If you have been to the southern part of the Bulgarian seaside, you’ve probably heard or at least seen from the road the impressive Castle of Ravadinovo. I had seen it across the road numerous times, while it was still being built, but did not consider something worth visiting. The architecture and the location of the castle somehow did not fit my understanding of the history of this seaside area.
However, while visiting the seaside with kids decided that perhaps that would be something they’d enjoy. Well – I was wrong – we all enjoyed it 🙂 So, here is a post giving directions on how to reach the castle, what’s to see and what else to visit in the area.
Castle of Ravadinovo – why visit it
If I have to summarize my impressions from this castle, it would be: a complete oasis, a beautiful, impressive castle with charming and even more beautiful gardens. Nothing to do with history, a mere dream of a person who liked castles and wanted to build his own (a story similar to those of many German castles… only this one is contemporary).
So the main reason why you should visit the castle is – to enjoy its beauty, to relax in the shady gardens (so much needed in the hot summer days!), to have a cup of coffee while your children admire the white and black swans in the lake, run between the gardens full of interesting vegetation and play safely around. The bridges, the chapel, the benches – every single item in this castle area is stunningly decorated.
In its cool basement areas guarded by knights looking almost alive, the castle also hosts winery exhibitions so – you can grab a bottle of good wine on the way.
You can see at the map below what the entire complex looks like.
We enjoyed every single piece of it and would gladly return. Give yourself a least couple of hours to see it in full.
How to reach the Castle of Ravadinovo
The castle is just a few kilometers away from the seaside town of Sozopol. If you are driving from the city of Burgas to Sozopol, just before you approach Sozopol look for signs for Ravadinovo village. The castle is at the end of the village and easy to spot from everywhere.
Where to stay
The Old City of Sozopol is an amazing place to stay and there are cute family hotels / guest houses offering excellent seaside view. However, have in mind the streets are small, parking spots are scarce and you may need to leave your car on paid parking, unless your hotel / guest house offers private parking.
But of course, if visiting in the summer, you can just have a break from your beach time, wherever you are staying on the southern Black seaside. The castle is open absolutely every day of the week, from 8 am to 10 pm. So – no way you can’t fit a visit to it it in your vacation. Enjoy!