“North – eastern excitement” – Day Тhree

We reached the third day of our trip in north – east Bulgaria. The aim we had today was to look at some popular places for their natural beauty. Without wasting time we went to Tyulenovo village. A charming place with an unusual coast. It is unusual because in place of the sand beaches stand incredible cliffs. You can’t not like this place, once you see the various beautiful forms that sea and rocks have created together! What impressed me deeply was that nowhere else I have ever been had I felt such a peaceful atmosphere as I felt in Tulenovo. The place itself predisposes you to perfect harmony with yourself. Many people wonder why is the village called that way (“tulenovo” in Bulgarian means a place where seals are gathering). The truth is that some time ago there was a herd of seals living in caves found in the rocks along the shore. Unfortunately, seals today can not be seen here because the species has disappeared from our coast for various reasons, but the village will always carry the memory of them.

Useful information:
To get to the village Tulenovo you must take the route Varna – Shabla – Durankulak (by E87);
If you’re a fan of diving or extreme sports, this is your paradise.
Nearby settlements: Varna 82 km, 70 km to Dobrich and Shabla 12 km.

After the enchanting village Tulenovo we headed to the eastern – most point of Bulgaria, Cape Shabla. Except that this place is located at the east, it has perhaps the most beautiful lighthouse in Bulgaria. Curious fact about this lighthouse is that it is the oldest and highest in the country. It was built and put into operation during the Ottoman Empire in 1857, with a total height of 32 meters. It remains a symbol of the place. Also, the area itself provides a unique view which you can enjoy for hours.

Useful information:
By the lighthouse itself you don’t have access because it is a militarized zone;
Shabla lighthouse can be reached by driving on the main road E87;
Nearby settlements: Varna 80 km, Dobrich 69 km;

As time was passing we needed to set off to the next planned stop. But at this moment we came up with a crazy idea that if we are so north in Bulgaria and close to the border point, why not go to Romania! That’s what we decided to do, and headed to Durankulak border crossing point. After the typical queuing to pass through the border, “we stepped” on Romanian land. We drove to the nearest village on the border – Vama Veche to take a look at it closely and also to see how busy is life in the resorts of our neighbours. Right at the entrance of the village we witnessed a huge stream of Romanian cars whether preparing to stop at the near-by beach or to drive to Bulgaria. We only needed twenty minutes to decide that we have seen enough. We turned around and headed back to our homeland with great joy.

Useful information:
Bulgaria and Romania are EU members, respectively crossing the border from one side or the other is easy and fast;
You do not need the Romanian vignette. Without vignette you can drive as north as the town of Mangalia, included. ATTENTION! Vignettes in Romania are electronic. That is why when buying a vignette you are registered with the registration number of your car;

This picture is not mine. All photo credits belogns to jenata.org

As it was our last day near the sea we decided to spend the last bit of our seaside adventure on Krapets beach. This beach is one of the northern most but it is special with the fact that it is said to be the last virgin beach standing on the Black Sea coast. Also, the sandy dunes stretch at the modest seven kilometers, being  one of the largest in the country. If you want to feel completely different atmosphere, compared to other resorts, this is the place to visit!

Useful information:
To reach Krapets you must drive towards Durankulak and a few kilometers before the border with our neighbour Romania you will see a sign pointing to the right. This time drive until you reach the old camping;
The area is isolated and is not crowded by sunbathers because of its northern location. A perfect destination for people who love peace and quiet;
Near the beach is Krapets village where you can stay overnight;
Nearby settlements: Shabla 15 km and 82 km Dobrich;

That’s how our adventure long the Black Sea coast ends. Taking with us many unforgettable sunset moments with loved ones and especially the aroma of the sea. But this is not the end! There are still two days to reach the finale of the adventure. So follow me to day four…