Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ropotamo Nature Reserve
This reserve was established in 1940 to protect fragile landscapes of extensive marshes
and the largest sand dunes in Bulgaria, as well as rare flora such as the endemic sand lily.
The reserve also protects some 257 species of birds, reptiles and mammals, including
white-tailed eagles, wild boars, jackals and 10 species of bat.
At several well-signposted places along the road between Burgas and Primorsko, visit-
ors can stop and admire some of the reserve, and wander along short
walking trails
where
explanations (in English) about the local flora, fauna and natural landscapes are provided.
The reserve also encompasses Thracian megaliths and tiny Sveti Toma Island, which hosts
Bulgaria's only wild cacti. (It's also known as Snake Island, after the indigenous water
snakes that live hereabouts.)
Where the main road between Sozopol and Primorsko crosses the Ropotamo River is
the major entrance to a stretch of
parkland
(admission free, parking 3 lv; dawn-dusk)
.
There are a couple of cafes and picnic spots, and some short
hiking trails
, but most visit-
ors come for a
boat ride
(40/70min trips per person 8/10 lv)
along the river. To get to the
parkland entrance by public transport, take any bus south of Sozopol, and get off at the
prominent, well-signposted bridge, found around 10km or 15 minutes beyond Sozopol.
Primorsko
0550 / POP 3700
Primorsko (meaning 'by the sea') is a busy resort 52km southeast of Burgas and popular
mainly with Bulgarian families. It's far less developed than resorts to the north, although
the two long, sandy beaches are attractive, with warm, shallow water.
The bus station is at the western end of town, from where it's around 1km along ul Treti
Mart into the centre. Most shops are along ul Cherno More, which heads southeast from
the central square. The popular South Beach is a short walk from here. The quieter North
Beach is several blocks to the north.
Sleeping
Hotel Prima Vera $$
HOTEL
