✅ Led by a professional botanist - expert in Bulgaria’s endemic flora
✅ Search for the rare Haberlea rhodopensis - the “resurrection plant” that comes back to life after drying out
✅ Use a microscope & magnifying glass to see the flower’s unique adaptation
✅ Picnic with local products (bread, cheese, honey, seasonal fruit)
✅ Learn about the plant’s history, mythology (Orpheus), and conservation
✅ Small group (max 12) - relaxed, educational, unhurried
📅 Dates: Sunday, 14 June 2026 or Sunday, 21 June 2026
⏰ Duration: 1 day (08:00 - 17:00 approx.)
📍 Departure: Sofia (transport included in all‑inclusive option)
👥 Group size: Max 12 participants
💶 Price: €45 (all‑inclusive) / €30 (meet on site, own transport & own picnic)
🌿 The Expedition
This is not a standard hike. It’s a search for one of Bulgaria’s most mysterious plants – the Orpheus flower (Haberlea rhodopensis), a relic from the Ice Age that can survive years of drought and “resurrect” within hours when watered.
You’ll join a professional botanist on the rocky slopes of the Rhodope Mountains (near Asenovgrad / Bachkovo). Together, you will:
- Learn to identify Haberlea and distinguish it from similar species
- See the plant’s unique leaf structure under a microscope
- Hear the legend of Orpheus and why this flower is named after him
- Understand why it’s a protected relic and how climate change affects it
After the botanical walk, we’ll have a picnic with local products and, time permitting, visit the Bachkovo Monastery or Asen’s Fortress.
This is nature for the curious mind - slow, deep, and respectful.
🔬 Your Guide:
Led by a professional botanist who has studied the Rhodope flora for years. You’ll learn:
- How to recognise Haberlea in its natural habitat
- Why it’s called a “resurrection plant” (the science of anhydrobiosis)
- The plant’s traditional uses and conservation status
🗺️ Your Day:
🌿 07:00 - Meet in Sofia, transfer to the Rhodopes (or meet on site)
🔍 09:30 - Arrive at the habitat, start the botanical walk
🌱 11:30 - Microscope session: see the plant’s adaptation up close
🍽️ 12:30 - Picnic with a view (local bread, cheese, honey, fruit)
🏛️ 13:30 - Optional visit to Bachkovo Monastery or Asen’s Fortress
🚗 15:00 - Departure back to Sofia
📅 17:00 - Arrival in Sofia
🙋 Who Is This For?
✔ Nature lovers who want more than a postcard view
✔ Curious beginners - no experience needed
✔ Those who appreciate slow, educational, and meaningful experiences
“You’ll never look at a dry rock the same way again.”
🌍 The Impact
Your participation directly supports:
- Conservation of rare Bulgarian plant species
- The educational work of our botanist
- Our rewilding and citizen science projects
🍃 Booking & Practicalities
How to Book:
- Select your date (14 or 21 June) and option (from Sofia or meet on site)
- Pay the full price or contact us requesting to pay a non‑refundable deposit
- Remaining balance due 5 days before the event
Group Confirmation: Minimum 4 participants. We’ll confirm 7 days in advance.
Cancellation Policy:
- 7+ days prior: full refund (minus deposit)
- 72 hours - 7 days: 30% refund or 100% voucher
- <72 hours: no refund. Date transfer possible (€10 fee) if we can fill your spot
-
We cancel: full refund or voucher
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, water, layers, water bottle, camera (optional), your own picnic if self‑arranged option.
🔹 €50 (all‑inclusive) | 🔹€25 (meet on site) | 🔸 €20 deposit (non‑refundable)
12 spots per date. These flowers come once a year.
📅 Interested other days?
We offer private groups for 5+ people on flexible dates.
💬 Need to talk before booking?
📞 Questions: +359 889 185 558
📧 hello@wildtrailsadventures.co
We don’t follow scripts – only trails, blossoms, and the quiet stories of spring.
💳 Reserve with 20€
