Day: March 10, 2026

Sofia to Velingrad

This morning we left Sofia and headed south. We picked up a rental car at the airport in Sofia. From there we drove south for about 2 hours. We are in Velingrad about half way between Sofia and the Greek-Bulgarian border.

At the airport we had a nice view of the snowy peaks south of Sofia
On the road to Velingrad

We are staying at a fabulous hotel and spa, the hotel Arte Resort and Spa. They have an indoor pool and outdoor pools plus saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis. Dinner and breakfast are included in the price. The dinner was an excellent buffet and we realized that there are lots of families staying here. We saw play rooms and game rooms with cameras so parents sitting in the restaurant or bar could keep an eye on their kids in the play room. Duke booked a hammam massage for tomorrow.

Our room at Arte Resort and Spa

Sofia Day 3

Our last full day in Sofia was lovely and restful. We’re still working on conquering jet lag. I didn’t fall asleep till well after midnight so it was heavenly to sleep in until almost 10. Duke’s first task today was to get a haircut.

The before shot
The after shot.

I stayed at the barber shop long enough to get a picture of Duke in the chair. While I was waiting I had a nice chat in English with a young boy (about 10 I think) who had just had his hair cut. He seemed eager to practice his English and it was very good.

It was a nice sunny day so we went for a couple walks. We had a good view of the mountains that overlook Sofia.

Out for a walk in Sofia

We had an excellent dinner at a nearby restaurant called Cava.

Duke’s steak

Tomorrow we leave Sofia. If you would like to see my next post click here.