Bulgaria stands out with huge biological and natural diversity; each is a masterpiece and brilliant of its own.
You will find numerous interesting destinations within the 111,000 square kilometer and rectangular-shaped territory of Bulgaria, significantly concentrated nature destinations just within short traveling distances. The coast of Bulgaria sums up to about 380 kilometers. Within the country amazing spots to 550 therapeutic mineral springs, shelters valleys and high plateaus, 16 mountains exquisite of its own beauty, and a collection of over 2000 thrilling caves.
Flora and Fauna
Every corner is haven of diverse unique flora and fauna that has been preserved in their natural nooks. Over 12,000 species of Bulgarian Flora have been on its composition, almost 4000 of which belong to higher plants. Endangered species include Balkan violet, Rhodopean tulip, Rila primrose and Bulgarian blackberry. Forests wild fruits include raspberries, strawberries, mushrooms, blueberries and briars.
Fourteen percent (14%) of Europe’s animal species came from Bulgaria. Thirteen thousand (13,000) species including rare mammals thrived into the hunting grounds and reserves – deer, wild goats, quails, pelicans, stag and pheasants. Rila, Central Balkan and Pirin comprise the total 221,252.2 hectares of national park while 180,000 hectare of land belongs to nine national parks. On top of it are more than two thousand natural landmarks and territories and 16 wonderful reserves ideal for hobby and scientific tourism as well as photo-hunting.
The Sea
Along the Bulgarian coastline are beaches magnificently covered with golden sand. A number of which have been recipient to EU Blue flag for environmental excellence.
The Black Sea as the Greeks call it refers to a calm, soothing yet tempting sea. The bottom of the sea slopes quietly, perfect for swimming even for the little ones.
Water temperature ranges 17°C to 25°C during summer. Expect over 300 hours of sunshine in the months of July and August while about 240 hours in May and September. Be fascinated with Bulgarian Black Sea coast with its fishing towns and campsites, orchards and vineyards, rugged shores and even romantic peninsulas.
The Lakes
There are 280 glacial lakes in Bulgaria that are mostly situated at 2,200-2,400m altitude in the mountain zones of Pirin and Rila. Ledenika Lake, the highest lake surpasses this and can be found at an altitude of 2,715 meter.
Around October, ice covers up to two meter thick of the lake during and by summer obtain water from the melting snow of mountain peaks directly flowing into wild streams until the big rivers of Bulgaria like Mesta, Maritsa and Iskur.
Smolyan lakes make one of the best known groups of lakes in the Western Rhodopes area. The Orlovi Skali or the Eagle’s Rocks ascends in the area while the seven lakes are to be found amphitheatrically located in the vicinity.
The Rivers
Danube is the only navigable river of the 526 that exist in the country – the rivers starting from the mountains down to the Black Sea and the Aegean. However, you’ll find good opportunities for adventures like diving, para-gliding, canoeing, wild water rafting in the valleys of Mesta, Chepelarska, Vatcha, Struma and Iskar.
