Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Black Sea Beaches
It isn't hard to see why so many foreign - and Bulgarian - holidaymakers descend on the
Black Sea coastline each summer. The long, professionally maintained sandy beaches at
the big resorts are the equal of some of the most popular Mediterranean destinations, and,
if you just want to relax, top up your tan or try out some water sports, there's nowhere bet-
ter. Away from the parasols and jet skis you'll find smaller, more traditional seaside towns
ideal for young families, as well as ancient settlements with cobbled lanes, quaint wooden
houses and long, fascinating histories. Even the coast's two big cities, Varna and Burgas,
have attractive beaches within minutes of their busy urban hearts.
Churches & Icons
Bulgaria has a long tradition of religious art, and wherever you go, you can't fail to notice
the beautiful, timeless icons appearing in museums and, of course, countless churches and
monasteries. The luminous images of saints are at their most evocative and powerful in-
side candlelit Orthodox churches, often set into a gilded wooden screen known as an
iconostasis. Engaging religious murals were created in the 19th century and adorn the
walls of Bulgaria's most important monasteries. Older churches built during the Ottoman
occupation can be identified by their sunken and deliberately unobtrusive appearance.
Mountains & Forests
With no fewer than seven diverse mountain ranges criss-crossing the country, Bulgaria is
a true haven for hikers, mountaineers and anyone interested in wildlife and the great out-
doors. An extensive system of hiking trails and huts makes it easy for walkers to enjoy the
country's rich and varied landscapes. Unspoiled alpine forests, lakes, waterfalls and bub-
bling streams are all there to explore; bears, lynx and wolves still roam and activities from
skiing and snowshoeing to caving and kayaking are all available.
Ancient Ruins
With such a long and tumultuous history, it's hardly surprising to find that Bulgaria still
harbours impressive stony reminders of the ancient peoples and civilisations that have ris-
en, fallen, conquered and passed through this land. The fearsome Thracians left their mark
across the southern and central areas of Bulgaria, and the tombs of some of their kings and
nobility can still be seen today. Signs of 2500-year-old Greek and Hellenistic colonisation
