Veliko Tarnovo: Off-Roading in Jeep Daihatsu or Smart ForTwo

If you’re tired of typical sightseeing tours and looking for something with a dash of adventure and a twist of humor, then the Veliko Tarnovo off-road experience might just be what you need. This is not your average car ride—here, you get behind the wheel of a modified Smart ForTwo or a rugged Jeep Daihatsu and tackle terrain that most vehicles would shy away from. It’s a chance to see Bulgaria’s stunning hills from a fresh perspective, all while having a bit of fun with a car most people wouldn’t think suitable for off-road.

What we really like about this tour is its unusual approach—transforming a tiny city car into an off-road machine, thanks to raised suspensions and large tires. Plus, the scenic views from the hills of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi are truly something special. On the flip side, you should keep in mind that this activity is just about an hour long, so it’s a quick hit rather than a full-day adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want a lighthearted, active experience without straying too far from the historic sights of Veliko Tarnovo.

This tour would suit adventure seekers curious about off-roading, families with older children or teenagers, or anyone who enjoys a little quirky fun in Bulgaria’s beautiful landscape. If you’re keen to try something different and enjoy scenic hilltop views, this off-road ride offers a memorable twist.

Key Points

• Unique off-road experience with modified Smart ForTwo and Jeep Daihatsu vehicles.
• Drive through terrain that challenges normal vehicles, thanks to custom modifications.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the hills of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi.
• Small group size (limited to 2 participants), ensuring a personal experience.
• Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for travelers 18 and older; not designed for children or drivers under 18.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview

We loved the way this tour flips the script on how we think about urban cars like the Smart ForTwo. Usually seen zipping through city streets, these tiny cars have been rebuilt with raised suspensions and off-road tires, transforming them into surprisingly capable vehicles. The Jeep Daihatsu, with its rugged build, adds an extra element of adventure, making the terrain feel accessible rather than intimidating.

While only about an hour long, this experience packs a punch. You’re not just riding along—you get the chance to drive the modified vehicle yourself. That means you’ll feel the thrill of steering through bumps and uneven terrain, with the additional safety of an instructor guiding you in a small group. Plus, the views from the hills are a highlight, offering sweeping vistas of Veliko Tarnovo and the nearby Arbanassi village—perfect for photos or just soaking in the landscape.

The activity starts just outside Arbanassi, at a point between the Horse Riding “Arbanasi” and the “Kaloyanova Fortress.” If you’re staying in Veliko Tarnovo, the host offers to pick you up for a small extra fee, which makes logistics easier. After your off-road adventure, you’ll return to the starting point, making it a compact yet satisfying outing.

What to Expect

The vehicles used are specifically tailored for off-road fun. The Smart ForTwo, only seemingly urban and impractical for rough terrain, has been upgraded with raised suspension and large tires—a feature that surprises many. It’s proof that sometimes, what you least expect can deliver the most fun.

Driving the Smart or Jeep through terrain that includes inclines and uneven ground might sound daunting, but the modifications and the guidance from instructors ensure safety and enjoyment. The terrain is deliberately challenging enough to be engaging but not so difficult as to require previous experience. The small group size (limited to 2 participants) ensures personalized attention, making the drive more of a tailored experience.

Expect to spend about one hour exploring the hills, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Many reviewers mention how exhilarating it is to drive a car you wouldn’t typically associate with off-road adventures, especially in a landscape as scenic as Veliko Tarnovo’s.

Authenticity and Unique Value

What makes this experience stand out is its authenticity—it’s not a staged ride but a genuine opportunity to drive modified vehicles in terrain that asks for a little extra. Many reviews mention how “unique” and “fun” this activity is, with one stating it’s “not offered anywhere else in the Balkans.” The blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and a bit of humor makes it a memorable activity for those wanting to break from traditional touring and add some adrenaline to their Bulgaria trip.

Regarding value, the price might seem modest for a personalized, guided adventure that combines scenic views with a dash of thrill. The fuel is included, so there are no surprises on the cost side. Given the small group size and the chance to drive the car yourself, it feels like a good deal for an hour of playful exploration.

Practical Details

The activity is available in English and Bulgarian, making it accessible for most travelers. It’s especially great for adults and older teens since it’s not suitable for children under 18 or drivers under 18. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

You should plan for about an hour of activity, so it’s ideal as a morning or afternoon activity to complement sightseeing in Veliko Tarnovo. The small group limit ensures that everyone gets enough guidance and personal attention, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

A Deeper Look: The Itinerary and Experience

The tour kicks off at the meeting point outside Arbanasi, a village known for its medieval architecture and scenic views. While the tour doesn’t include a visit to the village itself, the location is perfect for starting your off-road adventure—close enough to Veliko Tarnovo to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Once aboard your modified vehicle, the instructor explains the vehicle’s special features and what terrain you’ll encounter. You’ll then set off across hills, following a route designed to showcase the natural beauty of the area. Many reviews mention the unexpected capability of the Smart ForTwo—what seems like a city car becomes surprisingly adept at navigating rougher terrain.

Participants report feeling a thrill of excitement as they maneuver through inclines and uneven paths, with one noting, “I never thought a Smart could handle off-road like this.” The Jeep Daihatsu adds an extra layer of ruggedness—you might see it tackle steeper inclines or rougher patches with ease.

Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of ancient fortresses, rolling hills, and the lush landscape stretching beyond. The scenery is particularly captivating from higher vantage points, where the views of Veliko Tarnovo’s ancient architecture and the surrounding countryside unfold before you.

The activity wraps up back at the starting point, allowing you to reflect on the fun and unusual drive. Many reviews highlight how this tour provided a “great story to tell” and a “hilarious experience,” perfect for travelers seeking something different.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Reviewers consistently mention how “the modified Smart ForTwo is surprisingly capable,” and “it’s a lot of fun to drive something so quirky in such terrain.” One reviewer noted, “I loved the challenge of driving a tiny car through rough terrain—who knew smart cars could be so adventurous?”

Others highlight the scenic views as a major highlight, with one saying, “The hills around Veliko Tarnovo are stunning, and getting to see them from above while bouncing in a modified little Smart was unforgettable.” The small group size also gets praise, making the activity feel more personal and safe.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want to add some adrenaline and humor to their Bulgaria trip. It appeals to those curious about off-roading in unconventional vehicles and looking for unique photo opportunities. It’s also a good choice for families with older kids or couples seeking a playful experience combined with scenic views.

However, if you’re not comfortable driving or in a hurry, this hour-long activity might feel a bit rushed. Those with mobility issues or who prefer more traditional sightseeing might prefer a standard tour. But for anyone wanting a lighthearted, memorable, and slightly quirky adventure, this off-road ride hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Veliko Tarnovo off-road experience offers more than just a drive—it’s a playful exploration of Bulgaria’s landscape in a way few will ever try. The fact that a Smart ForTwo, usually a city car, has been transformed into an off-road vehicle adds a layer of fun and surprise, making it a genuinely memorable activity. The scenic views, combined with the personalized attention of small group guiding, ensure you get both a thrill and a taste of the local landscape.

For those who enjoy adventure with a sense of humor, this tour is a standout. It’s ideal for travelers looking to break out of the usual tourist mold and have a story to tell, all while soaking in Bulgaria’s beautiful hills and historic sights.

If you’re curious, wanting a quick adrenaline fix, or simply seeking an authentic, offbeat experience, this off-road ride in Veliko Tarnovo deserves a spot on your Bulgaria itinerary.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, it is only suitable for participants aged 18 and older, as mentioned in the activity details.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for uncertain schedules.

Are the vehicles really capable of off-road driving?
Yes, both the Smart ForTwo and Jeep Daihatsu are specially modified with raised suspensions and large tires, making them suitable for terrain that would challenge typical cars.

Do I need prior experience?
No prior off-road experience is necessary—the activity is guided, and the terrain isn’t overly difficult.

What language are the guides in?
Guides speak English and Bulgarian, ensuring clear communication during the experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about one hour, including driving time and scenic stops.

Is fuel included in the price?
Yes, fuel is included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs during the ride.

Where does the activity start and end?
The meeting point is just outside Arbanasi, between the Horse Riding area and Kaloyanova Fortress; it ends back at the same spot. Pickup from Veliko Tarnovo is available for a small extra fee.

This off-road adventure is a delightful way to combine Bulgaria’s natural beauty with a bit of lighthearted fun. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just curious about what a tiny car can do off the beaten path, this tour offers a memorable, and slightly humorous, experience that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: