About the region

St. Ivan Island - a place full of mysticism, history and natural beauty.

Not far from the coast of Sozopol, towering over the blue expanse, is the largest Bulgarian island in the Black Sea - "St. Ivan". It is not just a piece of land surrounded by water - it is a legend, a sanctuary, a time capsule.

The island hides the remains of an ancient monastery associated with one of the most significant discoveries in Bulgarian archaeology - the relics of St. John the Baptist. The stone ruins, quiet paths and views of the horizon tell stories from Thracian times to Christian pilgrimages.

Ancient Sozopol – magic that does not grow old
Established more than 2,600 years ago under the name Apollonia, Sozopol is the oldest town on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast – and one of the most charming. Located on a small peninsula embraced by the sea and history, the Ancient Town fascinates with cobblestone streets, stone houses with wooden bay windows and an authentic atmosphere that can hardly be described – it is simply felt.
Here, every wall tells a story, every courtyard hides a secret. Ancient ruins, ancient temples and art galleries coexist with cozy restaurants, modern cafes and breathtaking views. Sozopol is not just visited – you fall in love with it.
Sozopol today – culture, art and spirit
The city is a cultural center with a rich program of events - the most famous of which is the Apollonia festival. In the summer, Sozopol becomes a stage for music, theater and art under the open sky. And all year round it offers coziness, authenticity and marine inspiration.
The ancient Sozopol is a perfect example about how the past and the future can exist in harmony. Whether you're looking for history, inspiration or just a quiet place overlooking the sea – you'll find it here.

Ropotamo Reserve – The Wild Magic of the Southern Black Sea Coast

Ropotamo is one of the most beautiful and mystical natural landmarks in Bulgaria. Located near Primorsko, this river and the surrounding reserve combine lush nature, rare plant and animal species and unique natural phenomena.

Part of the Ropotamo river is navigable – boat trips are offered.

Arkutino – the wild embrace of the sea and lilies
Somewhere between the sky and the sand, where time forgets to flow, there is the Arkutino Nature Reserve – one of the most magical and pristine places on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Just a few kilometers south of Sozopol, this small paradise combines sand dunes, a swamp with water lilies, dense forests and a vast expanse of the sea.
Arkutino is not just a reserve – it is a living organism in which every plant, every bird and every wave has its place and meaning. Here you can meet rare species of orchids, turtles, plovers and colorful butterflies, and the sight of blossoming white lilies that are reflected in the water is an experience that remains forever.
Touching pure nature
Arkutino is one of the few places where one can feel truly connected to nature – without dynamics, without noise, only with the breath of the sea air and the song of the birds. The area is part of the Ropotamo Nature Park and is a protected area that has preserved its wild beauty in spite of the weather, despite modernization. It is a place for inspiration, for silence, for rest of the soul.

Beglik Tash – The Thracian Sanctuary of Mysticism and the Sun

Beglik Tash is one of the most mysterious and impressive archaeological discoveries on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Located on the high cliffs near Primorsko, this ancient Thracian sanctuary combines natural beauty with mystical heritage, attracting lovers of history, nature and spirituality.

Where is it located: About 5 km north of the town of Primorsko, in the Ropotamo Nature Reserve.
Access: Asphalt road with the last section, suitable for hiking or by car to the parking lot.

It is believed that the sanctuary dates back to the XIV – XIII centuries BC. Hr.
It was used by the ancient Thracians, who worshipped the cult of the Sun, Mother Earth and fertility.