Between Simeonovgrad and Dimitrovgrad, the road follows the course of the Marica River for nearly 20km, which it dominates from its hilly position. This majestic river meanders lazily through the hills. Dotted with islets planted with poplars, it is lined with pebble banks and meadows where horses come to drink. The entire landscape conveys an impression of great serenity. Here and there, as in many places in Bulgaria, travellers stop by the roadside fountains to fill their bottles with spring water.