My Essence of Bulgaria Exploration: The Queen of Flowers Retreat for Women was an immersive experience centered around the discovery of rose essential oil during the peak of summer harvest. Our Bulgarian retreat included daily yoga, luxurious spa treatments, delicious Balkan cuisine, and luxury accommodations, all while exploring historic sites and the vibrant, annual Kazanlak Rose Festival. This travel program of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment was a wonderful way to make dear friends while exploring an undiscovered part of the world with the help of a knowledgeable local guide.
Bulgaria is the world’s largest producer of roses and rose essential oil. Each year in early June the entire country celebrates the harvest of damask rose. Our Exploration featured the change to take in the aromatic bliss and witness the annual picking and distillation of the renowned Bulgarian rose oil, known as the “Queen of Oils” along with fun dances, ceremonies, music, a parade and all kinds of festival excitement. We traveled the country from west to east which allowed us to witness the diverse =history, traditions, and scenic landscapes, including mountains and seaside vistas. What a perfect travel program for the women in our group to enjoy both pampering and meaningful exploration.
As always, I took a LOT of photos to share. Please scan through them and then think about joining me soon for one of my upcoming Explorations to enhance your life’s journey and create incredible memories together!

“I recently attended the Essential Earth Explorations Bulgaria Rose Retreat with Marty. She did an amazing job of planning the trip. We were never bored and had just enough free time to enjoy the sites. The ladies on the trip were so much fun. The food and restaurant choices were amazing. The hotels were beautiful. I loved the trip and hope to do another one in the future.Thank you Marty for the amazing experience.”

“For my very first European travel, this was the way to go. Such expertise. Traveling with Marty Harger and Essential Earth Explorations was wonderful. With a well thought-out itinerary that not only gave me a great education about past and present, but also allowed me plenty of time for self exploration and relaxation. The best part was that I did not have to worry about transportation to/ from the airport. Currency and tipping was well explained, even what and how to pack. I will definitely save up for another adventure!”







































































































































