For those who are tired of noisy crowded resorts, Obzor is an ideal destination. This peaceful and cozy town is located on the coast of the Black Sea in the Burgas region of Bulgaria. Here you can truly relax without the hustle and bustle, while enjoying the picturesque nature and local attractions.
History of the City
Despite its small size, the city has a history of over 3 millennia. The first inhabitants of this area were the Thracians, who founded the settlement of Navlahos. Several centuries later, the Greeks settled here and established the city of Heliopolis (the city of the sun). The Romans dedicated the city to the supreme god Jupiter and named it Theopolis. By the way, the ruins of the Jupiter Temple have been preserved in Obzor to this day.
In the 16th century, the Turks-Ottomans, who came after the Romans, named the city Goezeken, which means "beautiful view" or in Bulgarian, Obzor.
As a resort, Obzor was opened in the 20th century. Its modern history dates back to 1934. Since then, the resort has been rapidly developing, becoming a prosperous tourist center that enjoys stable demand among European tourists.
Main Characteristics of Obzor
Obzor is located exactly in the middle of the road connecting the northern and southern resorts of Bulgaria. It is only 65 km away from Varna and 60 km away from another well-known seaport and regional center, Burgas. The archaeological capital of Bulgaria, Nesebar, is located 30 km from Obzor, while the vibrant Sunny Beach is just 25 km away.
The fastest way to reach Obzor is by transfer from Varna or Burgas (which takes about an hour) after flying to the airports of these resorts.
The population of Obzor is just over 2,000 people. Administratively, the city is part of the Nesebar municipality in the Burgas region.
The national currency is the Bulgarian lev (BGN).
Advantages of Vacationing in the Resort
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In the city, every tourist is protected from excessive attention of traders who want to make money from visitors. In Varna, Sunny Beach, or Nesebar, travelers are literally grabbed by the hand by souvenir shop owners. In Obzor, on the other hand, you can peacefully enjoy your vacation.
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Despite its relatively small size, the city has enough historical and cultural attractions.
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Those who prefer to learn as much as possible during their vacation will appreciate the geographic location of Obzor. The city is situated between the southern resort towns of Bulgaria and the northern settlements that have exceptional historical value.
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Not every major tourist center in Bulgaria has a bus station. However, in Obzor, the public transportation system is well developed. You can reach almost any part of the country by bus, boat, or taxi.
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The resort offers accommodation options to suit every taste. Tourists can choose from apartments with their own kitchenettes, 3, 4, and 5-star hotels.
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Obzor has all the necessary infrastructure for a vacation, including cafes and restaurants with a variety of cuisines, souvenir shops, as well as pharmacies, markets, supermarkets, and even internet cafes.
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The local population is hospitable towards visitors and contributes to a comfortable vacation with their unhurried pace of life.
Weather and Climate
The season in Obzor starts in May and lasts until mid-October. July and August are considered the peak season.
The water temperature in the sea here is usually 1-2°C higher than in Albena, Nesebar, Varna, or Sunny Beach. Well-maintained beaches and warm transparent sea attract many families with children every year.
The local air deserves attention as well. It is exceptionally light and clean here.
Features of Beach Vacation in Obzor
The resort's coastline, which stretches for 8 km, is divided into three zones: the north, central, and south beaches. Each of them has all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable vacation. The central beach is usually the most crowded. On the outskirts of the north and south beaches, there are small sections of wild coastal areas (the most popular one is Irakli) for those who prefer secluded beach relaxation.
During the season, there are various entertainment options available near the sea, including:
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Relaxing activities in cafes, bars, and restaurants.
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Extreme entertainment such as diving, surfing, water skiing, go-karting, parasailing, and horseback riding.
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A luna park with dozens of attractions for children.
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The "Castle" entertainment center with various bars and nightclubs for young people.
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Traditional beach sports such as volleyball, football, tennis, and more.
Resort Health Centers
Obzor is home to several balneological resorts that specialize in treatments with mineral waters. Tourists from Europe prefer to visit the city specifically to improve their health. The local treatments are particularly effective for conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, and other respiratory diseases.
Attractions of Obzor
The most interesting natural and cultural attractions of the resort include:
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Palm Park - a green oasis covering an area of 20,000 square meters, located near the central beach. In the center of the park, there is a "prospect" or museum, as it is often called by the locals. It houses the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Heliopolis and the Temple of Jupiter.
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The clock tower - a 12-meter-high tower built in the central square of Obzor.
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Koziak - a Roman bastion or fortified fort.
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The Emona Fortress, located on the southern cape of Obzor.
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The House of Culture, which houses a library with 17,000 books.
Obzor is a wonderful choice for those who are tired of noisy tourist megacities. In this small and pleasant town, you can relax and breathe freely. Whether you're a romantic traveler or a family-oriented person, you will find exactly what you expected from your vacation!
