Visitors to Bulgaria have for many years enjoyed hot summers on the magnificent sandy beaches of the Black Sea. Today there are new oppurtunities to explore Bulgarian life beyond the resorts and, if you venture north from Albena along the coast and ino the countryside of Dobroudja, there’s much to be discovered. You’ll find a rich heritage and culture, a stuningly beautiful coastline and nature reserves of international importance.

Bulgaria has a proud, often turbulent, history – not surprising as here in the Southern Balkans is where Europe and Asia meet. In Dobroudja, Thracians and ancient Greeks prized the natural harbours; centuries of Byzantine and Turkish rule have left their mark; the first independent Bulgarian kingdoms thrived here and feelings of national identity have always been strong. So, there’s a fascinating heritage of historic places, archeological treasures, Christian and Muslim communities, a long established pattern of rural life and seafaring - and a colourful, living tradition of folksong and dance.

Combine this with deserted beaches, attractive fishing ports and old towns, villages in quiet countryside, friendly hospitality and good local food and wine, and you have the makings of an excellent holiday.

So, spend a few days exploring the coasr and countryside of Dobroudja. There’s plenty to see and to do here.
Find Byzantine fortresses, a Turkish monastery, an ancient Greek settlements. Look out for dolphins and the tuquoise bee-eater. Listen to the geese making their evening flight over reed-fringe lakes. Perhaps catch a glimpse of rare European jackal. Walk wild, rocky headlands for spectalular seascapes and multicoloured drifts of wild flowers besides cliff-top paths.

Enjoy the activity around busy markets and horbours, take part in the fun and colour of village fairs and festivals, and savour a traditional lunch as the guest of a local family.

You will find more detailed information in the Touris Offices in the resorts. In Balchik, Kavarna, Shabla and Dobrich the museums should have details of guided walks and tours provided by local people – often the best way to see wildlife on the reserves and find the remoter archaeological sites.

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                                                     For more information: aredi@dobrich.net

                                      Text: Gillian Binks  Photos: Assen Salkin, Pavel Simeonov,
                               Plamen Iliev, Stanimir Niagolov, Todor Dimov, Velichko Todorov