Had an absolutely amazing time riding horses in the Bulgarian mountains and forests. Five of us went - myself, Genka, Petar, Donka and Genka's brother Encho.
We had two excellent guides at Wild City Asenovgrad, Emo and Todor, and as I was the only member of our group with any horse-riding experience, they gave me the largest horse, a four year old stallion called Mark! Now I have to tell you, as beautiful as Mark was, he was very excitable, especially around the other horses, so controlling him was a real challenge. But somehow I managed it, even if he did decided to go off galloping in a completely different direction to everyone else!
We started our trek overlooking some stunning views of the countryside, especially of the Sushitsa Reervoir. We continued along a stream where we stopped to allow the horses to drink. Unfortunately, my stallion, Mark, decided to lie down and take a quick bath while apparently forgetting that I was sitting on top of him! Needless to say I got a little wet! But in the 40C heat, drying off took just minutes.
We trekked up into the forests until the horses could go no further, and then we continued hiking on foot. A surprise awaited us - a beautiful lagoon with a lush waterfall! I spared no time to rip of my clothes and dive in! I even stood under the waterfall and drank the crystal clear water. Heaven!!
We hiked back to our horses and continued back to the stables, all agreeing that it was one of the best adventures any of us had had.
On the way back, Petar kindly stopped the car to let me take some photos of the Sushitsa Reservoir.
I must thank Genka for the idea and opportunity to do the horse-riding trek, and for organising it for everyone. Another winning excursion!
It was too hot to carry my camera backpack while riding, and I didn't want to risk damaging anything, so all the photos you see here (except for the last two) were taken with my phone, the Nokia N8.
Genka surveys the landscape awaiting us.
Genka's horse, Aida.
Encho on his horse.
Looking over the Sushitsa Reservoir.
Trekking through the mountain and across the stream.
Genka on her horse.
Petar on his horse, Johnny.
After we left the horses tied up, we hiked up into the forest.
Genka and Donka at the lagoon with the waterfall. The guys had already started to wade in!
Me under the waterfall! Heaven!
Donka demonstrates how to master her horse. She was a real natural at riding, despite never having ridden before.
Genka and Encho's horses stop for a drink.
Donka rides against a beautiful backdrop.
Me on my horse!
All five of us posed for a group photo outside the stable.
The stunning Sushitsa Reservoir.
Another view of the reservoir.