Bulgaria’s dramatic Eurovision victory on the weekend has sparked a surge of interest from Australian travellers, with active travel company UTracks reporting increased searches and enquiries about its Bulgaria walking and cycling holidays for 2027.
Kate Baker, UTracks General Manager, said the Eurovision result had given travellers a fresh reason to discover one of Europe’s lesser-known destinations.
“Every year Eurovision puts a spotlight on a different part of Europe and travellers become curious about the country behind the performance. Bulgaria has all the ingredients Australians are increasingly looking for in Europe, incredible scenery, authentic local experiences, fewer crowds and excellent value,” Ms Baker said.
Known for its rose-filled valleys, Orthodox monasteries, mountain villages and rich food and wine culture, Bulgaria has long flown under the radar for Australian travellers.
UTracks offers two standout Bulgaria itineraries. The Bulgaria Mountains and Monasteries Guided Hike explores the Rila and Pirin Mountains, visiting UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, glacial lakes, alpine meadows and the spa town of Bansko, with a mix of comfortable hotels and a mountain hut stay. The Balkan Mountains Guided Cycle takes riders through lush valleys and rolling hills, past the Central Balkan National Park, the open-air museum of Etura and the former Bulgarian capital Veliko Tarnovo.
“Travellers are increasingly moving beyond the classic France and Italy routes and looking towards destinations that still feel undiscovered. There’s a warmth and authenticity to Bulgaria that really charms people,” Ms Baker said.
