EDEN destinations in Bulgaria
EDEN, European Destinations of Excellence, aims to promote sustainable tourism development models across the EU. The initiative is based on national competitions and promotional campaigns that result in the selection and promotion of a tourist ‘destination of excellence’ for each participating country.

Through the selection and promotion of destinations, EDEN effectively achieves the objective of drawing attention to the values, diversity and common features of European tourist destinations. It enhances the visibility of emerging, non-traditional European destinations, creates a platform for sharing good practices across Europe and promotes networking between awarded destinations.

This European quest for excellence in tourism is developed around an annual theme, chosen by the European Commission in conjunction with the national tourism bodies.

Resorts in Bulgaria
There are many resorts in Bulgaria, and they are exceptionally diverse. The following resorts are located along the Black Sea: Rusalka, Albena, Kranevo, Golden Sands, Riviera, Chayka, Sunny Day, St. Konstantin and St. Helena, St. Iliya, Obzor, Sunny Beach, Elenite, Dyuni, Nesebar, Ravda, Kiten, Pomorie, Primorsko, Chernomorets, Sozopol, Lozenets, Tsarevo, Ahtopol and Sinemorets.

The holiday settlement Rusalka began as a member of the French resort corporation Club Med (Club Méditerranée). It is located in the natural park Tauk Liman.

In Albena, tourists can enjoy beaches that are more than five kilometers long and an average water temperature of 24 ˚С during the summer.

The Golden Sands beach is 3.3-kilometers and up to 100 meters wide, with an average water temperature of 24 ˚С during the summer and an average summer air temperature of 27 ˚С.

The holiday club Riviera possesses a wonderful beach and is located in a park with centuries- old trees.

Saints Konstantin and Helena and Sunny Day are resorts distinguished by their mild climate and tranquility.

The largest of the Bulgarian Black Sea resorts is Sunny Beach. It has a beach that is 5.5 kilometers long and an average water temperature during the summer of 26 ˚С. The resort’s average summer air temperature is 28 ˚С. The resort of Saint Vlas is located nearby.

Villas built in the Mediterranean style villas predominate in the resort Elenite, and the resort of Dyuni is located amidst a pine forest overlooking the sea.

Many hotels at the Black Sea resorts work all year long and provide facilities for conventions and congresses. The Black Sea beaches are divided into large (over 100,000 square meters) – those at Durankulak, Albena-Kranevo, Golden Sands, Kamchia-Shkorpilovtsi, Obzor, Sunny Beach, Pomorie, Atanasovo, Alepu, Primorsko south beach; medium-sized (from 50,000 to 100,000 square meters) – those at Krapets, Shabla, St. Konstantin, the Varna city beach, Asparuhovo, Shorpilovtsi-south, Obzor-south, Irakli, Burgas, Kavatsi, Stomoplo, Nestinarka, Ahtopol, among others; and small (from 10,000 to 50,000 square meters) – those located mainly along the southern Black Sea coast.
The Black Sea coast is also famous for its medicinal mud deposits, which are to be found at Pomorie, Varna, Balchik, Shabla, Atanasovsko Lake, and Taukliman. Also famous are the mineral waters at Krapets, Tyulenovo, Rusalka, Kavarna, Balchik, Albena, Golden Sands, St. Konstantin and St. Helena, Varna, Lower Kamchia, Emine, Medovo and Burgas.

The mountain resorts Pamporovo, Borovets and Bansko have gained an international reputation. Pamporovo is located at 1,650 meters above sea level in the Rhodope Mountains. Snow falls on average more than 150 a year, and the runs are from 800 to 3,800 meter long. Borovets is located in the Rila Mountains, at 1,350 meters above sea level. It offers excellent ski runs, and its biathlon course is one of the best in the world. The fastest developing mountain resort in Europe is Bansko. Besides offering world-class skiing, in the city of Bansko there are also more than 140 cultural monuments. Bansko is also the home of an acclaimed school of icon painting. There are also good conditions for skiing at the following resorts: Malyovitsa, Panichishte, Batak, Beklemeto, Ribaritsa, Osogovo, Momchilovtsi, Chepelare, Kom-Berkovitsa, Uzana, Yundola, Belmeken, Bodrost-Kartala, Predel, Semkovo and Aleko.

Bulgaria also has a number of excellent spa, balneological and wellness resorts: Hisar, Velingrad (the spa capital of the Balkan Peninsula), Sandanski, Banya, Kyustendil, Narechen, Pavel Banya, Kostenets, Varshets, Burgaski Mineralni Bani, Momin Prohod, Slivenski Mineralni Bani, Starozagorski Mineralni Bani, Haskovski Mineralni Bani, Sapareva Banya, Teteven, Tryavna, Apriltsi, Kotel, Elena, Govedartsi, and Dryanovo.

Villages in Bulgaria
Bulgarian villages are famous for their beautiful natural settings and their hospitable residents.

Village tourism has been successfully developed in many of them, providing the opportunity to experience Bulgarian lifestyles and culture, enjoy Bulgarian traditions and customs, and taste Bulgarian dishes prepared according to age-old recipes.

Every Bulgarian village can boast of its rich store of interesting stories and legends. Visitors can benefit from the invigorating contact with nature, relaxation, healthy food, while gleaning village lore. Who wouldn’t feel heartened to wake to the warbling of birds; breakfast on banitsa hot from the homeowner’s oven, with a side dish of homemade yogurt; take a horseback ride through the forest; then relax over a steaming cup of herbal tea by the fireplace of a country evening?

Some of the prettiest Bulgarian villages are nestled in the Rhodope Mountains – Gela, Shiroka Laka, Momchilovtsi, Orehovo, Smilyan, Arda, Dolen, Leshten, Kovachevitsa, Pletena, among many others.

There are also many picturesque villages in the Balkan Mountains – Bozhentsi, Ribaritsa, Zheravna, Oreshak, Medven, Skandalo, Elena, Etrapole and Teteven are just a few of them. The village of Arbanasi near Veliko Tarnovo, a retreat for the well-to-do, is both an enchanting place to relax and a perfect starting point for day trips.

Another kind of charm awaits visitors to villages along the Black Sea coast, since they can combine summer fun with visits to such scenic retreats as Durankulak, Krapets, Tyulenovo, Kamen Bryag, Balgarevo, Shkorpilovtsi, Lozenets, Varvara, Sinemorets, and Rezovo on the Turkish border.

To get to know the beauty of the Rila Mountains, visitors can spend quality time in some of its small towns, such as Govedartsi, Beli Iskar, Mala Tsarkva or Dobarsko.

Accommodations are also available in the Strandzha villages of Balgari, Kosti, Brashlyan, Mladezhko, and those who visit Strandzha at the beginning of June can observe the ancient ritual of nestinarstvo – dancing on live coals.

Cities in Bulgaria
The first inhabited areas in what is now Bulgaria were the caves along the lower reaches of the rivers Iskar, Yantra and Rusenski Lom. By the 6th century BC, the most developed settlement network was Thracian. Later, under the impetus of mining, stock-breeding, and agriculture, settlements grew up in the Rhodopes, the Balkan Mountains, the Sofia area, the Vratsa area, and elsewhere.

At the beginning of the 4th century BC, there were about 3,000 settlements on the land that is now Bulgaria. In the 3rd century BC the first stone fortresses were built.

Until the end of the 2nd century BC, settlement development continued to reflect Thracian cultural influence. Sofia (Serdika), Plovdiv (Pulpudeva), Yambol (Kabile), Stara Zagora (Vereya), Kyustendil (Pautaliya), Blagoevgrad, among other places, were all established as Thracian settlements.

In the 8th century BC, the first Greek cities were founded as colonies (apoiki) in Aegean Thrace, and by the 7th century BC most of our Black Sea settlements were already established – Varna (Odesos), Sozopol (Apolonia), Pomorie (Anhialo), Tsarevo (Vasiliko), Nesebar (Mesembria), and others.

In the 2nd century BC, on present-day Bulgarian territory, the first Roman settlements and fortresses were erected along the river valley of the Danube and along the Balkan Mountain passes, as well as at way stations in the Danube Lowlands. Dating from Roman times are the present-day cities Vidin (Bononia), Svishtov (Nove), Ruse (Saksiginta Prista), Silistra (Durostorum), Montana (Montanesium), Lovech (Melta), Pleven (Storgozia), Razgrad (Abritus), Stara Zagora (Augusta Trayana), among others. After the establishment of the Bulgarian state, the number of settlements grew rapidly. During the First Bulgarian Kingdom (681-1018), their number grew to some 20,000, and new settlements appeared in northeastern Bulgaria, such as Pliska, Preslav, and Shumen. During the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1185-1396), settlements such as Tarnovo, Cherven, Boruy, Krakra, Karvuna, and Kran were established.

At the end of the 17th century, Bulgarian settlements were established near inns and farms, and by the beginning of the 18th century mountain settlements developed as crafts centers, such as those at Kotel, Koprivshtitsa, Elena, Tryavna, Gabrovo, Sliven, and Samokov.

In the vicinity of the settlements established during the times of the Thracians, Greeks, and Romans, and later expanded during the First and the Second Bulgarian Kingdoms, there are still remains of fortresses and settlements.

Nowadays, there are 256 towns and cities in Bulgaria. The largest of these are Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Burgas, Ruse, Stara Zagora and Pleven. In the eastern part of the country, there are the Black Sea towns-resorts of Shabla, Kavarna, Balchik, Varna, Byala, Obzor, Nesebar, Pomorie, Burgas, Sozopol, Primorsko, Sveti Vlas, Chernomorets, Tsarevo, Kiten, Aheloy and Ahtopol. The towns and cities with developed mountain tourism are Samokov, Bansko, Dobrinishte, Chepelare, Smolyan, Elena, Troyan, Teteven, among others. There are also many cities and towns that offer vacation possibilities and balneological treatments, such as Bankya, Varshets, Velingrad, Hisarya, Sapareva Banya, Strelcha, Kyustendil, and Devin. Also of interest to tourists are the Danube towns of Vidin, Lom, Kozloduy, Oryahovo, Nikopol, Belene, Svishtov, Ruse, Tutrakan and Silistra.

Many Bulgarian towns have preserved their Revival architecture. These include Kotel, Koprivshtitsa, Kalofer, Sopot, Elena, Tryavna, Bansko, Melnik (the smallest town in Bulgaria), among others. In some of the towns and cities there are also architectural and ethnographic complexes that have been preserved or restored: Plovdiv’s Old Town, Nesebar’s Old Town (a UNESCO cultural heritage site), Gabrovo’s (Etara), the Old Town in Sozopol, the Old Town in Dobrich, Zlatograd’s Areal Complex, Varosha in Lovech, Smolyan’s residential sections Raykovo and Ustovo, Blagoevgrad’s Varosha, Sevlievo’s Ethnographic Complex, Malko Tarnovo, the Samodovska Charshiya in Veliko Tarnova, Pleven’s Revival Complex, Razgrad’s (Varosh), and others. The ancient Bulgarian capitals of Pliska, Veliki Preslav and Veliko Tarnovo are also of great interest for tourists.

Bulgaria is a successor of ancient civilizations – Thracians, Romans, Byzantines and proto-Bulgarians have left on these lands exceptionally valuable artistic and architectural evidence of their advanced culture. They are scattered throughout the country and make it one of the most attractive destinations for people, interested in history and culture.

Besides these treasures, Bulgaria is proud of its pristine nature and amazing biodiversity which is preserved in the parks and reserves of the country.

The rich cultural and natural heritage of Bulgaria is highly appreciated by UNESCO -the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The UNESCO List of the Global Cultural and Natural Heritage includes sites, which are of great importance to humanity, therefore their conservation and preservation is a priority. This list includes ten Bulgarian sites – seven cultural and three natural.

Cultural Heritage Sites

• Rila Monastery
• Sveshtarska Tomb
• Kazanlak Tomb
• National Museum of History, Boyana Church Branch – Sofia
• Ivanovo Rock Churches – city of Ruse

 

Natural Wonders Sites

• Nesebar Architectural-Historical Reserve
• The Madara national historical-archeological reserve
• National Park “Central Balkan”
• Pirin National Park
• Biosphere Reservation of Srebarna – village of Srebarna

 

Multinational Site

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
This transboundary property stretches over 12 countries. Since the end of the last Ice Age, European Beech spread from a few isolated refuge areas in the Alps, Carpathians, Dinarides, Mediterranean and Pyrenees over a short period of a few thousand years in a process that is still ongoing. The successful expansion across a whole continent is related to the tree’s adaptability and tolerance of different climatic, geographical and physical conditions.

Bulgaria occupies a strategic location at the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, at the crossroads of three continents, and has four international airports, so the country is no more than two hours by plane from most European capitals and their large international airports with scheduled flights to destinations around the world. These advantages, together with the growing number of three, four, and five-star hotels in the large city centers, along the Black Sea coast, and at the mountain resorts, make the country more and more attractive for congress tourism.

Particularly suitable conditions for congress tourism are offered in Sofia, the nation’s capital. There are numerous hotels with suitable conference halls, as well as congress centers, such as the National Palace of Culture and the INTER EXPO center. Almost all of the larger hotels can provide equipment for business meetings and seminars. In the city there are also many institutions of higher education that also offer facilities for such gatherings. Additional facilities are available at the Central Army Club, the Boyana Residence, the Universiada Hall, and in the recently completed multifunctional sports hall, the Sofia Armeets Arena. Participants in business meetings can also enjoy the varied possibilities for cultural tourism in the city, and facilities for mountain tourism at Vitosha are practically within the city limits. Those interested in rural tourism, ecotourism, and golf will also find opportunities almost on their doorstep.

The city of Plovdiv, located in the south central Bulgaria, is another excellent choice for congress tourism. Plovdiv not only hosts a variety of cultural events, but also attracts visitors interested in the city’s rich history, architecture, educational institutions, and research centers. The city is also justly famous for its international trade fairs.

The Black Sea resorts can offer a perfect combination of congress tourism, sea relaxation, and spa facilities. Many resorts at Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast provide facilities and accommodations year-round, such as those in the cities of Varna, Burgas, and Dobrich, and at the resort complexes at Albena, Golden Sands, Sunny Beach, St. Konstantin and St. Helena, Dyuni, St. Vlas, and Primorsko. The guests of resorts at the northern Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts also have the option of playing golf on some of the best courses in Europe.

The mountain resorts of Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo combine year-round, world-class facilities for hiking, skiing, and ecotourism with excellent venues for business-related events.

A wonderful combination of congress tourism and stays at fully-equipped spas are provided in the town of Kyustendil and at the spa resorts at Hisarya, Velingrad, Devin and Sandanski.

The Danube cities of Vidin and Ruse, as well as the cities of Montana and Pleven, also offer opportunities for congress forums. The former capital of Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo, offers impressive halls for congresses and opportunities to explore the city’s many cultural monuments. Uniquely beautiful natural surroundings and excellent facilities for business meetings also recommend the cities of Vratsa, Sevlievo, Ribaritsa, Teteven and Troyan. In addition, there are fully equipped conference halls in the cities of Pazardzhik, Stara Zagora, Sliven, Dimitrovgrad, Haskovo, Yambol and Kazanlak.

Rural tourism is the best way to get to know the traditions of Bulgaria. Through their stay in a village house, tourists can come to appreciate traditional Bulgarian lifestyles and the culture of the country. The hospitability of Bulgarians, the unique local cuisine, the well-preserved folkways, customs and crafts, the architectural reserves settlements and the beautiful surroundings all contribute to make rural tourism in Bulgaria memorable.

Usually guests are accommodated in an house built in the 19th or early 20th century, and a part of the rich experience is the delicious food that hosts prepare with vegetables picked fresh from the garden and seasoned with herbs gathered in nearby forests and fields. There are many interesting things to do in the villages – visitors can help the hostess prepare some special dish according to a traditional recipe, take part in farm work, rent a horse to visit nearby landmarks, pick aromatic herbs and a basket of forest berries or mushrooms, or ride a mountain bike along the country roads and trails. Tourists may want to milk a cow, cut hay, prepare yoghurt, help make white and yellow cheese, or put up jam. Almost every family in the villages engages in distilling rakia and making wine. The Bulgarian countryside abounds with wineries that have earned international recognition.

In the evening, tourists are often invited to have a meal with their hosts. Traditional dishes are served, folksongs are performed, and local legends are shared. In most cases, guests can help prepare the food. Some villages offer lessons in pottery making, icon painting or folksongs and dances, and there are demonstrations of sewing and embroidering.

Visitors can find country guesthouses all over the country. In the region of the Balkan Mountains there are many such opportunities, in villages such as Apriltsi, Shipkovo, Ribaritsa, Medven, Zheravna, Ichera, Gradets, the villages in the Elena Balkan Mountain, and elsewhere in the region. Near Veliko Tarnovo lies the architectural reserve Arbanasi, which offers its own unique atmosphere. A few kilometers from Gabrovo, there is another architectural reserve that is also a very popular destination for overnight visitors – the village of Bozhentsi.

In the Rila Mountains the villages of Govedartsi, Dobarsko, Mala Tsarkva, Beli Iskar, and Dolna Banya, are particularly popular.

It seems that in the Rhodope Mountains every village offers accommodations for guests. Some of the most popular are Momchilovtsi, Gela, Shiroka Laka, Smilyan, Arda, Zabardo, Leshten, Kovachevitsa, Dolen, Trigrad, and Yagodina. There tourists can taste dishes unique to the region, such as Cheverme and Patatnik, and enjoy a gaida (Bulgarian bagpipe) performance or competition.

Bansko, the pearl of the Pirin Mountains, provides tourists with the opportunity to take part in traditional activities of the region, such as taking an excursion in a horse-drawn cart, and of course sampling local dishes. Visitors can enjoy a reenactment of an attack by brigands at a Haydouk Attack performance, or be photographed dressed in traditional costumes.

Exceptionally attractive are also the villages in the Strandzha Mountains – Balgari, Gramatikovo, Kosti, Brashlyan, and others. Her visitors may walk to ancient wind mills or fulling mills, ride a donkey, or enjoy an excursion in a donkey cart. The Strandzha is also where tourists can observe the traditional dance on live coals.

Guests at the large Black Sea resorts have the opportunity to visit nearby villages and enjoy the residents’ hospitality.

In Dobrudzha (Bulgaria’s breadbasket) tourists can observe the livelihood of the villages, sample the local folklore and cuisine, and visit the unique Dobrudzha farms.

Throughout the country, guests can experience a wide range of customs and rituals, such as the dancing on live coals, mummers, a Bulgarian wedding, singing and dancing on St. Lazar’s day, singing and dancing on Christmas, the holiday of Trifon Zarezan, among others.

Many folklore festivals are also held in the country. Some of the best known are the Plovdiv International Folklore Festival in the city of Plovdiv; the Burgas International Folklore Festival; the National Folklore Gatherings at Rozhen and Koprivshtitsa; the International Festival of Masquerade and Carnival Games and Rituals “Surva” in the town of Pernik; and the National Gathering “Beautiful Thrace Sings and Dances.”

For those searching for new adventures, for whom sport occupies an important part their daily life, whose idea of relaxing includes staying in motion and conquering high peaks and new territories, Bulgaria is an exceptionally attractive destination.

There are excellent opportunities for sport and outdoor activities along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. At almost every resort, there are clubs which offer training and equipment for diving, surfing, kite-surfing, and other outdoor sports. There are jet-skis for hire, as well as boats for excursions or for exciting fishing. The Black Sea offers conditions for diving and underwater fishing.

Bulgaria’s mountains cover a third of the nation’s territory, a well-developed network of eco-trails allow visitors the opportunity to appreciate their remarkable beauty. Fully-equipped climbing facilities have been established in some mountain regions – for instance, in the regions of the town of Vratsa, Lakatnik Rocks, Malyovitsa, and elsewhere.

You can also explore Bulgaria’s mountains on horseback. There are equestrian facilities throughout the country offering both shorter rides and pack trips with a guide, both in the mountains and lowlands. Along the Black Sea coast, visitors will find similar services. There is probably nothing more romantic than riding a horse along the beach into the sunset. Equestrian sports have been established in the country for almost 90 years, and a competition sanctioned by the World Cup of Equestrian Sport is held annually in the town of Bozhurishte.

Those searching for a jolt of adrenalin can try whitewater rafting on Bulgaria’s swift-flowing rivers, such as the Struma, Iskar, and Mesta. Rafting and kayaking are also popular on the rivers in the Iskar and Kresna Gorge areas. It is exceptionally exciting to ride the rivers in May and June, when the water levels are at their highest.

Another way to raise adrenalin levels is to sail above the Bulgarian countryside. The heights over the town of Sopot, for example, are some of the best places for paragliding in all of Europe. Paragliders and hang-gliders also take to the air over Vitosha, Sliven, Kyustendil, Stara Zagora and Albena.

Two of the routes of the Eurovelo network, established by the European Biking Federation, also pass through the country. These are Eurovelo 13, which passes along the length of the former Iron Curtain, and Eurovelo 6, which follows the Loire and Rheine rivers and continues to the mouth of the Danube.

Bungee jumping is organized on the higher bridges in the country, as well as in the Prohodna cave. Leaping into a cave’s abyss is an unforgettable experience..

In the past few years Bulgaria has begun to establish itself as a first-class golf destination. Modern golf courses designed by world-famous players such as Gary Player and Ian Woosnan are now open for play. There are three courses along the Northern Black Sea coast, three near Sofia, one near the mountain resort of Bansko, one in Pravets, and one near the town of Sliven.

Hunting and fishing are also quite well developed in the country. The animal population includes red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wild boar, mouflon, chamois, capercaillie, bear, pheasant, and partridge. Excellent conditions for hunting big game are available in the hunting game-breeding farms near Botevgrad, Vitinya, Samokov, Aramliets, Borovets, Borovo, Zhenda, Kormisosh, Studen Kladenets, Rusalka, Palamara, Rakitovo, Midzhur, village of Parvenets, Bosna, Byalka, Voden and elsewhere. The Black Sea offers unique opportunities to fishing for turbot, mullet, bluefish, cod, mackerel, bonito and others, and Bulgaria’s rivers also abound in fish. The country’s many dams also afford excellent opportunities for sport fishing.

Wine production has over a thousand year long tradition in Bulgaria. The ancient Thracians, who populated the land in ancient times, worshipped the gods Zagreus and Dionysius and used the wine during their religious rituals. Nowadays Bulgaria is a proud producer of fine quality wines, some of which are made from unique sorts of vine, impressing wine connoisseurs worldwide.

Wine is an integral part of the history of Bulgaria, it is also very much a part of Bulgarian culture, customs and spirit. The Bulgarian lands are rooted in ancient civilizations which have left an indelible imprint on modern Bulgaria. The ancient Thracians used wine as an important part of their religious rituals and as a mean of communing with their gods. Evidence for this can be found in the many shrines discovered throughout the country, which bring to mind the ancient rituals and the cult of the god of wine, Zagreus. Bulgaria is home to some of the most important archaeological discoveries, including gold and silver Thracian pieces, most of which were parts of beautiful sets used for serving and consuming wine. The use of the Orphic drink in religious rituals is associated with traditions in viticulture and winemaking. Homer often mentions in his works the superior quality of Thracian wines.

Unique local varieties
Gamza is a local red wine variety, which is widespread in Northwestern Bulgaria – Suhindol, Vidin and Pleven. The grapes of this variety mature late and produce red dessert and table wines. These have a clear bright raspberry colour and a fruity, prevailingly raspberry aroma. They are fresh, light-bodied and should not be flavoured with oak. Gamza wines are usually consumed young. The variety is grown in Hungary, Romania and Macedonia. The other most common name of the variety is Kadarka. The best quality Gamza wines can be tasted in wineries in the region of Vidin (Bregovo), Pleven, Suhindol, Pavlikeni among others.

Dimyat is a Bulgarian white grape typica of the Black Sea Region used for the production of dry white and aromatic wines and distillates (rakia, brandy, etc.). Its flavour is mild with a pleasant freshness. It grows best in the region of Varna but is also grown in other parts of the country. You can taste it in the wineries in the region of Varna, Shumen, Burgas, Pomorie among others.

Mavrud is a very old local variety grown mainly in the foothills of the Rodope Mountains – Asenovgrad, Pazardzhik and Plovdiv. The wine produced from Mavrud is saturated ruby purple and has an excellent flavour. It has a pronounced rich texture and a luscious aroma with strong overtones of ripe wild berries and spices. It ages very well in oak barrels. Several wineries in the region of Asenovgrad, Pazardzhik and Plovdiv offer tasting of Mavrud of excellent quality.

Pamid is one of the oldest varieties grown in Bulgaria. It is widely found throughout the Balkan Peninsula under different names. It is suitable for wine production and fresh consumption. Wine produced from Pamid has a light red colour. Its aromas are fresh, with fruity notes, elegant body and soft finish. It is consumed young due to the low content of phenolics and does not respond well in contact with oak. It is often used in blends. Pamid can be sampled at wineries in the region of Pazardzhik, Pamidovo and Plovdiv.

Rubin is a local variety created by cross fertilization from two varieties – Nebbiolo and Syra. Its wines have a deep colour and a fullbodied flavour with a soft finish. Its aroma is intense, fruity, with a predominance of ripe blackberry. In contact with oak it develops a hint of fruit jam. Rubin wines can be tasted at wineries in the region of Plovdiv and Septemvri. The red wine from that variety has a good ageing potential both in bottles and oak barrels.

Shiroka Melnishka is a local red variety which grows only in the regions of Melnik, Petrich and Sandanski, since it is vulnerable to low temperatures. The colouring of the wine is medium deep. The wine produced from this grape variety is of excellent quality, with ripe cherry and herbal aromas, and in the presence of oak it develops undertones of tobacco and leather. The flavour of the young wine is fresh, with pronounced tannins. With maturity its taste becomes softer but retains its spicy finish. The unique flavour of the wine from grape variety Shiroka Melnishka can be experienced in the wineries in the region of Sandanski and Melnik.

Cherven Misket is an old Bulgarian variety, mostly cultivated in the Sub-Balkan region. It is the Bulgarian grape variety that is most highly resistant to cold. The wine made from it has an interesting pink tint. It has an oil-bearing rose, quince and honey aroma. White wines from Cherven Misket can be tasted in wineries in the region of Karlovo, Banya, Straldzha and Sungurlare. Except for dry white wines the variety is very suitable for dessert semi-dry and sweet wines and for the production of distillates (rakia, brandy, etc.) with a huge cultivation and aging potential. As a distillate, it shows good results when aging in oak, acacia and cherry barrels.

Almost all wineries in the country offer wine tasting and have areas specially equipped for this purpose. Both group and private events can be organized. For more information, contact your tour operator, the local tourist information centre or one of the many wineries. The region of Pleven, Kaylaka Park, hosts the only Wine Museum in the country. There you can learn about the history of Bulgarian winemaking and the subtleties of wine tasting. At the museum many different wines can be tasted. The museum houses around 7,000 exhibits – old wines and wine storage and winemaking vessels. The oldest wine in the museum was produced almost 100 years ago.

The traditional Bulgarian cuisine is rich in spices, with specific and unique taste. Most Bulgarian meals are easy to prepare – if you follow a traditional recipe to prepare an authentic Bulgarian meal, you will feel the Bulgarian spirit and cosy atmosphere.

The spices, fruit and vegetables used are organic. Only in Bulgaria one can experience the taste of the world-famous Bulgarian yoghurt, as well as delicacy prepared with it. Bulgaria produces the rich flavoured white cheese and rich tasting herbal honey.

Bulgarian cuisine is colourful and diverse. It is rooted in centuries-old traditions and practices. In some places recipes have been passed down from generation to generation and have remained unchanged for hundreds of years. Characteristic of Bulgarian cuisine is the simultaneous heat treatment of most products. The recipes include a large number of vegetables and spices, among which are garlic, black pepper, thyme, spearmint, savory, bay leaf and paprika. Some dishes are prepared for specific Bulgarian holidays – Christmas Eve, Easter, St. George’s Day and St. Nicholas Day.

The most products for which Bulgaria is internationally known are yogurt and white brine (feta) cheese. These are almost always present on Bulgarian tables in one form or another.

One of the most famous and most popular breakfast items in the country is banitsa. It is a made of dough with various fillings, such as cheese, spinach, rice, and meat.

Other popular breakfasts dishes include pancakes, buhtas (fritters), mekitsas (fried dough pieces), and fried bread slices, also Kozunak. All of these are particularly delicious when served with jam, marmalade, honey or Bulgarian yogurt.

People in rural areas grow vegetables that are exceptionally tasty, which is why salads occupy a central place in our culinary tradition. The most popular Bulgarian salad is the Shopska Salad, but there are also other salads worth trying – Shepherd’s Salad, Harvest Salad, Snezhanka, Monk’s Salad, Dobrudzha Salad, Roasted Peppers Salad, and many others.

One of the most popular appetizers is Tarator (cold Cucumber Soup). It is prepared with yogurt, cucumbers, dill, crushed walnuts and spices.

Soups and broths are also popular in the countryside – particularly delicious bean soups are served in the region of the village Smilyan, in the Rhodope Mountain. Excellent fish soups are served in the regions of the Black Sea and the Danube River.

Some of the most popular Bulgarian dishes are grilled – meat balls, kebapches, grilled meat pieces, grilled sausages, and others. Various stews and dishes in clay pots are also a regular part of the Bulgaria cuisine (hotchpotch and casseroles). These include Chomlek, Kavarma, and Kapama (in the Bansko region).

Another favorite Bulgarian dish is prepared with stuffed cabbage or vine leaves – the leaves used may be either small or broad. The dish, which is prepared by wrapping the filling in the leaves, is very popular in the Thracian region.

One of the trademarks of the Bulgarian cuisine is Cheverme – an entire lamb roasted on a spit. This dish is typical for the Rhodope region, but it is also served throughout the country.

Potatoes are a main ingredient in many Bulgarian recipes. The most popular potato dishes include Ogreten (au gratin), Patatnik (in the Rhodope region), potato stew, and fried potatoes.

Bulgaria’s cuisine also consists of various cold cuts and other meat delicacies. Flat sausage is the most famous of thewse. It is prepared all over the country, but it has the longest tradition in the city of Gorna Oryahovitsa. Another popular delicacy is the Banski Starets (the “Bansko Old Man”). As the name suggests, it is served in Bansko. In Elena and the region known as the Elena Balkans, a specialty is the Elena Pork Leg, prepared with salted pork.

This brief introduction only touches on the diverse Bulgarian dishes and drinks. To fully know the culinary magic of the country, it is necessary to visit all of the regions where the traditional recipes are proudly maintained and culinary delights are constantly on offer.

The healing power of mineral springs has been recognized since the time of the Thracians, who were renowned as healers. “The Holy Springs of Thrace” were famous throughout the Roman Empire. Few countries in Europe can rival Bulgaria’s spa, balneological and wellness tourism, with its abundance and diversity of thermal mineral waters and curative mud deposits. There are more than 550 known sources with 1,600 springs that have a total capacity of 4,900 per second. Predominant are waters with low mineral content – 66.7% of the springs, as opposed to 14.4% with higher mineral content and 17.9% that are naturally carbonated. Cool mineral springs are found throughout the country – Narechen (Asenovgrad region), Shipkovo (Troyan region), Ovcha Kupel (Sofia), Smochan, (Lovech region), Voneshta Voda (Gabrovo region), Merichleri (Simeonovgrad region), and elsewhere.

The spring with the highest temperature is Sapareva Banya (103ºС), also the only geyser in Bulgaria and Continental Europe. The most famous thermal springs in the Balkan Mountains are in the regions of Varshets, Barziya, Lakatnik, Opletnya; on the Sofia plain – Bankya, Gorna Banya, Knyazhevo, Ovcha Kupel, Sofia, Pancharevo; in the Srednogorie – Strelcha (40°С), Hisarya (49.5°С), Banya (51.1°С), Pavel Banya (54.6°С), Starozagorski Bani (45.8°С); along the valley of Struma River – Blagoevgrad, Simitli, Sandanski, Levunovo and Marikostinovo; along the valley of Mesta River – Banya (56оС), Dobrinishte (43°С) and the village of Eleshnitsa (56°С); in the Rhodope Mountains – Devin, Velingrad, Banite.

Most widespread in Bulgaria are the nitrogen thermal waters, found in the springs around Sapareva Banua, Simitli, Narechen, Momin Prohod, and elsewhere. Carbon acid is contained in the waters of the springs near Mihalkovo, Slivenski Mineralni Bani, Stefan Karadzhovo; hydrogen sulphide is contained in the thermal waters in the Sofia lowlands. Half of the thermal waters contain increased radioactivity, showing levels higher than 15 eman/l, such as the Klisura spring (200 eman/l) and the Strelcha spring (250 eman/l), among others. Particularly high radioactivity has been registered in the springs of Momina Banya (560 eman/l) and the Narechen springs (1,300 eman/l).

Bulgaria also possesses valuable deposits of curative firth mud and curative peat. Curative mud deposits are located in the regions of Shabla Tuzla, Tuzlata, Varna Lake, Pomorie, Atanasovsko Lake and Mandra Dam; peat deposits are located near Batak Dam (Rhodope Mountain), the village of Baykalsko (Konyavska Mountain), the town of Straldzha (middle Tundzha river valley), Varna Lake, and the village of Sadovo (Gornotrakiyska Lowland). Spring deposits containing curative mud are found around the village of Marikostinovo (Sandanski-Petrich valley) and the town of Banya (Karlovo valley), and there are artificial peloids around Ovcha Kupel (Sofia City), Velingrad, Asenovgrad, Slivenski Bani, Starozagorski Bani, Haskovski Bani, Sapareva Banya, Blagoevgrad, Hisarya, Pavel Banya, Burgas, Pomorie, Primorsko, the resort complexes of Albena and Sunny Beach, and elsewhere.

The climate in the country is exceptionally favorable compared to that of traditional destinations for balneology tourism in Western Europe and the Mediterranean. Roughly 20% of each year is sunny, which is more than in Northern, Northwestern and Central Europe. There are 30% fewer cloudy days along the Black Sea coast than along the Atlantic coast or in some parts of the Mediterranean. During the spring and summer months, rainfalls are lower in Bulgaria than in most of Europe.

Mineral springs located in the southern part of the country are influenced by the Mediterranean climate; other springs are found in mountain regions with coniferous vegetation and crystal springs; and still others are along the Black Sea coast. This, together with the great diversity of herbs and other flora used for aroma therapy and phytotherapy, provides opportunities for beneficial year-round treatment and prophylaxis of a range of ailments, and it also creates excellent conditions for relaxation.

The Republic of Bulgaria has 48 mountain resorts, 15 marine resorts, and 38 balneological resorts. The most famous balneological, climatic and mud curative Black Sea resorts are the resort complexes of Albena, Golden Sands, St. Konstantin and Helena, Sunny Day, Sunny Beach, Riviera, Balchik, Tuzlata, Varna Mud Curative Baths (Varnenski Kalolechebni Bani), Pomorie, Primorsko, Kiten, Sozopol, Ahtopol, among others. The most famous resorts located in thecountry’s foothills and mountains are Hisar, Velingrad (the spa capital of the Balkan Peninsula), Sandanski, Bankya, Kyustendil, Narechen, Pavel Banya, Kostenets, Varshets, Burgaski Mineralni Bani, Momin Prohod, Slivenski Mineralni Bani, Slivenski Mineralni Bani, Starozagorski Mineralni Bani, Haskovski Mineralni Bani, Sapareva Banya, Banya, Pamporovo, Borovets, Teteven, Tryavna, Apriltsi, Kotel, Elena, Govedartsi, Dryanovo, among others.

The country is also known for its highly qualified personnel, excellent accommodations, and diverse programs and services that include massage, baths with mineral water, pearl baths, reflex therapy, traditional needle therapy, medicinal exercises, acupuncture, laser therapy, acupressure, paraffin treatment, apitherapy, phytotherapy, mud treatment, aroma therapy, anti-stress programs, dieting programs and programs for losing weight, balneo-cosmetics, sauna, solarium, fitness, and medical cosmetics. All of this can be combined with various tourism programs, allowing visitors to explore Bulgaria’s cultural heritage, folkways, and traditional cuisine.

About 30% of Bulgaria is mountainous. The country’s mountains are exceptionally diverse in relief and offer abundant options for relaxation, along with sports and entertainment for tourists, since conditions are exceptionally conducive for tourism in both winter and summer. The ski season in the medium high and the alpine resorts last about 130 days each year, while during the summer months enthusiasts may hike in centuries-old forests. The numerous hotels and the recreation centers provide accommodations for a wide variety of tastes and preferences.

There are well-marked hiking routes through Bulgaria’s mountains, such as the southern traverses of the Kom – Emine European trail E-3, the European trail Е-4, from Vitosha through Verila, Rila, and Pirin, and the European hiking route E-8, from Rila to the Rhodopes

The Balkan Mountains are the longest range in Bulgaria. They are also known simply as the Balkans, the source of the name for the entire peninsula. It divides the country into two parts – north and south. The Balkan Mountains are famous for their numerous mountain routes. The highest peak in The Balkans is Botev (2,376 meters above sea level). Excellent conditions for mountaineering, skiing, and spa tourism are to be found in Berkovitsa, Ribaritsa, Belogradchik, Beklemeto, Uzana, Karandila, Chiprovtsi, Varshets, Troyan, Teteven, Apriltsi, Tryavna, Elena, Kotel, Zheravna, Bozhentsi, and many other locations in the Balkanss. Tourists may also visit the monasteries located in the mountains – the strongholds of Bulgarian Orthodoxy. In close proximity and parallel to the Balkan Mountains lies the second longest mountain range in Bulgaria – the Sredna Gora.

The mountains Rila and Pirin are alpine, characterized by steep ridges, high peaks, deep valleys, and gorges. The highest peak in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula is located in the Rila Mountains – Mount Musala (2,925 m). Here is located one of Bulgaria’s landmarks – the seven glacial lakes that are located at an altitude of 2,095 m to 2,535 m. The largest resort in the Rila range is Borovets. It possesses excellent ski runs and mountain hotels. Unique opportunities for combining hiking, skiing and spa tourism are also offered in Panichishte and at Sapareva Banya. The ski centers of Malyovitsa, Semkovo and Govedartsi are also very popular with tourists.

More excellent opportunities for hiking and skiing are offered in the Pirin Mountains, widely admired for their alpine beauty. Here are located the resorts of Bansko, Dobrinishte, and Predela; along with the Popovi Livadi and Kamenitsa lodges, among other destinations. The resort of Bansko has developed into a resort of European and global importance, and during the past few years it has host a number of World Cup competitions in both alpine skiing and biathlon. It offers impressive ski runs, a plethora of hotels and pensions, and the renowned Pirin cuisine. Dobrinishte and the holiday complexes in the locality of Predela also offer opportunities for relaxation and many types of entertainment. The second highest peak in Bulgaria and the third on the Balkan Peninsula is also located in the Pirin range – Mount Vihren (2,914 meters above sea level). The national park Pirin is included in the UNESCO list of natural heritage sites.

The Rhodope Mountains, known as the home of Orpheus, is divided into the alpine western part and the lower eastern part. The highest resort here is Pamporovo, located in a densely forested area, boasting skiing that rivals Bulgaria’s other premier winter resorts.. Other options for recreation are to be found in nearby Chepelare, Yundola, Belmeken, Batak and Byala Cherkva. Tourists can enjoy the unique traditional architecture of the Rhodope villages Momchilovtsi, Gela, Dolen, Leshten, Kovachevitsa, Shiroka Laka, among many others, and sample traditional Rhodope dishes. The Rhodope Mountains are dotted with lodges that offer comfortable accommodations for hikers. The highest peak in the Rhodopes is Golyam Perelik (2,191 meters above sea level).

Mount Vitosha is located in close proximity to the nation’s capital, Sofia. With its beautiful natural setting and numerous well-marked hiking trails, and cultural landmarks, it is excellent for mountain ecotourism. The mountain also is the site of the oldest natural park on the Balkan Peninsula, the Vitosha Nature Reserve. There are two ski areas on the mountain, Aleko and Konyarnika, both of which offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. The highest peak is Cherni Vrah (2,290 meters above sea level).

In the Osogovska Mountains there are also opportunities for skiing at “Lyudmil Yankov”, and in the northeastern part of the range is the ski area “Valchi Dol”. The highest peak in this region is Ruen (2,251 meters above sea level).

The Belasitsa Mountains offer exceptional mountain hiking. There are two lodges that welcome tourists. The highest peak is Radomir (2,029 meters above sea level).

Strandzha is distinct from the other Bulgarian mountains, since its peaks are much lower and its climate milder. Strandzha is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.

The mountains in Bulgaria are hospitable all year long, but it must be remembered added that in order to enjoy their beauty visitors need to come well prepared, which includes obtaining information about the routes they plan to use and the meteorological conditions. Visitors should also act responsibly, so as to preserve the pristine beauty of Bulgaria’s majestic mountains.

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast is a wonderful place for a summer holiday. Cape Emine is the place where the Balkan Mountains meet the sea, and this place conditionally divides the Black Sea coast into a northern and southern part. The coastline is 378 km long, with 209 beaches that have a total area of 16 square kilometers. Many are wide, while others are small and nested in picturesque marine bays. The beaches and the sea offer excellent conditions for various water sports such as surfing, water skiing, diving, underwater exploration, and fishing, whether from the surface or underwater. In 2011, the beaches at Albena, Bunite (Varna), Dyuni, Elenite, Pomorie (east beach), Harmanite (Sozopol), St. Vlas (central beach and Venid beach), Sunny Beach (north and south beach) and Sunny Day beach were all recognized for their excellence.

The saline content of the Black Sea is low, just 16% to 17% in the coastal waters, and the high and low tides are minimal. During the summer, the average water temperature is 22° to 24° С, and in the shallower areas as warm as 26°С, which makes it particularly pleasant for swimming.

During the past few years, some the elite marine complexes and resort towns have built yacht ports. The ports in the resorts Rusalka, Tyulenovo, Balchik, Golden Sands and Varna offer fine opportunities for yachting along the northern Black Sea coast. Options for yacht tourism on the southern Black Sea coast are offered in Burgas and at the resorts St. Vlas, Nesebar, Sozopol, and Dyuni.

Besides the combination of sun, sand and sea, the Black Sea resorts offer hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as ecotourism, photo safaris, and excursions to natural, cultural, and architectural landmarks. In the northern part of the Black Sea, there are three world-class golf courses.

Some of the Bulgarian rivers flow into the Black Sea. Their mouths are surrounded by dense, breezy, moisture-loving forests. A few of the rivers (the Ropotamo, Kamchia, and Veleka) are navigable for small motor boats and offer unforgettable trips for tourists. The unique dense forests of the rivers Batova, Kamchia, Ropotamo and Veleka are a haven for nature admirers. At the Southern Black Sea, visitors can enjoy the cool temeratures of Strandzha and the centuries-old traditions of the villages nestled in the mountain. Tourists can also enjoy the wonderful Black Sea lakes at Alepu, Arkutino, Atanasovsko, Beloslav, Burgas, Durankulak (where an eneolithic settlement mound dating to 4600 – 4200 years BC has been discovered, as well as a temple dedicated to the goddess Kibela), Ezeretsko, Pomorie, Shabla, Varna, the Balchik tuzla, the Nanevska tuzla, the Orlovo wetlands, and the Stomoplo wetlands. Numerous rare plants and animals can be seen in the lagoons and firths of these coastal lakes, and deposits of medicinal mud (firth mud) has been found at the Pomorie lake, Varna lake, Balchik Tuzla, Shabla, Rusalka and the Atanasovsko lake.

Along the coastline, there are also mineral springs, and the combination of these natural resources has led to the popularity of tourism that combines visits to spas, balneological centers, and wellness resorts with sea holidays.

Tourists also have the opportunity to visit the five Black Sea islands – St. Anastasia, St. Ivan (where the relics of St. John the Baptist were recently found), St. Peter, St. Kirik and Yulita, and St. Tomas.

The resorts located on the Black Sea are preeminently suited to family vacations as well as to individual holidays and entertainment. Albena, Rusalka, St. Konstantin and St. Helena, Riviera, Obzor, Elenite and Dyuni are some of the most preferred for families with children. Younger tourists prefer Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Primorsko, Kiten, and Lozenets, because of the many clubs and bars, and other entertainment options. Sunny Beach is the largest resort complex in the country, and it often hosts parties that include world- famous DJs and performers.

Sozopol and Nesebar (a UNESCO heritage site) are famous for their combination of beautiful coastal nature and historical landmarks. These two towns both have thousands of years of history, and attract a steady stream of summer tourists.

Excellent conditions for relaxation are offered in the resorts of Kranevo, Chayka, Sunny Day, St. Iliya, St. Vlas, Ravda, Pomorie, Chernomorets, Tsarevo, Ahtopol and Sinemorets.

The Bulgarian Black Sea resorts offer various accommodation options, from luxurious 4- or 5-star hotels to small romantic family hotels, all of which are up to global standards.

Some of the hotels at the Black Sea resorts work all year long, to host conventions and congresses and to conduct a variety of special events and promotions. Visitors to the Bulgarian Black Sea can enjoy many cultural events, such as the Kavarna Rock Fest, Varna Summer, Apolonia, Spirit of Burgas, the International Folklore Festival in Burgas, and demonstrations of fire dancing.

Exceptionally rich biodiversity, natural parks, unique natural landmarks, impressive caves and canyons, glacial lakes – it is difficult to describe how multi-faced and wonderful is Bulgaria’s nature. Here every admirer of beautiful views and the close touch of nature can find their paradise. Excellent conditions have been established for all kinds of ecologically friendly activities – hiking, mountain crossing, observation of birds, animals and plants, visiting of natural landmarks and many others. Basic and leading, however, is always the thought of preserving and protecting nature.

In terms of biodiversity, Bulgaria is on the second place in Europe. The plants are over 12,360 species, as 3,700 of them are higher species. 763 species have been included in the Red Book of Bulgaria. About 750 plants have been registered as medicinal, and 70% of them are economically valuable species, and the country exports about 15 thousand tones of herbs per year. The forest fund amounts to about 4.0 million hectares. This is about 36.85% of the country’s territory. From the leaf-fall broad-leaved forests the most wide spread are the oak and beech forests. The oak forests are spread in the territories with altitude of up to 1,000 meters, and the beech forests are mainly in the middle-mountain area of the country. Dense forests have developed at the lower currents of the rivers Batova, Kamchiya, Ropotamo and Veleka. The natural coniferous forests are spread in the territories of up to 2,200 meters above the sea level. They are the most largely spread in the Rhodope mountain. They mainly consist of spruce, fir and white pine. Black fir grows in the mountains Slavyanka and Pirin, and white fir grows in the Middle Balkan Mountain, the West Rhodope, the Middle Pirin, Rila and Vitosha.

27 thousand species representatives of the invertebrate fauna live in Bulgaria, and the vertebrates are represented by more than 750 species, 397 of which are birds, 207 freshwater and Black Sea fish species, 94 mammal species, 52 species of amphibians and reptiles. Seven zoo geographic regions are differentiated in the country. Four of them are included in the Mediterranean subarea, and three of them – in the Euro-Siberian subarea. The country is a home to European, Euro-Siberian and Mediterranean species, and in the regions of Mediterranean Sea climatic influence many relic species can be seen. The cave fauna in Bulgaria consists of more than 100 species. The Black Sea with its fish content is a subject to sport and industrial fishing.

Three national parks have been established in the country – Pirin (UNESCO), Rila, Central Balkan, and 11 natural parks – Belasitsa, Balgarka, Vratsa Balkan, Golden Sands, Persina, Rila Monastery, Rusenski Lom, Sinite Kamani, Strandzha and the Shumen Plateau. In order to preserve the biodiversity, 89 reserves have been established (17 were declared biosphere reserves according to the UNESCO program “Human and Biosphere” – Ali Botush, Bayuvi Dupki – Dzindzhiritsa, Bistrishko Branishte, Boatin, Chervenata Stena, Chuprene, Dzhendema, Dupkata, Kamchia, Kupena, Mantaritsa, Marichini Lakes, Uzunbodzhak, Parangalitsa, Srebarna, Steneto, Tsarichina) and 2,234 sites were declared natural landmarks. Two of the natural sites – Natural Park Pirin and Srebarna Reserve – have been included in the UNESCO List of the Global Natural Heritage.

The national park Pirin is a protected territory, established to preserve the unique landscape of the Pirin mountain. Within the borders of the park is located the oldest tree in the country – the Baykusheva Mura, which is as old as the country itself – more than 1,300 years old. The park is rich in unique eco systems and rare plant and animal species, a large part of which are included in the Red Book of Bulgaria.

The biosphere reserve Srebarna covers the lake Srebarna and the territories near it. It presents an exceptional diversity of plant and animal species, and it is one of the most interesting wetlands in Europe. One of the migration routes of migratory birds between North Europe and Central Africa passes through it – the so called Via Pontica. Another bird route is Via Aristotelis, which passes through the valley of Struma river.

Four of the reserves have been declared wetlands according to the Convention on Wetlands of National Importance (Ramsar Convention) – Arkutino, Atanasovsko Lake, Durankulak, Srebarna. 22 sites were signified by Birdlife International as important bird areas in Europe – the natural landmark Alepu swamp, Atanasovsko Lake reserve, Belene Island reserve, Burgas Lake, Cape Emine, Kaliakra reserve, natural landmark Durankulak, natural landmark Zaskoto, Nameless island in the Danube river near Nova, Cherna, Kamchia reserve, Malko Sharkovo dam, Mandrensko lake, Ovcharitsa dam, natural park Rusenski Lom, Shabla-Ezerets complex, Srebarna reserve, Steneto reserve, Valchi Dol reserve, Tsarichina reserve, Vardim island, natural landmark Yatata.

Hundreds of kilometers of marked eco paths have been created for accessing many of the hidden treasures of Bulgarian nature (Negovanska path – along the gorge of Negovanka river, village of Emen, Veliko Tarnovo; Tran eco path in close proximity to the gorge of Erma river, Western Bulgaria; Dryanovo eco path near the Dryanovo Monastery; the Vratsa eco path in the natural park Vratsa Balkan, etc.) with various relaxation installations – chalets, shelters, alcoves, benches, observation places, etc. Paths with total length of over 37,000 km have been marked in the mountains. Some of the international tourist routes pass through the country – the final section (Kom – Emine) of the European tourist route E-3, the European tourist route Е-4 – Vitosha – Verila – Rila – Pirin and the European tourist route E-8 – Rila – Rhodope.

Everyone who wishes to get to know nature and learn more about the rare plant and animal species can visit any of the Bulgarian protected territories or the visitor centers at them. The national and natural parks in the country not only provide access to wild nature, but they also provide special education programs. Visitor centers are organized in the localities around the parks. The Bulgarian Tourist Union, the Mountain Rescue Service and the Bulgarian Red Cross take care of the security and safety of tourists.