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An ancient seaside settlement on the Black Sea, Sozopol is a fascinating place to explore. First, you'll join a boat cruise into Sozopol Bay. Back on land, tour the cobbled streets of the old quarter, then enjoy a lunch of local favourites in a restaurant. Next, it's time to visit Ravadinovo Castle – Bulgaria's very own fairytale palace. Ivaylo, one of our local guides, says, ‘The castle was built with Strandzha Mountains marble, which contains micro-diamonds. These appear to change colour depending on the time of day, so the castle looks pink in the morning, white in the daytime and at night it seems to glow.'
Arriving in Sozopol, we'll hop on board a boat to take a cruise around the island of St Ivan, the biggest in Bulgaria. Disembark for a guided walk around Sozopol's pretty cobbled streets flanked with traditional wooden houses. You'll hear about the town's past as a thriving outpost of ancient Greece, followed by Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rule. Today, Sozopol serves up old-world charm, two fine beaches and lots of cafés, boutiques and galleries.
After your guided tour, tuck into a typical local lunch at a family-owned restaurant, then enjoy some free time to shop or explore. Finally, you'll head inland for a visit to Ravadinovo Castle – an award-winning attraction packed with spires, towers and marble statues. Wandering palatial grounds and colourful gardens, you can head to the petting zoo for little ones or take in the views over the man-made lake.
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