Vitanovo Reserve, Nature reserve in Strandzha mountains, Bulgaria
Vitanovo Reserve is a protected area on the northern slopes of Rezovsko ridge within the Strandzha mountains, featuring dense forests between 400 and 600 meters in elevation. The reserve covers more than 1000 hectares and forms a core part of the broader Strandzha Nature Park system.
The reserve was established in December 1981 to protect the ecosystems of this mountain region. Its creation marked an important recognition of the ecological value of Strandzha and led to broader conservation efforts in the area.
Local place names such as Mechi dol and Mechkobievo refer to bears that once roamed these mountains. These words show how deeply wildlife shaped the identity of this region.
Access to the reserve requires authorization from Bulgaria's Ministry of Environment and Water, primarily for research and specialized nature activities. Visitors should obtain necessary permits in advance and be prepared for mountainous terrain with dense vegetation.
The forest contains roughly 460 plant species, including some found nowhere else in the world except on Balkan mountains and others that are remnants of ancient climates. This botanical diversity makes the area particularly valuable for scientific study.
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