Ahtopol

For those in search of restful relaxation with few distractions, Ahtopol may be the answer. Known to the ancient Greeks as Agatopolis ("City of Happiness"), the town today is a quiet, laid-back place popular with holiday-making Bulgarians, Czechs, Slovaks, Russians and Macedonians. Even the spate of new construction taking place along sea-facing Kraimorska street doesn't diminish the serenity of fishing boats lazily bobbing up and down in the small harbor or pensioners tossing bits of bread to sea gulls in the nearby park. The small town Ahtopol is situated 87 kilometers sought of Bourgas . The beautiful mouth of Veleka River is just 4 kilometers sough of the resort. It offers two long and picturesque beaches. The water tends to be warmer (around 25 °C) and more placid here, while the prevalence of off-the-beaten-path beaches allows the opportunity for nude bathing.

Its name dates back from ancient times. In the past it was a Thracian site. Later on the Romans called it Perontikus. The now existing tow was rebuilt after a huge fire in 1918 when everything was destroyed. There are interesting remains from a roman stronghold wall. Another large wall mural (a medium which seems to thrive locally) on Veleka Street details the founding of the First Bulgarian State in 681. Some very ancient coins were found near the town, including emissions, coinaged in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and from nearly all European countries. Interesting site is the Church "Assumption" and "St. Yane" monastery. Malka papia is a peak in Strandja Mountain which is soaring above the resort.

Ahtopol has a number of trade union rest homes and the town is a popular destination for families who can't afford the higher-priced resorts. Consequently, visitors looking for the nightlife of Primorsko or Sunny Beach won't find it here.

A popular gathering spot is the "Yuka" cafe opposite the attractive new post office building. On the cafe's exterior wall is a colorful mural featuring the artist's fanciful rendition of ancient Agatopolis.

Four kilometers south of Ahtopol is the magnificent mouth of Veleka River. Close to it is the small village Kosti famous for Nestinarski dances.

Varvara village is 3 kilometer north of the site. It is the favorite place for divers, because of the stone underwater cavities which were formed by shells and other water species. Usually people who like secluded sites choose Ahtopol for the summer holiday. Tourists who want to experience unforgettable adventure holiday in a desolated site among virgin nature will be more than satisfied here. South to the border holidaymakers can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Sinemorets, Silistra and Rezovo.

There is regular bus and minibus transport to Bourgas (passing through most of the towns and villages in the southern part of the coast) and the nearby towns of Sinemoretz and Rezovo to the south.