From the many stalls selling trinkets, folk craft, homemade jam, honey and spices to the museum holding crucifixes, ceremonial garbs, manuscripts, icons and donated jewelry. The "Assumption of the Holy Virgin" cathedral, situated in the monastery's larger courtyard, holds an icon from 1311 known as the Miracle Working Icon of the Holy Virgin, with a silver repousse cover, which is believed to have miraculous powers.

Our second stop is Asen's Fortress - a medieval structure built into the natural cliff massif of the Rhodope mountains overlooking the Asenitsa river. This strategic place was first the location of a Thracian fortress, later used by the Romans, the Byzantines, and eventually the Bulgarians. It was renovated in the 13th century during the reign of Tsar Ivan Asen II to be used as a line of defense against the Latin Empire. It was destroyed in 1410 by the invading Ottoman armies. Today, the fortress lies in ruins, with a small church functioning within what remains of its walls. The “Holy Virgin of Petrich” Church is the only preserved building in the complex and one of the most remarkable examples of Medieval Christian architecture.