Rusalka State Hunting Area

The State Hunting Area Rusalka is situated on the northern slopes of the Central Balkan Mountains, at the foot of Mount Botev, approximately 200 km from Sofia.

Originally named Apriltsi, the reserve was later renamed Rusalka. It spans a total area of around 12,000 hectares, with a typically mountainous and rugged terrain dominated by beech forests.

The favorable environment supports the preservation of natural habitats for red deer, brown bears, wild boar, and roe deer. Some of the best trophies include: Bear: 520 CIC points, Red deer: trophy weight of 12 kg, Roe deer: trophy weight of 420 grams, Wild boar: tusk length of 25 cm.

The hunting reserve offers two accommodation options: a hunting residence in the town of Apriltsi and a hunting lodge in the village of Lesidren.

In addition to hunting experiences, Rusalka Hunting Area provides excursions to local mountain huts, visits to natural, cultural, and historical landmarks, horseback riding, photo safaris, and fishing for Balkan trout.