Black Sea Biosphere Reserve

The Black Sea Biosphere Reserve is a large protected area along the northwestern coast of the Black Sea, featuring a network of coastal spits, bays, and shallow water zones. The reserve comprises several interconnected natural areas that together form one of the region's most important breeding and stopover sites for water birds.

The area was established in 1927 as a bird sanctuary and grew into one of Europe's most significant wetlands. Its designation as an internationally recognized biosphere reserve reflects its role in protecting habitats and migration corridors for thousands of species.

The Tendrov Spit has been a crucial waypoint for migrating birds crossing between northern and southern regions for centuries. Today, visitors can watch thousands of birds landing and resting in the bays, making the place feel alive with constant movement.

The reserve is best visited during warmer months when most birds are active and pathways stay dry. The terrain is flat and easy to navigate, but bring binoculars and wear sturdy shoes since coastal areas can be damp and muddy.

The reserve contains brackish water zones where saltwater mixes with freshwater, forming a rare ecosystem that few species can tolerate. These special conditions make the area a natural laboratory for studying how animals and plants adapt to extreme environments.