The village, the locals and Bulgaria

Villa Renee lies in the village of Gorsco Kossovo, about 120 miles from Sofia, and 135 miles from Burgas and the coastal resorts on the Black Sea.

The countryside surrounding Gorsco Kossovo is perfect for a gentle stroll or a more substantial hike. You can wander up to the large reservoir, where there are a couple of restaurants, or you could picnic or cycle. Turn in the opposite direction from the house and you walk up through fields to the nearby hills, past a stork's nest where there were three babies last year.

Veliko Tarnovo

It's a 35-minute drive to the beautiful old medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo. Here you can meander through the old streets, sit in the many (very reasonably priced) restaurants and soak up the atmosphere of this lovely, unspoilt town.

In the newer quarters you will find state-of-the-art shops, cinemas, bowling alleys, etc. The choice is yours!

Pavlikeni

We are also a 20-minute drive from Pavlikeni, a small market town where you will find supermarkets, bars, shops and a warm welcome.

Gorsco Kossovo

Gorsco Kossovo itself is a true jewel. Laid out in grid fashion, you can meander down the main street to one of two local shops – these are quite small, but stock the necessities. There are also two bars and a restaurant.

The locals are wonderful. You are unlikely to get down the main street without a few waves and smiles, and, once you've been spotted a few times, a chat.