Struma Valley Wine Route – Private Wine Tour in Bulgaria

Visit boutique wineries, taste distinctive local wines and explore the area around Melnik in a relaxed and authentic setting.

This private wine tour takes you to the Struma Valley, one of the most unique wine regions in Bulgaria, known for its warm climate, scenic landscapes and long wine-making traditions.

During the tour, you will discover both international and local wines, including the characteristic Melnik grape, found almost exclusively in this part of the country. The experience is suitable both for wine enthusiasts and for travelers who want to explore a different, more authentic side of Bulgaria.

This tour focuses on small wineries and personal encounters, offering a more intimate and authentic wine experience.

Day 1 - Drive from Sofia to the northern part of the Struma Valley. Visit the Medi Valley winery for a wine tasting, followed by a stop at the Rila Monastery, adding a cultural highlight to the journey.

Day 2 - Start the day with a visit to Sintica winery near Sandanski. Originally established as an experimental station, it has developed some remarkable Bulgarian grape varieties, including the Early Melnik grape (Melnik 55).

Continue to Orbelia winery, located at the foot of the Belasitsa mountain. The winery focuses on high-quality wines made from local grapes, preserving traditions that date back to ancient Thracian times.

End the day in the picturesque town of Melnik, known for its distinctive architecture and long-standing wine-making tradition. The local Broad-Leaved Melnik wine is even said to have been a favourite of Winston Churchill.

Day 3 - Morning visit to Villa Melnik, a family-owned winery producing distinctive wines from both local and international grape varieties.

Next, visit Orbelus winery, known for its organic approach and environmentally conscious production of high-quality wines. Before returning to Sofia, stop at Zlaten Rozhen winery – a modern complex producing elegant wines typical for the region.

Designed for those with an interest in wine, this tour reveals one of Bulgaria’s most distinctive wine regions through carefully selected wineries and local grape varieties. It is a refined and unhurried experience, focused on taste, atmosphere and the character of the Struma Valley.

The day-by-day itinerary above is an example and may be adjusted to match your interests, travel dates, and pace.