May 20th
Had a good sleep with my second night in a single room. Breakfast was donuts with jam and cheese and side of thick sheep yoghurt.... I like donuts but at breakfast it is a bit much. The host was funny he called it special bread... But it is just batter that has been deep fried.
Not sure if I have mentioned this yet but one of the odd things about Bulgaria is they shake their head for yes and nod there head for no. It is so confusing.
Today is a free day to explore the local town. There was the choice of going on a mountain hike up in the snow but I don't have hiking gear with me so am instead off to the spa at one of the big ski lodges to inquire about a massage.
The morning was spent out walking around the sun was out but the temperature is still low. Found a local Sunday market but they were selling trash and treasure with some important cheap clothing... Nothing to buy. Went into the town and every second shop is a souvenir place, I have never seen so many souvenir shops for a place that seems to have very few tourists. Walked to the edge of the town and came across the creek barrel washing machine. there are maybe hundreds of ski lodges so the place has the capacity for lots of visitors but speaking with locals the last year in particular has been quiet due to economic downturn in Europe people can't afford long skiing holidays.
Went in the walled church. The wall was built around the church so as that the Turks couldn't see how big the church was been built. The church also has a nice bell/clock tower. Went back to the guesthouse for lunch and then out walking before my massage in the later afternoon. The lady didn't speak any English... So it was more of an oily rub than a massage with any real pressure. I am still suffering slightly from a stiff back after sleeping on the very hard beds the last few nights.
An afternoon drink was had in the back yard with the owner of the guest house. He brought out some of his own brew that is kept in jam jars and old plastic bottles. Was nice to sit out in the sun.
The view of the mountains surrounding the town is fantastic. They are all snow capped and covered with forests, except were it has been cleared for ski runs.
Dinner was at a local grill restaurant. They were a bit slow with the grilling.
Early night that i spent repacking my bag to try and fit everything in.