Excursions & Nearby Attractions

Located just 2 km southwest of Balchik, the palace was once the summer residence of Queen Maria of Romania (1875 – 1938). After the Second Balkan War (1913), Balchik and part of Dobrudzha became part of Romania. The region’s stunning landscape attracted Romanian aristocrats, and Queen Maria, captivated by Balchik’s beauty, chose to build her summer retreat here. The residence is set among lush gardens and has become a symbol of Balchik’s unique charm.

Constructed in 1924 by Italian architects Amerigo and Augustino, the residence features elegant terraces cascading along the steep seashore. Water from two natural springs flows through intricate stone channels, forming beautiful water mirrors and cascading waterfalls. This day trip also offers the chance to explore the Balchik Botanical Garden, home to a vast collection of exotic plants. After the tour, consider a leisurely walk along Balchik’s main beach. Our staff is happy to recommend local restaurants for a delicious meal by the sea.

Cape Kaliakra boasts impressive 70-meter-high cliffs that act as a natural barrier against the waves, creating a peaceful haven in the Bay of Kavarna. The name “Kaliakra,” meaning “beautiful cape” in Greek, reflects the dramatic landscape that has drawn admiration for centuries. Even before the Greeks, the Thracian Tirizi tribe cherished the area’s natural beauty. In 1444, Vladislav of Varna’s knights camped at this historic site during their march against the Ottoman Empire.

On July 31, 1791, Cape Kaliakra became the scene of the greatest naval battle in the Black Sea, when Admiral Ushakov’s Russian squadron defeated the Turkish fleet. Today, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Black Sea and visit the charming restaurant nestled within the cliffs, offering traditional Bulgarian cuisine and fresh seafood. Kaliakra is also known for its rich wildlife, with dolphins often spotted from the cliffs.

Varna Winery is part of a renowned wine tourism complex that includes a tasting room, a restaurant, a motel, and a wine shop, making it a top destination for wine lovers. The winery boasts state-of-the-art facilities that focus on quality wine production using both modern technology and time-honored manual techniques. The entire wine-making process is carefully managed to ensure that every bottle reflects the region’s rich winemaking tradition.

In a first for Bulgaria, Varna Winery uses gravity-based techniques to transfer grape pulp and wine, ensuring gentle handling and maintaining the wine’s integrity. This innovative process, combined with hand-crafted methods, results in unique, high-quality wines. Visitors can choose from a variety of wine-tasting packages, such as Economy, Silver, and Gold options. These tours are available for groups of 15 or more and offer a deep dive into Bulgaria’s thriving wine culture.

Eco Telus Snail Farm is Bulgaria’s first farm to open its doors to visitors, offering a fascinating look at the world of snails and their many uses in cuisine, cosmetics, and medicine. The farm provides an educational experience where visitors can explore the fields and learn about the different types of edible snails, as well as the farming methods used to breed and harvest them. It’s a unique way to connect with nature and discover the lesser-known benefits of snail farming.

For those who are especially curious, the farm offers a guided tour, during which you can see the world’s largest edible snail up close. This one-of-a-kind experience showcases the snail’s role in various industries and provides visitors with insight into sustainable farming practices. Eco Telus Snail Farm is open from May to October, making it a perfect seasonal attraction for both adults and children interested in learning more about this intriguing industry.