Do you like strawberries? I'm not kidding. I think all people like strawberries (except for those unfortunate souls who are allergic to them).

Besides the fantastic sweet taste, strawberries are also a very romantic fruit. You know, champagne and cream, and strawberries, and you know...

But today I am asking you about strawberries, because I have in mind a very special place called the Yagodite Hotel. “Yagodi” means strawberries in Bulgarian, so I guess we can say this is the Strawberries Hotel in English. I bet you are curious to find more about a place with that kind of name.

That's why I am here each week.

This place brings back memories of visiting the village of your grandparents. Yes, everyone has grandparents living in a fantastic village, don't they? And memories of running on the grass, picking strawberries, enjoying the fresh smell and taste.

Anyway, the Yagodite hotel is situated in a unique place, amidst the forests on the northern slope of Sredna Gora, opening a magnificent view of the Stara Planina Mountains. It is found at an equal distance from the famous Valley of Roses near Kazanlak and the city of Stara Zagora, on the road connecting Northern and Southern Bulgaria.

The hotel comprises 11 separate villas. Plenty of place for many people, yet ensuring privacy.

It has a great restaurant seating 80 people in winter, and 180 people in the summer season, when the picturesque summer garden is also available. It is suitable for all sorts of events from business seminars, to wedding receptions.

The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool. Yes, I know it is December, but who says you can only swim in an outdoor pool in the summer? You think, I am kidding, but I am not. If you are as hot-blooded as I am, you now what I mean.

Guests can aslo enjoy an indoor tennis court and burn toxins in the sauna.

The greatest thing, however, is the nature. I recommend horse-riding in the nearby forest, or just walking and enjoying the beauty, which you can never find in the city.

Besides, you won't need more than 30 euros per night for that pleasure, because the hotel rates are the best you can get.

Of course, the hotel is part of the Authentic Bulgaria selection, I am presenting every weekend.

I hope you are enjoying our tour as much as I am and you will be here once again next week for another stop on our Authentic Bulgaria journey.

See you soon,

Zornitza Rizova