Uzunbodzhak Reserve, also known as Lopushna, lies in the Strandzha, in the Rezovska river valley between the villages of Kosti and Slivarovo. It was declared in 1956 and covers 2,661.3 ha inside the Strandzha Nature Park.
The reserve protects old broadleaf mixed forests of oak and oriental beech; about two thirds of the forest is oak and the rest beech. It lies between about 50 and 300 m above sea level, and the Rezovska river and its tributary the Lopushnitsa run through it. The climate is mild, with a mean January temperature above freezing. Botanists have recorded 651 plant species, among them the relicts Strandzha oak, cherry laurel, Strandzha rhododendron, Colchic holly and Pontic fritillary. Black barbel and the Rezovo nase live in the rivers. In 1977 the reserve was among Bulgaria's first UNESCO biosphere reserves, and since 2017 it has been in the core of the Uzunbudzhak biosphere park.
All activity in the reserve is banned except guarding, scientific visits, walking on marked paths, and collecting seeds and specimens for science. The ministry maintains a tourist path through the reserve. Local tourism sources say it may be walked only with an escort from the reserve's guards, but we found no description of its route. Arrange the visit in advance with the Burgas regional environment inspectorate (RIOSV) or the Kosti state forestry office.
The reserve lies south of the village of Kosti, which is reached by an asphalt road through the village of Balgari.
Burgas region
9.4 km away
Burgas region
12.4 km away
Burgas region
13.4 km away
Burgas region
15.6 km away
Uzunbodzhak Reserve is located in Burgas, Bulgaria.
Uzunbodzhak Reserve 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.
Uzunbodzhak Reserve 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.
