Ahtopol

AGATOPOLIS ("The town of love") - that's how the Greeks in the middle Ages called this exotic place. The archaeological excavations in the region of Ahtopol show life traces from different periods - the Antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.Some very ancient coins were found near the town, including emissions, coin aged in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and from nearly all-European countries. The picturesque river of Veleka is running only 4 km south of Ahtopol.The river comes from the very heart of Strandza Mountain. The combination of sea side and river coast, the specific fauna and flora of the region are really impressive and can satisfy all the tourists eager for adventures into desolated places among the virgin nature.For those in search of restful relaxation with few distractions, Ahtopol may be the answer. Known to the ancient Greeks as Agatopolis, the town today is a quiet, laid-back place popular with holidaymaking Bulgarians, Czechs, Slovaks, Russians and Macedonians. Even the spate of new construction taking place along sea-facing Kraimorska street doesn't diminish the serenity of fishing boats lazily bobbing up and down in the small harbor or pensioners tossing bits of bread to sea gulls in the nearby park. Ahtopol has a number of trade union rest homes and the town is a popular destination for families who can't afford the higher-priced resorts. Consequently, visitors looking for the nightlife of Primorsko or Sunny Beach won't find it here. A popular gathering spot is the "Yuka" cafe opposite the attractive new post office building. On the cafe's exterior wall is a colorful mural featuring the artist's fanciful rendition of ancient Agatopolis. Another large wall mural (a medium which seems to thrive locally) on Veleka Street details the founding of the First Bulgarian State in 681. The water tends to be warmer (around 25 °C) and more placid here, while the prevalence of off-the-beaten-path beaches allows the opportunity for nude bathing. Seven kilometers south of Ahtopol is Sinemorets, the last populated area before the border with Turkey.