Begliktash is a prehistoric megalithic sanctuary 5 km from Primorsko and 40 km from Burgas, in the foothills of Strandzha. Around it there is a network of blue-marked paths about 9 km long in total.
The paths loop around the sanctuary and the hill above the Zigra river valley. A waymarked eco trail also leads from Begliktash to the beach at Maslen Nos — about 2.2 km, 30–40 minutes. The central part of the sanctuary covers about 8 decares.
Begliktash is a natural ensemble of syenite boulders, formed in place by the weathering of the Rosen pluton, and one of the largest prehistoric megalithic sanctuaries in Bulgaria. Karel Škorpil described it after the Liberation as “Apostol Tash”. In 1972–1973 the Apollonia – Strandzha expedition of Alexander Fol and Ivan Venedikov recorded the carved hollows in the rocks and a huge block about 12 m across laid on smaller stones as the roof of a dolmen, which you can still walk under today. Systematic excavations began in 2001–2002 under Tsonya Drazheva and Dimitar Nedev. The name is Turkish: “beglik” was the tax in kind paid to the bey, and “tash” means stone.
The paths run through forest with little height gain. Comfortable shoes are enough.
The sanctuary lies in the forest between Primorsko and Maslen Nos. In the 1970s and 80s the area was part of the Perla hunting residence and closed to the public; it opened to visitors in 2003.
Burgas region
2.4 km away
Burgas region
5.3 km away
Burgas region
5.5 km away
Begliktash is located in Burgas, Bulgaria.
Begliktash is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Begliktash is best walked from May through October, when the trail is clear of snow and weather is generally stable. Summer middays can be hot at lower altitudes — start early. Winter walking requires proper gear and route knowledge.
Suitability depends on the specific route. Bulgarian trails range from paved family-friendly paths to multi-day high-mountain crossings. Check the length, elevation gain, and surface before setting off. Sturdy footwear, water, and a basic map (offline or paper) are essential even on short walks.
