The ride leaves Kyustendil without fuss, then follows the Struma valley towards Nevestino. The first proper stop is Kadin Most, an Ottoman stone bridge over the Struma, built in 1470 by order of Grand Vizier Isaac Pasha. From there, the route pushes on towards Dupnitsa, first through smaller settlements, then closer to the lower slopes of Rila. Near Saparevo, Sapareva Banya sits a few kilometres off the line; it is known for hot mineral water and the geyser in the town centre. After Samokov, the road stays high, open and fairly exposed. Dolna Bania finishes the day between Rila and Sredna Gora: not a big arrival, but a useful stop after a long Bulgarian stage.
