lavender-cottage

Village and Surrounding area

The village itself is quite sleepy during the day as most people are away at work. In the evening it gradually livens up as the villagers await the homecoming of thier livestock. Its a sight to behold as first the cows meander down from the mountain after a days grazing,closely followed by herds of sheep and then a stampede of magnificent goats. You will be amazed as the animals turn off into thier own streets ,each knowing the way home!!!<BR>The village itself has two well stocked general stores , a bar and a post office. There are daily buses into nearby Elena. English is not spoken in the village but a big smile, a Dobur Den [good day] and a few hand signals will get you most of your provisions.<BR>In Elena there are self service supermarkets.<BR>3km from Elena are beautiful lakes for fishing,camping and picnics. The bird life in the area is second to none with 80% of european birds breeding here. Birds of prey are in abundance as are storks with huge nests in the most unlikely places on telegraph poles.<BR>This area is suited to artists,fishing,horse riding,cycling and hiking. City life with all entertainment facilities is on 45min away in the old medieval city of Veliko Turnovo.<BR><BR><BR><BR>

Accomodation and facilities

The house itself is within the grounds of our home adjoining another smaller holiday cottage and sleeps a maximum of 6. Larger groups of up to 10 can be accomodated utilising our adjoining cottage .We will ensure a warm welcome and endeavour to help you enjoy your stay. We have an outside barbecue area and a small play area for children.<BR>This year we have installed a fabulous swimming pool as the heat can be intense. Great at the end of a days touring or walking. Or perhaps you may want to spend the day relaxing by the pool and taking in the view of the mountains beyond.<BR>Although we are predominantly self catering,packed lunches can be provided on request with typical traditional bulgarian cuisine .<BR>Towels and bedding are provided for your use and changed on a weekly basis.<BR>We also have mountain bikes for the use of guests. Anyone into horse riding can ride my wonderful mare. Let our neighbour teach you to milk our goats or the children can walk them down the lane......

Why us?

Lavender Cottage is nestled in the Stara Planina mountains in the beautiful Elena district of Bulgaria. The scenery is stunning with wonderful gorges leading to cascading waterfalls. Watch as the villagers go about thier business as we have a vibrant farming community with traditions almost as old as the mountains themselves. Elena town is only 15 minutes away and is a very cosmopolitan and lively town with many bars and restraunts. Here you can shop,eat ,socialise and basque in the atmosphere of bulgarian life. Families are seen every evening in the square playing with the children . <BR>A car is a necessity to fully appreciate and enjoy the local beauty spots. We can recommend an excellent car hire company on request.