Romance in Bulgaria: A short guide to an unlikely honeymoon hotspot

Tourism has long been a staple part of Bulgaria's economy, yet citing the country as a honeymoon destination maybe a little more unexpected. However, in a recent poll by holiday specialists sunshine.co.uk, Bulgaria came in at number five just behind The Seychelles and Morocco, and beating New York and Egypt - whilst traditional romantic cities such as Venice and Paris did not even make the cut. So why is Bulgaria so popular? And what kind of couples are attracted to the country?

The easy answer is: everyone. The reason that Bulgaria is proving so popular amongst honeymooners is because it seems to cater for every type of couple. Part of this is influenced by the country's climate - which is unusually diverse for a country with a relatively small area. The continental northern regions are coolest parts of the country, whilst the South East coast is typically Mediterranean with the plains in-between feeling similar to those in the US.

Unsurprisingly, some of the most popular honeymoon places are on the coast where the land meets the Black Sea. Resorts such as Albena, Pomorie and Sunny Beach are popular with couples eager to sun themselves on this golden stretch of coastline and to make the most of the warm Black Sea.

Alternatively, Bulgaria's rugged landscape also means that the country boasts a number of winter destinations too. Vitosha, located near to the country's capital: Sofia, is famous for its high peaks fit for hiking and skiing. The mountains boast incredible views, and a fantastic array of flora and fauna to explore, and which is protected by the Vitosha National Park.

In recent years, however, Bulgaria has become increasingly popular amongst thos interested in its rich cultural and architectural heritage - and when one acknowledges its many cities dating back to olden times it is perhaps understandable why the country has been deemed by some to be more romantic than Paris and Venice. Sofia exemplifies this culture and architecture beautifully - with examples such as the Medieval Boyana Church which dates from the 10th Century, and the design of many of the buildings built after Bulgaria was liberated in the 19th Century. Sofia is a famously green city also, and its parklands and tree lined streets are something to be admired.

Sarah Maple writes for Gohop.ie who offer last minute holidays and cheap flights.