Strandzha Nature Park

Unique natural wealth

Strandzha Nature Park is the largest protected area in Bulgaria, covering an impressive 1161 sq. km in the south-east of the country, on the border with Turkey. Located just an hour's drive from Sozopol, the park is a biosphere reserve of exceptional importance, preserving unique ecosystems formed at the crossroads between Europe and Asia.

Strandzha is home to the most extensive preserved oak forests in Europe and the last surviving forests of eastern beech and eastern hornbeam on the continent. Over 1700 species of plants are found here, including 64 species of Balkan endemites and 56 species included in the Red Book of Bulgaria.

Flora and fauna

Plant diversity
Strandzha is famous for its unique flora, including rare relict species that survived from the time before the Ice Age. Iconic plants are the Strandja periwinkle (Rhododendron ponticum), the Strandja rabies tree, the Caucasian primrose and the yew.

Animal world
The park is inhabited by:

• 66 mammal species, including wolf, jackal, otter, and wildcat
• 261 species of birds, including the black stork, the Lesser Spotted Eagle and the semi-white-fronted flycatcher
• 24 species of reptiles and 10 species of amphibians
• A rich variety of butterflies and other invertebrates

Cultural and historical heritage

Strandzha is not only a natural but also a cultural phenomenon. Ancient traditions are preserved here, including the unique custom of firecracker - dancing on embers, included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.

Archaeological sites:

• Thracian shrines and dolmens
• Medieval fortresses
• Ancient settlements

Authentic Strandja villages:

• Ivy
• Stoilovo
• Bulgarians — centre of fire-making
• Bones

Routes and eco-paths

Strandzha Nature Park offers numerous marked tourist routes and eco-paths of varying difficulty and duration:

Eco-trail “Silkosia”
The first declared reserve in Bulgaria (1933), with a route suitable for novice tourists.

Route “On the way of the sunrise”
Picturesque route from the village of Brodilovo to the mouth of the river Veleka.

Eco-trail “Marina Reka”
It passes through the reserve of the same name with centuries-old forests and leads to the Dokuzak waterfall.

Route to Mount Papia
The highest peak in the Bulgarian part of Strandzha (502 m), offering panoramic views.

Rivers and beaches

Strandzha is cut by picturesque rivers that flow into the Black Sea, forming unique estuaries and beaches:

Veleka River
The largest river in Strandzha, whose mouth at Sinemorets creates one of the most picturesque beaches on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast.

Ropotamo River
Known for its beautiful meanders and rich riverside vegetation, it offers the possibility of a boat trip.

How to visit from Sozopol

Strandzha Nature Park is easily accessible from Sozopol:

• By car — 40-60 minutes to the various entrance points of the park
• With organized excursions offered by Sozopol
• By combined transport to Primorsko or Tsarevo and then by local transport to the villages in Strandzha

Visitor Tips

• Best time to visit: May-June, when the Strandzha periwinkle blooms, and September-October for the beautiful autumn colors
• Wear suitable walking shoes and long-sleeved clothing
• Stock up on enough water and food for the transitions
• Use insect repellents during the warmer months
• Observe the rules of conduct in a protected territory

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Strandzha Nature Park offers a unique opportunity to combine a beach holiday in Sozopol with an adventure among the pristine nature and ancient culture of the mystical mountain. Our team in Sozopol will be happy to assist you in organizing your trip to this remarkable corner of Bulgaria.

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