BLACK SEASIDE




IV. BLACK SEASIDE

BLACK SEA
The Black sea is an unique area. It is almost isolated from the worlds oceans by 2 narrow channels: the Bosporus and the Dardanelles. The salt concentration in the water is 18/1000, which is 2 times less than concentration in other seas and oceans, making the waters very pleasant to swim in. Eighty – 100 meters below the sea surface water contents SH2. Only anaerobic forms live in these sea depths. Industrial fishing in the sea finished in the end of sixties of the last century – citizen of the countries surrounding Black sea ate all the fish in the sea.		The best period for touring the coastline is between June and August, although September and a parts of October offer good touring, too. Water temperatures June thru August often are 25 – 27 deg. above freezing. Typically, anywhere along the Black Sea coastline, it is windy, especially in its northern segment, with prevailing winds are from the northeast. Interesting information for the Black sea can be seen here: https://www.britannica.com/place/Black-Sea http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Black_Sea

The Black Sea coastline used to be a beautiful area. In the last 2 decades many new resorts and hotels have been built along the shoreline. The shoreline is now covered with concrete, resorts, and overcrowded with tourists, especially July and August. The traffic on the road from Romanian border south to		Ahtopol is terrible in the tourist season. There are many narrow roads, drivers drive madly, and often multiple car accidents happen. The road between Varna and Burgas is signed as forbidden for bicycling. Although if you decide to tour there, nobody will stop you to do it.

Black Sea Coastline

I do not recommend touring the coastline. But (myself included), many bicyclists exploring this area. So I will describe a route beginning at the Romanian border to Durankulak, to the southernmost point of the Bulgarian coastline sector to Rezovo.

Everywhere there are hotels, resorts and private guest houses available. Finding overnight accommodations is not a problem. That said, the description below is intended to serve bicyclists loving to camp in the wilderness.

The first my advice is:

1) ALWAYS BRING AND DRINK ONLY BOTTLED MINERAL WATER;

2) Carry mosquitoe repellent;

3) IT IS FORBIDDEN to set upset your tent on the beach or on sand dunes. DON'T DO IT!

In Bulgaria, most shops carry large bottles (1,5 litters) of mineral water. Bottled water is very cheap. For beer lovers the situation will be even much, much better.

When camping in the wild, often around first summer darkness (usually 9 – 10 PM), jackals can be heard howling. Do not be afraid, they are not dangerous.

Be aware that there will not be a border checkpoint in Rezovo !!! Coming from Turkey, you can enter Bulgaria at the border checkpoint at Malko Tarnovo (E87). I will give routes from Malko Tarnovo to north in the end of this Chapter.

To make places of interest and route descriptions easier, I will divide the coastline into five sectors, and give more details for each of the sectors.


	Content

Sector IV - A From Romanian Border to Topola 1. Durankulak 2. Krapets 3. Shabla 4. Kamen Bryag 5. Kaliakra Cape 6. Kavarna Sector IV - B From Topola to Varna 7. Tuzlata 8. Balchik 9. Balchik - Albena 10. The lighthouse next to Kranevo 11. Towards Varna	Sector IV - C From Varna to Emine Cape 12. Kamchia River 13. Shkorpilovtsi 14. Kara dere 15. Obzor 16. Irakli 17. Emona Sector IV - D From Emine Cape to Burgas 18. Emona - Nesebar 19. Nesebar 20. Aheloi 21. Sarafovo	Sector IV - E From Burgas to Rezovo 22. Sozopol 23. Arkutino 24. Primorsko - Ropotamo River 25. Kiten 26. Tsarevo 27. Ahtopol 28. Sinemorets and Veleka River Mouth 29. Rezovo 30. Entering in Bulgaria from Turkey (Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo)


Sector IV. A From Romanian Border to Topola Content 1. Durankulak 2. Krapets 3. Shabla 4. Kamen Bryag 5. Kaliakra Cape 6. Kavarna The shore line here is still not covered with concrete. Here are several of the best beaches as well, so, I recommend to bicyclists to explore the area I describe further. E87 is the road coming from Romania: several kilometers south from Mangalia (in Romania). The Bulgarian border can be crossed at the border checkpoint at Durankulak. You can head toward Kavarna along E87, but my suggestion is in Shabla, head east and reach the seaside (toward Tulenovo and Kamen Bryag - road 901). This road has minimal traffic, there is the scenic place at Kamen Bryag (The Cliff).

Crossing of the Bulgaria/Romanian border can be done at the border checkpoint at Iovkovo, as well, it is not shown on the map above; More information concerning the same area can be seen in:

Chapter III. Crossing Bulgaria from north to south (from Romania to Turkey & Greece),

B. North - East Region

Point 8. Negru Voda – Kardam (Border Checkpoint Iovkovo)

1. Durankulak

The first village on road E87 south from Romania/BG border is Durankulak. Here a local road is available to the seaside (3 - 4 km to east). Near the beach is located Camping Cosmos and a little restaurant. North and south from this point there are beautiful sandy beaches. I love this place.

Behind the beach can be found a big lake, with a very low salt content, and is a home to many species of birds, and mosquitoes as well. This lake is on the route of migrating birds between Africa and northern Europe, so it is one of favourite places of the ornithologists. The entire zone is a protected area.

For your information, there is an off-road between the sea and Durankulak Lake, south from Camping Cosmos, but this off-road does not go to the next village Krapets.

Information for Durankulak and the Lake can be found here:

http://shabla.be/en/pictures/durankulak/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durankulak

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durankulak#Lake_Durankulak

All that I have mentioned above can be recognized easy looking next photos. The first several ones are the road toward Camping Cosmos.

2. Krapets & Ezerets

Pedaling south, the next village is Karpets located 4 - 5 km east from the main road E87. Again all the coastal seaside area is wild and perfect for camping - I point out the area with the green arrows on the map. No fresh water and food near the beach. In the village everything can be found.

Information for Krapets:

https://krapets.com/en/

For information for overnight accommodation in Krapets:

http://www.krapets.com/hotel.html

Leaving Durankulak, you will pedal along a road with light traffic. Here you will see the first signs forbidding pedaling on this road, but as I have already mentioned, nobody will stop you. On your left is the lake of Durankulak, look the next site - interesting information about archaeology in the region of the lake is available in it:

http://shabla.be/en/pictures/durankulak-lake/

Krapets is a little village, it is still not a popular tourist destination which makes it a favorite spot for wilderness lovers. Krapets has overnight accommodations. There is camping 2 kilometers north from Krapets.

Restaurants and food shops are available in it. Information for Krapets, too: http://www.krapets.com/

An useful information for overnight accommodation in Krapets: http://www.krapets.com/hotel.html


Krapets is its beautiful beach to enjoy. In fact you can walk to Durankulak along the beach. (REMEMBER: DO NOT SET UP YOUR TENTS ON THE BEACH !)

An approach to the same beach is possible from the next small villages Ezerets. Just before entering in it you will see a workshop where you can repair your flat tires. (the first photo below).

A food shop is available in the village as well as overnight accommodation in a small guest houses. Follow the signs in the village and an off road will lead you to the seaside. Its nice to spent a night there.

Soon you will be on the beach - again beautiful spot, you will se there no more than 50 tourists. I am surprised to see that Google map shows camping on the beach, but I have never seen such a camping.

You can find a little restaurant on the beach and you can set up your tent in the forest behind the beach.

Bring water with you. Buy it in Ezerets. There is not a water tap anywhere and in the little restaurant on the beach sell bottles of mineral water at very expensive prices.

To avoid the traffic along road N9 (E87), and reach the sea shore, in the town center you have to head to east (if my memory serves the direction is signed) along the local road N 901.

Just after leaving town you will see a sign showing directions toward Shabla Lake (Camping Dobrudzha) or Shabla Cape, road N 90103. Several next photos illustrate it as well as beaches you will be there soon.

You can miss the visit of Shabla beach and head toward Shabla Cape, which is the east most point of Bulgaria. Years ago this region was a field for mineral oil.

No more oil there, but some of the pumps are still working, pumping thermal water smelting of oil, I do not know why.

There are located the light house of the Shabla Cape and Karia - a little fisher's village. Overnight accommodation food shop and restaurants are available in it.

I have heard they prepare very nice fish dishes in Karia. Some information for all that.

http://shabla.be/en/sightseeings/cape-shabla/

In the center of this small village there is something like a bath - a huge flow of thermal water spout out from two tubes. The water is beautiful, although it is smells of oil.

Never mind, I always use this nice opportunity visiting this area. The next few photos illustrate why I enjoy this place.

Heading toward Tyulenovo to the south, two to three kilometers south from the lighthouse I always spend a night camped on the shore. Make sure you bring your own

food and water here. The last time I visited this place there was a sign saying that camping here is forbidden. But nobody take care for such a signs here.

The first small village you will pass by pedaling to south here is Tyulenovo, there is a food shop in Tulenovo.

Some information and photos for Tulenovo:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyulenovo

http://tyulenovo.info/en/

4. Kamen Bryag

Pedalling further to the south, the shore ascends gradually. The next amazing place is Kamen Bryag (The Cliff). Information for Kamen Bryag:

http://kamenbryag.info/en/

Google Map is enough detailed and shows restaurants and places for overnight accommodation in it. The writing "Ogancheto" on the map in left signs a natural spring of gas which is flaming permanently - the young love to sit near the fire singing and drinking all the night.

My choice here is always to spend a night camping on the cliff, located just before entering Kamen Bryag (when you are coming from North). Take the off-road to the left, where soon you will be on the cliff. In Kamen Bryag, there are little shops, restaurants, and rooms to rent. But, nothing compares with a night on the cliff just above the sea.

The "Area for wild camp" I have pointed on the map above is a saved zone called "Yailata". If you camp here, it is possible police will come by and ask

for your documents, but nobody will stop you from spend a night there.

http://kamenbryag.info/en/yailata-2/

5. Balgarevo & Kaliakra Cape

Our tour is going south. The next village along the road is St. Nikola, a restaurant is available near the road.

From the village you can head to east and visit a little scenic resort called Rusalka. Years ago it was a French resort, Bulgarians were not allowed in it.

I have never visited it, next 3 photos illustrate it.

Some information for Rusalka Resort:

https://www.beachbulgaria.com/rusalka/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rusalka,_Bulgaria

The next village towards Kaliakra Cape is Balgarevo. A nice restaurant and other food shops can be

found entering in Balgarevo.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balgarevo

Leaving Balgarevo toward Kaliakra in left you will see a sign mentioning a small private interesting museum. July '18 I spend hours speaking about Bulgarian history with the owner of the museum (the history is something like my hobby).

You will hear a lecture in English, German, French or Romanian walking in the museum. Information for the little museum is available here:

http://followthesisters.com/ongal-super-cool-interactive

-history-lesson/


	One more place I have pointed on the map above is not a big scenic spot called "Bolata" (the left photo). It is very small beach often overcrowded by tourists. I still did not visit it. Kaliakra Cape is one of the best places along the seaside. A walk behind the fortress wall would be very nice. Information for Kaliakra Cape: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaliakra https://bulgariatravel.org/kaliakra-archaeological-reserve/

The place played an important role in our mediaeval history. A little museum and a small restaurant are available on the cape.

Presently, there is not access down to the sea; the stair down the sea was destroyed after an earthquake. Up to the time of the mid '60s, this area was a seal habitat.

Sector IV. B

From Topola to Varna

Content

7. Tuzlata

8. Balchik

9. Balchik - Albena

10. The lighthouse next to Kranevo

11. Towards Varna

The next road segment along the seaside is from Topola to Varna.

All the area south, from Balchik to Varna, is a built up resort area: Albena Resort, Golden Sand Resort, and Konstantin & Elena Resort. The area is overcrowded with tourists and traffic.

Following my description, this traffic may be avoided to a big extent.

7. Tuzlata
To avoid the traffic, at Topola, turn to the left towards Tuzlata, a neglected former small resort. A little restaurant can be found there, as well as a fountain of		fresh water which is not easy to find. You will have to ask natives about its location. the best here is that the tent can be set up on the beach.

On the map in left I have shown two approaches to Tuzlata: from Topola and from Balchik.

Soon after you head toward Topola, you will enjoy of a great view down to the sea, Kaliakra Cape to North and Albena Resort to South.

Down the sea you will see as well a new built hotels, golf & beach resort, I have never visited it, and I have not any intention to do it.

The beach nothing to get excited about. But because the place is wild, I love to camp here for a night. This place is known for a lake and the magic mud around and in it.

Since ancient Roman times people spread this mud over injured bones and joints, believing it will release their

pain. So, if you love wallowing in the mud, this is your place.

A restaurant and taps of water are available in Tuzlata. Some information for Tuzlata:

https://experience.bg/balchik-tuzla

The last I will mention here is when pedal down the hill after Topola, you will see a sign towards a spot called "White Lagoon". It appears to be a rather scenic

place, but, it is my suggestion to avoid it. I will mention here without any pleasure, that the owners of the place are great red necks.

8. Balchik

Five kms south from Tuzlata is Balchik. It is a small city located in tiers above the sea. It is a touristy place. Rooms for the night are easily found, along with

more luxury hotels. I love to stay here for a day or two. Information for Balchik:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balchik

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/NE/dobrich/balchik/balchik

In the town there is a small residence of the Romanian queen with a lovely botanical garden. The area was under Romanian control in the period 1918 – 1938.

Information for this spot:

https://bulgariatravel.org/architectural-park-

complex-the-palace-balchik/

I like this garden and can not avoid to post more pictures :)

Albena Resort is a beautiful place: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albena https://bulgariatravel.org/albena/ There is an endless beach (south towards Kranevo) and the beach sand maybe is the finest all over beaches along BG Black seaside. There are fountains and showers on the beach, you can wash your equipment. Because of the lack of facilities I stay here for an afternoon, and then move on. Here, I love to walk along the beach. The entrance road into the Albena Resort has no exit. So, you will have to leave the resort the same way you came in. Pedal to the roundabout, then pedal on the main road towards Kranevo (E87). Be careful riding this segment because there is heavy car and bus traffic. The road cannot be avoided, fortunately it is only 3 km long to the crossroad toward Varna. In Kranevo, the beach can be visited as well. It is the same beach I mentioned above. Along the lane towards the beach there are a lot of restaurants and shops. Next several photos are taken in the beautiful 10th of October '23, when the water&air temperature was 22C. Empty Resort and empty beaches out of season.


Albena and the road from Albena toward Kranevo. Overnight accommodation in Kranevo is not a problem. https://bulgariatravel.org/kranevo/ Next photos are the road toward Kranevo.


	11. Towards Varna There is not intensive traffic on this local road segment. I hope the next detailed maps will be useful to you. Do not use the lane which is right next to the beach. In the end, you will reach a stairs up to the road ... many stairs.
	Reaching Point B, you will see signs directing traffic out of the resort. Do not pay attention to it and enter in the resort, it is the way to avoid the traffic. If my memory serves me, signs are just before the first street light crossroad.
	Entering in the resort you will pedal in an area without traffic, you may go down to the beach; at point C you will leave the resort. A little further (Chaika Resort) you will see the reason the road is closed. For more than 20 years nobody has repair the road. But is perfect for bicyclists.
	Pedalling along this road, you will reach the motor road (E 87). If you pedal in the opposite direction, follow the sign toward Golden Sands Resort - the closed is not signed here (the next photo is just at Point E).

Pedalling along the panorama road E 87 (9) you will reach the City.

Approaching Varna, on your right is the Sea Garden (the green area on the map above). It would be very nice, if you pay attention on the circle crossroad (point F) along your route - in fact it is the first one

you will see coming from point E, and turn left - the photo below); you can pedal further along a lane next to the sea shore, or along lanes in the Sea Garden almost to Varna Port.

If you are pedalling from south to north, move next to the Line Station and you easy will reach the sea shore and the lane next to the sore respectively. The next several photos are the lane next to the shore.

Varna is a nice town, we call it “the Sea Capital” of Bulgaria. Below are several photos of Varna; the City, its walking zone, the Cathedral, the City Garden, and the Sea Garden.

In Internet there is a lot of information for Varna, here are the 2 best sites I like:

https://bulgariatravel.org/city-of-varna/

https://www.britannica.com/place/Varna-Bulgaria

Several years ago on the region of Varna was found a burial, with some of the world's oldest gold jewellery, dating back to 4,600 - 4,200 BC.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_Necropolis

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/varna-bulgaria-gold-graves-social-hierarchy-prehistoric-archaelogy-smithsonian-journeys-travel-quarterly-180958733

The artefacts can be seen at the Varna Archaeological Museum.

http://archaeo.museumvarna.com/en/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varna_Archaeological_Museum


		Eighteen kms west from Varna along the road N2 there is an interesting place called the “Petrified forest”. https://visit.varna.bg/en/stone_forest_2.html In fact the rock are not petrified trees, they are formed by gas springs in the sand below the sea water.

The next sector in my description is the route from Varna to Burgas, on the left map down I have shown 2 routes:

route a - along the coast, and route b - inside the country.

Route a:

I have mentioned and I will say it here again, that in the tourist season E87 is extremely busy in the tourist season: 10th of July to 10th of September. The traffic here is crazy, a lot of cars and busses are driving madly. There are several extremely unpleasant narrow road segment, I really am afraid to pedal there; there are several signs pointing that pedaling here is forbidden. But many times I have seen bicyclists exploring this area, so further I will give information for it.

So, my suggestion is to avoid it, especially it will be dangerous for a group. Needless to say, that it is very noisy, and there is not any pleasure to pedal here at all.

Route b:

This route would be much better choice for you. In the right map I have pointed where you can visit some places at the seaside: Shkorpilovtsi, Obzor, Sunny Beach Resort, Nesebar, Pomorie. Along this route there is no any traffic, you will enjoy a nice countryside.

An additional and very detail information for the passes in the east part of Balkan can be found out in:

Chapter I. Passes in Balkan , Sector I. C

- Point 15. Aytoski Pass, Sector I. C - 15. a;

- Point 16. Dyulinski Pass

Sector IV. C

Route a

From Varna to Emona and Emine Cape

Content

12. Kamchia River & Kamchia Resort;

13. Shkorpilovtsi;

14. Kara Dere and Byala;

15. Obzor;

16. Irakli;

17. Emona.

Again, describing this road segment, I will try to avoid the main road E87 as much as possible.

Even though the road is next to the sea, it is not a flat plains area. There are several hills no longer than 3 – 4 km.

Again I will say, a very detail information concerning the east part of Balkan (Aytoski, Dyulinski and Pomoriiski Passes) can be seen in:

Chapter I. Passes in Balkan , Sector I. C :

- Point 15. Aytoski Pass, Sector I. C - 15. a;

- Point 16. Dyulinski Pass;

- Point 17. Pomoriiski Pass.

12. Kamchia River mouth

Just after Varna (when you cross the huge bridge over the channel connecting the sea and the Lake of Varna) locate the old road (road N9) towards Burgas. Road N9 is to left just after the huge bridge over Varna port channel; look for a sign towards Asparuhovo Suburb.

Choosing to climb along road N9, you will do it on a shady road.

Several words for the Lake of Varna can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Varna

The road profile charts from Varna to Bliznatsi.

The bridge over the Channel

Using the bridge is not a pleasure at all because of the traffic. After it is Asparuhovo suburb. Unfortunately, just after it there is 5 – 6 kilometers of climbing.

If you are climbing in the morning before 10:00 am, or in the afternoon after 4:00 pm, you will enjoy of shade. The place is woody.

The next road section (you will be on the main road E87 again) is narrow and dangerous, and it cannot be avoided if you intend to visit Kamchia. Next photos were taken in the end of May 2020, not a time of tourist season.

Photos illustrate the intensive traffic here. I think for a single cyclist the road is not dangerous. But, the road is not appropriate for group pedaling. Pedal as close to the path edge as possible. Food, water, and drinks can be found in Priseltsi.

13. Shkorpilovtsi

Well, we will go further toward Staro Oryahovo along road E 89.

From the red bridge to Staro Oriahovo again bicycling is along the main road E87. Be warned that there can be really heavy traffic, which can not be avoided.

Further towards Rudnik you will be pedaling again along E87. After Staro Oriahovo, the road is wider and not so dangerous, but I think it would be better to turn left towards Shkorpilovtsi.

Because of the rocks in the surf, and the action of the waves along the beach, it is not safe to enter the waters just in front of Shkorpilovtsi, although it looks as a perfect beach. I have seen badly injured swimmers here. A kilometer to north from Shkorpilovtsi it is safe because there are no more rocks in the surf.

Little restaurants and food shops, along with rooms can be found in Shkorpilovtsi, but in general, I pedal past this area. information for Shkorpilovtsi:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/shkorpilovtsi/

The road profile chart from Bliznatsi to Byala. There are two hills here, each 4 kms long, just after Staro Oryahovo and after Fandakliiska Rivet toward Goritsa. Both are in a woody area, there are a lot of flies especially along the second hill. Adding that to the crazy traffic, the climbing here is not pleasure at all.


As I have mentioned above, the traffic here is very intensive and you have to be very careful.

A restaurant is available next to the bridge over Kamchia River, but my suggestion is to visit the restaurant in Staro Oryahovo just on the crossroad

toward Dolni Chiflik, meals there are really delicious, never mind the unseemly appearance of the restaurant.


The next photos are the road toward Novo Oryahovo and Shkorpilovtsi. Very nice fresh fruits are available in Novo Oryahovo.

Little restaurants and food shops, along with rooms can be found in Shkorpilovtsi, but in general, I pedal past this area, although I spent very nice afternoon in

the sunny and hot September 2020 having our type of "Margarita" (Daisy) - Mentha, Sprite and cubes of ice, all that in a big cup . . . extremely refreshing !!!

Because of the rocks in the surf, and the action of the waves along the beach, it is not safe to enter the waters in front of Shkorpilovtsi. I have seen badly injured swimmers here.

A kilometer to north from Shkorpilovtsi it is safe because there are no more rocks in the surf.

Next three photos are the endless beach between Shkorpilovtsi and Kamchia River Mouth.

14. Kara Dere and Byala

Have in mind, that all this area is a woody place and there are too many flies. Make sure you have a bug net/hat to wear because of the flies.

One of the safe spots in this area is so called "Kara Dere", east of Goritsa. An off-road begins from the village down to a 4-5 kilometer long beautiful beach. July and August many young people camping in the wilderness there. You will need to bring your own food and drinking water for your stay on the beach. Next are the possibilities to reach Kara Dere from Skorpilovtsi. Pedal back to Staro Oryahovo, to Rudnik, to Goritsa, and down to the beach (Kara Dere). Another possible routes here are:

- Route a: Is an off road from Shkorpilovtsi to Kara Dere: Many years ago I tried to find this road, but in the end I lost in the wood an had to pedal back to Shkorpilovtsi. The road is not labeled, it is in the wood, there is not any visibility. It is easy to lose the road.

- Route b: Again it is an off road from Shkorpilovtsi to Samotino to Goritsa and down to Kara Dere. Have in mind that Samotino is an abandoned.

- Route c: An off road west from Shkorpilovtsi along Fandakliiska River back to the road E 87. Google map does not show this road, but it is not a problem to find it. I pedaled it.

Again I post here the road profile chart from Bliznatsi to Byala. There are 2 hills between Staro Oryahovo and Byala. The road here is wider and safer comparing with the previous item. Next several photos illustrate this road segment.

From Goritsa you have to turn left down toward Kara Dere. Some information for Kara Dere:

http://bgbeaches.com/en/Karadere

Several photos of this spot. I love to spend a day here. Bring your own food and water as there are not shops, restaurants, or fresh water on the beach.

To return to the main road E87 (from Kara Dere), pedal to south through the vineyard, there is an off-road towards Byala (the first photo above), or you can return to Goritsa.

Pedalling towards Byala, (from Kara Dere) after

approx 1,5 to 2 km, there is a perfect fountain of fresh water (one of the not so many water fountain along the seaside I would drink water), but it can be a little hard to find as it cannot be seen directly from the dirty road. It is placed in a low place, which I have pointed out on the map.

Route b

From Skorpilovtsi to Samotino to Goritsa

All the route is off road, I think it would be not nice to explore it if it is raining. Unfortunately in Shkorpilovtsi there is not any sign for the road, so you have to rely on GPS. So many flies I have never seen anywhere.

After Samotino you will see signs you are along a velo lane up to Goritsa. I am not sure if somebody pedal this velo lane. Just before to enter in Goritsa there is a nice spring of fresh water.

Next little town is Byala. I do not love this place and usually pass it by. Information for Byala:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byala,_Varna_Province https://bulgariatravel.org/tourism-types/sea-tourism/

Route c

In the end, several words concerning the off road west from Shkorpilovtsi along Fandakliiska River back to the road E 87. It is a little hard to find it, I think a

GPS device would be useful while leave Shkorpilovtsi in west direction. All the time keep biking next to the power transmission line. the route would be not nice in a humid and raining days.

15. Obzor

The road from Byala to Obzor to Banya to Sunny Beach is one of the terrible segments of E87. The traffic is bad and the road is narrow. Here are 2 passes crossing the Balkans: Obzorski Pass and Pomoriiski Pass. The first one cannot be avoided, but the second (Pomoriiski Pass) is possible to avoid and I recommend avoiding it (look the next point; see also Chapter I. Passes in Balkan Sector I. C, point 17. Pomoriiski Pass.

Sorry, but again you have to use road E87. As you are leaving Byala, a perfect view is revealed ahead.

In Obzor, right at the first street lights, there is an open market and a water fountain. At the water fountain is a perfect place to wash equipment. Turning left at the street light find a very nice beach where equipment can be dried, while you are cooling yourself and enjoying the sea waves.

We love this place and almost each summer spend 10 - 12 days relaxing here. Here you can find a variety of overnight accommodations; including a very inexpensive room in private homes and a luxury hotels. For some, the beach is perfect.

Information for Obzor:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/obzor/

https://bulgariatravel.org/obzor/

The road from Obzor toward Burgas E87 has very heavy traffic and the road is narrow. Just after Obzor you will find Obzorski Pass (not so high) crossing the Balkans. It cannot be avoided.

Below you will see the road profile chart.


E 87 from Byala toward Obzor. As you are leaving Byala, a perfect view is revealed ahead.

We love this place and almost each summer spend 10 - 12 days relaxing here. Here you can find a variety of overnight accommodation including a very inexpensive room in private homes and a luxury hotels. For some, the beach is perfect.



And an hour of strong summer storm - middle of June '22.

Leaving Obzor, you have to climb Obzorski Pass. The pass not difficult to climb. But, the road is narrow, the traffic intensive.

Although it is not obvious from the next several photos pedaling here is a bit of a challenge. I took photos in the end of May. It is still not the tourist season here.




16. Irakli Although next to the beach, Irakli also is a desert area. Here you can find a small shop and fresh water. If I remember correctly, there is camping here, although, camping on the beach is not possible now. Some information for Irakli: http://visit.guide-bulgaria.com/a/1274/plaj_irakli.htm
Just after Obzorski Pass is the crossroad towards Irakli and Emona.The road toward Irakli and Emona is signed well.

The beach at Irakli

17. Emona

I highly recommend avoiding pedaling over Pomoriiski Pass, where the traffic is very heavy. Information for Pomoriiski pass is available in:

Chapter I. Passes in Balkan Sector I.

point 17. Pomoriiski Pass

The road towards Emona is not a pleasant ride. There are road segments without asphalt and it can be quite dusty. Fortunately there is very little traffic here.The entire area is a very dry place. So bring food and water with you, especially if you intend to spend a night here in the wilderness.

Information on the area can be seen on the next links:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Emine

When you see the wood monument of the jackal, you are close to Emona. In the area there are a lot of jackals. At around 9:30 pm you can hear their weeping in the distance. There is a gravel road down to the sea coast and little beach.

Reaching the village, a nice view of Burgas Bay (village attitude is approx. 200 m) appears. In the village there is a little shop.

My advice is to buy food/snack and bottles of mineral water here, because the area further is perfect for wild camping.

Sector IV. D

From Emine Cape to Burgas

Content

18. Emona - Nesebar

19. Nesebar

20. Aheloi

21. Sarafovo

Soon you will leave the wilderness and arrive in one of the most crowded tourist seaside zones. Here will be found the resorts of Robinzon, Elenite, St. Vlas, the biggest resort south from Balkans - Sunny Beach, and the towns of Nesebar, Ravda, and Aheloy. It is an extremely touristy built up area.


18. From Emona to Nesebar
All the area towards Elenite Resort is untouched. Note, any time of the year, if the weather forecast predicts rain, the off road from Emona to Elenite will be muddy. If you camp in the wilderness here in the		evenings you will hear jackals singing between the hours of 9.30 - 10 pm. Be careful in the two points noted on the map as "Bulgaria". It is a dry river valley where it is easy to lose the road.

The area is much more scenic between May to the middle of June, when everywhere it is green. The next

several photos are taken in early September 2020, the dry season, when everything turns yellow and brown.

Again I will underline, that on the map above I have pointed "small beach". You have to be careful here. Down along the dry river bed you can get to the beach. If you take the right road, soon you will see a primitive farm. Do not take the road leading to the primitive farm.

Soon after taking the correctroad, you will see an abandoned building. Several kilometers further is Elenite Resort. It is a luxury place. Information for it:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/elenite/

Bicyclists and recumbents exploring the seaside from south to north should avoid this road. There are many steep and rocky segments, especially after

Elenite Resort. Below, is the experience a friend of mine had riding a recumbent on this section of road:

"As was shown on Boris Bob’s site, at the dead end of the road (actually the gated and guarded entrance to the upper level of that gaudy resort) there was a dirt road, of quite a sever up grade we needed to take to start our adventure. We had 3 days of provisions, for what measured out to be maybe a day and a half of pedalling, just in case the road was slow going. But, we didn’t get to test the “slow going” part because the first 200 meters of the road involved one of us helping push the others trike up the grade or dealing with truly uneven ruts in the dirt road. We had about 12k to pedal, and it took us an hour to just get through the first 200 meters. After a couple of these “push me” exercises I went for a walk up the road to see if there was any improvement in the road condition. I found nothing but a continuation of the same. So, with the intention of having Susan see what I saw, I set up a duck in the middle of the road where I stopped, came back and told Susan I wasn’t interested in going any farther than what we had done (but she was welcome to walk up the road to or farther than I had walked and check it out). Without a second thought she agreed with my decision. This was the end of this detour for us.

That decision made we turned around pedalled back to E9, and started pedalling up E9 to Varna."

The next photos illustrate the same place and have for me an emotional value. Here are my expedition with my daughter 2007 hearing for the first time jackal weeping

in the night and the first bike tour with my partner, August 2008, when we spent a very windy night here. On the last photo can be seen the little desert beach I point on the map above.




And several photos from the south beach of Nesedar, took in the beautiful early September '23

20. From Nesebar to Sarafovo

For more detail information I split this sector in three parts. Following my next description, you will miss the traffic, which in the touristy season here is terrible.

Sector IV. 20 - A

Next place is Ravda. To avoid E 87, use the local road from Nesebar, and enter in Ravda keeping you as close to the shore as possible pedalling to south until you reach Aheloy. Information for Ravda:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/ravda/

As a resort Ravda is not as popular like Nesebar, the beach is not as big. In recent years, Nesebar to Ravda has been covered with buildings. Many people from Russia, GB and other countries invest their money buying properties here.

Leaving Ravda, toward Burgas again you can pedal along the main road R87 toward Burgas. If you intend to visit Aheloy, you have to be careful at the circle crossing after Ravda to take the local road toward Aheloy.

Information for Aheloy are available in the next sites:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/aheloy/

and the history battle near Aheloy many years ago:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Achelous_(917)

I will increase one more time the scale. Google map shows that it is possible to reach Aheloi pedaling next to the sea shore. So far I have investigated only a part of this opportunity (the two photos in right). I hope summer '23 to research again this place. It is important to avoid road E 87.

Sector IV. 20 - B

To reach the campground "Camping Aheloy" you have to enter in Aheloy and find the local road to the campground. There you will find restaurants, a food shop, free Wi Fi, a toilet, and bathroom facilities.

Usually I stay for a night a little further. I have pointed to this place in the dike between Pomorie Lake and the sea. It is next to an old military bunker dating back to WW 2.

Next to the bunker is the mouth of a small fresh water river, which is ok for bathing and washing equipment, but not safe to drink.

To reach my camping spot from Camping Aheloy you have to walk maybe 100 meters along the beach, which is not easy if your bicycle is weighted down. I will increase the scale again for a better presentation of this spot: sector IV. 20 - B. 1

The next photos illustrate the local road next to the motor road. New hotels are being built in this area, near the old military bunker.

At the mouth of the small clean river 3 of us had pushed our bikes toward the dike between the sea and Lake of Pomorie.



On the dike there is a nice place for wild camping. Down from the dike is the perfect beach. I camp here at least 2 - 3 times a year.

	Again, here you can see people greased by healing salt lake mud; the same as the mud around the lake in Tyzlata. A few years ago I have even tried it. The mud was not easy to wash off, and gives an unusual smell. Three to four days later I was still smelling like a fuel station . . . An endless desert beach . . . I love this place.

Google maps do not show, but on the dike there is an off road toward Pomorie. Use this off road instead the Motor road!


Pomorie is in front of me.

In the opposite direction you have to pass through Pomorie, locate Pomorie Lake, and you will see the dike. The next photo is just the point shown as "Pub End of the Road" on the map in left.

At the end of this point, some information for Pomorie and several photos from the city:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomorie

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/pomorie/




In the beginning of the XX century Pomorie was burned. Only 4-5 old houses remain today.

Sector IV. 20 - C

From Pomorie to Sarafovo

Leaving Pomorie, 2 - 3 kilometers along the main road there is a unique Thracian tomb, if you have a time

you may visit it, it is signed:

http://daytripsbulgaria.com/excursion/218/Pomorie--

The-Thracian-Tomb

To reach Sarafovo, you can miss Aheloy and Pomorie and pedal along E 87. This road segment is

after reconstruction, I think pedalling here is not so dangerous but still unpleasant because of the traffic.

As the traffic on the road 9 (E 87) (the three photos above were taken May - it is still not the tourist season),

a way to avoid it is to find the off road - the dashed line on the next map. It will take you to Sarafovo.

There is a nice spot to camp in the wilderness just above the sea. There are several big lakes in the area near Pomorie and Burgas, it is because here is the

stork migration route. Thousands of storks appear here in the beginning of September, the view is really amazing.

Burgas is a big Bulgarian town at the sea coast. I love its Sea Garden. Information for Burgas:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burgas

https://bulgariatravel.org/burgas/

Some of my tours finish in Burgas and I go back home by a train. At the Burgas rail Station it is very easy to load bikes on the train, it is there at the station for an hour before departing.

Several photos from Burgas and its Sea Garden:

Burgas beach

West from Burgas you will find the lake of Burgas: https://bulgariatravel.org/en/lake-burgas/

And the last big lake west from Burgas is Mandra Dam and the bird reserve "Poda":

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandira_Dam

https://bulgariatravel.org/the-poda-nature-preserve/

Use the same route back from Burgas toward Sarafovo - it is very appropriate to leave Burgas to north as well !

Sector IV. E

From Burgas to Rezovo

Known in Bulgaria as "The South Seaside". Years ago this was not a tourist area, having very small towns, desert beaches, dunes, swamps, absolutely safe area. South from Ahtopol the area was a closed border area. Unfortunately, since 2000, development has taken over the area.

New resorts and hotels have been built and tourism replaced its charm. But, still some nice spots can be found. Next, I will mention them.

I love to visit this area from the end of May through the 5th of July, when it is still not overcrowded by tourists.

Content

22. Chernomorets & Sozopol

23. Arkutino

24. Primorsko - Ropotamo river

25. Kiten

25. Veleka river

27. Ahtopol

28. Rezovo

29. From Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Burgas (E87)

30. From Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Tsarevo (road 99)

This is the last road segment along the Bulgarian seaside: from Burgas to Rezovo, a distance of approx. 100 km.

Bicycling this route leaves the rider with not many alternatives, I will mention only some features, and I will show 2 opportunities: route a and route b. (Route b will give the possibility to avoid the crazy traffic from Burgas to Primorsko).

Please, note that there is not a Border Checkpoint at Rezovo !!!

Coming from Turkey, you can enter Bulgaria at the border checkpoint at Malko Tarnovo (E87).

Most of this area is Strahdzha Nature Park. It is the largest protected area on the territory of Bulgaria that stretches over 1161 sq km. It was declared a protected area by virtue of Ordinance No. RD350 of 14 July 2000. It is located in the south eastern part of country, its southern border coincides with the Bulgarian sovereign

border with Turkey, and it spreads as far as the Black Sea Coast to the east. The Nature Park lies on the territory of Strandzha Mountain which spreads in both Bulgaria and Turkey.

More information for it can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strandzha_Nature_Park

Leaving / Entering in Burgas The traffic from Burgas to Primorsko during the tourist season (10th of July to 5-6th of September) is almost beyond "CRAZY". If at all possible, AVOID IT. There are several very dangerous road segments, pedaling here is extremely dangerous. Here is how you will be able to avoid CRAZINESS. IMPORTANT ! When leaving Burgas at point A, next to road 99 there is a bicycle lane (the red dashed line from the side I point). GOOGLE MAP DOES NOT SHOW this lane !!! Do not hesitate to pedal on this lane. If you enter in Burgas from south, you will find it at Point A just after an old iron bridge at the point A in the left map. You will find the lane along the seaside next to the sea garden toward Burgas Line Station and so on. You will be not wrong following it. The first three photos (were taken June, still out of the heavy tourist season) shows the motor road when leave Burgas (toward point B);

Next several photos are from Point A toward Burgas Line Station and the Sea Garden.



Now I will increase a little the scale. On the map in left: There is no way to avoid the road between point A and point B. If you are pedaling from Burgas to Sozopol, using the velo lane, just after the old iron bridge my advise is to walk 450 meters against the traffic to the complicated overhead crossing. There, try to find the local road (the old road) toward Sozopol. If you are leaving Burgas and pedaling along the motor road, you have to orientate when you are on the overhead crossing - the red dashed line on the next scheme. The next several photos are just there.

The short walk between Points A and B is not dangerous, there is enough place, as it can be seen in the middle photo below.

22. Toward Chernomorets & Sozopol

Route a

Knowing all these details, we can move to South now. On the next map is marked the Motor Road; although the Google Map show the local road, it does not permit me to mark the local road, already you know it is just next to the motor road 99.

The road profile chart shows several higher places, where a nice view to the sea is available.

The next several photos are the local road toward Atia and the Motor road next to it. It can be seen, that

there are parts of the local road which are not so nice, but this lane will be only yours.

The next several photos are the beach between Atia and Chernomorets. There is an opinion that radioactivity here is a little high. But, I do not miss a chance to spend a night there when I have this opportunity.

So far I still not emitted lights after spending an

afternoon and night there.

On the north side of the beach you will see a little village. There are no services or food in that little village. Atia is located a kilometer south from the beach. Food shops are available there.



Toward Chernomorets and Sozopol again follow the local road, running parallel to the main road.

I avoid Chernomorets. It is overcrowded with tourists. Between Chernomorets and Sozopol there is a wide gulf and all of the beach is Camping Gradina.

Sozopol is an ancient town worth spending an afternoon walking the area, relaxing, and having a beer or coffee.

A lot of information for Sozopol is available here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sozopol

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/sozopol/

Entering the old part of Sozopol, you will see a church holding relics of John the Baptist. They were discovered several years ago during archaeological excavations of the old Byzantine church remains under the authority of a prominent Bulgarian Professor and Archaeologist. Two independent tests of the bones were carried out in Universities of London and Copenhagen.

DNA analysis showed that these were the bones of a human - a man who lived in the Levant at the beginning of the new era. More information for it can be seen here:

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/europe/08/12/

bulgaria.john.baptist.relics/index.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beheading_of_St._John_the_Baptist


Mere photos from Sozopol. I love to have a cup of coffee here, but that's all.

23. Arkutino

South from Sozopol there is a local road which leads to Arkutino, it is not necessary to go back to the road N99. There is a village and a resort at the point in red on the map in left (the first photo below). Further the local road is closed to motor traffic, but nobody will stop bicyclists to pedal this area by.

Along this local road you will find nice places to camp on the beach (see both photos 2 and 3 down are at point B on the map). Food and a perfect beach can be found at camping Kavatsite.

Here are:

- Dyuni Resort:

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/dyuni/

- Reserve Alepu (the last two photos):

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alepu

- Arkutino area is a reserve because of some special spices and relics. It seems there is not available sites for it.

- St. Thomas Island (the Snake Island):

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Thomas_Island

Leaving Sozopol, at the next little gulf are 2 camping places: Kavatsite and Smokinya. Years ago it was a beautiful spot, but now there are many new hotels. In the tourist season the place is overcrowded with tourists ... Even though the beach is very nice, I do not believe it is worth staying there.




Pedalling further, suddenly in front of you a pompous building will appear suddenly, you are entering in Dyuni Resort. http://www.beachbulgaria.com/dyuni/

My favourite place is a little bit further; it is so called "Driver's Beach". Usually I spent a night at this spot.

The road is on a dike, it parts a long desert beach and Alepu Reserve (the last two photos): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alepu

(Here I will increase a little the scale) Follow the local road when are exploring this area. First you have to enter in the Vacancy Village. There is a guard post, but I believe there will not be any problems passing through;

to cross through the area, tell the guard you are headed toward Primorsko and you want to avoid the traffic along the main road 99.

From the other side of the village there isn't a guard post.



		Following further on this road you will see a remains of a megalomaniac communistic project, further down the road you will find a wood trail to a very nice beach: Arkutino Beach.

24. Primorsko & Ropotamo River Leaving the local road at Arkutino, you are again on road 99. The next road segment toward Primorsko is really a very dangerous segment, especially just near the Ropotamo River. (on the map on left I have shown just this road segment) The road here is narrow. There are bushes near the road (are just like a wall) making it impossible to move onto the road quickly when needed. The traffic here can also be a huge problem. But, there is no alternative way to go. In the tourist season I definitely avoid it. Maybe it is the most dangerous road segment of all road segments I have written about so far.
The several next photos are the road toward Primorsko taken in the early June 2019

Primorsko is a very popular resort due to its really nice beaches. Usually, it is possible to find overnight accommodations here. Information for Primorsko:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/primorsko/primorsko

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primorsko

http://www.beachbulgaria.com/primorsko/


The next several photos are the beach placed north from Primorsko - one of the best beaches among our seaside.

A possibility here is to visit the saved beach area north of Primorsko, close to the Ropotamo River Mouth. https://greencorridors.burgas.bg/en/objects/view/15 Pedaling up the hill north from Primorsko, a very nice view: photos in left.

On the hill, above the mouth of the river, there are ancient megalith structures called "Beglik Tash":

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beglik_Tash

This area is a protected zone, cars are forbidden. Be

warned, here and now: FIRES OF ANY KIND are absolutely

forbidden – There are “green” patrols searching for fires. This is a great place to spend a night on the beach in a

sleeping bag. Bring your own food and water with you.

A rock called "the Lion Head" is in the same region, but the walk to it is not so big pleasure because of the

specific extremely thorny bushes endemic specimens available only here, it is because all the area is a National Reserve, the bushes remain.

Bicyclists reading carefully my description have to remember that there was one more route from Burgas to Primorsko:

Route b

To avoid the terrible traffic from Burgas to Primorsko, you can follow this route:

From Burgas to Marinka (E87) to Novo Panicharevo (9909) to Yasna Polyana to Primorsko (992).

Although there is a little more climbing, here you will find very little traffic, the pedaling is much more pleasant and safe.

If you want to visit Sozopol, my suggestion is to stay 2-3 days in Promorsko and use the public transportation for this purpose. The public transport here is well arranged.

Leaving Burgas, you have to follow the road toward Malko Tarnovo (E 87). Further. Towards Yasna Polyana

and Primorsko road is labelled well. Food can be found in Marinka and Yasna Polyana.



The countryside toward Novo Panicharevo, Yasna Polyana and Primorsko.

25. From Primorsko to Kiten to Lozenets To go to the next little town, Kiten, leave Promorsko following the local road along the south coast line of Primorsko. Again, Kiten is a touristy area. You can find overnight accommodations in Kiten. Information for Kiten: https://bulgariatravel.org/kiten/ The north beach of Kiten is called, At Liman Beach, meaning the "Horse Beach". Kiten has a nice beach. But the south of Kiten there is much larger beach. The next photos illustrate the road from Primorsko to Kiten.


	Photos from Kiten and At Liman Beach north from Kiten in right.


South from Kiten the traffic is relatively light. Just after the bridge crossing at Karaagach River, leave road N99, the pedaling along the local road toward Lozenets and Tsarevo will be safer. Three camping places are available between Kiten and Lozenets: Camping "Kiten", Camping "Ug" and Camping "Koral". The first three photos are of the bridge over Karaagach River and its mouth. Just next to the bridge there is a patrol of Border Police. They may ask for your passports, that's all.

Carefully the local road just after the bridge. The local road is in poor condition. But, will be safer to pedal than the main road.

I have never explored beaches between Karaagach River Mouth and Lozenets; Information and photos

from Lozenets:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/tsarevo/lozenets

26. From Lozenets to Tsarevo

Leaving Lozenets, remember, it would be better here to use the local road.

There are two campgrounds to look for: Camping Oasis and Camping Arapya. Camping Arapya was one of my favorite places to stay at years ago. But now this little beautiful gulf is surrounded by buildings, I prefer to avoid it.

Bicycling toward Tsarevo, many small gulfs can be seen and there are gravel roads to access them. There are also enough places to set up the tent in the wilderness.

Next several photos are the countryside toward Tsarevo.


Arapya . . . it was very scenic place before hotels took over the views. . .


Toward Tsarevo

In recent years, Tsarevo has become a lovely place along the sea with nice coffee places to relax and take in the scenery.

Information for Tsarevo:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/tsarevo/tsarevo

Several photos from Tsarevo.



There is a nice beach just south from Tsarevo, named Nestinarka. The next several photos show the local road leading to Nestinarka Beach and the beach itself.



Summer 2022 in Carevo

27. From Tsarevo to Ahtopol

Just after Tsarevo, road N99 leads directly to the Malko Tarnovo and border checkpoint Malko Tarnovo at the BG/Turkish border (At the end of the chapter I will give a little more information for it).

This road is appropriate for pedaling to or from Turkey, and you will find very little traffic on it.

Leaving Tsarevo, you will see more open area, area still not covered by buildings and nice for a wild camping. I love this still wild area and I hope, that after

the world pandemic '20 ends, the mass tourism and all the activities coming from it will slow down and this area will be wild at least for the next 20 years.

Food is available in Varvara, is a village located between Tsarevo and Ahtopol. The beaches are not that nice here.

Information can be found here:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/tsarevo/varvara

The last small town, a very scenic place, is Ahtopol. Ahtopol is still not overcrowded with tourists. But, recently, I see many new hotels appearing.

Information for Ahtopol:

http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/tsarevo/ahtopol

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahtopol

	28. Sinemorets and Veleka River mouth The last route sector is the one from Ahtopol to Rezovo. Nature here is still not affected too much by tourism. The road is narrow and the area it still not overcrowded with tourists. Years ago, during the communist era, the iron bridge over the Veleka river was the last accessible point at the seaside. You could not travel further. Sinemorets is a small village high over Veleka River mouth. Information for Sinemorets: http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/tsarevo/sinemorets

Towards Sinemorets



Nine to ten kilometers south of Ahtopol is the mouth of the Veleka River, a place worth seeing. Make sure you have mosquito repellent. There are two possible ways to approach the Veleka River Mouth: – To the left just before the bridge on the road N 9901. – Down the off-road from Sinemorets. The sea is dangerous here, with a strong undertow in the surf pulling you out to sea. The river Firth, behind the dune is a safe you will find fresh water and an area to play. https://greencorridors.burgas.bg/ en/objects/view/18

29. Rezovo
Here are the last ten kilometers to Rezovo and the Bulgarian/Turkey border, the end point of Bulgarian seaside. A one lane road will lead you further.		Along the seaside there are dirt roads which will lead you to small gulfs and desert beaches just fine for camping on the beach. Bring bottled water and food with you.

The most scenic and popular place here is “Silistar” - a dirty road is available to this place.

There is a camp ground place here, too. DO NOT DRINK WATER from the taps in "SILISTAR" !!!



And the last several kilometers to Rezovo. Information for Rezovo: https://bulgariatravel.org/rezovo/

30. Entering in Bulgaria from Turkey

The routes on the next map are for bicyclists entering (leaving) Bulgaria from Turkey (Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo).

Three are the routes if you enter here in Bulgaria:

Route a

To head to Burgas directly (The distance from Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Burgas is 82 km.);

Route b

To head to Tsarevo (the distance from the border checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Tsarevo is 64 km.);

Route c

To head toward Vizitsa, Pismenovo, Primorsko (the distance from border checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Primorsko is 76 km.).

The off road from Vizitsa to Pismenovo is not labeled; GPS device here would be useful.

Route a

This is an international road with very little traffic on it. The road is in very nice condition and the pedaling here is a pleasure. The route here is:

From Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Malko Tarmovo (E87) to Krushevets to Marinka to Birgas.

The route is very nice for bicyclists crossing Bulgaria from north to south or back. Malko Tarnovo is a little remote city, overnight accommodations are available in it. Information for Malko Tarnovo:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malko_Tarnovo

http://www.visitbulgaria.net/en/malko_tarnovo/malko_tarnovo.html

Information for Malko Tarnovo, Strandzha Mountain, saved zones, and accommodations:

http://www.strandja.bg/en/info/57-Malko-Tarnovo-en

http://www.discoverstrandja.com/

Most of this area is part of the Strahdzha Nature Park. The park is the largest protected area in Bulgaria, stretching over 1161 sq km. It was declared a protected area by virtue of Ordinance No. RD350 of 14 July 2000. It is located in the southeastern part of country, its southern border coincides with the Bulgarian sovereign border with

Turkey, and it spreads as far as the Black Sea

The park lies on the territory of Strandzha Mountain which spreads in both Bulgaria and Turkey. More information for it can be seen here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strandzha_Nature_Park

Countryside towards Zvezdets. Food can be find in Zvezdets, Krushevets and Marinka.



The first photo below is a typical view from Ztrandzha Mountain.





Approaching Burgas, take the velo lane parallel to the motor road. It will lead you to the sea garden.

Route b

The area of Tsarevo is perfect for exploring. The road is not as nice as route a and there is hardly any traffic.

The route is:

From Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Malko Tarmovo to Gramatikovo (99) to Kondolovo to Balgari to Izgrev to Tsarevo

Toward Gramatikovo.


Gramatikovo is a kilometer right from the road. Food and overnight accommodations are available. Information for Gramatikovo: http://www.guide-bulgaria.com/SE/bourgas/malko_turnovo/gramatikovo

The next little village is Kondolovo. Entering the village, near the road you will see a little restaurant called "The Last Bullet". The owner is the local major and is very friendly man.

Next to the restaurant is his home, a little chapel, spring of fresh water and a meadow, where you can set up your tent. He told me, that bicyclists are camping regularly at this nice spot. Soon there will be a shower too.




Toward Izgrev and Tsarevo.



		Route c Head toward Primorsko. The route is: From Border Checkpoint Malko Tarnovo to Malko Tarmovo to Gramatikovo to Vizitsa (997) to Pismenovo to Primorsko. The route sector from Vizitsa to Pismenovo is for bicyclists loving off road bicycling. You will not find food shops in Vizitsa.

Several photos showing road 991 from Balgarevo toward Kavarna and the town.

The next three photos are road E 87 toward Kavarna. It is the windiest area in Bulgaria, so you will see a lot of wind generators.

Kavarna City.


Pedalling 3 - 4 km south from Kavarna again along E87 is Topola - the end point of sector IV - A.

The place is nice to camp - nobody there, I camped just here on 9th October '23.

If you decide to camp here, a better idea would be to use the shortcut I pointed on the map above in a ret circle to go up to the panoramic road between Balchik and Albena.


Views towards Albena resort (right) and Balchik (left) can be seen here. Photos are taken on the scenic Balchik to Albena road.

21. From Sarafovo to Burgas Road E87 is the road on the other side of Pomorie leads to Sarafovo and finally Burgas. Enter Sarafovo via the round cross road next to the airport at Burgas. Information for Sarafovo and the Burgas Airport (next to Sarafovo): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarafovo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burgas_Airport Sarafovo would be a very nice base if you intend to leave (or arrive in) Bulgaria. It is a seven minute walk from the airport terminal to the first nice hotel in Sarafovo.

The beach and the yacht port after Sarafovo - the next photos