21-Day: Earth & Spirit Eco Stay: Yoga & Sustainable Life Skills Journey
21-Day: Earth & Spirit Eco Stay: Yoga & Sustainable Life Skills Journey
5363 Belitsa, Bulgaria
Up to 14 in group
August 15 - September 12, 2026
Retreat Highlights
- Highlghts:
- Daily Yoga Sessions: Enjoy rejuvenating yoga practices twice a day suitable for all levels, emphasizing mindfulness and body awareness.
- Nature Immersion: Experience the tranquility of natural surroundings, enhancing relaxation and connection with the environment.
- Workshops and Discussions: Participate in engaging workshops on topics like mindfulness, sustainability, and personal growth.
- Guided Meditations: Join guided meditations to deepen your practice and enhance your sense of inner peace.
- Community Connection: Build lasting friendships and connections with like-minded individuals in a supportive atmosphere.
- Healthy, Nourishing Meals: Savor delicious, wholesome plantbased meals made from local, organic ingredients.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Learn sustainable living techniques and embrace eco-conscious building practices during the retreat through karma yoga and the building cob club.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in nature walks, hiking, or other outdoor activities to fully appreciate the beauty of the natural setting.
- Evening Gatherings: Enjoy communal evenings around a fire, sharing stories, music, and experiences to foster connection. or walking the dogs for susets.
- Personal Reflection Time: Benefit from moments of solitude to reflect, journal, or simply enjoy the peace of nature.
About this Retreat
Enjoy classes and self-practice with the founder of the RisingSoul & Retreat Space Rowena and the other community resident yoga coaches.
Rowena is passionate about a yogic plantbased life style and dedicates her practice to guidig Kundalini Kriyas and Flow classes. She also has an Ayurvedic massage qualification and has 10 years of experience working with young people and adults who have suffered trauma and or addictions and harm within the home or family.
Individual Sessions can be arranged to support you with healing and self awareness.
Rowena’s Yoga Journey…
My first experiences of Yoga were through my mother who went to classes when we were children.
Aged 17 I was hit with the tragic loss of my father it was a very confusing and difficult time for me.
Aged 20 I traveled to Nepal to trek up the Himalayas for charity where I was exposed to the deeply spiritual nature of the Buddhist mountain people our Sherpa guides who taught us their self-practice of Thai Chi and through the experience presence and self awareness a sense that everything is just as it should be.
It was a life-changing experience and this allowed me to accept my father’s death in a way I had been unable to before.
It ignited a curiosity to find out more about the religious and spiritual practices of the East and their implications which I later studied.
Having suffered a serious horse riding accident 10 years later I found myself becoming a yoga student for entirely different reasons.
Following surgeries and courses of Western steroid injections to enable me to continue my career as a professional Equestrian Rider I was now practicing daily and using Yoga as a pain management system.
In 2017 I retired from competitive riding and began to consider what came next this led me to India where I was accepted on a scholarship to complete my Yoga Teacher Training and qualify to practice in Ayurvedic Massage.
I realized the depth of the teachings of Yoga and began to understand that this was not something that was practiced once a week in the village hall it is a way of life and a belief system with the potential to lead you to self-awareness and spiritual salvation
In 2019 I traveled to China for a work project during this time events in my personal life led me to reassess everything I knew and believed.
I began down a path of self-discovery and spiritual awareness building self-practices and listening to teachings that would enable me to begin to break down and dissolve ego and mind and my identification with pain in the body.
Having left China I travelled solo around Thailand and Cambodia and became acquainted with the teachings of Eckhart Tolle his work has inspired me and resonated with me in a way that has influenced me in all dimensions of my life.
During my time in Cambodia, I befriended a girl who initiated my journey across Cambodia to the town of Kep where I enrolled on a Yoga retreat which inspired me to create this project and to develop my teacher training in Kundalini Yoga
I have the greatest gratitude to all who have been part of my journey to date and I look forward to sharing my experiences and understanding of spiritual awareness with all that seek it at the RisingSoul Retreat.
This season you will be able to join up to try a variety of Yoga, Ariel, Poi and other theatrical based classes.
Hi friends, already as a child being in relationship with wilderness and wildlife was as vital to me as other friendships which is why now as a clinical herbalist I can intuitively connect people with weeds. Weeds support us by resounding or mirroring truths we may have forgotten such as with St. John's Wort that defiantly prefers to grow in disturbed and deficient soils with very little water and against all odds thrives. And weeds are very generous in sharing their gifts, provided we have their permission before taking and in return share our "gift" with them.
My passion is to prepare nourishing vegan meals with weeds. I cook intuitively meaning every meal is unique like a work of art, which is a way to celebrate the uniqueness and newness of every moment. It is my greatest joy to support people find their authentic creative passion and confidence in the kitchen and for them to express this effectively resulting in delicious and nourishing creations. When I’m not in the forest, river or kitchen you’ll find me trekking, wild camping, reading and writing poetry, painting, crocheting, dancing and meditating.
I studied clinical herbalism with Asia Suler, Susun Weed and the Herbal Academy. I lived and apprenticed with German herbalists in Upper Austria and Bedouin healers in the desert of Jordan. I learnt organic farming with the pioneer Mr. Mario Salerno. To all my mentors I am very grateful including weeds, animals and elementals.
Details of this retreat
Step away from the rush of daily life and immerse yourself in three weeks of mindful living, yoga, and hands-on eco projects. Nestled in the wild beauty of the Bohemian Balkans, this stay is a chance to reconnect with yourself, the earth, and a small, vibrant community. Come ready to practice, explore, and contribute — and leave renewed, grounded, and inspired. Spaces are limited, so if this calls to you, we’d love to hear from you.
FAQs
What is the Earth & Spirit Eco Stay?
This is a 21-day non-profit community immersion combining yoga, mindful living, and hands-on natural building. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with the earth, and take part in shaping a living eco space together.
Is this a retreat, a course, or volunteering?
It’s a blend. Not a retreat where everything is done for you, and not a work camp either. We live together, practice together, and contribute together — keeping a steady rhythm between rest, movement, and meaningful work.
What does “natural building” involve?
You’ll take part in light, guided natural building and land-based projects — things like earth, wood, clay, repair, and creative construction. No experience is needed. Curiosity, presence, and care matter far more than skill.
How much work is expected each day?
Around 2 hours per day, usually in the late morning or early afternoon. The rest of the day is yours for yoga, rest, nature, and integration.
What’s the yoga like?
Daily yoga and meditation practices are offered and open to all levels. Sessions focus on grounding, nervous system balance, and reconnecting body and breath with the natural world.
What food is provided?
All meals are plant-based, home-cooked, and seasonal, with an emphasis on local ingredients. Meals are shared and simple, supporting both nourishment and community.
What’s a typical day like?
Mornings begin gently — yoga, meditation, tea, and breakfast. Midday is for community projects. Afternoons are spacious for rest, walks, swimming, or journaling. Evenings are unstructured and shared — meals, conversations, music, or quiet time under the stars.
Do we explore beyond the land?
Yes. During the 21 days, we take time to explore the wider region — eco trails, wild beaches, mountain towns, and sacred or historic sites of the Bohemian Balkans. These excursions are woven in naturally, not rushed or over-planned.
Who is this experience for?
For people drawn to slower living, shared effort, and earthy beauty. It suits yogis, creatives, eco-builders at heart, and anyone craving a deeper connection to land, body, and community.
Who is it not for?
If you’re looking for luxury, constant entertainment, or total privacy, this won’t be the right match.
Why 21 days?
Three weeks allows space to settle, soften, and genuinely integrate — into the body, the land, and the community rhythm. It’s long enough for real shifts to happen.
How many places are available?
Spaces are limited to keep the group intimate and the experience grounded.
FAQs
What is the Earth & Spirit Eco Stay?
This is a 21-day non-profit community immersion combining yoga, mindful living, and hands-on natural building. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with the earth, and take part in shaping a living eco space together.
Is this a retreat, a course, or volunteering?
It’s a blend. Not a retreat where everything is done for you, and not a work camp either. We live together, practice together, and contribute together — keeping a steady rhythm between rest, movement, and meaningful work.
What does “natural building” involve?
You’ll take part in light, guided natural building and land-based projects — things like earth, wood, clay, repair, and creative construction. No experience is needed. Curiosity, presence, and care matter far more than skill.
How much work is expected each day?
Around 2 hours per day, usually in the late morning or early afternoon. The rest of the day is yours for yoga, rest, nature, and integration.
What’s the yoga like?
Daily yoga and meditation practices are offered and open to all levels. Sessions focus on grounding, nervous system balance, and reconnecting body and breath with the natural world.
What food is provided?
All meals are plant-based, home-cooked, and seasonal, with an emphasis on local ingredients. Meals are shared and simple, supporting both nourishment and community.
What’s a typical day like?
Mornings begin gently — yoga, meditation, tea, and breakfast. Midday is for community projects. Afternoons are spacious for rest, walks, swimming, or journaling. Evenings are unstructured and shared — meals, conversations, music, or quiet time under the stars.
Do we explore beyond the land?
Yes. During the 21 days, we take time to explore the wider region — eco trails, wild beaches, mountain towns, and sacred or historic sites of the Bohemian Balkans. These excursions are woven in naturally, not rushed or over-planned.
Who is this experience for?
For people drawn to slower living, shared effort, and earthy beauty. It suits yogis, creatives, eco-builders at heart, and anyone craving a deeper connection to land, body, and community.
Who is it not for?
If you’re looking for luxury, constant entertainment, or total privacy, this won’t be the right match.
Why 21 days?
Three weeks allows space to settle, soften, and genuinely integrate — into the body, the land, and the community rhythm. It’s long enough for real shifts to happen.
How many places are available?
Spaces are limited to keep the group intimate and the experience grounded.
Schedule
Earth & Spirit Schedule & Yoga Info (Please Read Fully)
Our international resident coaches teach yoga through a variety of styles. Including Kundalini Yoga, Vinyasa Hatha, Flow, Restorative, Yin & Yang, and Moving Meditation. Along with daily self practice morning meditation, evening group meditation or activity, a weekly local hike and two plant-based community meals a day.
Guests can join our ashram-style non profit Earth & Spirit Community Yoga Retreat which is collectively run by our residents & karma yogis and our Wild Forest Awakening deep healing and rewilding retreat which runs twice a year on specific dates. (please see separate listing).
There is a relaxed atmosphere with structure around daily practice and meals to keep things running smoothly.
We embody an encouraging yet flexible approach to our schedule where everyone is free to join as they wish, with the exception of karma yoga (the practice of selfless giving 1h a day) and our weekly sharing circle which are essential practices creating connection, support and unity amongst us.
However, we are always ready to respond to our guests’ needs and modify our practices in accordance. There are many opportunities for personal space and reflection times within the retreat and community areas and forest to allow you to process and spend time with yourself when needed.
Private sessions, ayurvedic massage, detox and cleansing classes, reiki healing, tarot card readings, and guest coach workshops may be available and can be booked and paid for as extras.
Example of our Monday & Saturday Spring Schedule below.
MONDAY - FRIDAY:
07.00: Morning gong & noble silence
07.15: Fruit, honey & herbal tea
07.30: Silent/Candle meditation (self-practice)
08.10: Kundalini or hatha flow yoga
09.30: Community brunch
10.30: Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless giving, please see extra info)
11.00: Relax - Treatments and private sessions available
12.00: Optional yoga class or workshop (not included minimum contribution of 10 Euros)
12.00: Chai House opens for snacks and drinks lunch 13.00 - 14.00 workshops are available (not included)
14.30: Private Sessions treatments available
16.30: Vinyasa/yin/yang or restorative yoga
18.00: Community dinner
19.00: Karma yoga
19.15: Relax
20.30: Heart sharing/ garden club/Osho meditation/ games Night
SATURDAY
07.00: Morning gong & noble silence
07.15: Fruit, honey & herbal tea
07.40: Silent/candle meditation (self practice)
08.10: Kundalini or hatha/flow yoga
09.30: Community brunch
10.30: Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless giving, please see extra info)
11.00: Relax
12.00: Extra yoga class (Not included minimum contribution of 10 Euros)
12.00: Chai House opens for snacks and drinks lunch 13.00 - 14.00 workshops are available (not included
14.30: Private sessions treatments available
16.30: Included Hike or local excursion (Poke Bowl Picnic Included)
16.15: Mountain view meditation & breathwork
17.45: Sunset picnic
19.00: Karma yoga
20.30: Social music & fire
SUNDAY
Sunday is a free day the yoga schedule does not run but often guests or volunteers run a morning class or workshop.
Only breakfast is included so guests can have the day to explore and eat out.
Day trips and activities can be arranged.
PLEASE NOTE:
The schedule is subject to weather-induced time changes and thus will not alter the number of sessions included.
We are a nonprofit community and Karma Yoga is the yoga of selfless giving is an act of service, not a class.
It is where we all pull together after meals for 30 minutes or at a to support the community's needs. It enables us to create a feeling of unity and helps us to offer our retreats at affordable prices.
Karma Yoga Tasks Examples:
Tasks for cleaning up after meals
Walking dogs
Sweeping and tidying the Yoga Barn
Collecting flowers
Harvesting fruit and veg
Collecting herbs
Artistic contributions
Editing or tech help with website and platforms
Watering flowers
Helping the chef or creating a themed meal if you're inspired
Our international resident coaches teach yoga through a variety of styles. Including Kundalini Yoga, Vinyasa Hatha, Flow, Restorative, Yin & Yang, and Moving Meditation. Along with daily self practice morning meditation, evening group meditation or activity, a weekly local hike and two plant-based community meals a day.
Guests can join our ashram-style non profit Earth & Spirit Community Yoga Retreat which is collectively run by our residents & karma yogis and our Wild Forest Awakening deep healing and rewilding retreat which runs twice a year on specific dates. (please see separate listing).
There is a relaxed atmosphere with structure around daily practice and meals to keep things running smoothly.
We embody an encouraging yet flexible approach to our schedule where everyone is free to join as they wish, with the exception of karma yoga (the practice of selfless giving 1h a day) and our weekly sharing circle which are essential practices creating connection, support and unity amongst us.
However, we are always ready to respond to our guests’ needs and modify our practices in accordance. There are many opportunities for personal space and reflection times within the retreat and community areas and forest to allow you to process and spend time with yourself when needed.
Private sessions, ayurvedic massage, detox and cleansing classes, reiki healing, tarot card readings, and guest coach workshops may be available and can be booked and paid for as extras.
Example of our Monday & Saturday Spring Schedule below.
MONDAY - FRIDAY:
07.00: Morning gong & noble silence
07.15: Fruit, honey & herbal tea
07.30: Silent/Candle meditation (self-practice)
08.10: Kundalini or hatha flow yoga
09.30: Community brunch
10.30: Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless giving, please see extra info)
11.00: Relax - Treatments and private sessions available
12.00: Optional yoga class or workshop (not included minimum contribution of 10 Euros)
12.00: Chai House opens for snacks and drinks lunch 13.00 - 14.00 workshops are available (not included)
14.30: Private Sessions treatments available
16.30: Vinyasa/yin/yang or restorative yoga
18.00: Community dinner
19.00: Karma yoga
19.15: Relax
20.30: Heart sharing/ garden club/Osho meditation/ games Night
SATURDAY
07.00: Morning gong & noble silence
07.15: Fruit, honey & herbal tea
07.40: Silent/candle meditation (self practice)
08.10: Kundalini or hatha/flow yoga
09.30: Community brunch
10.30: Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless giving, please see extra info)
11.00: Relax
12.00: Extra yoga class (Not included minimum contribution of 10 Euros)
12.00: Chai House opens for snacks and drinks lunch 13.00 - 14.00 workshops are available (not included
14.30: Private sessions treatments available
16.30: Included Hike or local excursion (Poke Bowl Picnic Included)
16.15: Mountain view meditation & breathwork
17.45: Sunset picnic
19.00: Karma yoga
20.30: Social music & fire
SUNDAY
Sunday is a free day the yoga schedule does not run but often guests or volunteers run a morning class or workshop.
Only breakfast is included so guests can have the day to explore and eat out.
Day trips and activities can be arranged.
PLEASE NOTE:
The schedule is subject to weather-induced time changes and thus will not alter the number of sessions included.
We are a nonprofit community and Karma Yoga is the yoga of selfless giving is an act of service, not a class.
It is where we all pull together after meals for 30 minutes or at a to support the community's needs. It enables us to create a feeling of unity and helps us to offer our retreats at affordable prices.
Karma Yoga Tasks Examples:
Tasks for cleaning up after meals
Walking dogs
Sweeping and tidying the Yoga Barn
Collecting flowers
Harvesting fruit and veg
Collecting herbs
Artistic contributions
Editing or tech help with website and platforms
Watering flowers
Helping the chef or creating a themed meal if you're inspired
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
RisingSoul Retreat, 5363 Belitsa, Bulgaria
Directions
Travel info
Top Tip! For guests who book through the website we also offer a 5% thank you discount for supporting us by booking directly with us. Head to our pricing page to select your bed preference and read our booking procedure.
It is also possible to get a bus to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo and then a taxi or connecting bus to Tryavna.
The cheapest airlines with regular flights are Wizzair, RyanAir and EasyJet. You can fly to Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv or Sofia. Without a car, Burgas or Plovdiv which is a great stopover option with a scenic mountain train ride to Tryavna. The trains are slow and scenic but very affordable if you are not in a rush this is a great option. Please note on the BDZ train booking system Tryavna is spelt Tryavna you can get tickets at the station or even on the trains.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental or their economy partner, but you can make it as far as Tryavna or Voneshta Voda by bus or train.
Coaches to Tryavna run from Sofia, Gabrovo, Varna, Stara Zagora and Burgas many go via Veliko Tarnovo. There is a bus from Belitsa to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed and are around 120 euro each way.
We highly recommend flying to Plovdiv and staying with the Old Plovdiv Hostel (please mention us) for a night to discover the sites and vibe of Plovdiv with its ancient sites, old town and university vibe. Awarding a European Culture award it’s a perfect stop over. To get to us, you can rent a car or take the scenic mountain train to Tryavna via Stara Zagora.
You can also break up the journey with an overnight stop in the nearby village of Veliko Tarnovo. We recommend the Rooster Hostel or Sofia where there are many options.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental, but you can make it as far as Tryavna by bus or train. There is a bus from the village to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed.
However, the train or bus is considerably cheaper. Please get in touch for help with travel arrangements and further help if you wish to arrive from other destinations such as Greece, Istanbul & Bucharest which also have ok bus and train routes.
We provide free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda Once a Day Tuesday – Thursday.
If you are arriving outside of these times, there are taxi’s (15lv, equivalent to around 7 euro) outside Tryavna train or bus stations but we can arrange a taxi for you, if you prefer.
PLEASE NOTE we are not Belitsa near Bansko regardless of what Google tries to tell you. Use RisingSoul Retreat on google maps or the full address Belitsa 5363, Tryavna, Gabrovo and it will bring you straight to use.
What To Pack
Shoes to hike in
Swimsuit
Warm scarf, poncho, comfy cardigan for chili evenings
Wooly hat and gloves if your visiting in Spring or Autumn evenings & mornings can be chilly
Head torch if you like to camp or walk in the evenings
Water bottle with a lid
Insect repellant
Journal
Any meds or special foods you need
Cash in Bulgarian Lvs
Travelling & COVID
Jan 2023 Bulgaria is not currently under any restrictions you are not required to present any COVID related documents. but please be aware that due to the war in Ukraine it is currently an immigration requirement for longer stay guests (over 6 days) to register within 3 days of arrival at the passport office in Tryavna. we will facilitate this for you.
At RisingSoul we are pro freedom of choice, self responsibility and respect that everyone has their own personal circumstances and beliefs regarding our current world situation. We make no judgment whether you vaccinate or not and everyone is welcome. We do kindly ask that you act in the best interests of others and if you have a sickness of any type you delay your arrival until you are happy that you are well enough to be around others.
Of course we can all get sick so you might want to know that private health care is good and not expensive in Bulgaria. Please check your own insurance and rights as a non national in Bulgaria . We have a hospital in Tryavna and good dentists.
Latest COVID Travel Advice
Reopen Europe and the Bulgarian embassy tend to be the best places for recent info.
Please note Bulgaria is not in the Schengen Zone and in most people's cases non EU visitors can stay three months, this now includes the UK.
Travel info
Top Tip! For guests who book through the website we also offer a 5% thank you discount for supporting us by booking directly with us. Head to our pricing page to select your bed preference and read our booking procedure.
It is also possible to get a bus to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo and then a taxi or connecting bus to Tryavna.
The cheapest airlines with regular flights are Wizzair, RyanAir and EasyJet. You can fly to Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv or Sofia. Without a car, Burgas or Plovdiv which is a great stopover option with a scenic mountain train ride to Tryavna. The trains are slow and scenic but very affordable if you are not in a rush this is a great option. Please note on the BDZ train booking system Tryavna is spelt Tryavna you can get tickets at the station or even on the trains.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental or their economy partner, but you can make it as far as Tryavna or Voneshta Voda by bus or train.
Coaches to Tryavna run from Sofia, Gabrovo, Varna, Stara Zagora and Burgas many go via Veliko Tarnovo. There is a bus from Belitsa to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed and are around 120 euro each way.
We highly recommend flying to Plovdiv and staying with the Old Plovdiv Hostel (please mention us) for a night to discover the sites and vibe of Plovdiv with its ancient sites, old town and university vibe. Awarding a European Culture award it’s a perfect stop over. To get to us, you can rent a car or take the scenic mountain train to Tryavna via Stara Zagora.
You can also break up the journey with an overnight stop in the nearby village of Veliko Tarnovo. We recommend the Rooster Hostel or Sofia where there are many options.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental, but you can make it as far as Tryavna by bus or train. There is a bus from the village to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed.
However, the train or bus is considerably cheaper. Please get in touch for help with travel arrangements and further help if you wish to arrive from other destinations such as Greece, Istanbul & Bucharest which also have ok bus and train routes.
We provide free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda Once a Day Tuesday – Thursday.
If you are arriving outside of these times, there are taxi’s (15lv, equivalent to around 7 euro) outside Tryavna train or bus stations but we can arrange a taxi for you, if you prefer.
PLEASE NOTE we are not Belitsa near Bansko regardless of what Google tries to tell you. Use RisingSoul Retreat on google maps or the full address Belitsa 5363, Tryavna, Gabrovo and it will bring you straight to use.
What To Pack
Shoes to hike in
Swimsuit
Warm scarf, poncho, comfy cardigan for chili evenings
Wooly hat and gloves if your visiting in Spring or Autumn evenings & mornings can be chilly
Head torch if you like to camp or walk in the evenings
Water bottle with a lid
Insect repellant
Journal
Any meds or special foods you need
Cash in Bulgarian Lvs
Travelling & COVID
Jan 2023 Bulgaria is not currently under any restrictions you are not required to present any COVID related documents. but please be aware that due to the war in Ukraine it is currently an immigration requirement for longer stay guests (over 6 days) to register within 3 days of arrival at the passport office in Tryavna. we will facilitate this for you.
At RisingSoul we are pro freedom of choice, self responsibility and respect that everyone has their own personal circumstances and beliefs regarding our current world situation. We make no judgment whether you vaccinate or not and everyone is welcome. We do kindly ask that you act in the best interests of others and if you have a sickness of any type you delay your arrival until you are happy that you are well enough to be around others.
Of course we can all get sick so you might want to know that private health care is good and not expensive in Bulgaria. Please check your own insurance and rights as a non national in Bulgaria . We have a hospital in Tryavna and good dentists.
Latest COVID Travel Advice
Reopen Europe and the Bulgarian embassy tend to be the best places for recent info.
Please note Bulgaria is not in the Schengen Zone and in most people's cases non EU visitors can stay three months, this now includes the UK.
Please see Find us page on www.risingsoulretreat.com
Top Tip! For guests who book through the website we also offer a 5% thank you discount for supporting us by booking directly with us. Head to our pricing page to select your bed preference and read our booking procedure.
It is also possible to get a bus to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo and then a taxi or connecting bus to Tryavna.
The cheapest airlines with regular flights are Wizzair, RyanAir and EasyJet. You can fly to Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv or Sofia. Without a car, Burgas or Plovdiv which is a great stopover option with a scenic mountain train ride to Tryavna. The trains are slow and scenic but very affordable if you are not in a rush this is a great option. Please note on the BDZ train booking system Tryavna is spelt Tryavna you can get tickets at the station or even on the trains.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental or their economy partner, but you can make it as far as Tryavna or Voneshta Voda by bus or train.
Coaches to Tryavna run from Sofia, Gabrovo, Varna, Stara Zagora and Burgas many go via Veliko Tarnovo. There is a bus from Belitsa to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed and are around 120 euro each way.
We highly recommend flying to Plovdiv and staying with the Old Plovdiv Hostel (please mention us) for a night to discover the sites and vibe of Plovdiv with its ancient sites, old town and university vibe. Awarding a European Culture award it’s a perfect stop over. To get to us, you can rent a car or take the scenic mountain train to Tryavna via Stara Zagora.
You can also break up the journey with an overnight stop in the nearby village of Veliko Tarnovo. We recommend the Rooster Hostel or Sofia where there are many options.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental, but you can make it as far as Tryavna by bus or train. There is a bus from the village to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed.
However, the train or bus is considerably cheaper. Please get in touch for help with travel arrangements and further help if you wish to arrive from other destinations such as Greece, Istanbul & Bucharest which also have ok bus and train routes.
We provide free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda Once a Day Tuesday – Thursday.
If you are arriving outside of these times, there are taxi’s (15lv, equivalent to around 7 euro) outside Tryavna train or bus stations but we can arrange a taxi for you, if you prefer.
PLEASE NOTE we are not Belitsa near Bansko regardless of what Google tries to tell you. Use RisingSoul Retreat on google maps or the full address Belitsa 5363, Tryavna, Gabrovo and it will bring you straight to use.
What To Pack
Shoes to hike in
Swimsuit
Warm scarf, poncho, comfy cardigan for chili evenings
Wooly hat and gloves if your visiting in Spring or Autumn evenings & mornings can be chilly
Head torch if you like to camp or walk in the evenings
Water bottle with a lid
Insect repellant
Journal
Any meds or special foods you need
Cash in Bulgarian Lvs
Travelling & COVID
Jan 2023 Bulgaria is not currently under any restrictions you are not required to present any COVID related documents. but please be aware that due to the war in Ukraine it is currently an immigration requirement for longer stay guests (over 6 days) to register within 3 days of arrival at the passport office in Tryavna. we will facilitate this for you.
At RisingSoul we are pro freedom of choice, self responsibility and respect that everyone has their own personal circumstances and beliefs regarding our current world situation. We make no judgment whether you vaccinate or not and everyone is welcome. We do kindly ask that you act in the best interests of others and if you have a sickness of any type you delay your arrival until you are happy that you are well enough to be around others.
Of course we can all get sick so you might want to know that private health care is good and not expensive in Bulgaria. Please check your own insurance and rights as a non national in Bulgaria . We have a hospital in Tryavna and good dentists.
Latest COVID Travel Advice
Reopen Europe and the Bulgarian embassy tend to be the best places for recent info.
Please note Bulgaria is not in the Schengen Zone and in most people's cases non EU visitors can stay three months, this now includes the UK.
Travel info
Top Tip! For guests who book through the website we also offer a 5% thank you discount for supporting us by booking directly with us. Head to our pricing page to select your bed preference and read our booking procedure.
It is also possible to get a bus to Gabrovo or Veliko Tarnovo and then a taxi or connecting bus to Tryavna.
The cheapest airlines with regular flights are Wizzair, RyanAir and EasyJet. You can fly to Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv or Sofia. Without a car, Burgas or Plovdiv which is a great stopover option with a scenic mountain train ride to Tryavna. The trains are slow and scenic but very affordable if you are not in a rush this is a great option. Please note on the BDZ train booking system Tryavna is spelt Tryavna you can get tickets at the station or even on the trains.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental or their economy partner, but you can make it as far as Tryavna or Voneshta Voda by bus or train.
Coaches to Tryavna run from Sofia, Gabrovo, Varna, Stara Zagora and Burgas many go via Veliko Tarnovo. There is a bus from Belitsa to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed and are around 120 euro each way.
We highly recommend flying to Plovdiv and staying with the Old Plovdiv Hostel (please mention us) for a night to discover the sites and vibe of Plovdiv with its ancient sites, old town and university vibe. Awarding a European Culture award it’s a perfect stop over. To get to us, you can rent a car or take the scenic mountain train to Tryavna via Stara Zagora.
You can also break up the journey with an overnight stop in the nearby village of Veliko Tarnovo. We recommend the Rooster Hostel or Sofia where there are many options.
A rental car is cheap & easy, we recommend TopCarRental, but you can make it as far as Tryavna by bus or train. There is a bus from the village to Veliko Tarnovo and Tryavna-Gabrovo. Taxis are cheap and we can arrange an airport transfer if needed.
However, the train or bus is considerably cheaper. Please get in touch for help with travel arrangements and further help if you wish to arrive from other destinations such as Greece, Istanbul & Bucharest which also have ok bus and train routes.
We provide free transfers from Tryavna and Voneshta Voda Once a Day Tuesday – Thursday.
If you are arriving outside of these times, there are taxi’s (15lv, equivalent to around 7 euro) outside Tryavna train or bus stations but we can arrange a taxi for you, if you prefer.
PLEASE NOTE we are not Belitsa near Bansko regardless of what Google tries to tell you. Use RisingSoul Retreat on google maps or the full address Belitsa 5363, Tryavna, Gabrovo and it will bring you straight to use.
What To Pack
Shoes to hike in
Swimsuit
Warm scarf, poncho, comfy cardigan for chili evenings
Wooly hat and gloves if your visiting in Spring or Autumn evenings & mornings can be chilly
Head torch if you like to camp or walk in the evenings
Water bottle with a lid
Insect repellant
Journal
Any meds or special foods you need
Cash in Bulgarian Lvs
Travelling & COVID
Jan 2023 Bulgaria is not currently under any restrictions you are not required to present any COVID related documents. but please be aware that due to the war in Ukraine it is currently an immigration requirement for longer stay guests (over 6 days) to register within 3 days of arrival at the passport office in Tryavna. we will facilitate this for you.
At RisingSoul we are pro freedom of choice, self responsibility and respect that everyone has their own personal circumstances and beliefs regarding our current world situation. We make no judgment whether you vaccinate or not and everyone is welcome. We do kindly ask that you act in the best interests of others and if you have a sickness of any type you delay your arrival until you are happy that you are well enough to be around others.
Of course we can all get sick so you might want to know that private health care is good and not expensive in Bulgaria. Please check your own insurance and rights as a non national in Bulgaria . We have a hospital in Tryavna and good dentists.
Latest COVID Travel Advice
Reopen Europe and the Bulgarian embassy tend to be the best places for recent info.
Please note Bulgaria is not in the Schengen Zone and in most people's cases non EU visitors can stay three months, this now includes the UK.
Please see Find us page on www.risingsoulretreat.com
Accommodation
Various Room & Glamping Options. Full discriptions on Booking Hub www.risingsoulretreat.com
GrassHopper Dorm (7 Day Price)
FireFly Twin (7 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Single Occupancy (7 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Double Occupancy (7 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Single Occupancy (7 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Double Occupancy (7 Day Price)
GrassHopper Dorm (10 Day Price)
FireFly Twin (10 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Single Occupancy (10 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Double Occupancy (10 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Single Occupancy (10 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Double Occupancy (10 Day Price)
GrassHopper Dorm (14 Day Price)
FireFly Twin (14 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Single Occupancy (14 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Double Occupancy (14 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Single Occupancy (14 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Double Occupancy (14 Day Price)
GrassHopper Dorm (21 Day Price)
FireFly Twin (21 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Single Occupancy (21 Day Price)
Old Stable & Eco Bathroom Double Occupancy (21 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Single Occupancy (21 Day Price)
KingFisher Ensuite Double Occupancy (21 Day Price)
DIY Camping (7 Day Price)
DIY Camping (10 Day Price)
DIY Camping (14 Day Price)
DIY Camping (21 Day Price)
ChurchView Yurt 2 Beds Shared (7 Day Price)
ChurchView Yurt 2 Beds Shared (10 Day Price)
ChurchView Yurt 2 Beds Shared (14 Day Price)
ChurchView Yurt 2 Beds Shared (21 Day Price)
WaterFall Yurt 1 Bed (7 Day Price)
WaterFall Yurt 1 Bed (10 Day Price)
WaterFall Yurt 1 Bed (14 Day Price)
WaterFall Yurt 1 Bed (21 Day Price)
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Immersed in the beauty of the bohemian Balkan mountains of Bulgaria, our community embraces the simplicity and culture of village life. We recognise and embrace the benefits community connection and a reduction in white noise and media exposure.
We are a collaboration of international Karma Yoga Volunteers, providing non profit retreats for all that are called to this magical healing place. We invite you join a Safe & Sacred Space, to Reconnect With Your Authentic Self & Mother Earth.
We are a collaboration of international Karma Yoga Volunteers, providing non profit retreats for all that are called to this magical healing place. We invite you join a Safe & Sacred Space, to Reconnect With Your Authentic Self & Mother Earth.
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Natural Home Cooked Plant Based Food
Ethical and eco-conscious practices are important to us at the RisingSoul Community!
Local Healthy Delicious!
What's Included
- Morning meditation space for self-practice
- One x Yoga Asana class
- One x Yoga Flow or Kundalini Kriya
- One x night meditation or community activity
- Saturday Yoga/Meditation sunset hike & Poki bowl picnic
- Community breakfast 7 days a week
- Community dinner 6 days a week
- Chai House vegan salad bar, snacks, smoothies, hot drinks, teas & raw vegan treats available to purchase at additional cost 13.00 – 15.00 Mon – Sat
- Extra yoga classes, therapies and workshops available
- Daily Karma Yoga the practice of selfless giving where we come together after meals to care for the space after meals and collect vegtables, flowers or herbs to support the kitchen.
What's Not Included
- Daily prebooked lunch + smoothies and treats available at Chai House,
- Flights cost
- Visa fee
- Travel & Sports Insurance
- Airport transfer can be arranged
- Additional activities and trips not included in the itinerary
- Additional treatments at affordable prices
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