Ropotamo Reserve

Natural wealth near Sozopol

Only 20 kilometers south of Sozopol is located one of the most picturesque nature reserves on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast - “Ropotamo”. The heart of the reserve is the river of the same name, which meanders picturesquely among centuries-old forests, sand dunes and swamps before flowing into the Black Sea.

The name “Ropotamo” comes from Greek and means “border river”, since in ancient times it served as a natural border between the territories of Sozopol (Apollonia) and Thrace.

A unique ecosystem

The Ropotamo Reserve covers an area of 1000 hectares and is home to extremely rich biodiversity:

Flora:

• Over 600 species of higher plants
• Rare Water Lilies and Yellow Water Roses
• Centuries-old longhouse forests with lianas
• Protected plant species such as the sand lily and the sea wormwood

Fauna:

• 257 bird species, including herons, cormorants and sea eagles
• 50 species of mammals
• A variety of reptiles and amphibians
• Rich underwater world at the mouth of the river

Sights in the reserve

The Lion's Head
A rock formation resembling a lion's head, which rises above the river and is a symbol of the reserve.

Snake Island
A small rocky island near the mouth of the river, so named because of the numerous harmless water snakes that inhabit it.

The Sand Dunes
Impressive dunes, reaching heights of up to 20 meters, formed by the wind over the millennia.

The mouth of the river
The place where Ropotamo flows into the Black Sea, creating a unique biotope where fresh and salt water meet.

Arkutino Swamp
Protected area with rich aquatic vegetation and numerous birds.

How to visit Ropotamo

Boat trip
The most popular and recommended way to get to know the beauty of Ropotamo is with an organized boat trip. Boats leave from the port of the river, near the bridge of the main road Burgas-Primorsko.

Details about the boats:

• Opening hours: from 9:00 to 19:00 (May-September)
• Duration of the walk: about 45 minutes
• Price: 15 BGN for adults, 8 BGN for children
• Boats leave when gathering a group of 10-12 people

Walking routes
For lovers of hiking, there are several marked eco-paths:

• Lion's Head Route (1.5 km)
• Sand Dunes Route (2.5 km)
• Ropotamo Estuary Route (3 km)

Practical advice

Best time to visit:

• May-June: when the vegetation is most lush
• September: fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures
• Early morning: best time for bird watching

What to wear:

• Sunscreen and hat
• Water and snack
• Binoculars for bird watching
• A camera for unforgettable views
• Mosquito repellent (especially at sunset)

How to get from Sozopol

By car:

• 20-25 minutes on the main road E87 in the direction of Primorsko
• There is a designated turn-off and parking at the bridge over the river

With organized transport:

• Daily excursions organized by Sozopol
• Buses on the line Sozopol-Primorsko with the possibility of getting off at the bridge of Ropotamo

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Ropotamo Reserve offers a unique opportunity to diversify your seaside holiday by touching one of the most beautiful and preserved natural areas on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Our team in Sozopol will be happy to assist you in organizing your visit to this magical place.

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