Birds, nature and sightseeing tour around the Varna - Beloslav Lake

Varna , Bulgaria

Birds, nature and sightseeing tour around the Varna - Beloslav Lake

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This one-day guided tour will take you to explore the western vicinity of the city of Varna by car/minivan. The region's nature and birdlife are exceptionally rich and diverse in all seasons, as are the cultural heritage sites to be visited. We will be driving along the shores of the Varna - Beloslav Lake and will stop at Yatata Protected Area for birdwatching, then we will cross the lake complex and visit the in-situ Museum of Roman Mosaics in the town of Devnya. Driving further west we will pass through the town of Provadia and enjoy the stunning views from the fortress above the town, finishing our tour with the nature monument called The Stone Forest on our way back.

Bird species to be seen on this tour: Pygmy Cormorant, Squacco Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Purple Heron, Little Bittern, White Stork, Long-legged Buzzard, European Roller, European Bee-eater, Eurasian Hoopoe, Great Reed Warbler, Eurasian Penduline Tit, Black-headed Bunting, Eagle Owl.

Available options

Birds, nature and sightseeing tour around the Varna - Beloslav Lake

Pickup included

What's included

Guiding and transport

Use of binoculars (on request)

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at 9 AM from Varna with a drive west along the shores of the Varna - Beloslav Lake. Our first stop is Yatata Nature Reserve - a site with a great variety of birds in all seasons. During the tour we will drive most of the time along the Varna-Beloslav Lake Complex, which includes two lakes – Varna and Beloslav, located west of Varna and connected by an artificial canal. Annually, over 20,000 waterbirds of 64 species concentrate there. 201 bird species have been recorded in the complex, 79 of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Bulgaria. The Varna – Beloslav Lake Complex is especially rewarding in spring and autumn, when thousands of soaring birds pass overhead following the Via Pontica migration flyway.

Crossing the lake complex at the town of Beloslav, we will shortly reach and visit the in-situ Museum of Roman Mosaics and Roman villa of the III – IV c. in the town of Devnya. A big Roman building with exquisite mosaics was discovered in this place during archaeological excavations. The museum is erected over the foundations of this building.

We will have our lunch at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant with ethnographic exposition and a pleasant garden and park in the vicinity of Devnya.

After lunch we will continue our trip further west, with a visit to the Ovech fortress – another picturesque site with a medieval stone stronghold located east of the town of Provadia. The area abounds in unique natural formations such as attractive surface and underground karst caves. There are also ponors, sinkholes, picturesque valley formations shaped as small canyons and inaccessible rock rims, etc.

Having enjoyed the panoramic views to the surrounding countryside and the birds animating the craggy landscape or passing over, we will continue our trip driving back, with a visit to the Stone Forest - a natural landmark located at about 18-20 km west of the city of Varna. It consists of an ensemble of stone columns, up to 10 meters high, hollow or thick cylinders, crossed cones, variously shaped and sized rock blocks and stone pieces. It is an entirely natural formation, famous as a sacred place since antiquity.

The tour finises in the late afternoon in Varna.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Lunch

Entrance fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Varna

Varna is a vibrant coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. Often called the 'Marine Capital of Bulgaria,' it offers a mix of ancient landmarks, modern attractions, and a dynamic seaside atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Varna Sea Garden

A beautiful seaside park with walking paths, fountains, and recreational areas. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (attractions may have fees)

Aladzha Monastery

A medieval cave monastery nestled in a forested area. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating glimpse into Bulgaria's religious history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Varna Archaeological Museum

One of the oldest museums in the Balkans, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the region's rich history.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin

A stunning Orthodox cathedral with beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes. It's a significant religious site in Varna.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Varna Beach

A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free (rentals and services may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Banitsa

A flaky pastry filled with cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach or meat.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless filled with meat)

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat rolls, typically made with a mix of pork and beef.

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold yogurt-based soup with cucumbers, garlic, and dill, perfect for hot summer days.

Drink Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with vegan yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Golden Sands Nature Park Water sports at Varna Beach Sunbathing at Varna Beach Strolling through the Sea Garden Visiting the Varna Archaeological Museum Exploring the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, sunny days, and the best beach conditions. The city is bustling with events, festivals, and tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Varna is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of distractions and scams

Getting there

By air

Varna Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Varna Central Railway Station

By bus

Varna Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Odesos Centrul Varni Chiflik Primorsko

Day trips

Golden Sands Nature Park

15 km from Varna • Half day to full day

A beautiful nature park with dense forests, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Black Sea.

Balchik

40 km from Varna • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and beaches.

Provadia

30 km from Varna • Half day to full day

A town with a rich history, featuring ancient ruins, a medieval fortress, and a salt lake.

Festivals

Varna Summer International Music Festival • August Varna International Film Festival • September Varna Jazz Fest • July

Pro tips

Visit the Sea Garden early in the morning for a peaceful experience and beautiful photos.
Try the local seafood, particularly the fresh fish and shellfish from the Black Sea.
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and local charm.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and avoid traffic.
Check out the local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and handmade crafts.