Ropotamo State Hunting Area

The State Hunting Area Ropotamo is located in the northeastern part of the Strandzha Mountain and is named after the Ropotamo River.

The reserve is about 45 km south of Burgas. The terrain is characterized by low hills, with the highest point being Mount Lobodovo Kale (315 m). It spans an area of approximately 16,610 hectares.

The proximity to the Black Sea gives the area a mild and humid climate, with relatively warm winters and average temperatures rarely dropping below zero. These conditions support diverse vegetation and create excellent conditions for the development of wildlife. The Ropotamo River divides the reserve into two parts, bordered by the typical floodplain forest found in the region.

The main game species in the area include red deer, fallow deer, wild boar, roe deer, and mouflon. Predators such as wolves, jackals, foxes, wildcats, badgers, martens, squirrels, polecats, and weasels also inhabit the area. Large flocks of wild ducks and geese, as well as the sought-after woodcock, are present in the reserve.

The red deer has inhabited the region since ancient times. Strandzha red deer are notable for their large body weight—up to 350 kg for males—massive antlers with abundant pearls, and dark coloration. Trophy weights reach up to 14 kg, with the record being a trophy rated at 250 CIC points.

Fallow deer trophies from Ropotamo are characterized by their large weight—up to 4.7 kg—their attractive coloration, and impressive shapes. The largest trophy scored 212 CIC points, making it a national record.

Wild boar inhabit the entire reserve. Boars weigh between 250–300 kg, with tusks measuring 28–30 cm. The record tusks scored 150 CIC points, with a length of 29 cm.

The favorable climate has supported the acclimatization and development of the mouflon population. The best trophy is rated at 212 CIC points, with a horn length of 93 cm.

The State Hunting Area Ropotamo lies along the East-Black Sea migration route for birds, Via Pontica. This brings large flocks of wild ducks, geese, and woodcocks to the area, making it a favorite hunting destination for international tourists during the autumn and winter months.

Guests are hosted at the Arcutino Hunting Lodge, located 500 meters from the seashore in the eponymous locality, and a hunting lodge situated by the sea in Primorsko.

Nearby attractions include the Arkutino Swamp, part of the Ropotamo River Nature Reserve. The ancient city of Ranuli is 3 km from Primorsko, where visitors can explore the Beglik Tash sanctuary—a mystical and enigmatic site worth visiting.

In addition to hunting adventures, the reserve offers eco-tourism and photo safaris to the Ropotamo River estuary and protected floodplain forests, sea and river fishing, as well as tastings of select Bulgarian wines and culinary specialties.

The nature along the southern Black Sea coast is stunning, with the coastline featuring long, spacious sandy beaches. Many of these beaches are easily accessible, popular, and lively. The proximity of the Hunting Lodge to the seashore provides an opportunity to combine summer relaxation with the enjoyment of hunting tourism.