Discover Bulgaria’s first dedicated pilgrimage and cultural walking route, officially opened in 2026 and inspired by the spirit of the Camino de Santiago. 
The Way to the Relics of St. John the Baptist begins in the small historic town of Malko Tarnovo, crosses the ancient forests and traditional villages of the Strandzha Mountains, and finishes on the Black Sea coast in Sozopol. 
The final destination is the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, where relics believed to belong to St. John the Baptist are kept. 
The full route is divided into seven official stages. During this organised journey, they are combined into four walking days. Along the way, participants collect stamps in their Pilgrim Passports and, after completing the route, receive the official pilgrimage certificate known as the “Ioannia”. This is more than a walking holiday. It is a journey through nature, cultural heritage, history and faith. 

Departure Dates:
10-16.05.2027
07-13.06.2027
21-27.06.2027
30.08-05.09.2027
20-26.09.2027

Day 1: Arrival in Bulgaria – Malko Tarnovo 
Arrival at Burgas Airport, where the group will be welcomed by a local representative. Direct flights between London and Burgas may be available depending on the travel dates and season. Alternative transfers can be arranged from Sofia or Plovdiv.  
Transfer to Malko Tarnovo, a charming town situated in the heart of Strandzha Nature Park, close to Bulgaria’s border with Türkiye.  
After checking in, enjoy a guided walk through the town and visit the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God.  
ach participant will receive a Pilgrim Passport, followed by a welcome and information meeting with the guide. The route, terrain, daily walking stages and practical arrangements for the journey will be presented.  
Overnight in Malko Tarnovo. 

Day 2: Malko Tarnovo – Stoilovo – Zabernovo 
Walking distance: approximately 23.5 km 

After breakfast, the pilgrimage begins. 
he first walking day leads from Malko Tarnovo through the peaceful landscapes of Strandzha and the village of Stoilovo before continuing towards Zabernovo. The route passes through beautiful beech forests, unspoilt countryside and some of the most characteristic landscapes of Strandzha Nature Park. Along the way, participants will collect the first stamps in their Pilgrim Passports. Arrival and check-in at a local guesthouse. 
Overnight in the Zabernovo area. 

Day 3: Zabernovo – Vizitsa – Pismenovo 
Walking distance: approximately 23.5 km 

After breakfast, continue along one of the most picturesque sections of Camino Bulgaria. The route passes through the small Strandzha village of Vizitsa and continues through forests, peaceful rural landscapes and panoramic open areas towards Pismenovo. This stage offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional villages and natural beauty of south-eastern Bulgaria. Additional stamps will be collected in the Pilgrim Passports along the way. Arrival and check-in at the accommodation.  
Overnight in the Pismenovo area. 

Day 4: Pismenovo – Primorsko – Arkutino 
Walking distance: approximately 22 km 

Today, the scenery gradually changes as the route leaves the forests of Strandzha and approaches the Black Sea coast. The walk continues through Primorsko towards Arkutino, an area known for its protected dunes, coastal vegetation and beautiful natural landscapes. If time and weather conditions permit, an optional visit to Beglik Tash may be arranged. This ancient Thracian sanctuary is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites along Bulgaria’s southern Black Sea coast. Arrival and check-in at the accommodation.  
Overnight in the Arkutino area. 

Day 5: Arkutino – Sozopol 
Walking distance: approximately 12.5 km 

After breakfast, begin the final walking stage of Camino Bulgaria. The route follows the Black Sea coast towards Sozopol, one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Bulgaria. Upon arrival, visit the Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, where the relics of St. John the Baptist are kept. Participants will have time for a quiet visit and reflection at the spiritual final point of the journey. After collecting the final stamp, each participant will receive the official certificate for completing Camino Bulgaria – the “Ioannia”. Check-in at the hotel and time to rest after completing the approximately 81-kilometre route. In the evening, an optional celebration dinner may be organised for the group.  
Overnight in Sozopol. 

Day 6: Sozopol – Burgas 
After breakfast, enjoy free time to explore the cobbled streets, traditional wooden houses, small churches, art galleries and beautiful coastal views of Sozopol’s Old Town. During the summer season and subject to suitable weather and sea conditions, an optional boat trip to St. Ivan Island may be organised. The island is home to the remains of the medieval monastery where the reliquary believed to contain the relics of St. John the Baptist was discovered in 2010.  
Later in the day, transfer to Burgas, the largest city on Bulgaria’s southern Black Sea coast. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy free time to relax or take an evening walk through the city centre and along the seafront. Overnight in Burgas. 

Day 7: Burgas – Departure 
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walk through Burgas, a lively coastal city known for its elegant pedestrian streets, seaside atmosphere and spacious green areas. The walk may include the central Aleksandrovska Street, Troikata Square and the Sea Garden, one of the city’s most popular landmarks, offering beautiful views of the Black Sea. Continue towards the Burgas Pier and the nearby beach, with free time for a final coffee, souvenir shopping or a relaxing walk along the coast. Depending on the flight schedule, a visit to the Archaeological Museum or another local attraction may also be arranged. At the appointed time, transfer to Burgas Airport or another agreed departure point for the return journey.  

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