Т & R 1

Transcription

1 Т & R 1

2 2 Т & R

3 Т & R 3

4 4 Т & R

5 Т & R 5

6 Let s make tourism out of history, not war The Largo of the Bulgarian capital, the ancient road of Europe Boyana Church, a sacred peal of Sofia Mount Athos The Beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast Kavarna - Attractive and welcoming Oasis of Health with aggregate potential for treatment, prevention and recreation Bulgarian Black Sea Coast Sozopol the business card of Bulgarian seaside tourism Danube towns river oases along Bulgarian coast All I saw later had already taken place in Ruse Ten caryatids in the eternal world of the Thracian king Persina nature park the fascination of the Danube The largest museum complex in the Balkans opened in Veliko Tarnovo Cultural inspiration in nature 6 Т & R

7 Hisarya The most sunny and green town in Bulgaria The tomb Of Kazanlak The museum of the rose Rupite nature, history and energy in one Petrich the southernmost corner of Bulgaria Bulgarian mountains filter for spiritual and physical health The natural wealth of Garmen Bulgarian mineral waters and curative mud deposits The Magnificence of the Eastern Rhodope Mountains Eastern Rhodopes Treasury Far from the Stress, Office and Vanity with alternative tourism Ardino fascinating nature, rich culture, well-preserved traditions Partners You can trust in Content: Т & R 7

8 LET S MAKE TOURISM OUT OF HISTORY, NOT WAR Blagoy Ragin was born in the village of Yarlovo, Samokov District. He is the founder of the first association of private hoteliers in the country back in Chairman of the Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association and the Balkan Alliance of Hotel Associations. - Mr. Ragin, the Ministry of Tourism reported 30 percent growth in the sector for What difficulties did we overcome and what lies ahead? - That is right. Only Sunny Beach resort reported 40 percent more revenue, and the municipalities of Varna and Burgas boasted a growth of BGN 40 million. This has been the high-yielding season in twenty years in geopolitical rather than in economic terms. For the first time in 150 years, our country is making a moderate, balanced policy, in dialogue with the Balkan countries and the EU. Bulgaria has already established itself as a secure destination in the world. The results of this season showed that we have never been before so highly praised as a loyal partner. Of course, the geographical location of the country, the four-season opportunities and our natural resources remain fundamental factors for tourism. State control of the sector has made big impact that enhanced the quality of our tourism product. - How does our country stand as a tourist destination and what type of tourism is mostly demanded by the citizens of the world, EU and in the Balkans in particular? - More often Bulgaria is recognized as a winter destination. Alpine-type mountains, the Rhodopes with their oval shapes and slopes, Stara Planina Mountains with its diverse topography, ie we have wonderful mountains with fresh air and mineral springs. This makes the country an attractive yearround destination, and in winter mostly. Thirty percent growth has been reported for Turkish tourists who were not traditional guests in the winter season. The number of tourists from the Balkan countries has increased by 70 percent: Romania, Greece, Macedonia, Serbia, and Albania, tourists from Macedonia and Greece being active both in winter and summer. Over 1 million Greeks come every year, and the number of Romanians is also growing. Seventy percent increase is reported in the number of Poles, Czechs, and Hungarians who have visited the country. Second in terms of number of visitors come summer tourism, winter tourism, and SPA tourism. Germany accounts for the largest share of EU tourists, then comes Russia; tourists from Great Britain are also being more active. - The Balkan Alliance develops joint tourism products within the Balkan Peninsula. Which is the most preferred route and what tourists do the Balkans attract? - Sofia Belgrade Sarajevo Macedonia is among the most popular routes, but there is huge variety of offers that tour operators put on sale. China has shown great interest in the Balkan routes and in the landmarks of the peninsula, especially in terms of cultural tourism. Bulgaria, Romania and Serbia are 8 Т & R

9 small for China market, but the interest of the East in them is huge and it is directed to summer, SPA, golf, and winter tourism. EU citizens are also more active in the marine, winter, SPA, wine, and congress tourism. French tourists have accounted for a boom in visits, their particular preference being Bulgaria. Our neighbours like Bulgaria, apparently they do like our common Balkan mentality, the attractively served fresh food, and our colourful customs. No other country boasts such a variety of natural resources and beautiful scenery than Bulgaria. - How did this help tourism? - A number of measures were taken. Contracts were concluded with the most popular low-cost airlines. The main prerequisite, however, are our natural resources. Sandanski, Velingrad, Hisar became established Balkan SPA destinations. - Our country boasts huge mineral resources and how does this count for tourism? - Within days the ministry will release a report on the waters concession for municipalities. A mechanism of low-interest loans and bank guarantees to support the sector is foreseen. - What is the vision on balneology and SPA tourism in near future? What will attract tourists? - Negotiations are held with unions in different countries for relief in the rehabilitation and prevention regime and for wider availability of SPA treatment in Bulgarian resorts and hotels. - Tourism and agriculture are linked, especially for Bulgaria. What is the future in this respect? - The Ministry of Agriculture and of Tourism prepared a package of measures on certification of domestic eco products complying with Bulgarian State Standard. This means that Bulgarian dairies, farms, and producers will sell their products at affordable prices to hotels and restaurants, as the big chains are doing now. Agriculture and tourism will be stimulated simultaneously, and hence their mutual stimulation. Meanwhile, authentic Bulgarian products are to be exported duty free. Similarly, we are successfully working with Musicautor. - Did refugee crisis affect tourism? - Investment and social climate in the world is disturbed. For 6 7 years already, the sector has been operating in the conditions of deflation, which is worse than inflation, because there is no growth at all. But we will continue to implement new strategies, leverages and measures because it is important to operate, to develop and to succeed. Fortunately, tourism in Bulgaria has not enjoyed more peaceful and yielding years. - What is the contribution of the Balkan Alliance of Hoteliers and Restaurateurs? - Twelve years ago, in the conditions of destruction, following the collapse of former Yugoslavia we founded the alliance in the monastery of St Naum under my slogan, Let s us make tourism out of history, not war and on the principle that No one is better than the neighbour. This is still working. We encourage enterprising, we are ready to support efficient initiatives. Forthcoming at the end of the month is the awarding of 30 prizes of BAHR and a special prize to Andrey Novakov, MEP, who contributed to the development of tourism with hard work on methodology of accession funds. Bulgarian tourism product achieved strong grounds on the international market and challenged the EU and world destinations; it grew to be stronger. Bulgaria is visited by non-traditional tourists from the Ukraine and Kazakhstan. - What about the capacity of Bulgaria? - If the ruling of the Council of Ministers on free transfer of mineral springs under the supervision of municipalities enters into force, if Bulgarian hotels procure their products from local producers, if we succeed in unfolding the full capacity of our winter tourism, then Bulgaria will yield at least Euro 10 billion a year and only 1 percent will be spent on promotion. An interview by Dilyana Ivanova Т & R 9

10 Best Western Premier Hotel Sofi a Airport opened 10 Т & R Elegant party gathered in the capital s elite in the 4-star Best Western Premier Hotel Sofia Airport, part of the international chain Best Western Hotels & Resorts. Guests of honour were Ms. Suzi Yoder, Senior Vice President at Best Western Hotels & Resorts and Ms. Carol Marriott, President and CEO Best Western Hotels, Greece. The guests, among whom there were ministers, diplomats, businessmen, stars of show business and sports, had an opportunity to have a walk round the new building and to familiarize themselves with all the advantages that the hosts offer. Good mood was ensured by Alex Raeva and DJ Doncho. Lotto during the party sent some of the winners to exotic holidays around the world, while others won vouchers for overnight at the newly opened, or bonus points. Best Western Hotels & Resorts boasts over 4000 properties worldwide. A distinctive element of the corporate policy of the brand is to offer its guests and partners prime location, modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, high quality standards and well trained staff. Best Western Premier Hotel Sofia Airport is the chain s newly opened hotel in Bulgaria. Best Western Premier Hotel Sofia Airport avails 6 banquet halls, filled with natural daylight and flexible to accommodate various events, Heathrow Ballroom, Tegel Conference Hall, 150 spacious and luxuriously appointed Premier rooms, 15 suits with modern design for long-staying guests, 5 modern conference halls equipped with latest conferencing and other facilities for presentations and meetings, and in the Barillon 1909 Restaurant (named after Pierre Barillon, who had greatly influenced the aircraft industry) one can enjoy a special selection of drinks and unique dishes of local and international cuisine.

11 Hotel Marinela Sofia Absolute Leader! Hotel Marinela Sofia is distinguished for its amazing infrastructure spreading on an area of 30 decares in the greenest part of the capital. The combination of spaces embedded in the architectural solution by renowned Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa remains unique in the Balkans. With its area of 4500 sq m, carefully divided into 20 refurbished halls and spaces with sizes between 30 and 1500 sq m, it provides a great opportunity for successful events. The hotel avails 442 guest rooms, and the largest Presidential Suite will make you feel very special. The City within a City concept of the hotel allows every guest to take advantage of the services of six restaurants, four bars and a nightclub in combination with 25 m indoor pool, beauty salon and authentic Japanese Garden. Here our guests can enjoy the tranquility, coupled with exquisite style and comfort. The facilities and the spaces are an important part of the interior for relaxation and business, but huge advantage for us is the professionalism of our chefs. Chef Andrey Stoilov, Captain of the National Culinary Team of Bulgaria, Chairman of the Bulgarian Association of Professional Chefs and winner of numerous national and international cuisine awards is a unique talent in the kitchen. Deputy Chef Peter Nikolov has participated in numerous Bulgarian and international competitions. His is holder of the gold medal at the National Culinary Cup Bulgaria, Bocuse d Or, and is the first Bulgarian who attended the semifinals of the most prestigious culinary competition in the world. Our customers are the meaning of everything we do, so we re ready to prove it every day. Т & R 11

12 THE LARGO OF THE BULGARIAN CAPITAL, THE ANCIENT ROAD OF EUROPE Ulpia Serdica is the most ancient of the 50 European capitals. And if the main European highways, connecting Europe with the East intersect in Brussels, Serdica is a crossroads in their direction, but located in the Balkans.The grandiose project, the Largo, officially opened in 2016, revealed the secrets of old Serdica. This has been another major discovery of the ancient Bulgarian capital, following the excavations in the 1950 s. The foundations of large office buildings, a palace, part of Serdica fortress wall emerged among the ruins during the construction of a government compound. Subsequent excavations by archaeologists brought to light the foundations of a ceremonial hall, jars with gold coins, and jewellery. Today, preserved and exhibited are parts of the Eastern and Western Gate, and St George Rotunda. Delineated are the main thoroughfares: Via Principalis in the east west direction 12 Т & R and Decumanus Maximus going north southward. Along the ancient Via Principalis Roman warriors set out to defend their provinces and came back (by the grace of gods), and the victorious emperors received honours. The street leads to the curative springs of Serdica whose waters healed the cuts of generals and warriors. The opening of the Ancient City compound, which was brought to life during the excavations of the huge ancient complex took several years and its implementation was attended by specialists from the Institute of Immovable Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture and Sofia Municipality. After restoration and conservation of the newly opened building, today Ulpia Serdica is rising in the midst of modern Sofia alike the Coliseum, the Parthenon, and the pyramids of Giza. The Largo has become the largest underground museum in the country and worldwide, with an area of 14,000 sq

13 m. The history of the ancient city unfolds clearly under the glass roof. The centre of modern-day Sofia, which had made Emperor Constantine exclaim, Serdica is my Rome, had remained in its location for 2000 years. Marvelous mosaics, three residential districts, once inhabited by aristocrats and merchants, frescoes from different cultural epochs, a jar with 300 silver coins, family owned and accumulated over 200 years, Roman baths with marble bathtubes are among the remarkable discoveries of ancient Serdica, known since the socalled Era of the Eighteen Danubian Emperors.The 3D virtual tour around the underground city starts along the authentic pavement of ancient streets, Decumanus Maximus and Cardo Maximus. The virtual route goes along modern-day Knyaz Dondukov Bld., by the Youth Theatre, and leads to the Amphitheatre just 10 metres smaller than the Coliseum of Rome. Then one can see the residence of Emperor Constantine behind modern Rila Hotel. The Praetorium is under the St Nedelya Church, the Forum of Aurelian and the Imperial Chancery are under the Presidency, and the public building with the throne hall is under today s building of the Council of Ministers. The 3D tour ends at the Mint located between St Nedelya Church and the Chamber of Justice. There Emperor Caracalla had minted his coins. Today, the preserved historical heritage is being adapted to the traditions of cultural tourism of the Bulgarian capital. The Largo is part of the calendar of cultural events of local residents and a scene of theatrical and music shows, exhibitions, and performances.

14 Boyana Church, a sacred peal of Sofia Mount Athos Eight kilometers from downtown Sofia, at the foot of Mount Vitosha, is huddled Boyana Church, a masterpiece of medieval art included in UNESCO World Heritage List. The temple has a unique architecture: the two the work of an unknown master. The inscription from 1259 suggests that their author had been some Vasiliy. In the 14th, 15th and 17th centuries the church was further painted with murals, while in the 19th century a new narthex was added. Boyana Church is part of the so-called Sofia Mount Athos. During the Ottoman Period it functioned as a monastery. Because of the value of the murals there is special entry regime when visiting the church. Dragalevtsi Monastery is the major one in Sofia Mount Athos. Residence of the Bulgarian Patriarch, the monastery had been renovated and painted many times in the 14th 19th century period. A common roof houses the churches embedded one into another, form a coherent ensemble. The small Church of St Nicholas dates back to the 10th 11th centuries. In the 13th century, local governor, Sebastocrator Kaloyan modernized the building by adding a 2-storey pavilion with a small Temple of St Panteleymon. The frescoes that have earned the church world fame were commissioned by governor Kaloyan, donor of the painting. The images of Kaloyan, his wife Desislava and the royal family Konstantin and Irina are old and the new church. The Monastery of St Petka (19th century) and the Monastery of St Yoakim and St Anna are the monasteries in the village of Bistiritsa. A Late Antiquity tomb (4th 5th century AD) has been unearthed in the basement of the latter monastery. The only monastery near Sofia whose possession has been granted to the Bulgarian monastery at Mount Athos is German Monastery of St John of Rila. The Charter of the Holy Mount of Athos is observed therein. The Holy Mother of God patronizes the monasteries in Rila, Bachkovo, and Troyan. 14 Т & R

15 Т & R 15

16 The Beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast 16 Т & R

17 The Bulgarian Black Sea Coast stretches from Cape Sivriburun in the north, to the Rezovskza River in the south. It is about 378 km long and 30 to 50 km wide. The straight-line distance is only 199 km. It is up to us how we will travel over it on a motor bike, cycling, by car or by waterway; how much time we will have for rest and how we will rest. There are possibilities for everybody for those who want comfort, as well for wild camping fans. A characteristic feature of the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast is the existence of a number of beaches. They occupy about 34 % of the Bulgarian coast. The longest one is the Kamchia-Shkorpilovtsi beach, which is 12 km long. Some of the longer beaches are Varna and Balchik, and those between Burgas and Cape Emine. Some of the more popular beaches are Rusalka, Albena, Golden Sands; the beaches of Varna, Obzor, Sunny Beach, Nesebar, Pomorie, Kavatsite, Kiten and others. Sand dunes up to 6-8 m high have been formed on some of the beaches. Unlike the uncontrolled building of hotels to the south, the north-most parts of the Bulgarian seacoast are still wild. It is still possible to discover nearly empty beaches or rocky coves just for you. To the south of Cape Sivriburun, which marks the border with Romania, there is a 3 km long beach. The next one is Durankulak with two campsites Durankulak and Cosmos. What should not be missed here is the Big Island. It is the first palaeo-historical museum in the open in Bulgaria, located 2 km southeast of Durankulak, in the western part of the lake of the same name. This place is not only of national, but also of international importance. The largest necropolis dating from prehistoric times has been found there, as well as the oldest stone architecture on the Old Continent and the first processed gold in the world. Lovers of peace and quiet and romantic experiences can stop at Krapets a small fishing village at the Black Sea, only 10 km north of Shabla and 90 km from Varna. Krepets is a peaceful nook, known for its sand dunes and birds that nest and spend the winter around it. The village is on the sea coast. The locals are happy, friendly and hospitable people. Some popular beaches, located on the 6-kilometre beach strip between Krapets and Durankulak, are in proximity, too. Here are also some of the few virgin dunes along the Black Sea a peaceful and quiet sea with a soft sandy seabed. The beach of the village of Ezrets is near Shabla. It can be reached by a 3 km long dirt road. The beach, which is clean and relatively empty, is about 3500 m long. About 2 km north of Krapets is the Karvuna beach sparsely populated, unguarded and quite large. Shabla is not located directly on the seashore, but is known for its lighthouse, which is the oldest operating one on the Balkan Peninsula. In the past, Shabla was the territory of an ancient Thracian village, later a Roman town called Karia. In the sea round the town there are a number of sunken vessels and submarines dating from the Second World War. This makes Shabla preferable for underwater tourism. The area is a favourable place for ornithologists, too. About 2 km southeast of Lake Shabla (Shablensko ezero) is Shablenska Tuzla, which is a half-salt coastal lake, separated from the sea by tall dunes, known for its healing sea mud. The seacoast here is unique land area that is not built up on, the sea is clean and nice, the seabed is soft and sandy. The beach is located at about 3 km east of Shabla, in proximity of Dobrudzha Campsite. A little further downwards is Tyulenovo a picturesque village known for its rocky shore. What is to be remembered most here is the red-tinted coast, which is steep and suitable for rock climbing, while the unique caves are a real pleasure for every diver. The transparent and Т & R 17

18 SHABLA MUNICIPALITY Oasis of Health with aggregate potential for treatment, prevention and recreation BULGARIA Shabla, 35 Ravno Pole Str / 41 45, Health is a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social comfort definition of health by the World Health Organization. Shabla Municipality is rich in unique natural resources: thermal mineral springs and unique in its composition high-quality curative mud from the salty Shablenska Tuzla lagoon lake, which determines the need to establish a health centre and develop SPA and recreational tourism. The analyzes provided information on the indications for mud treatment of chronic degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system, chronic inflammatory disorders of joints in remission, vertebral diseases, disorders of the peripheral nervous system, post-traumatic conditions of the joint and muscle system, recovery after fracture conditions, treatment of nonspecific chronic dermatitis, chronic venous insufficiency, infertility, metabolic disorders, etc. In recent years, the worldwide trend has been to a growing interest in prophylaxis combined with holiday, cognitive and entertainment tourism, because Good health is mainly due to prevention rather than treatment of disease. The proximity of the deposits to the Black Sea allows for treatment of the respiratory tract by inhalation, a prerequisite for the development of balneological tourism. In his scientific works About Psoriasis, Psoriasis A Systemic Disorder, Prof. Dr. Nikolay Tsankov and the panel of authors provide detailed information about psoriasis triggers and treatment, by-the-sea treatment. The mission of Shabla Municipality is to demonstrate the need for prevention and control, for priority preservation of people s health, and for increasing the well-being of society, and to this respect it would ensure full cooperation with investors who are interested and willing to participate in public-private partnerships Т & R

19 Т & R 19

20 KAVARNA - ATTRACTIVE AND WELCOMING Kavarna Municipality has established itself as a new and attractive tourist destination with three separate resort areas, Ikantalaka, Kavarna resort area, and Rusalka. The increased accommodation capacities, the enhanced infrastructure, the improved quality of tourism services, and the newly developed trails and routes led to an increase in tourist flow, especially individual tourists. No less important reason for this are the events that are organized not only in high season, but also before and after it: Kavarna Rock Fest, STRAVAGANZA festival of ancient music, festival of amateur theatres internationally attended, participation, Bulgaria in The Heart youth folklore festival,to mention but a few. The picturesque Kavarna coast with lots of small natural beaches contribute to the peaceful rest of the tourists in the summer season. Coastline and natural bays are ideal for yacht tourism. The area has a rich potential for the development of marine and holiday tourism in Kavarna maritime area, Ikantalaka and Rusalka; rural tourism in the villages of Balgarevo, Kamen Bryag, Topola and Bozhurets; scientific and heritage tourism in the natural and archaeological reserves of Yailata and Kaliakra (open are two Tourist Information Centres in the villages Balgarevo and Kamen Bryag); and cultural and congress tourism. Lovers of extreme experiences can enjoy cycling, cave tourism, ecotourism and specialized tourism observing and photographing birds and plants, dolphins and different fish in the coastal waters. The region boasts the first in the country mussel farms in Dalboka and Chirakman. Virgin nature, Mediterranean climate, colorful folk customs and celebrations, delicious local cuisine, unique fish and mussel fest, rich cultural calendar, rock scene of international celebrities, proximity to the beach resorts of Bulgaria and Romania, the first in this part of the world golf resorts and courses, and especially the unforgettable hospitality these are just some of the reasons to visit Kavarna! 20 Т & R

21 The Palace in Balchik welcomed over visitors The Architectural Park Complex and Cultural Centre The Palace marked a successful season. In addition to the increased tourist traffic from Russia, Greece, Romania, Germany, Poland, Israel, Iran and Argentina, the greatgranddaughter of Queen Marie of Romania put up in the Quiet Nest. Known for her education projects for disadvantaged children in the world, for being an organiser of art events and children s holidays, the royal guest exclaimed amidst the lovely chamber of her grandmother: This is unique! The waterfalls, ponds, flower gardens, palace alleys, combined with art and different architectural styles of the buildings and the fragments of the interior, were the work of world-famous park architects and builders, matching the authentic historical atmosphere of Then the intelligent and educated Queen Marie made a final decision to stay in the lovely chambers of her Summer Palace. Nowadays the architectural masterpiece is determinedly renovated by the ambitious management of the complex. Restoration and renovation work has been carried out with the help of the Romanian State Archive and the works of Architect Henrieta Delavrancea. After the damages caused by the earthquake of the 1970s, the cult villa Black Wool is going to be put up again in its true splendour. The Royal Smoking Room, behind the walls of which the fate of the Balkan nations and the European Southeast Policy were being determined, is in a process of restoration. In the past, diplomatic secrets flew out of the air holes of the nargilehs. Today the old royal palace is a natural decor for marriage ceremonies and celebrations. A proof of the popularity of this place is the large number of reservations for 2017 from Canada, England, Germany and Singapore. Some of the highlights in the new season will be open-air performances like Swan Lake, the musical Cats by Andrew Lloyd Webber etc. the.palace.balchik State cultural institute Cultural Centre The Palace Tel.: / The Palace Resort Area, p.b Т & R 21

22 HOTEL PARADISE BLUE 5***** Ideally located in the center of the resort overlooking the sea, the newly built 5* hotel offers the highest comfort and standards of quality in every amenity. Perfectly combining space and style, all 233 double rooms and apartments are designed to infuse an everlasting holiday mood. The A-la-carte and Buffet restaurants offer an exceptional cuisine prepared with a wide variety of ecologically clean products, while the hotels bars and nightclub set the mood for relaxing afternoons and vibrant evenings. The hotels grandiose outdoor swimming pool has a splendid view towards the sea and it s perfect for lounging and relaxing. Modern sunbeds and umbrellas are offered free of charge to the guests. The SPA & Wellness Center within the hotel offers unique and innovative programs and pampering SPA treatments. A multifunctional conference hall with 500 seats and a wide set of facilities make it perfect for events, such as seminars, corporate and incentive meetings, team buildings, as well as dinner parties and cocktails. Features: 24h reception desk, free internet connection, library, lobby bar, pool bar, night club, main buffet restaurant, a-la-carte restaurant, wide terraces, SPA & Wellness center with indoor swimming pool and fitness hall, outdoor swimming pool, baby pool and kids pool with water attractions, internet corner, multifunctional conference hall, private beach with 2 sunbeds and 1 umbrella free of charge, underground parking, kids club and animations scene, room service, laundry & ironing services, renta-car, currency exchange office, hairdresser. Deluxe rooms & Apartments: The 233 luxurious rooms and 1-bedroom apartments are disposed along the 9 floors of the hotel. 11 of them are swim-up rooms, while all other offer either sea or park view. The elegant design and meticulous attention to detail aim to meet the guests highest expectations. Features: flat screen TV, cable TV connection, safety deposit box, phone, Internet access, minibar, air conditioning, coffee and tea set, bathroom with bathtub and shower cabin, hairdryer, balcony. Maximum accommodation: 2 adults and 2 children / 3 adults and 1 child. Pet policy: Pets are not allowed. 22 Т & R

23 BEACH With a length of 3.5 kilometers and a width of 150 meters, crystal clear waters, fine golden sand and magnificent natural surroundings, Albena s beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Europe. For season 2017, two sun-chairs and one umbrella will be offered free of charge for all our guests, no matter the hotel in which they are accommodated. ZERO-WASTE TOURISM Albena Group is dedicated to supporting and promoting eco-friendly business activities, demonstrated in the adoption of a unique business model for sustainable development. Our ultimate goal is to achieve Zero-Waste tourism operations, which translates into detailed plans for the elimination of refuse, based on the principles of efficiency, economics and ethics. Thus, we not only aim to protect the environment, but also to enhance the regional infrastructure and the welfare of the local population. We have already demonstrated our commitment to environmental protection by preserving the natural vegetation within the resort and the pristine waters of the Black sea. Our efforts have been recognized with multiple Blue flag awards, whilst guarding the unique wildlife of the Baltata reserve has been integral part of our policies over the last nearly 50 years. Furthermore, we also ensure that 50% of the fresh fruits and vegetables, served in our restaurants, are of bio-origins, produced by our subsidiary Eco Agro. In 2014, we have established the first certified organic farm in Bulgaria for grass-fed cattle of the well-known Angus breed. It is the highest quality beef known worldwide. Our green ideal has driven us to take additional bold steps in perfecting our business operations to further enhance the experience of our guests. Hence, we have also established a biogas plant to process the organic waste, accumulated by the tourism activities. The biogas plant produces clean green energy along with a high-quality organic fertilizer that we utilize within our farming activities. It is a circular economy leaving no waste behind. Our quest for efficient usage of resources also refers to investments in facilities generating renewable energy - we have constructed 1235 sq. meters of solar panels, primarily used for water heating in the hotels. We have also taken firm steps towards upgrading the cooling systems within the resort with the introduction of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) innovative technology that protects the ozone layer, implemented in 14 of our buildings. These efforts have been acknowledged with the RELACS award for usage of renewable energy, ensuring 12 of our hotels that are part of the Green Hotels Association. We are now about to extend our policy of Zero-Waste tourism as we plan to expand the operations of our biogas plant, as well as the area of the solar panels up to 1500 sq. meters, thus increasing the usage of renewable energy. Our plans for limiting the emissions of fossil-fuel gases are to be achieved with the construction of funicular railway and the investment into an electric-driven train, serving for transportation of tourists around the resort - from the peaceful park-zone to the sandy beachfront and crystal-clear waters of the Black sea. In order to achieve our goals, we are now appealing to our dear guests who share our passion for the unique ambience of high-class and low-impact service provision in the resort. To succeed in accomplishing our mission of providing excellent environmental-friendly experience, we are introducing increased parking fees, in our price policy for season 2017, thus giving everyone the opportunity to join and support the common cause. ALBENA TENNIS CENTER By 1st of June 2017, Albena Resort will inaugurate 13 new tennis courts reaching a total of 26 courts within its 7 locations: Tennis center Flamingo Grand Tennis center Kaliopa Tennis center Ralitsa Tennis center Sandy Beach Tennis center Orchideya Tennis center Dobrotitsa Tennis center Malibu All tennis courts comply to the International Tennis Federation requirements for organizing international tennis tournaments and due to favorable climatic conditions and good maintenance of the facilities, the operation period of the outdoor tennis courts lasts until late October. Т & R 23

24 clear water also gives a possibility for fishing. The National Archaeological Reserve Yailata is 18 km from Kavarna, near the village of Kamen Bryag. Its territory is a vast terrace elevating m above the land, full of steep and stone terrains and huge abysses. 101 caves have been discovered in the area, which were used for dwellings as far back as 5 thousand years B.C. Three necropolises altogether have been unearthed here. Taukliman Nature Reserve, which is also known by the name of Bird Bay, is situated 60 km from Varna and 15 km from Kavarna. The holiday village of Rusalka is in this place, too. The area is abundant in tiny beaches, small rocky isles and tall rocky caves. The salt-water Lake Tuzlata is quite near. Six kilometres from Kavarna you can visit the St. Ekaterina Monastery of Bulgarevo, which is situated in the village of Bulgarevo. The Bolata beach is between Bulgarevo and Cape Kaliakra. It is a part of a reserve of the same name with one of the large migration routes of birds from all over Europe passing above it, Via Pontica. The Bolata beach is also popular as a good place for diving. The Archaeological and Nature Reserve Kaliakra is situated on Cape Kaliakra, about 12 km from Kavarna. The ruins of a Thracian fortress wall and baths from the 4 th century B. C. are located in the reserve. Cape Kaliakra protrudes 2 km into the sea. Its vertical rocks, descending 70 m down to the water, are particularly beautiful. 24 Т & R This is enough for the lovers of wild nature. The next to follow is Balchik, with the famous Palace, the Botanical Gardens and a number of other landmarks for those who have missed them. The beach in Albena Resort Complex is among the best ones on the northern Black Sea Coast. There are a number of restaurants on the beach, as well as good conditions for water sports, children s corners and other amenities. The beach between Albena and Kranevo is called Baltata. It can be reached by car on the coastal road from Albena. It is known as a nude beach. Then the Vanilla Beach in the holiday village of Kranevo follows. The spacious and attractive beach is located near the resorts of Golden Sands and Albena; it is about 25 km northeast of Varna. Next to Golden Sands is the Panorama beach, which is popular among the sunbathing naturists. The only nude bar in the country is on Panorama. There are good conditions for camping in caravans and tents. Kabakum is a big and beautiful beach located in the territory of the Chaika resort, between the Sunny Day resort and the Riviera holiday club. The Kabakum beach is relatively crowded, but it is still not as visited as the beaches of the nearby resorts of Constantine and Elena, Golden Sands, Sunny Day (Kokodiva) and Riviera. The Trakata beach is near Varna. It is sparsely populated and for this reason, very clean. There is an easy access to it. The water is shallow but the seabed is strewn with stones. There are several beaches in Varna. The Officers beach is just below a restaurant in the Sea Garden. The sand strip is wide and spacious, and the sand is fine and golden. The most popular Varna beach is Rapongi. It offers a number of restaurants and bars directly on the beach. There are a lot of possibilities for water sports. It has volleyball nets and conditions for beach football; the Fichoza beach is 2-3 km south of Galata Quarter in Varna. It is located in a woodland area called Fichoza and is 1 km long. A part of the beach is stony and covered with shells. It is also

25 Т & R 25

26 used by nudists. Galata is a clean and nice beach, but is strewn with rocks. It is not very populated and because of this nudists can be seen there. About 15 km south of Varna is the Pasha Dere beach. A part of the longest sand strip along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast is the Kamchia Sands beach, which is located in the protected area of the same name. The beach starts from the mouth of the Kamchia River in the north and runs in the middle of the strip between the Shkorpilovtsi and Kamchia beaches. It is unique for its pristine sand dunes, some of them stretching for over 100 m to the land, as well as for its unspoilt nature. The village of Shkorpilovtsi is about 42 km south of Varna and 30 km north of Byala. Its sand strip is 13 km long and 100 m wide. This is the longest and widest beach on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. It is equally attractive for guests of some of the hotels and guest houses, as well as for lovers of camping tourism. The area is ecologically clean. The Byala beach is located in the town of the same name and it is a beautiful, long and wide strip of sand. The sea water is crystal clean and wonderful for bathing. Obzor and Irakli should not be neglected either. The north is for the lovers of peace and quiet, of the nearly empty beaches, but also of luxury restaurants. On the other hand, the south is for the admirers of beer and fried sprat, of lively pubs and fishing, and of the coast, all in green. 26 Т & R Pomorie is a resort preferred for its healing mud. Vlas, Sunny Beach, Nesebar and Ravda have nearly merged. The beaches are wonderful, but overcrowded. If you really want to escape from the temptations of modern civilisation, the best thing to do is continue southward, pass by the resort towns of Burgas, Chernomorets and Sozopol, which have been transformed beyond recognition by uncontrolled construction, and head to the south-most regions of our Black Sea Coast. A little before reaching Primorsko, concrete gradually starts to give way to greenery. Shady forests and slopes of Strandzha descend gracefully to some of the most beautiful beaches of the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. The combination of sea and mountain is unique. At the height of summer, the coastal villages and towns of Tsarevo, Varvara, Ahtopol and Sinemorets are filled with tourists. Sinemorets is a splendid holiday resort with some of the best beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. Here the beaches are cosier and surrounded by jagged rocks and fresh green forests. The sand is white and exceptionally clean, the sea water is pleasantly warm and clean. The boat trips organised along the course of the Ropotamo and Veleka Rivers are an attraction for holiday makers and the river mouth is a favourite place for fishing. The last beach before reaching the Bulgarian border with Turkey is Silistar, 5 km from Sinemorets. This is the most beautiful and still

27 Т & R 27

28 wild and clean bay along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, nestling in the forest, peaceful and quiet, and covered with golden sand. Further down to the border the coast is rocky and empty. At Rezovo, The Rezovska River divides the Bulgarian and the Turkish coast. The place is suitable for rest for people who like small and rocky beaches, and is preferred by romanticists. The temperature of air and sea water in the south is usually about 2 degrees higher than that on the Northern Black Sea Coast. The probability for rainfall in the south is smaller, which makes difference when you only have a few days for rest at the sea. Whether you will choose the wild north or the warm south for rest depends on your personal preferences. One thing is certain wherever you go, you will spend an unforgettable holiday with a lot of sunshine, sea waves and freedom. Complex Silver Beach Resort Phone: +359 (0) Address: Bulgaria, 9101 Byala, Varna District, 1 Tsar Ivailo str. silverbeach@silverbeachhotel.eu The holiday complex Silver Beach Resort located in one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Bulgaria - Byala. The town is situated on the Black Sea coast between the cities of Varna and Burgas, just 60 km from Varna International Airport. Silver Beach Resortis a wonderful nook on the sea front where you can live your unforgettable summer holiday with an incredible view of the limitless sea expanse. 28 Т & R

29 Т & R 29

30 BULGARIAN BLACK SEA COAST SUMMER PARADISE AND A WINTER WONDERLAND High banks, shoals of dolphins... Caves with seals Green forests, sandy beaches... Mineral springs in picturesque bays... Swans and icebergs... Rivers flowing into the sea... These are the landscapes from Shabla to Rezovo. The combination of natural resources and attractions washes the signs of stress, restores joy, temps health and character. Relaxing in the swimming pool on the beach under the sun and the falling snow is only part of the grace of Bulgaria. THE BEAUTIES OF THE NORTH START AT KALIAKRA By day the waves caress the high-rising cape, at night they roar in its foot... For centuries the sea under the fortress whispers about the 40 girls that braided their hair and jumped into its depths to the fate of slavery... Killer ring with a camera with poison was found in the necropolis... Deceit to power or deep reserve of honour the answer is still to come... Once inaccessible, today Kaliakra is a destination with a museum, chapels, a lighthouse, restaurant, frequented by thousands of tourists when they not at the beach in the vicinity or are in the beautiful Rusalka, naturally embedded in the beach. Baths tubes in the rocks and pools echo with the noise of sea and mineral waters, in front of them are the dolphins. Coastal restaurants offer fresh snails, and clams from organic farms. Nearby is the the town of Kavarna, the stage of world rock groups, seals are diving from the cliffs. Luxury hotels and golf courses designed by world samples reach 30 Т & R the Balchishka Tuzla, an oasis of curative mud, sea and sun. Arranged in tiers, Balchik overlooks the sea. From the floating restaurants and gondolas, the pier leads to the Palace of Queen Maria and the Botanical Garden with over 3,000 plant species. Notable among them are the meta-redwood tree, contemporary of the dinosaurs, and the second largest in the world collection of giant cacti. Colourful paths, waterfalls, and pools that shelter swans are the most romantic places in the North. Mystery, mysticism, and grandeur radiates from Aladzha Monastery, a centre of the clergy and part of the national ensemble of rock monasteries, hewn in the 13th century. Among deciduous forests shines the azure ALbena. Its hotels are standing in the warm sand. Because of the climate of sea, mountain and mineral water, the Thracians dubbed it Spring Valley, and the Romans Health. The policy of the resort is aimed at protecting environment and health. Albena melts psycho-physical stress away. It is preferred by tourists from Germany, Great Britain and Romania. A 10-minute walk on the beach or a horse ride will lead you to Kranevo. The Country the town avails all attractions, including a Ferris wheel, and movie. From there one can make a short drive to the luxurious Golden Sands. The complex is the largest in terms of number of beds in the North Coast. Hotels there, alike in Albena, are mostly operating as all-inclusive, and sports facilities and attractions are traditional. Famous wine cellar of Bulgarian monarchs warms the dinner under the stars. Resembling French Renaissance palaces,

31 Т & R 31

32 32 Т & R Evksinograd boasts imperial interior of wall and chimney watches with gold inlays, stylish furniture, and a unique art gallery. A whole of 800 decares of park where black oak and Atlantic cedar single examples on the Balkan Peninsula, are growing in the paradise, not accidentally built here: 7 curative mineral springs are gushing from the coast of the next-door St Constantine and Elena resort. The climate is among the healthiest in Europe, it strengthens the immune system and reduces stress. The mineral waters with temperature of C treat disorders of the cardiovascular, endocrine, respiratory, and nervous systems. Arranged in tiers, the complex does not allow noise to enter into the hotel rooms. Jeep safari, sailing, thermal pools on the beach, SPA, and massage keep the mood. Varna is a convenient location near-by. Aquarium, Planetarium, Dolphinarium, the only preserved torpedo ship from the 20th century all these part of the symbols of the city. Fanagoria Ethno-complex offers re-enactment of the life in an ancient Bulgar battle camp from the 6th 8th centuries, equestrian spectacle, and archery contests. Museum of socialism is a hit. Varna Carting is the biggest track in Bulgaria. Parachuting, paragliding, bungee jumping, balloon flights are emotions offered in the marine capital. Twelve kilometers of golden beach divides the aristocratic North of the temperamental South. The cultivated atmosphere of Shkorpilovci is suitable for privacy. The sea is crystal clear, nature is pristine. Traces of a cosmic cataclysm that had destroyed the dinosaurs 65 billion years ago are kept by the White Rocks near the town of Byala, combining the luxury of civilization with the adventure of wildlife. From Obzor southwards nature thrives, free and bizarre, air and water temperature jump with C. There is an abundance of new family accommodation establishments, holiday houses, seaside restaurants. By the fearsome Cape Emine, bypassed by seafarers for centuries, shines St Vlas, the diamond of the South Coast. Proclaimed a town in 2006, today is has developed into a modern resort. The healing climate is conditioned by centuries-old mixed forests and sea breeze. Hotels and restaurants are new. The coast abounds in casinos and restaurants. The gilded domes of the newly-built church shine from afar. A divine path with 12 chapels goes to the hill top. For their morning jogging, worship or just for a walk Russians, Bulgarians, Germans climb the hill. The Amphitheatre hosts cultural events. An Aqua Park, pirate ships, over 300 yachts are great attractions for the tourists. Sunny Beach, the hot heart of the South Coast, is colossal in its panoramic crescent-shaped

33 Т & R 33

34 gulf. It is close to Burgas mineral baths and Pomorie Lake with an ecosystem of over 270 species of birds and curative mud deposits, invaluable to the human body. The natural hospital of Pomorie treats difficult disorders, and the miracle-making icon of the Savior in the Transfiguration Church cries with his tears. Isolated from the noise of crowded resorts, Ravda is the best choice for a family holidays. With pastoral and relaxed atmosphere, small Ravda is close to the big city of Burgas, modern centre of the South, popular for its sunny people, Marine Garden, the largest in the Balkans collection of anchors and stocks. Burgas is the hometown of generations of Bulgarian poets, musicians, and artists, a fact that adds to its romantic atmosphere. Deposits of lye, curative mud and mineral springs are used for treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system, skin and nervous diseases, to improve metabolic functions, to heal wounds, to beautify and rejuvenate. Sailing along the rivers Kamchia and Ropotamo is a great attraction for tourists. Among dense forests, voiced by their natural inhabitants rises the rock phenomenon Lion s Head. The Snake Island is a stop of the birds flying from Africa and a nesting site of rare marine species among a forest of cacti. Sozopol is a symbiosis of ages. Because of its unique appearance, historical artifacts from ancient civilizations and contemporary cultural festivals, ancient Apollonia is the most tangible breath of the sea, romance and culture, a favorite spot of the intellectual elite. The atmosphere of the town is hard to describe, but easy to inhale. Between the island of St Kirik and Julita and the island of St Yoan, at a depth of m underwater there is an apocalyptic tree forest. The cedar wood, fos- 34 Т & R silized in geological cataclysm is 70 million years old, preserved thanks to the low oxygen content in marine waters. The Black Sea is the environment of naturally preserved ships, treasures and wonders: underwater chapel at 7 meters depth welcomes newly-wed anyo baptizes children. The image of the saint is of brass, while the altar is of stone. A cross, a candlestick and burning chemical candles complement the Church of St Nicholas near Primorsko. With its youthful spirit, modern hotel facilities, and sports complexes, the town is charming also with its proximity to Cape Maslen and Begliktash. The Thracian City of Secrets is carved in the rocks. It had sealed the giant footsteps of Mother Goddess and the God of the Sun. Kiten, a colourful bouquet, spreads on a peninsula, near the mouths of the rivers Dyavolska and Kitenska. It is a charming sport for families and friends with hospitable hotels, warm gulf and crystal waters. Diving, swimming, surfing, laughing, riding, fishing in the azure bays of Lozenets are part of the atmosphere of ease and nonchalance in the town, wrapped in flowers and vines. A Thracian goddess welcomes the guests to Tsarevo. The bronze parton of the town, and its beacon, is 22 meters high and 3,3 tons heavy, and provides divine control over mooring ships. Over peninsula, wading into the turquoise sea, under the shade of Strandzha forests, to the clear waters of the river Veleka is Ahtopol, ancient marine town, today a popular resort, a jewel in the crown of coastal towns. Like pearls of a necklace the sunniest places are scattered southwards: Varvara, paradise of divers with its natural beauty of underwater reefs and caves, the village of Kosti, famous for its nestinarski dances on live ambers, the crystal Sinemorets with the blue waters of the bay near Silistar, elution of fatigue, concern and bitterness. Jeep safari in the Strandzha Mountains, canoeing on the river Veleka, hunting and fishing in rivers and the sea are among pleasures offered at the southeastern part of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Lovely hotels and villas, deserted golden beaches and freedom of spirit, this scenic picture is Rezovo. The millennial history of the town and its legendary king Rhesus are mentioned in Homer s Iliad. The inaccessible shores of the river Rezvoya with the oak forests near its mouth are the limits of divine Bulgaria.

35 The north area of Sunny Beach phone: / ,22 817, fax: / Sunny Beach phone: / fax: / Sunny Beach phone: / , , phone/fax: / Т & R 35

36 Sozopol the business card of Bulgarian seaside tourism What is Sozopol like? Ancient and medieval Christian complex The high scientific and cultural and historic value of the complex attracts the interest of both tourists and professionals from around the world. St Nicholas the Miracle-Worker Archaeological Complex displays artifacts and objects that trace the 27-century-old history of the town. The complex came into world news with yet another discovery, the Vampire of Sozopol that inspired a National Geographic film about the medieval ritual 36 Т & R Old Town of Sozopol Architectural and Archaeological Reserve In 1965, the Old Town of Sozopol was declared an architectural and historical reserve. South Fortress Wall and Tower Architectural and Historical Compound In 2015, the compound has brought worldwide recognition of Sozopol by winning the Tourism of Tomorrow prize of the Council for World Tourism and Travel in the Best Destination category. Since 2009, 20 European destinations have been taking tough competition in the prestigious European Destination ranking. These are places that have impressed tourists with their high-quality services, attractive places for recreation, unique historical, cultural and natural sites. Alongside Sozopol, other nominee destinations are Milan, Brussels, San Sebastian, Wroclaw, Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Vienna, Porto, Athens, Novi Sad, Zagreb, to mention but a few. The ranking is organized by European Best Destinations, an organization based in Brussels and designed to promote culture and tourism in Europe, and is underlain by the principle by the tourist, for the tourist. In partnership with the EDEN network, it provides a unique opportunity for advertising and promotion of European destinations and encourages consumers of tourism services to be active in the selection and evaluation during the vote on the EDEN Internet platform, which will be held from January 10 to February 20, Why vote for Sozopol? Sozopol is the oldest Bulgarian town that has grown to be a real museum town. With its impressive architecture and archeology, with the rich palette of cultural events, with its excellent hotel facilities and modern tourism infrastructure, modern Sozopol is the business card of Bulgarian seaside tourism and welcomes thousands of tourists every year. Anyone can vote for Sozopol directly from the page dedicated to Sozopol:

37 Apolis Hotel*** your easy-going summer in the atmosphere and quietness of the small hotel! Apolis Hotel *** is a luxury family hotel with interesting architecture, built in The hotel is situated in the new part of the town of Sozopol and is divided in 5 levels completely orientated to the sea with the purpose of guaranteeing a wonderful view to its guests. TOP LOCATION - located at 70 m distance from Harmani beach having 5 km beach line - Sozopol: wtih 26 century history, unique and romantic atmosphere, the three wonderful beaches and neighbouring ancient houses hours sunshine, 27 degrees sea water. ACCOMMODATION - 29 cosy rooms - 3 luxury furnished apartments type maisonette, having direct view to the sea - 2 studios The apartments type maisonette consist of 2 rooms, located on 2 floors. One bedroom apartamentit type maisonette consists of two rooms on two floors. On the first floor is a living room with air conditioning, sanitary unit, bathroom and terrace. On the second floor is a bedroom also with air conditioning, sanitary unit and bathroom. Two bedroom apartamentit type maisonette consists of three rooms on two floors. On the first floor is a living room with air conditioning, sanitary unit, bathroom and terrace. On the second floor is two adjoining bedrooms also with air conditioning and sanitary unit. All rooms and apartments are luxury furnished, having adjacent terraces, airconditioner, TV set, mini-bar, comfort furniture, large bathrooms and everything necessary for your full comfort. SERVICES Apolis Hotel*** is provided with: Restaurant with outdoor terrace Swimming pool for children and adults, with sun chairs Children s playground Mini bar Room service Safe Parking lot Transfer - your comfortable and pleasant travel is ensured also by us! APOLIS Hotel 6, Sv. Terter Str., Sozopol, Bulgaria tel/fax: /16 mobile: info@hotel-apolis.com Apart complex "Prestige city 2" Primorsko Reservation Department e mail : reservatins@prestige-city.com Calm, quiet and cosy summer in Apart complex "Prestige city 2" *** It is your ethereal vacation at the Flagman Hotel *** with the beat of waves! The Flagman Hotel was fully renovated in 2014 and converted to a boutique style. Every room has different furnishing and modernistic bathrooms under a designer project. A luxury restaurant with an indoor area and two open terraces. The Flagman Hotel is well known to tourist industry, with its proven name, entrusted by its guests during the years. The hotel is located near the stadium Arena Sozopol /20 m/. With its unique architecture of a ship anchored at the shore, the Flagman hotel complex *** is situated in the new part of Sozopol town, 70 m from the Harmanite beach, with a 5 km long beach of fine sand. The hotel offers all you may need for your comfort during your vacation or your organized event! Facilities Active recreation or relation it is up to you to decide! A swimming pool excellent maintenance, with a separate part for children Sauna Jacuzzi Massage Free wi-fi Safety boxes to keep your valuables at the reception desk Room service Foreign currency exchange service A spacious restaurant -comprised of an indoor room with 100 seats and 2 open terraces with 160 seats. The Flagman restaurant is open every day from 8:00 to 23:00. Breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner, included in the price of the rooms in the case of all inclusive packages, served as buffet. There are soft drink and hot drink machines near the buffet table, also included in the price. Alcoholic drinks will be offered and served from 10:00 to 22:00. We offer 5 types of Bulgarian spirits, draft beer, white and red wine. At different times you can enjoy, with additional payment, diverse Bulgarian and European cuisine in combination with a wide range of spirits and soft drinks and cocktails. There are many shops and cafés within 50 metres of Hotel Flagman. It is just 500 metres away from Sozopol s Old Town and Sozopol s Central Bus Station, with direct buses to Burgas, Sofia, Sunny Beach and Nessebar. FLAGMAN Hotel 1, Odesa Str., Sozopol, Bulgaria phone: +359 (550) mobile: flagman_sozopol@yahoo.com APARTHOTEL Prestige City II Primorsko is a residential complex: - situated on the beach, in immediate proximity to the wide beach strip of International Youth Centre Primorsko - situated in an attractive forest land called The Sands and combining the presence of unique natural gifts with unique microclimate joining together the coolness of a century-old oak forest and the heat of the gently burning sun rays and offering calm, active and a full valued rest! Т & R 37

38 38 Т & R

39 Т & R 39

40 DANUBE TOWNS RIVER OASES ALONG BULGARIAN COAST The stronghold of Drustur on the Danube is mentioned for the first time in the legendary text, The Vision of Isaiah, which prophesied the creation of the Bulgarian state. Today, it keeps rullers inscriptions; discovered has been gold jewellery belonging to Bulgarian queens. Seven cathedral churches built by Knyaz Boris I attest to the power of Christianity and the powerful nation. The residence of the early Bulgarian rulers, titled Khans, availed a Danube fleet. Beautiful hotels and parks adorn Silistra along the river bank. Silver lights shine over the Danube in clear moonlit nights or at sunset... It is actually the water grass dubbed The Light, in the big Lake Srebarna and the blazing islands. The reserve is home to herons, mute swan, Dalmatian Pelican, over 150 rare bird species. In its waters live northern pike, carp, perch, and European weatherfish. Hiding among the bulrush and the water lilies are species like otter, marbled polecat, and over 35 mammal species. The biosphere reserve is a UNES- CO site. The pastoral landscape of the village of Vetren is ideal for rural tourism. Nestled near the fresh forest, the village has preserved 100-year-old customs, folklore and charm. The Museum of Fishermen exhibits the typical local Dobrudzha fur cap, the kalpak dubbed cockscomb. Locals are mainly engaged in gardening, animal husbandry, and fisheries, while eco food is abundant. Oak and acacia forests hug the picturesque Kutlovitsa. Dizzying canyons covered with century-old forests are pierced by caves that are the home of nesting eagles, 40 Т & R the paradise for mountaineers and lovers of wildlife. This nook by the Danube has its Orthodox Church of St. George and boaststhracian sanctuaries. Some of the small hotels and shops are designed in alpine and hunters lodge style. Danube Fishing and Boat Building is the only thematic ethnographic complex. In the town of Tutrakan, built in tiers above the river, fishing is ancestral livelihood means for tens of families. The vegetation of the Danube wetlands has embraced the town in a picturesque landscape. Forty eight houses, architectural monuments, objects and tools comprise the Ribarska Mahala (Fishermen s neighborhood) Architectural Reserve near the river. The Kalimok-Brashlen protected area offers eco-trails among the rare animal and plant species. Fish Exchange ensures fresh catch. Syanovo Monastery of St Marina with its with healing spring is a paradise in a picturesque area. In close reach are the Omourtag mound and the Sveshtari royal Thracian- Hellenistic tomb with its 42 mounds. The most luxurious hunters lodges in North-Eastern Bulgaria are on the island of Batin. Red deer, roe ded er, anwild boar are among the distinctive trophies. Magnificent views of the fiery sunsets over the river open from beneath the shade of a 300-year-old dense oak tree. Gladiatorial battles and tons of weapons are dumped in the Heart of the Legion, Svishtov during the Eagle of the Danube Festival in the spring. Teams from across Europe take part in the reconstructions in the ancient

41 town of Nove. Svishtov is known for the spectacular Danube swimming contest in summer. The authentic town reflects in the waters round the island of Vardim. The dense foliage of the trees is heavy with the nests of colonies of birds. Herons, spoonbills, and glossy ibises stroll through the dense vegetation. The miraclemaking icon of the Virgin with the Broken Finger kept in the Monastery of the Shroud of Holy Mother near Svishtov patronizes the town. Heavy gold treasure was found in the Danube town of Nikopol. The Palaeolithic findings in the nearby village of Muselievo prove that the oldest workshop in Europe for flint arrowheads had been in Bulgaria. Ancient Ulpia Oescus had been among the most beautiful towns on the Danube bank in the Roman province of Moesia Inferior. Remnants of its impressive buildings can be seen today in the vicinity of the village of Gigen, Pleven District. The Church of Sts Peter and Paul is a model of Christian architecture and art. The rockhewn Church of St Stephen is a monument of Early Christianity. Ethnographic houses, models of urban life, are preserved round the town. The floating museum ship Radetzki is a symbol of Kozloduy and a concentrated historical epic of the Bulgarian national liberation struggles against the Ottomans. Moored on the coast of Kozloduy, the ship still keeps the spirit of genius Bulgarian revolutionary Hristo Botev. Hotels and restaurants are located along the river. The Island of Ibisha opposite the town is paradise for sun-bathing and relaxation on the beach. of 6 sq. m. Over 50 gold and silver objects were discovered in ancient Colonia Ulpia Ratiaria 26 km from the town. It is assumed that they are family wealth. The most dramatic stronghold on the Bulgarian coast is Vidin Fortress. Towers of medieval castle of Baba Vida and the ancient town of Kaleto bear witness to the heroic centuries in which Vidin survived as a bastion and a state in the state. The town is saturated with historical landmarks and its surroundings are perfect grounds for rural tourism. The tourist association organizes trips boat tours. Five miracle-making icons protect the town in its temples. The settling of the European continent had started from Belogradchik and the Balkans showed the excavations in the Kozarnika Cave. The bones of a rhinoceros, mammoths, saber-toothed tiger, panther, primitive flint tools found in one of the oldest prehistoric sites in Bulgaria and Europe evidence to the fact that the hunters who had inhabited the cave were distant ancestors of Homo Sapiens... In 1841, French economist Jerome Blanquis exclaimed that neither the famous narrow passages in Provence or the Pancorbo Gorge in Spain, nor the Alps or the Pyrenees or the oldest mountains in Tirol and Switzerland possess anything that could be compared to what he had seen The dam lakes in the vicinity offer opportunities for rural tourism and fishing. The photo exhibition, Holy Places in Bulgaria, enjoys great interest by Bulgarians and foreigners alike. The unique fire-lookout tower and the Museum of Firefighting are in the town of Lom. Not far from the village of Orsoya, the Danube has undermined the shore to bring to the surface a Bronze Age necropolis in Bulgaria near Belogradchik these were the famous Belogradchik rocks near the magnificent town. In the south westernmost part of Bulgarian the Magura Cave is evidence of human presence and drawings from the Neolithic and Copper Stone Age. The Rakovitsa and Chiprovtsi Monasteris are among the oldest Bulgarian spiritual abodes. Т & R 41

42 ALL I SAW LATER HAD ALREADY TAKEN PLACE IN RUSE All I saw later had already taken place in Ruse, exclaimed Elias Canetti, the first Nobel laureate in literature, born in the Danubian town. In the 19th century, Ruse was the centre of the Vilayet of the Danube. Its upsurge was predetermined by the largest European river, the enterprising spirit of the population, the educated Midhat Pasha the founding father of modern agriculture, and the first Ruse Varna railway line. At that time Ruse streets were the first to boast French-fashion street paving, curbs and sidewalks, and to be illuminated by strange oil lamps. The first enterprises in various fields opened in Ruse: printing house, telegraph office, soap workshop, furniture factory, the first bank, to mention but a few. Consulates of fourteen countries opened in town, too. The house of legendary Baba Tonka by the river served as a hub for revolutionaries and an arms depot with its secret tunnel to the river. After the liberation, Danubian fleet was set up, forerunner of the Bulgarian Navy and Marine Engineering School. The first in the Balkans German Deutsche Schule was established in Ruse, too. The year 1881 saw the building of the first Weather Service Station. The inhabitants of Ruse were the first to watch movies and drive imported cars. The aristocratic appearance of the town was determined by the cosmopolite community of bankers, manufacturers, and industrialists who travelled around the world via the river. Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles were elegantly combined in the European atmosphere of the town. Urban design and landscaping of the town was the work of leading European architects and engineers: Dohodnoto Zdanie (literally, the profitable building), together with the beerhouse, shops and restaurants erected with the idea to support the schools in Ruse, was the deed of the Viennese architect Peter Paul Brang. The town garden with its palm-trees, banana shrubs and Agave plants was landscaped by Ferdinand Haluber from Bohemia. The Monument of Freedom similar to those in New York and Rio de Janeiro was erected by Florentine sculptor Arnoldo Zocchi. Nino Rossetti is the author of some buildings in the downtown, while Viennese architect Frank Gruenanger created part of the architectural ensemble on Battenberg Square. In the war period, Ruse lost over 40 million Leva of its 42 Т & R revenue, and only 2 of the consulates remained open. After 1944, so-called Little Vienna was condemned as a bourgeois hub. In an overnight its prominent doctors, architects, lawyers, musicians, and intellectuals were killed but that did not bend the spirit of its citizens. In the 1990s, the first mass protests against the totalitarian government were staged in Ruse and were led four women-mothers. They served as the forerunner of the fall of the system. Today Ruse is the centre of the Danubian macro-region. Ruse is the first town in Bulgaria that has agreed a master plan with neighbouring Romanian town of Giurgiu for integrated development that provided a bold vision of the future in the form of a common city. The town is also serving as a Coordination Centre of the projects of 14 countries in the Danube region. Danube Programme has foreseen joint projects in tourism. Bulgaria and Romania are partners in delivering common products to distant markets under Intereg V Programme. Angel Kanchev University of Ruse was the first to introduce a major in European Studies in the country. Small pleasure boats swiftly maneuver among modern cruise ships mooring in the river. Fish dishes and fresh fish are served in the floating restaurants after some tiresome tours in the shopping malls. Whether the choice for accommodation is in an aristocratic downtown hotel or in a neat farmhouse in the Rusenski Lom river canyon, or in its surroundings with developed rural tourism: Nisovo, Pepelina, Bozhichen, Cherven, Koshov and Pet Kladentsi, with a glass of red wine from local wineries in hand and tasting the delicious typical Northern Bulgarian delicacies, the visit to Ruse will add to your knowledge, energy and good mood.

43 Ruse 133 Bulgaria blvd / fax: / respectively, and are equipped with professional presentation and sound equipment, as well as high-speed WIFI and LAN internet connection. The big conference room boasts yet another competitive advantage versatile and spacious terrace, perfect for holding outdoorcoffee breaks and cocktail parties. HOTEL Situated on the E85 international road and near the Danube Bridge, the hotel is open year round and offers excellent opportunities for business meetings, seminars, teambuilding sessions, corporate and family celebrations. It avails 30 double rooms and deluxe studios that can accommodate 70. Rooms are bright and spacious, with modern interior and a different style on each of the five floors. CONFERENCE HALLS The two multifunctional conference halls can host corporate events, seminars and teambuilding sessions. They have a capacity 30 and 140 people, RESTAURANT Palace Restaurant has a capacity of 300 seats and consists of three halls, separated from each other with movable glass windows allowing simultaneous holding of two separate events. To our guests we offer exquisite Bulgarian and European cuisine and tasty lunch menu. SUMMER GARDEN During the summer months our guests can enjoy the magnificent garden with 300 seats among flowers and greenery. We expect you and your customers! Т & R 43

44 Ten caryatids in the eternal world of the Thracian king Katya Petrova It is remembered forever, this first look at the Sveshtari Tomb when you are already at the doorstep of the unique Thracian creation. Three semi-cylindrical stone arches, asymmetrically located entrance, and the highly luminous female figure with raised hands sculpted of limestone at the background. The facial expression, the garment fitting to the female form, belted under the bust and heavily pleated down, ending in the form of a blooming tulip... Not one, but ten are the caryatids that had been keeping the vault of the royal tomb with their fragile hands for more than two millennia. Ten female figures, frozen in eternity with various faces, as multifaceted as had been the Thracian perception of the Great Mother Goddess. The Thracian royal tomb in the vicinity of the village of Sveshtari was discovered during regular surveys in September Because of its unique combination of architecture, sculpture and painting, which is not found in the other unearthed tombs, the Sveshtari Tombs was inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage List, only three years later. The tomb external dimensions of the tomb, 7.5 m long, 6.5 m wide at the front, and 5 m height is dated to the beginning of the 3rd century BC. The floor is covered with stone slabs and the walls are placed upon them, there is no other foundation in depth. The construction is of limestone blocks extracted in the valley of the nearby river. The processing was done on-site, and linking is dry, a typical principle of the time. In some places the stone blocks are linked with iron brackets and further strengthened with poured lead. Earth was piled in 3 stages; the embankment was done simultaneously with the construction effort. The entrance was closed later. Now the tomb is exhibited in full; only part of the embankment is left to present the different layers. A reinforced concrete dome has been made in the early years to cover the tomb and ensure its better conservation. The interior consists of a corridor and three chambers entrance, burial chamber and a camera for burial gifts (each of them is covered by an individual vault of varying height). Decoration of stylized bulls head, rosettes and garlands, connecting them, adorn the lintel of the doorway. There is painted decoration in red and blue on the capitals of columns. Coloured had been also the hair, faces and clothes of the caryatids. The frieze with them spreads over two stone beds for the ruler and his wife in the chamber. A graceful figure in the lunette of the vault presents the royal deification of man depicted as a horseman, whom Mother Goddess gives a golden crown. The unfinished drawing suggests that his death was premature. In his eternal home found have been skeletons of six Isperih Historical Museum presents: Sboryanovo Historical and Archaeological Reserve a combination of rare creations of nature and human touch. Within is the Thracian royal tomb in the vicinity of the village of Sveshtari (BC 3rd century), a monument of world cultural heritage. The tomb is recognized as a unique architectural piece of work with sculptural decoration. A fortified Thracian city, the capital of the powerful Getae dynasty (BC 4th 2nd centuries) is located in the centre of the reserve. Near the Spring of Five Fingers (Pette Prasta), on the ruins of an ancient Thracian sanctuary, stands the Demir Baba Teke, the tomb of the Alevi Saint Demir Baba (Iron Father), built there in the 16th century. 44 Т & R horses, a dog, a pig, pottery, weapons. And only one gold earring, which is why archaeologists suggest that the tomb was robbed in Antiquity. The decorated stone entrance door is now exhibited outside the tomb. It had once stood in front of the stone bed of the ruler: he had become God and it separated him from the eyes of mortals. The door was found collapsed, probably following an earthquake. Another door heavy metal and controlled by electronics, keeps the great heritage hidden under the concrete dome of the former Ginina mound. It is open Wednesday to Sunday, between 9 and for those who would like to learn more about the unique Thracian tomb (in the period from March to November). The groups comprise 9 people, always accompanied by a curator from the Museum in Isperih. The site is visited by about 10 thousand people every year. The site of the entire East Necropolis, which includes the royal tomb and two smaller tombs nearby, is designed with paths and greenery and well maintained. As Boryana Mateva, director of the museum claims, this is one of the few places where archaeological research is done simultaneously with conservation, restoration and landscaping of the area. In 2003, Visitors Centre was built with funds under the Beautiful Bulgaria Programme and with partial funding from the municipal budget. The next two years saw the laying of a lane network, parking lot and information signs funded under the PHARE. The Thracian royal tomb is part of Sboryanovo Historical and Archaeological Reserve near the town of Isperih. Spreading in an area of 6475 decares there are more than 140 cultural monuments among them 2 mounds, 108 tombs, grouped into 4 necropolises, several shrines of different time periods and fortified villages. The mounds in the reserve are located around the Thracian city, nearly 2 km west of the Sveshtari Tomb, and one can also see part of the outer city wall. Archaeologists date the city to the BC 4th 3rd century when these places were inhabited by the Getae. It presumed that it has been the political centre and capital of the Getae, and the tomb is the home of their ruler and his wife. There are no inscriptions referring to the name of the city, but recently the hypothesis that this is Helis, the capital of the Getae King Dromichaetes has come to the fore. Freed from the tones of earth, the Sveshtari Tomb is striking with its unique architecture The decoration above the entrance bull was a symbol of power and fertility for the Thracians 7400 Isperih, BULGARIA 6 Tzar Osvoboditel Str. Historical Museum Phone.: /4783 ; /3660; fax: /4684 ARI Sboryanovo Reception Centre Sveshtari tomb Phone: /279; museumisperih@yahoo.com web-sites:

45 Text: Daniela Karakasheva Chief PR and Educational Programme Expert Directorate Natural Park Persina 5930 Belene 5 Persin Str. phone/fax: persina@abv.bg PERSINA NATURE PARK THE FASCINATION OF THE DANUBE Moving to the Danube, in the central northern part of Bulgaria, between the regions of Pleven and Veliko Tarnovo you will come across an exceptional natural treasure located in the territory of Persina Nature Park. This is the only park situated along the Bulgarian Danube river valley. It was declared as such with the purpose of conserving and restoring the Danube wetlands, as well as preserving the natural state of the numerous islands within its boundaries. Persina Nature Park comprises the Milka and Kitka reserves, located on islands of the same name: the largest Bulgarian Danube island Persina, where the Persin Marshes Managed Reserve, the Persin Protected Area and the Persin East Protected area are situated; the Kaikusha Protected Area near the town of Svishtov and the Plavala Protected Area near the town of Nikopol. The visitor centre of the Persina Nature Park is in the town of Belene and plays the role of an information point where every excursion can start from. The centre has several expositions showing life in the wetlands: a mixed colony of herons and cormorants, a flying flock of birds, a nesting sea eagle, sturgeons and a hall presenting life under water. A remarkable view of the Belene Islands Complex the largest in area Ramsar Site in Bulgaria opens from the terrace. The recreation spots and the bird watching points are freely accessible to visitors. Т & R 45

46 GUEST HOUSE DOBROTITSA - A BEAUTIFUL TALE FROM DOBRUDZHA Guest House Dobrotitsa was created in 2014 and it is named aſter the village of its location. The guest house is built on a hill, from where a beautiful view of the nearby mountain elevations, dense deciduous forests, fertile grasslands and large gardens is open. The Oprev wine cellar is located in its immediate proximity. It is a modern production structure with a fully closed cycle of production from the grapes to the finished product. All the wine is made from own vineyards and this allows strict control over the raw material inputs. The winery team shares the opinion that authentic wine of its own style, nature and uniqueness can be made from the traditional Bulgarian wine grape varieties, as well as from the newly created ones. Wine tourism which has recently been gaining momentum in Bulgaria is a wonderful possibility to popularise the unique Bulgarian wines. It is in the spirit of this idea that the Dobrotitsa Guest House has been created. During the grape harvest time tourists have the opportunity to witness this process, as well as the specific grape processing activities. The house has nine tastefully furnished rooms, an outdoor terrace with barbecue, a restaurant, a fitness room and an area with fireplace and television. Our guests can see the sights of the village, some of which are unique. The St. St. Cyril and Methodius Church and the cenotaphs, symbolic tombs of soldiers who perished far from their native places; the Babadzhanov Fountain and the poem Water carved in the stone above the spout; meadows of wild peony blooming only in May to the south of the village; the Sharp Rock, which is a natural phenomenon from the deep antiquity. The village of Dobrotitsa is situated at 15 km from the Srebarna Biosphere Reserve where an eco trail passes round the lake. Not far from there is the village of Malak Preslavets, known for its swamp, where 147 bird species, diverse vegetation and animal world have been observed. The larges Madonna lily stock in Bulgaria has been discovered in Malak Preslavets. Silistra a town of ancient history and culture is situated at 36 km from Dobrotitsa. The Thracian Tomb in the village of Sveshtari is 50 km from this place. The Dobrotitsa Guest House is open for all those who keep Dobrudzha in their hearts. Here they can enjoy the fruits of this land, try delicious dishes and taste unique local wines. Village of Dobrotitsa, municipality of Sitovo, Silistra District. Sibiel OOD Todor Oprev ; Т & R

47 STARA PLISKA COMPLEX Worldwide unique cultural and historical entertainment complex, where Cyrillic letters are reborn. The complex is a new one and provides guests with amenities for a pleasant and relaxing holiday (Courtyard of the Cyrillic Alphabet, Inn and Boil Baths). YARD OF THE CYRILLIC ALPHABET PLISKA INN Pliska, 1 Hristo Smirnenski Str reservations starapliska@abv.bg The images of the ornaments of each letter suggest not just words in the Bulgarian and Russian languages, beginning with this specific letter, but also emanate the beauty and harmony of the human and Christian symbol. This alphabet has been used by a significant portion of the world population. The Cyrilic alphabet has been the official script in Romania until Т & R 47

48 THE LARGEST MUSEUM COMPLEX IN THE BALKANS OPENED IN VELIKO TARNOVO A total of BGN 2.5 millions for landscaping the two hills in the metropolitan city of Veliko Tarnovo were donated by the First Lady of Azerbaijan, Mehriban Alieva, wife of President Ilham Aliyev, through the Heydar Aliyev Foundation for the promotion of the cultural heritage of Veliko Tarnovo. The project for restoration and socialization of the fortresses of Tsarevets and Trapezitsa is the first investment of the Foundation in Eastern Europe. Donations were directed to the catacombs of St Marcellinus and Peter in Rome, the stained glass of the Strasbourg Cathedral, the palace in Berlin, wings of the palace at Versailles, among others. In 2015, Mrs. Alieva included Trapezitsa in the list. For her contribution to the dialogue between world cultures and the Foundation s first investment in Eastern Europe, Mehriban Alieva was awarded the Honoris Cause degree of the Veliko Tarnovo University and the Municipality of the Old Bulgarian capital declared her an honorary citizen of the city. The donation served for the construction of nearly 200 metres of the western fortress wall of the Trapezitsa. Restored were also 13th 14th-century frescoes in three churches. Decorative lighting was installed and a Centre for Heritage Interpretation was opened. 48 Т & R

49 Т & R 49

50 CULTURAL INSPIRATION IN NATURE About 70 km from Sofia, in the centre of the northern foothills of the Balkan Mountains is huddled the picturesque village of Osikovitsa with its six neighbourhoods. The area has a rich history preserved in Thracian sanctuaries, temples and shrines. Locals argue that the earth here emanates healing energy. Each of the neighbourhoods of Osikovitsa has its own charm. Georgi Stoyandzhov Originalite (the Originals) Park Gallery, the work of one of the most prominent Bulgarian sculptors, Pavel Koychev, spreads on a green lawn. The first part of the exhibition comprises the striking sculpture formation dubbed Water Grazing, depicting a three-metre shepherd and his herd, cleverly stepped into a beautiful lake nestled among the willow branches. The pastoral scene is followed by a cutting-edge exhibition with dozens of whimsical figures, each focused on its own unrest, but in composition with others. Pavel Koychev is the author of the original plaster models created over 40 years. Not a few of them are cast in bronze and adorn private collections in Europe and the US. 50 Т & R

51 Т & R 51

52 Coloured figures holding colourful kites pass like a vision though a lovely grove. Inspired by the idea that every phenomenon is temptation, the author has named his work Phenomenon is temptation. Plastic to dwell is the name of the habitable house-sculpture, the last jewel in the Park Gallery. A stone basement, two floors of mud and straw, combined with the bright colours of the roof produce a spectacular combination of traditional and fabulous. The furniture and the details of the fully furnished house are of original artistic value and the panoramic terrace opens inspiring views to the natural scenery. 52 Т & R

53 Т & R 53

54 54 Т & R

55 Т & R 55

56 THE TOMB OF KAZANLAK Kazanlak Tomb Kazanlak, park Tyulbeto Hours: Every day from 9:00 to 17:00 Phone: museum.iskra.kz@abv.bg The Tomb of Kazanlak a masterpiece of Thracian art It was discovered by chance during the Second World War by soldiers who had been digging an anti aircraft refuge. It consists of a corridor, a rectangular ante-chamber and a round burial chamber. The lower half of the walls is occupied by alternating fields in black, white and red. Three figures occupy a central place: a Thracian nobleman crowned with a gold wreath, his wife, an imposing woman covered with a veil, wearing a tiara on her head, who is coming up to them with a tray in her hands. he plot is interpreted as a burial feast. People walk in procession from the two sides of the group a young man holding a glass and a jug, female musicians in long chitons, warriors leading saddled horses. A chariot race with two horses pulling each chariot is depicted on the uppermost part of the dome. In the round space of the tomb there is an amphora, fragments of local and imported ceramics, elements of a clay gilded wreath, round gold applications and precious fibres, probably from a decoration of a garment, objects made of bone, parts of weapons, a rein, parts of wood. A clay oenochoe and bones from the warrior s buried horse were found in the ante chamber. On both parts of the tomb, at the height of 1.2 m in the embankment are the two hearths with traces of the sacrifices performed. The plan, construction, style, the technique of the frescoes and the objects found date from the first half of the 3 rd century B.C. The general concept of architecture and murals, the unique style and the artist s mastery have turned the Kazanlak tomb into one of the masterpieces of Thracian art and of ancient cultural heritage. In 1979 it was declared a monument of world importance, protected under the auspices of UNESCO. Rose Museum Kazanlak Park Rose Garden THE MUSEUM OF THE ROSE Parking: 1 Voinishka Str. Hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:30 Phone: museum.iskra.kz@abv.bg The Bulgarian rose oil is the purest in the world This has been confirmed by world-known perfume companies. The Bulgarian rose s charm comes from its geographical location, climate and technology. Its flowers are picked early in the morning at first sunlight in the most favourable summer time period, from May to June. The focus in the rose oil technology is the double distillation: 60 l of water and 15 kg of rose blossoms are needed to fill the cauldron. Three thousand rose blossoms are needed to produce 1 kg of rose elixir and 1 gram of it is made from 3000 kg of rose blossoms. The price of one kg of Bulgarian rose oil, which is of the best quality and with no match in the world, is The oil-bearing rose, Rose damascene Mill. f. trigintipetal came from India, only to discover its second motherland in the Kazanlak Valley located between Stara Planina (Balkan) Mountains and Sredna Gora Mountains. Kazanlak is the European Kashmir exclaimed the German Field Marshal Helmuth von Moltke. The traditional Rose Festival is held in Kazanlak in June every year. In this southern town there is a Museum of the Rose which is unique of its kind and the only one in the world. It presented its first rose exposition back in The building is a part of the historical museum Iskra and is housed in the Rosarium Park. Rich collections of objects, photos and documents accompanying the history of oil seed production are exhibited in the museum. Its halls show sets of instruments used for rose garden processing, tanks for storage and export of rose oil over the years. Products of the oil-bearing rose, cosmetics, rose liqueur, rose rakia and souvenirs from the rose oil producers everyday life and culture, which can be bought, are exhibited there. 56 Т & R

57 Т & R 57

58 SPA & WELLNESS IN BULGARIA HISAR WATER IS THE MOST DELICIOUS VARSHETS THE TOWN OF HEALTH and the most fuller in taste of all Bulgarian waters. Recognized as SPA Residence of the Balkans by the Balkan Alliance of Hotel Associations, the town of Hisar is known round in Europe for its wealth of 22 mineral-water springs with temperature of C. STYLE, LUXURY, MIRACLES AND WARMTH IN STARA ZAGORA SPA CENTRES is huddled in the green slopes of the Stara Planina Mountains and is worthy of the recognition given by the thousands of healed hearts, joints, and nerves. The C-hot mineral-water springs gush in indoor and outdoor pools. The resort offers a palette of hydromineral treatments, therapies and rituals for the body, electro-aesthetic procedures, classic and therapeutic massages, balneology and SPA treatments. DEPOSITS OF CURATIVE MUD AND LYE HEAL AND BEAUTIFY with the 510 C-hot mineral waters. The millennium-old resort is located on the sunny slopes of Sarnena Sredna Gora Mountains. The climate is influenced by the Mediterranean. The mineral waters alleviate disorders of the musculoskeletal system, the peripheral nervous system, renal and urological, gynecological and gastrointestinal diseases. Bulgaria boats a wealth of firth lakes and curative mud deposits Shabla Lake, Rusalka resort, Balchishka Tuzla, Varna, Pomorie and Atanassovsko Lakes. The curative mud of Pomorie and Burgas Mineral Baths has proven therapeutic effect on more than 45 diseases. Mud and lye have a healing effect, while noticeably improving appearance. Similar physical and chemical properties has the mud in Is- 58 Т & R

59 EDELWEISS HOTEL AND SPA Mt Buzludzha, Central Stara Planina Mountain Renovated masterpiece of mountain architecture in Bulgaria from the late 20th century The wood-carvings and the smoked stained-glass windows have been restored with utmost attention and almost entirely manually. The architectural and artistic value of the interior is preserved. The brokenplan layout of the halls, the panorama windows providing a great mountain view, the solid-wood panelling, the cozy rooms and balconies have been restored with precise accuracy and respect for the eternity of beauty and elegance. Edelweiss Hotel and Spa welcomes you at the Presidential Suite of Todor Zhivkov. We will tell you the story of Buzludzha Memorial House in a specially arranged museum hall with photographs. In the stained-glass 35 years ago, on August 23, 1981 at Mt Buzludzha, hall, today accommodating a sophisticated wine cellar, guests will immerse in the mystery of the bohème the Head of State of the People s Republic of Bulgaria Todor Zhivkov opened the biggest ideological monumental complex in the Balkans. A Holiday House for winery offers a special selection of the best wines lifestyle of 20th-century Bulgarian cultural elite. The the state leadership and cultural elite sprung at the produced in Bulgaria in the last decade. foot of the monumental crown of Bulgarian culture The hotel avails 12 double rooms and 6 suites, of and ideology. The most prominent Bulgarian artists which 1 VIP and 1 business apartment. The Spa Centre of the 1980s leſt their mark in the ornaments and is equipped with a unique spacious and natural-light decorations of the building. The government residence was then a favourite place of Lyudmila Zhivkova, the daughter of the Head of State. The Holiday House gathered together prominent writers, painters, poets, musicians, journalists, actors and artists of the time. Today the masterpiece of mountain architecture of the 1980s has become a modern mountain hotel fashionable, cozy, beautiful and offering comfort and relaxation in the cool mountains. EDELWEISS HOTEL and SPA On the south slope of Mt Buzludzha 19 кm from Kazanlak and 19 кm from Gabrovo GPS: N , E sauna; the windows of the Jacuzzi and the relaxation area also overlook the meadows. The restaurant avails 80 seats, 60 in-door and 20 on the terrace. The hotel also boasts Wi-Fi Internet and a special playroom for children. Business events and seminars are held in the 40-seat conference room equipped with LED multimedia. Reception: ; info@hoteledelweiss.bg Т & R 59

60 rael, the Dead Sea, Romania, Tekir Gyol on the Black Sea, the Crimean peninsula, Ukraine. Bulgarian analogue of the mud deposits in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Poland are the curative mud deposits in the village of Baykal, Kyustendil District, widely known for their therapeutic effect. Balneology and SPA resorts operate year-round. THE ROSE VALLEY TEMPERS AND BRINGS PERPETUAL HEALTH by means of the 9 hydrothermal springs of Pavel Banya with temperature of C. With low mineral content, the mighty waters affect herniated disc disorders, radiculitis, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis and spondyloarthrosis, narrowing of the cerebral spinal canal, traumatic injuries of the peripheral and central nervous systems, degenerative neurological disorders, post-traumatic and degenerative joint and joint-related disabilities. Pavel Banya resort avails 964 beds in balneology compounds, and 769 beds in private accommodation establishments. The municipal government invested in tourist attractions and SPA facilities to welcome about 30,000 tourists every year. 60 Т & R

61 Uni Hospital honesty, quality, professionalism Uni Hospital is the new modern hospital in the country. The medical establishment provides timely and highly qualified assistance to patients from Bulgaria and abroad. Uni Hospital boasts a superpowered Comprehensive Oncology Services, offering the latest innovative methods of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and nuclear medicine. The Centre avails the following equipment: -Two multimodal linear accelerators, the most modern ones in Bulgaria and South-Eastern Europe: the latest generation TrueBeam, one with an Edge plug and Calypso programme for the treatment of prostate cancer; -PET-CT - Siemens Biograph mct64 providing extremely high quality and precision of the diagnostic process, and reducing the radiation exposure of the patient. Uni Hospital is equipped with: - A new-generation Magnetom Aera - 1.5T Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanner; - A new-generation Somatom Perspective Computed Tomography Scanner, up to 128 slices; - Mobilet Mira mobile X-ray machine, in a Giraffe design, and unique in Bulgaria; - Luminos Fusion digital fluoroscopy machine; - Mamomat Fusion digital mammography machine for precise and most modern diagnosis of breast diseases. The Surgical Complex of the Uni Hospital is equipped with a hybrid operating room with robotic-assisted angiography, the first one in Bulgaria and South-Eastern Europe. The Vascular Surgery Department provides the most modern diagnosis and treatment of arterial and venous disorders. In the Uni Hospital patients can rely on honesty, high-quality, and professionalism! Complex treatment Leading experts Equipment, unique in the country PANAGYURISHTE, 100 Georegi Benkovski, Str. uni@unihospitalbg.com phone:

62 Spa destination of Bulgaria! This recognition earned the town of Sandanski at the beginning of the new millennium. Sandanski is located in South-Western Bulgaria and is one of the municipalities of Blagoevgrad District. Its today s name the town bears since 1947 in honour of Yane Sandanski, Bulgarian revolutionary and Voevode. Legend has it that brave leader Spartacus was born and raised in the vicinity of Sandanski. His monument is a symbol of the town. The combination of favourable natural conditions and the wealth of mineral springs treating various disorders had made the area a place to settle since most ancient times. The archaeological heritage in the region with the multitude of objects from different historical periods, Thracian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Turkish, Revival, is one of the richest and most diverse in Bulgaria. An ancient city lies beneath the land of today s Sandanski. The town enjoyed an upsurge as early as the 4th 6th centuries. The proof of this are not a few buildings, early Christian basilicas and even an episcopal complex, unearthed in the area. Extremely interesting are the mosaic ornamental carpets, some of which are exposed in situ in the Archaeological Museum. The municipality boasts a large number of landmarks that have become symbols of Bulgaria. These are: the town of Melnik, located 24 km from the administrative centre, Rozhen Monastery, the picturesque village of Leshnitsa where beauty and tranquility make everyone forget about everyday life; Pirin Nature Park, Melnik Rock Pyramids, inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage List, Ali Botush Reserve in the Slavyanka Mountains, Popina Laka Waterfall and eponymous resort, to mention but a few. The favourable climate and the numerous mineral springs are another reason for pride and popularity of this region. The springs have a temperature of C, low mineralization, rich chemical composition, and exceptional healing properties that provide for their year-round outdoor use. Sandanski is the best natural asthma clinic in Europe. The resort is recommended for treatment of various other diseases such as chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, neurological diseases, skin allergies, urological disorders and many others. Today Sandanski has established itself as a resort meeting the criteria of the European SPA Association. Sandanski takes pride of its unique urban park, St Vrach, located on 475 decares a piece of paradise, the home of over 150 species of Mediterranean plants, some of which are more than 550-years old natural landmarks. The downtown park naturally develops into a bigger forestry park and envelops the town as if in a horseshoe, deservingly dubbed the Green Necklace of Sandanski. Tourist attractions are the cozy wineries, taverns and restaurants which offer specialties of the Pirin cuisine and sparkling Melnik wine. Sandanski Municipality 2800 Sandanski, Bulgaria 14 Svoboda blvd. oba_sandanski@abv.bg Phone: , Fax: , Т & R

63 Т & R 63

64 Sveti Vrach SPA Complex, Sandanski The building, erected in the mid 20th century, the then renovated urban mineral baths, today offers royal pleasure, relaxation and recovery. The atmosphere in the Sveti Vrach SPA complex in terms of architecture, space, lining and arrangement of the premises, is in fact a precise reconstruction of an authentic Medieval Turkish baths with hammam and a thermal pool. Here time stops. Once you cross the threshold, the fatigue and stress of the busy lifestyle dissolve and you already feel refreshed, balanced, energetic and happy. The Wine Bar will offer a selection of the best wines in the region, the Middle Struma Valley, that you can share with your closest people in a cozy atmosphere. Do not miss this new and unique complex at 60 Macedonia St. (in the old downtown part of Sandanski). 64 Т & R

65 Rupite nature, history and energy in one Adriana Momchilova They say there are places touched by God, while Prophetess Vanga claimed that there is special energy emanating at this place. You have probably guessed that this is Rupite. The busy E80 highway fails to break the special atmosphere that reigns all around this place. About 180 km south of Sofia, and about 8 km from Petrich, there is the locality of Rupite. There Nature has sprinkled a few clips of its generosity. Guests who have travelled miles to get here, marvel at the hot water with a temperature of about 76o C, which gushes from the bowels of the earth among puffs of steam. Recreation nooks are appointed by the healing springs and pools. Amid the field rises the cone of an extinct volcano, the Kozhuh Mountain, with pinnacles and bizarre rock formations delineating the ridge and the slopes of the hill. This natural landmark is home to many rare and endemic plant species. At the Ornithological Station fans can watch birds on their way along Via Aristotelis, which passes over the area. Near the village of Rupite are the ruins of the ancient, 4th century AD city of Herculaneum Sintica, center of the Sintice area, named after the Thracian tribe of the Synthi. As a bridge spanning from Antiquity to Modernity, in the region rises the white flesh of the Church of St Petka of Bulgaria, erected with funds donated by Vanga. It seems like the energy of the prophetess jets from her modest house in the village, where her personal belongings and gifts are kept. Do not miss the traditional festival on the Feast Day of the Assumption, August 15, when you can taste local specialties and marvel at the bright colours of the costumes and the rhythms of local music performed by professional and amateur groups. You will leave Roupite purified, elevated and enriched. Т & R 65

66 Land of ancient history and dramatic events: they are preserved in the mysterious Herculaneum Sintica and in the glory of the Fortress of Samuil. They are visible in the museum exhibitions and the church architecture. They are perceptible in the splendour of Churilovski Monastery of St George. A land that has experienced the trials of time and has preserved its spirit in local traditions. Folklore that purifies on every January 1 with the dances of ancient Rusaliy and Kukeri masked dancers who drive evil away. Folklore that every year bristles with life at the Southern Necklace (Yuzhen Gerdan) authentic song and dance festival. Folklore that inspires and makes changes with the performances of young talents and the stars of Bulgarian and world pop and rock at the Golden Chestnut (Zlaten Kesten) festival. A piece of Bulgaria imbued with the mystique of Prophetess Vanga and offering places of worship in the her urban house and temple of St Petka in the locality of Roupite. A nook that has concentrated in one the energy and power of the Bulgarian saint, and the vast cosmos. Petrich the farthermost sunset over Bulgaria! Municipality THE SOUTHERNMOST CORNER OF BULGARIA Mediterranean breeze caressing the valley of the Struma and the breasts of the Ograzhden and Belasitsa Mountains. Water resources giving health and beauty by the mineral waters and the curative mud of Rupite and Marikostinovo localities. Pure nature, preserving the unique flora and fauna, protected by Natura 2000 National Environmental Network, Belasitsa Nature Park, Kongura Nature Reserve, and Toplishte and Babite protected areas. Amazing experience, adrenaline-rising when dashing down the tracks for extreme cycling and moto cross on the slopes of Belasitsa Mountains. Bulgarian El Dorado. Challenge your luck! A step away from Greece and Macedonia! Breath of golden peaches, aromatic chestnuts, juicy grapes and bitter wine. Picturesque villages with hospitable hosts, offering delicious dishes made as per Grandma recipes, homemade wine and brandy. Petrich multifaceted and unknown! Find it and you will love it! Year-round! Petrich, 24 Tsar Boris III Str., phone: / phone/fax: / ; oa_petrich@mbox.contact.bg 66 Т & R

67 21 Tsar Boris III Str. mobile: Bulgaria Hotel complex offers: 46 completely renovated rooms and 2 suites two restaurants - one with 100 seats and the second with the possibility of 500 seats, suitable for weddings and corporate events conference hall outdoor pool playground - pizzeria garden amphitheater - for shows and concerts casino Т & R 67

68 Gotse Delchev Gotse Delchev Municipality is located in South-West Bulgaria, by the Mesta River. It encompasses the town of Gotse Delchev and 10 villages: Mosomishte, Delchevo, Bukovo, Borovo, Kornitsa, Lazhnitsa, Breznitsa, Gospodintsi, Banichan and Dobrotino. The town is the successor of the ancient city of Nicopolis ad Nestum. In the downtown rises the oldest plane-tree in South-West Bulgaria, whose age surpasses five centuries. Not a few landmarks fall in the land of the municipality. Most notable are the southeastern parts of the Pirin National Park, listed as UNESCO World Natural Heritage List, while the system of protected sights includes Orelyak Reserve in the Pirin Mountains, Ali Botush Reserve in the Slavyanka Mountains, Tamnata Gora Reserve in the Western Rhodopes, Slavyanka Biosphere Reserve boasting the largest habitat of black fir and white fir in Bulgaria, the waterfall of River Tufcha, to mention but a few. In Gotse Delchev Municipality, nature lovers can enjoy a palette of offers: Chinarbey nature landmark is situated by the Delchovska River, 1.5 km west of Gotse Delchev grow the century-old chestnut trees dubbed Bliznatsite (The Twins), the fishpond at the Mesta River offers interesting activities and fishing opportunities. The picturesque Momina Klisura Gorge of the Mesta River is also in close reach together with the Popovi Livadi resort area. Developed have been dozens of tourist routes in the Pirin and Rhodope Mountains, and eco trails. Every year on Midsummer and on Trifon Zarezan s Day on 14th February, the Village of Delchevo Architectural Reserve located 8 kilometers in the mountains above Gotse Delchev, hosts various cultural festivals and tourist attractions that draw many foreign tourists to the village. The Information Centres in Gotse Delchev and the village of Delchevo provide detailed information on the landmarks and the tourist sites in the region. 68 Т & R

69 BULGARIAN MINERAL WATERS AND CURATIVE MUD DEPOSITS Source Of Longevity And Happy Life Research shows that up to 45 years of age the human body may recruit its strength up to 100 percent as long as the diagnosed dirorders are overcome be means of proper treatment, post-treatment prophylaxis, and natural lifestyle. In Bulgaria this is possible thanks to a combination of natural resources: climate, water, and curative mud deposits. VELINGRAD CLIMATIC PARADISE IN THE BALKANS with its 80 hot springs with temperatures of C. Their mineral waters treat bone and join disorderss, functional disorders of the nervous and peripheral nervous system, the gastrointestinal tract, metabolic imbalance, kidney, urological, gynecological, and skin diseases. The town is a powerful resource centre of health and longevity because of its abundance of mineral springs in deposits mainly in Chepino, Ladzhene, Draginovo Varvarski bani, and because of the favourable mountain climate with cool summers and mild winters that allows for year-round treatment procedures and positive effect on the respiratory system. Velingrad is a modern resort town, holder of the SPA Capital of the Balkans and The Most Green Town of Bulgaria prizes, famous for its modern SPA hotels and balneology centres. Kleptuza Lake is a symbol of the city. The pools of the mineral beaches are Olympic size. According to NASA s studies of , published in the National Geographic Magazine, the area around the locality of Atoluka is declared the most environmental in the Balkans. Belmeken Dam Lake is the highest reservoir, which collects part of the waters of the rivers Maritsa, Struma and Mesta, and boasts the highest dam wall embankment in the Balkans. There are not a few attractions in the vicinity of Velingrad, among which deserve mention the horse farm with bath for horses, the sand riding-schools, and riding facilities, the Pliocene Park Natural History Museum, recognized as the greatest paleontological deposit in the Balkans and the second most important exhibition in Europe. The locality of Yundola at 1400 m asl, between the Rila and Rhodope Mountains, is suitable for winter and summer tourism. The resort avails ski runs and lifts, and the coniferous woods in the area are a wonderful place for walking and hiking. Yundola is a starting point of hiking trails to Mt Belmeken in the RilaMountains and to Mt Chernovets in the Western Rhodopes. The Mantaritsa Biosphere Reserve in the higher parts of the Rhodope Mountains at 1900 m asl preserves old coniferous, deciduous and mixed forests of spruce, fir and white pine, at an average age of years. HASKOVO MINERAL WATERS TREAT INCURABLE DISEASES Their temperature at the spring is 570 C and they have proven medicinal qualities for treatment of Buerger s disease and Raynaud s disease, scleroderma, vegetative and diabetic angiopathy, coxarthrosis, gonarthrosis, radiculitis, polineuritis, sciatica, lumbago, plexitis associated with the herniated disc and disc disease, Sokolski Bouillaud reumatism, Bekhterev s disease, chronic eczema, neurodermatitis, psoriasis, and respiratory diseases. It is suitable for external treatment of sand in the kidney, gastric ulcer, and chronic gastritis. DEVIN WATERS WASH FATIGUE AWAY, THE CRYSTAL AIR CLEANS THE LUNGS thanks to the most dense ozone layer in the sky in proximity to Smolyan. The temperate continental Т & R 69

70 climate with Mediterranean influence facilitates the successful treatment of metabolic, skin, gynecological diseases, disorders of the peripheral nervous and respiratory systems, and the skeletal system through external, internal, inhaled treatments with mineral water and medical treatment. OGNYANOVO ERASES NON-FAVOURABLE DIAGNOSES by means of its specific microclimate due to the flowering acacia, and the air currents in the valley of the Kanina River in the vicinity of the village of Garmen at the foot of the Western Rhodopes, in combination with its 24 thermal springs. In SPA resort provides yearround relieving treatment of rheumatoid and infectious arthritis, Bekhterev s disease, diseases of the soft tissues, arthrosis, injuries to joints and bones, postoperational skin, gynecological, and respiratory disorders, and diseases of the peripheral nervous system. NARECHEN MINERAL SPRINGS ARE VICTORS IN THE BATTLE WITH STRESS They are suitable for the treatment and prophylaxis of cardiac and neurological disorders, and impaired metabolism. The tourist facilities of the SPA and balneology centres in the complex are equipped with a complete set of physiotherapy treatment procedures. The packages combine: mineral, pearl, and underwater jet massages, physiotherapy, manual therapy, reflexology massages, laser therapy, electrosleep therapy, diet, and paraffin procedures BANKYA BRINGS FRESHNESS AND RELAXATION from the heart of the Lyulin Mountains. The SPA and balneology hotels focus on relaxation and treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and impaired metabolism. The town is popular for its proximity to the capital city, with its Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, equipped with Jacuzzis, and areas for children KYUSTENDIL SPRINGS RESURRECT THE BODY at the foot of the Osogovo Mountains, where powerful 740 C-hot mineral springs are gushing to heal all systems of the human body. Treatment and prevention are by means of baths, drinking, inhalations and irrigations, as well as by other hydrotherapy treatments such as gas and herbal baths, and underwater jet massage. The sulfur content of the water is crucial for the normal condition and operation of the joint system, the cell growth, the flexibility and elasticity of tissues and for the normal activity of the endocrine glands THE HOT-WATER SAPAREVA BANYA SPRING MELTS PAIN with its temperature of 1030 C. The mineral waters spring from between the Rila and Verila Mountains. The balneology, SPA and climatic establishments are specialized for the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, the peripheral nervous system, damages to the central nervous system, gynecological diseases, acute and chronic poisoning, skin diseases, and upper-respiratory tract disorders. The impact of the resort is most strong in the combination of curative air and mineral water of rich content.

71 The natural wealth of Garmen municipality The location of Garmen Municipality favours the development of all-year-round Balneo-, SPA, Wellness, Cultural and Cognitive Tourism. Seven kilometres south of the town of Gotse Delchev is the ancient Roman settlement Nicopolis ad Istrum, which is about 16 centuries old and is one of the three towns founded in the Balkan Peninsula by the Roman Emperor Trajan in honour of his victory over the Dacians. It was called The Town of the Victory near the Mesta (in Latin language Nicopolis ad Istrum). The minted coins and the votive reliefs found there are evidence of the worship of deities Zeus, Pluto, Hermes, the Thracian Horseman, Asclepius and Hygieia, as well as the River God Mesta, and Ares and Dionysus, who were worshipped by the Thracians. The landscape historical park GRADISHTE, situated on a hill with an approximate length of 700 m, is in the village of Dolno Dryanovo. At places the rocks have formed odd figures that could be compared to human profiles, figures of animals, fish, turtles and birds. The sanctuary was opened in the early spring of 2000 by the late professor Todor Boyadzhiev and was declared immovable cultural heritage of national importance. Balneotherapy in the region is related to the mineral springs in the village of Ognyanovo, which have a favourable effect on a number of diseases. Water is used for treatment and prevention of bone and joint diseases, neurological disorders, gynaecological, gastrointestinal, liver, renal and urological, metabolic and endocrine, children s, aging-associated and occupational diseases. The beautiful scenery and the thermal water make the village of Ognyanovo a resort preferred by dozens of tourists from the country and abroad. Garmen municipality Village of Garmen, 35, Parva Str., Tel.: ; Mobile: ; obs_garmen@bitex.bg; oba_garmen@abv.bg Т & R 71

72 BULGARIAN MOUNTAINS FILTER FOR SPIRITUAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH Rila and Pirin are alpine mountains abounding in old coniferous arrays, in the oval-shaped Rhodopes there are deciduous forests, while the Stara Planina Mountains combine various relief and mixed vegetation. Several air currents, Aegean, Mediterranean, Black Sea and Danubian, pass over Bulgaria. In combination with the identical climate of each mountain range, they form the crystal clear and balmy air in different areas. In the mountains traditionally developed are winter sports, SPA, and balneology tourism. A multitude of hotels and other establishmets provide opportunities for recreation and accommodation according to the taste and preferences of the guests. BULGARIA COMPETITOR TO MAJOR SKI NATIONS The Official Report of the International Ski Federation (FIS) refers to Bulgaria, along with Slovenia and China, as a new market competing globally established ski nations. The report was announced at the Forum Alpina in Soelden. At the end of October 2016, the resort hosted the Alpine World Cup circuit, and the competitions for the last season marked the 50th consecutive years for FIS. A special section in its report FIS devoted to the Bulgarian miracle in snowboarding, Radoslav Yankov, defined as the biggest winner in the season, who imposed new standards. BANSKO MAGNET FOR PROFESSIONAL SKIERS In , for the first time the top resort will host the Snowboard World Cup. The first start will be parallel slalom, followed by competitions in speed border cross and parallel giant slalom for the World Cup for men and women. At the foot of the Pirin Mountains, overlooking the Rila and Rhodopes, the mountain town represents a perfect blend of modern ski resort and authentic Bulgarian folklore. Bansko is the birthplace of some of the most prominent representatives of the Bulgarian nation. Short hot summer and long mild winter with average temperature of 1,90C in the coldest month of January characterize its favourable climate. Snowfalls ensure snow cover of 2 m from December to May. The Alpine relief makes Bansko an excellent ski resort with a total length of 78 km of ski runs. Over 80 percent of them are equipped with snow guns and ski grooming facilities. The ski runs over 2000 and 2600 m asl offer various levels of difficulty. The resort town boasts also the largest ski and snowboard Fun Park in the Balkans. Tourists are transported by 6 lifts, 7 chairlifts, and 1 gondola. The town has twice hosted World Ski Cup. The longest ski run is 16 km in length and the most challenging is Tomba ski run, named after the famous Alberto Tomba. Offering traditional Balkan specialties, luxury hotels and historical landmarks, Bansko is a preferred year-round tourist destination. 72 Т & R

73 Т & R 73

74 74 Т & R

75 Hotel Amira is a five-star boutique hotel with excellent location in the town of Bansko, at five-minute walk from the first station of the gondola lift and at four minutes walking distance from Mall Bansko. The hotel has 15 apartments, of which two are VIP suites; 11 studios and 5 double rooms; a Lobby bar with 28 seats and a cosy fireplace; a classical restaurant with 59 seats and a fireplace; an oven for pizza and a self-service area; a small conference hall with maximum auditorium capacity of 40 seats; a VIP lounge with 20 seats; a nursery with a television with play station and a free-game area. There is a spa centre which includes: two massage rooms and spa procedures; a relaxation room; a Finnish sauna; a panoramic infrared sauna with Himalayan salt; a steam bath; Jacuzzi; an indoor swimming pool for adults, including a hydro-massage area; an indoor children s swimming pool; a contrast tub and; a fitness gym. BULGARIA, Bansko, area Stragite 10 Stragite Str. ; sales@hotelamira.bg / Belvedere Holiday Club is a complex comprising of 110 luxury 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments. A wide range of modern leisure facilities will be at your disposal. The superb location of the complex, only a few minutes walk from the cabin lift and right next to the new Mall of Bansko, will make your stay even more pleasant. Belvedere Holiday Club consists of 3 residential buildings with a lot of inner space and beautiful green areas. The chic Belvedere Classico restaurant is the most distinguished place in Bansko, which offers an exquisite selection of dishes from the European cuisine, as well as a fine selection of wines. In the summer the complex will dispose of a 42X80 meters football field. The outdoor swimming pool is an excellent opportunity during the hot summer days. At the disposal of our guests are also 3 parking lots.belvedere Holiday Club has some great SPA and Sports Center with Jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, massage procedures, solarium and lobby bar. Belvedere Holiday Club, Bansko has a comfortable conference hall with 150 seats, equipped with multimedia projector, screen, flipchart and wireless internet. Hall is the perfect place for organizing your conferences, seminars, business meetings, presentations and corporate events. Whether you stay in the summer or in the winter, Belvedere Holiday Club will enchant you with excellent apartments, marvelous facilities and impeccable services. BULGARIA, Banskoм. area Shipotsko reservations@belvedereholidayclub.bg phone: Т & R 75

76 BOROVETS, THE OLDEST SKI RESORT IN BULGARIA IS HUDDLED IN THE SNOW LAP OF MT MUSALA Alpine skiing, ski jumping, cross-country, biathlon all these one can experience along the ski runs of Borovets, the oldest and most popular winter resort in Bulgaria. Surrounded by lush pine forests and picturesque hills at 1350 m asl in the northern hills of the Rila Mountains, Borovets is at the foot of the highest peak in Bulgaria and second in the Balkans, Mt Musala (2925 m). The resort hosted twice Alpine Skiing World Cup rounds and has established traditions in winter sports and mountain tourism. With its luxury hotels, restaurants, clubs,attractions and entertainment facilities, Borovets is developing as a modern resort of high class with an excellent network of ski runs and lifts on the mountain slopes adapted for all winter sports. Ski runs are 58 km long, the longest one being 12 km. A network of 14 lifts, 3 chairlifts and 1 gondola ensures the comfort of tourists. Snow cover remains over 1.5 m thick during the winter season (November May). Professional skiers can enjoy the highest ski centre, Markudzhik, where snow cover is above 2 m. Most popular ski runs are Yastrebets, Markudzhik 1, 2A, 2B, 3, Sitnyakovo, and Martinovi baraki. The average temperature in Borovets in January is 4.60 C. The ski runs are marked with multilingual signs and are maintained in perfect condition, suitable for all alpine experiences and skier groups, night skiing included. Snow cover is reinforced by snow guns and snow grooming facilities. Being 73 km from Sofia and 10 km from Samokov, Borovets is easily accessible resort. The majestic Rila Mountains offer also the glacial Seven Lakes at m asl. The ski centres of Malyovitsa, Semkovo, and Govedartsi will fascinate the tourists with the beauty of the landscapes and the mountain heights. The air in Borovets is crystal clear. THE SUNNIEST SLOPES OF PAMPOROVO The resort has a real chance to host the Slopestyle World Cup The application was made by Bulgarian Ski Federation at the Calendar Conference of the International Ski Federation (FIS) in Zurich in October A team of FIS experts will assess the quality of the resort. The ski resort of European rank is located in the Rhodope Mountains at 1,650 m asl, in close proximity to Chepelare and Smolyan. The ski runs at 1926 m and 1450 m asl on the eastern, western, and northern slopes of the Mt Snezhanka (1926 m asl) are adapted for all levels of skiing dexterity. The climate is influenced 76 Т & R by the Aegean Sea. The ski season starts in December and lasts until April. Sunny days in the active period are 120, the average temperature being -30 C. The length of the ski runs is 37 kilometers and they are suitable for cross-country skiing and snowboarding. Pamporovo avails also a giant slalom ski run. The rounded forms of the mountain favour beginners. Extreme ski runs are colour distinguished. All runs are well equipped with modern ratrack and snow guns for snow grooming. The Hi-Life ski run is a challenge for snowboarders. Lifts are 9 and chair-lifts are 6, with a total capacity of 11,600 people per hour. Located in the foot of a low and warm mountain, the resort is ideal spot for winter vacation with opportunities to combine skiing with outings and trekking around the natural and historical attractions of the stunning Rhodope region. Opportunities for recreation in the area offer the resort settlements of Chepelare, Belmeken, Yundola, Batak, and Byala cherkva. Besides the magnificent mountain scenery, tourists can enjoy the authentic architecture of the Rhodope villages of Momchilovtsi, Dolen, Gela, Leshten, and Kovachevitsa. The highest peak of the Rhodopes is MtPerelik (2191 m). VITOSHA THE WINTER OASIS OF SOFIA The mountain rising above the capital city is an excellent year-round venue for all types of tourism. Climbing the mountain can be combined with visits to cultural and historical sites in the Bulgarian capital or relaxing at its night clubs. The ski area is 10 km away from Sofia and starts at 1800 m asl. The snow cover is 1.5 m, the season lasts 120 days, the average temperature in January is 60 C. The mountain ski runs are adapted for varying skiing skills. Several lifts and a cable lift serve the ski runs of a total length of 29 km. The ski runs Stenata/The Wall, Sinyata/Blue, Zelenata/Green, Laleto, Zaeka and Vetrovala are suitable for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Children and inexperienced skiers can enjoy the ski areas around the Aleko Ski Centre, but extreme paths do not lack in the area. Laleto ski run offers night skiing. The steep ski runs are below the highest peak, Mt Cherni Vrah (2290 m). Konyarnika Vetrovala ski centre at 1507 m asl avails a 600-m fixed lift and two portable skilifts. The ski centres offer also ski rental and equipment, and ski instructors can take care of the beginners. Groomed slopes, cozy hotels and chalets, bright sun, fluffy snow, 22 km to downtown Sofia these are the temptations of Vitosha. The mountain is also the home of the oldest nature park in the Balkan Peninsula, Vitosha Nature Park.

77 Experience unforgettable moments with the Ski and Snowboard School STEVE. This is the first private ski school in Pamporovo, which already has twenty years of experience. We offer you ski and snowboard for every taste. Skiing and snowboarding lessons for beginners and advanced, for children and adults, given in a group or individually. Bulgaria, Pamporovo, phone: , skisteve@abv.bg facebook: STEVE Pamporovo Т & R 77

78 The Magnificence of the Eastern Rhodope Mountains The Eastern Rhodope Mountains are the oldest land of Bulgaria, one of the most enigmatic mountains in the country, with long and wide ridges, deep gorges and centuries-old forests. This is the kingdom of crystals, the place where the undying flower Haberlea rhodopensis grows, also called Never-Dying or Orpheus Flower, which has existed for over two million years at the place where the legendary singer Orpheus lived. Here are the numerous places of worship, temples and tombs. Here is where the music and mystery of Bulgarian voices and songs resounds and fills the awesome mountain. In a series of editions of the magazine we present the Eastern Rhodope Mountains. WHY? Because, passing through these sacred lands of the Thracians (the most populous nation after the Indians), you can admire picturesque places: mountain ridges, nature phenomena like bizarre shaped rocks, Thracian sanctuaries, megalithic monuments, ancient rock observatories, rivers, dams, meadows, forests, rare plants, birds, the land of gods and emperors. Interesting buildings, roads, bridges, places with healing mineral springs where hospitable people live. These kind people treat guests and tourists to culinary delights from natural products, prepared with zeal and love, and offered with a smile. The dishes leave the feeling of pleasure and unforgettable taste the taste of biologically clean and healthy products. The clean air, crystal clear water, fragrant wild fruit and herbs, protected areas, ethnographic centres, authentic folklore and the crafts in the Eastern Rhodope Mountains give a possibility to touch sacredness. Human speech is poor to describe the magnificence and beauty of nature, which took thousands of years to create all this. It is difficult to penetrate the secrets hidden in this unbelievable mountain: wild land, peace and quiet, magnetism of the subtle master artist nature. It offers us its magnificent riches, traditions of the different ethnicities born in the past, of mixed cultures living together today. This land of the Sun, with unusual interesting sights, impresses you with its breathtaking views. They leave a lasting memory which makes you see them again, take rest and draw strength from their impact. The Eastern Rhodope Mountains attract you. They reflect the past and give a possibility to get to know life from thousands of years ago life full of secrets and temptations. I have got convinced in this. You, too, can get convinced in the attractive power of these lands. Rediscover them by visiting the most wonderful nooks in Bulgaria the Eastern Rhodope Mountains, which are an amazing place to visit and suitable for tourism. 78 Т & R

79 Regional History Museum Kardzhali Eastern Rhodopes Treasury Eastern Rhodope is the most beautiful part of the ancient mountain. The River Arda and its tributaries have shaped picturesque valleys revealing amazing natural wealth and monuments of human activity. Here is the kingdom of semiprecious gemstones, rare and endangered plant species, and fossils of the inhabitants of the prehistoric sea. This is the place where Haberlea rhodopensis (or Rhodope Haberlea) called Orpheus Flower grows. This part of the Rhodope Mountains has been inhabited since time immemorial the 6th millennium B.C. and Thracians left hundreds of unique rock-cut monuments like sanctuaries, niches and tombs. Here is the earliest gold mine, a contemporary of the Kings of Mycenae. Even today, dozens of well-preserved fortresses mark the roads reaching the Aegean coast. The imposing city of Perperikon is here as well. If you want to feel and touch the riches of the mountain, receive competent information about the nature, archaeology and traditional culture, get immersed in the atmosphere of Old Kardzhali and enjoy the exquisiteness of church iconpainting and works of Vladimir Dimitrov-the Master, and Mrkvichka, visit the expositions of the Regional Museum of History Kardzhali housed in the buildings at No 4 and No 44 Republikanska Str. The museum works from November to March, Tuesday to Saturday from am to pm and from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, from am to pm. For further information call and BULGARIA Regional History Museum Kardzhali 6600 Kardzhali, 4 Republikanska Str. Phone: muzej_krz@abv.bg Т & R 79

80 FAR FROM THE STRESS, OFFICE AND VANITY WITH ALTERNATIVE TOURISM he world is full of known, as well as unexplored Tsights, but if one wants to embark on an exciting adventure, there is no need to go to the other end of the planet. Bulgaria is rich in unexpected natural wonders, cultural and historical monuments or areas forgotten by time, what is more, they are scattered over short distances. It is enough to have a spirit of adventure, a little free time and desire to go off the beaten track of the commercialised world offering cosy hotel rooms, organised transport and guiding boards. Alternative tourism in the inside of the country or beyond its borders, organised by qualified instructors rock climbers, divers, captains starts to be preferred to the static comfort of resort complexes. Whether to the Himalayas or to the Rhodope Mountains, the hike starts from the Traveller s Club in Ruse. Communication with the mountain, river, sea, the locals, trying their traditional dishes, getting to know the sights and the unspoilt nature these are a small part of the emotions promised by the alternative form of holiday in Bulgaria on a bike, on foot, in a canoe or a sailing boat. The journeys by kayaks and bikes in North Bulgaria along the Yantra and the Danube river valleys, along their picturesque canyons under the magnificent rocks and among the natural safe inhabitants of Bulgarian nature is inspiring, and cooking fish soup in the camp near the calm river at night is relaxing. The 80 Т & R routes in kayaks on the Yantra, the Danube and the Struma take about 4-5 days; they reach the most wonderful places of the river valleys and the inside of Bulgaria. Cycling in the Danube region opens good possibilities to explore Polomie, its rock hewn churches and monasteries, the centuries-old caves and rivers. The routes pass through the Orlova Chuka cave, from where it is possible to look at the depths of the earth, the mediaeval fortress Cherven with live recreation of life from before centuries. The bicycle is a wonderful means of panoramic, light and healthy ride along the routes of ancient Roman paths and fortresses in the area, moreover, in contact with wildlife. Climbing and climbing via ferrata, or climbing a protected route, are offered in the region. For tourists with affinity to architecture, museums, parks and good cuisine, Danube cities like Ruse are a real comfort. Not far from the Danube city, in the pretty village of Belyanovo nestled in the hills near the Yantra River bank is the new alternative tourism centre for travellers. Renovated rural houses offer lodging for the night in an authentic folklore environment, where time has stopped. Bulgarian traditional dishes, as well as exotic ones from different parts of the world are cooked. The village is a comfortable place for rest and starting point for adventures in kayaks on the river, bikes or climbing rocks with caves near eagles nests. Summer holidays combined with kayaks and camps are adventurous attractions organised to the south of Stara Planina (the Balkan Range) and in proximity of Greece in the Rhodope Mountains, Pirin and the unique small mountains. The eco-routes pass through the magic lands of Thracians, among their sanctuaries in Perperikon and Tatul, through rare nature formations like the Rock Mushrooms, the Stone Wedding, attractive villages like Vulvata, Mihalkovo, also Melnik and Trigrad. The routes combined with bikes along eco-trails, canoes, camping in tents in the wilderness, and accompanied by camp fires and songs are an absolute antibiotic against the stress of the big city. The contact with live nature and its unique views, with the rare animal species that live in the forest and water areas of South Bulgaria, and with areas which are only possible to reach by water are included in the routes in the Eastern Rhodope Mountains, along the dams of Kardzhali, Ivailovgrad and Studen Kladenets. Sailing on the Danube and the Black Sea, organised by travellers from Ruse, kindles the passion for journeys, the eternal aspiration to rediscover yourself and the others in their cultures and customs.

81 FASCINATING NATURE, RICH CULTURE, WELL-PRESERVED TRADITIONS Resmi Murad, Mayor of Ardino The emblem of Ardino is undoubtedly the Devil s Bridge, the Eagle s Rocks, Paper (or white) birches, the beginning of Kardzhali Dam, the Hladilnika (fridge) Cave. If you want to feel the atmosphere of the Rhodope Mountains, you should see them, just as you should try the lamb and the veal from suckling calves Ardino s trademark. Nowhere have I tasted meat as delicious as ours. The city is an attractive place, too. It is called a sanatorium-town because the air is proven healing and very clean. In terms of environment and cleanliness in the municipality, I can aim high and say that I can compete with the best in the country. Nearly BGN 25 million have been attracted into the municipality under European projects in recent years. This is a real success for a comparatively small mountain municipality. Restoration work has been carried out on the Devil s Bridge and the Eagle Rocks, which involved asphalted roads leading to them, under a large-scale project for tourist infrastructure development. We have built a tourist trail with shelters and gazebos, carried out rehabilitation of over 50 km of roads from the municipal road network and constructed over 20 km of water pipelines Resmi MURAD, Mayor of Ardino Municipality Ardino Municipality is situated where the Arda River divides Orpheus (Rhodope) Mountains into two. Here tourists, welcomed with typical Rhodope hospitality, can see traces of the Thracian, Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilisations, nature phenomena and can enjoy the calm healing air. The most impressive is undoubtedly the Devi s Bridge one of the architectural masterpieces, work of mediaeval masters. It was built in the 16th century over the ancient road from the Aegean (Belomorie) Region through the Xanthi Pass to the interior of Thrace. It consists of three arches, where the height of the central one reaches 11.5 m. A small hexagon was discovered on one of its keystones, called the Seal of Solomon. In the past, heavy caravans with goods for the markets in the Upper Thracian Plain passed here. The Arda River forming a canyon with wonderful meanders flows under the bridge. The unique plant Haberlea rhodopensis, also known as the Orpheus flower or the undying one, grows in these lands. The legend has it that it was born from the mythical singer s blood and it keeps the secret of long life. The flower is listed in the Red Data Book. South of Ardino, along the ancient road you can see the mysterious Eagle s Rocks about a hundred vertical stone niches for religious use, hewn out in an inaccessible place at the time of the Thracians. They date back to the 6th 5th century B.C. Near the village of Bashevo is the Asara fortress, of which only the citadel has remained. In former times its inhabitants were supplied with drinking water from the Arda River, which surrounded the fortress on three sides with the help of an underground tunnel. The Patmos mediaeval fortress dating from the 13th - 14th century is located between the dams of Borovitsa and Kardzhali. Some stone fragments have been preserved from it, as well as remains of battering rams, ceramics and weapons. It can only be reached in a fishing boat and it is a perfect place to spend your summer holidays. The Hladilnika (fridge) karst cave is of interest, too. It has been given this name because of the extremely low temperatures inside even on very hot days. The White Birches tourist complex is a nature reserve of white-barked birches, suitable for treatment of pulmonary and allergic diseases. The unique forest park provides excellent facilities for holidays. The wild boars, roes and deer in the area attract foreigners with accurate sight from different parts of Europe. Mouflons are raised on the game farm of Gaidartsi near the village of Rusalsko. The rivers and dam lakes in the region swarm with chub, Balkan trout, mountain barbell, Aspius aspius and Vimba vimba. The tourist information centre offers those who wish an exotic Fish Tour which includes a boat trip in Kardzhali Dam and attractive fishing. The tour must finish at a Rhodope table where fried Wels catfish with honey the highpoint of the programme is served. Those who have visited this spot of the Eastern Rhodope Mountains come back over and over again. We expect you. Municipality Ardino, 31 Beli brezi Blvd / 42 38; fax: / ardino@abv.bg Т & R 81

82 BULGARIAN PARTNERS YOU CAN TRUST IN Cabacum beach, Varna Bor apartments, Skorpilovci Grand MALL Varna Green Life ski & SPA, Bansko cover II cover II cover III cover IV Aktiniya hotel, Sunny beach p. 33 Alba Grups, Skobelevo p. 55 Albena PLC p. 20 Amira hotel, Bansko p. 73 Apolis hotel, Sozopol p. 35 ATM Ahtopol hotel, Ahtopol p. 37 ATM apartments, Sinemorets p. 37 Balkan hotel, Pleven p. 51 Bariakov hotel, Bansko p. 72 Bariakov tavern, Bansko p. 72 Bats hotel & SPA, Petrich p. 63 Belvedere holiday club, Bansko p. 73 Bolyarka villas, Glavatartsi p. 78 Bulgaria hotel complex, Petrich p. 65 City Rai hotel, Ruse p. 44 COOP Rozhen hotel, Rozhen p. 55 Dalboka the Mussel farm, Kavarna p. 19 Dobrotitsa guest house, Dobrotitsa p. 44 Dobrudzha hotel, Dobrich p. 17 Dr. Gechevi clinic for rehabilitation, p. 58 Pavel Bania Edelweiss hotel & SPA, Mt Buzludzha p. 57 Edi hotel restaurant, Sofia p. 13 Estreya Palace, p. 25 St. St. Constantine and Helena Estreya Residence, p. 25 St. St. Constantine and Helena Exelent travel angency, Sofia p. 63 Flagman hotel, Sozopol p. 35 Garden of Eden resort & SPA, p. 29 St. Vlas Hadji Nikoli Inn, Veliko Tarnovo p. 47 Inn Staria Dobrich family hotel, p. 17 Dobrich Isperih Historical Museum p. 42 Kaloyanova fortress, Arbanasi p. 47 Kamchia Sanatorium and Health p. 27 Complex Kardzhali regional history museum p. 77 Komitite hotel complex, p. 65 Chuchuligovo Laguna beach resort & SPA, Sozopolp. 3 Marina Grand Beach hotel, p. 23 Golden Sands Marina Residence Boutique hotel, p. 23 Varna Marinela hotel, Sofia p. 9 Martin club hotel, Bansko p. 72 Marvel hotel, Sunny beach p. 33 Meridian hotel Bolyarski, p. 30 Veliko Tarnovo Miramar hotel, Sozopol p. 37 Montecito hotel, Sofia p. 13 Municipality of Ardino p. 79 Municipality of Garmen p. 69 Municipality of Gotse Delchev p. 66 Municipality of Hisarya p. 52 Municipality of Kavarna p. 18 Municipality of Petrich p. 64 Municipality of Sandanski p. 60 Municipality of Shabla p. 16 Municipality of Sozopol p. 34 Nobel hotel, Sunny beach p. 33 Olives City hotel, Sofia p. 11 Olives Sea restaurant, Sofia p. 11 Opreff wine cellar, Dobrotitsa p. 44 Panorama hotel, Veliko Tarnovo p. 49 Paradiso aparthotel, Nessebar p. 31 Persina nature park, Belene p. 43 Pirin Park Hotel, Sandanski p. 61 Prestige City 2 apart complex, p. 35 Primorsko Rai hotel complex, Ruse p. 44 Roman Bath thermal SPA hotel, Banya p. 71 Rostov hotel, Pleven p. 1 Sea Palace hotel, Sozopol p. 36 Silver Beach resort complex, Byala p. 26 Skalite hotel, Belogradchik p. 51 Smartline Meridian hotel, p. 30 Sunny beach Stara Pliska complex, Pliska p. 45 Starosel complex for wine & SPA p. 53 tourism, Starosel Steve ski school, Pamporovo p. 74 Sveti Nikola SPA hotel, Sandanski p. 62 Teodora Palace hotel, Ruse p. 41 The museum of the Rose, Kazanlak p. 54 The Palace cultural centre, Balchik p. 19 Uni Hospital, Panagyurishte p. 59 Valentina Castle hotel & SPA, p. 68 Ognyanovo Vella Hills park hotel & SPA, p. 67 Velingrad Victoria hotel, Nessebar p. 30 Vitosha Park Hotel, Sofia p. 8 Yassen holiday complex, p. 31 Sunny beach Zara hotel complex resort & SPA, p. 2 Bansko PUBLISHER Daker SPLtd TOURISM & RECREATION MAGAZINE EDITOR IN CHIEF Dimitar Kirekchiev DEPUTY EDITOR IN CHIEF Dilyana Ivanova Katya Krasteva EDITOR IN CHARGE Sofia Cherneva CONTRIBUTORS Poly Ivanova Svetla Georgieva Yulker Uzun Dimitrinka Panova FINANCE Svetla Kerechieva GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PREPRESS Ivan Kanchev WEB PROCESSING Aleksandar Yavorov PHOTOGRAPHERS Dimitar Atanasov DAKER SPLtd 127 Maria Louiza Blvd 1202 Sofia, Bulgaria Tel: / / , / Fax: / daker@daker.biz PRINTED BY Polygraphic complex IFO Design DISCLAIMER The advertisers are solely responsible for the information provided in the advertisments

83 Т & R 83

84 84 Т & R