Tsari Mali Grad and Borovets

Departure to the village of Belchin known for its healing mineral waters. Above the village is Mount St. Spas, associated with the legends about the existence of a large ancient settlement known as Mali Tsari Grad. It is assumed that the name means Little Istanbul. Remains of the ancient settlement, with stone walls and towers of the fortress, were still to be seen up until the XIX century, after which they were permanently destroyed. In 2007, a team of archaeologists began the study of the hill and found the remains of outbuildings, coins, weapons and others. It is believed that the fortress was built by the Romans in the IV c. AD to control and guard strategic roads in the area and had great importance in antiquity. Currently, the complex is fully restored with fortress walls, towers and a medieval church. The castle is ideal for visiting with children, as it features a rope garden and playground with various facilities. 
In the afternoon, head to Borovets – the oldest mountain resort in Bulgaria, originally established as a hunting place for the Bulgarian kings. Today, it is a modern ski resort with hotels, taverns and a network of ski runs of all difficulty. Our tour in Borovets includes a visit to the former royal palace – Tsarska Bistritsa. Today, visiting the palace inside is not allowed to public but we can still stroll in the surrounding park amidst century old pine trees. See the chapel of St. George as well as the old water power station manufactured by the engineering giant Siemens. The power station was installed in the palace in 1914 and since then has been working flawlessly.
On the way back, optional stop in the town of Samokov and see some of the town’s landmarks – the convent of Virgin Mary, the church of St. Nikolas, the drinking fountain near the market, the mosque, the Sarafska house and others.
 

TIME SCHEDULE
8:30	Departure
10:00	Arrive in Tsari Mali Grad and visit
12:00	Depart to Borovets
12:30	Arrive in Borovets and free time for lunch
14:00	Walk in Brovets and visit Tsarska Bistritsa
16:00	Departure back to Sofia
16:15	En route stop and visit Samokov Revival quarter
17:15	Continue to Sofia
18:30	Arrive in Sofia