About this experience
The Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is a real treasure trove for lovers of ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and unsolved natural mysteries. At the excavations of the recently discovered fortress in Byala, you will learn what information about the lives of ancient settlements has been revealed by the found artifacts. You will get acquainted with the centuries-old culture of winemaking and taste rare wines. Walk through the historical milestones of the maritime capital - Varna. In the 'Stone Forest' reserve, you will hear different versions of the origin of the stone forest - from scientific to fantastic. And to finish, visit Cape Kaliakra with its delightful panoramas and, of course, its legends.
What to Expect
The Echo of Antiquity in Byala
First, you will visit a tiny town with beautiful white cliffs descending to the sea. At the very shore, on Cape St. Athanasius, archaeologists discovered an ancient fortress that served as an outpost in the 6th century BC. Along with it, numerous artifacts were found: fragments of ancient anchors, coins, and gold items. All these objects await you in the exhibition hall. You will also explore amphorae buried in the ground for wine, picturesque ruins of residential buildings, and ancient basilicas with baths. You will learn what information about the lives of craftsmen, merchants, farmers, and fishermen has been extracted from ancient excavations, hear about the interest of the complex in terms of architecture and engineering, and take bright photos of the rocky maritime landscapes.
Meeting Bulgarian Wines
An understanding of the region's culture would be incomplete without the history of winemaking. In the vicinity of Byala, unique varieties of white grapes are still grown on several hectares. In a small winery, you will visit an authentic wine cellar, where you will learn about the nuances of local production and taste several varieties of traditional dry Bulgarian wines and sweet herbal honey liqueurs, and you will also be able to purchase a bottle or two of wine that is only sold here.
Historical Walk in Varna
Heading further north, you will reach the cozy Varna. Take a walk through the central streets, see the Roman baths and the large cathedral church built in the late 19th century. I will tell you about the main historical milestones of the city, where some of the oldest settlements on the Black Sea coast were discovered. About the times of Greek and Roman presence, the Byzantine era, the Ottoman yoke, socialism, and modern life in the maritime capital of Bulgaria. And after the walk, you can have lunch at a pleasant seaside restaurant.
Natural Phenomenon 'The Stone Forest' and the Stunning Cape Kaliakra
Next, you will visit the 'stone forest' - a place where over 50 square kilometers amazing stone columns of whimsical forms and outlines 'grow' directly from the ground. The mysteriousness of this natural phenomenon has spawned dozens of hypotheses, from scientific to the most fantastic. At the most impressive site with the tallest columns, we will talk about popular versions of the origin of the rocky formations and the legends associated with them. Here you can make a wish according to local tradition. And finally, you will head to Cape Kaliakra with its ancient legends, rich history, and breathtaking views that will leave you speechless!
Possible Options
You can replace the visit to Cape Kaliakra with the rock monastery of Aladzha. Here we will talk about Christian hermits who have inhabited stone caves and catacombs since ancient Byzantine times.
Organizational Details
- The excursion takes place in a comfortable car.
- I will meet you at hotels in Burgas, Sunny Beach, Nessebar, Sozopol, Primorsko, Pomorie, and after the tour, I will take you back.
- The price does not include lunch and entrance fees: to Cape Kaliakra €1.5/person, to the Stone Forest €2.5/person, to the ancient fortress in Byala €3/person.
