
Kresnensko Defile (Kresna Gorge) – Protected area
The Kresna Gorge is located in the Blagoevgrad area, south of the town of Kresna. It was formed from the incision of Struma river between the Pirin and Malashevska mountains, where the river sculpted a beautiful 16-kilometer long canyon.
The area of the Kresna Gorge is characterized by a typical transitional–Mediterranean climate. The winters are mild, with an average temperature in January + 2.4° С; summers are hot with an average temperature in July + 24.7°С. Main road E79 passes along the Struma river.
The Kresna Gorge is home to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are included in the Red Book of Bulgaria (a list of endangered species in the country).
The Tisata reserve is situated near the gorge. It was declared a natural landmark by decree No 6663 of 17 October 1949 by the Ministry of Forestry. The largest habitat of juniper (Juniperus excelsa) in Bulgaria is located in the reserve.
The region of Kresna gorge and that part of Struma river are popular among the extreme sport lovers. In spring and early summer, when the waters of Struma are high, the Kresna gorge is a preferred rafting and canoeing spot.
The towns of Kresna, Sandanski, and Petrich are situated in the area of the gorge. Sandanski is popular among tourists for its SPA and relaxation opportunities. Petrich is situated very close to the border with Greece. There are two interesting landmarks nearby – the Samuilova fortress and the Rupite area.
The Kresna Gorge is located on main road E79, south of the town of Kresna.
For extreme water sports practicing in the area of the gorge, it is advisable to contact some of the sports clubs, offering such services in the area. Rafting along the river is allowed only with the required equipment, after a detailed briefing, presented by an instructor.
TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER – SANDANSKI EOOD
Contacts
Tel: +359 746 30549
Fax: +359 746 32403
e-mail: [email protected]
1 Bulgaria Square, town of Sandanski
Services
1. tourist services;
2. information services;
3. preparing printed materials and information materials;
4. organizing of promotional and advertising campaigns for tourist companies;
5. providing of consultation services for tourist companies, associations and other tourist organization and their unions;
6. development and maintenance of web sites of tourist companies and organizations;
7. organizing of training for tourist companies and organizations;
8. organizing of exhibitions, cooperation markets and business forums for tourist companies and organizations;
Virtual map
Pictures
© All images, advertising and video materials and/or other information published on this website are property of the Ministry of Tourism and are protected by the Law on Copyright and Related Rights, according to the Bulgarian laws to all applicable international and relevant acts of the European Union.