Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 23 741; ul Osvobozhdenie; admission free; 9am-5pm summer)
The grandly named
Research Institute for Roses, Aromatic & Medicinal Plants houses this tiny museum. It's
3km north of centre up ul Osvobozhdenie; take a taxi (3 lv one way), or bus 3 from
Kazanlâk's main square. The photos and displays explain (in Bulgarian only) the
300-year-old method of cultivating the roses, picking their petals and processing the oil.
The attached shop sells rose oils, perfumes, shampoos, liqueurs, tea bags and jams.
Guided tours (rates negotiable) are available in English and French, but ring first about
opening times in winter.
Open Market
Kazanlâk's
pazar
(open market) is a very entertaining, dusty, all-purpose place that offers
a truly characteristic Balkan shopping experience: if you happen to be around on a Tues-
day or Friday, the market's busiest days, be sure to stop by.
BAZAAR
Sleeping
Hotel Palas $$
( 62 311;
www.hotel-palas.com
; ul Petko Stajnov 9; s/d/ste incl breakfast 82/96/120 lv;
)
This posh place opposite the post office and near the main square offers spa-
cious, classy rooms. The suites are enticing and great value (prices can be negotiable for
multinight stays). The restaurant is respectable, though service is slow when busy. The
buffet breakfast is better-than-average, though the 'spa centre' is opened only on request
and its Jacuzzi usually bereft of water.
HOTEL
GUESTHOUSE
Hadzhi Eminova Kâshta $
( 62 595; bul Nikola Petkov 22; s/d/apt 20/30/40 lv)
This established guesthouse offers
big, traditionally furnished rooms featuring woollen quilts, and overlooking an authentic
19th-century walled compound. The one apartment is huge, and worth booking ahead. All
rooms feature bathrooms, though they tend to be small, and the restaurant is excellent.
Roza Hotel $$
HOTEL
