The natural Park of shumensko plateau Photo: Natural Park of shumensko plateau

In the Eastern part of the Danube plain, near the city of Shumen is located a picturesque natural area Park shumensko plateau. It covers an area of 3895, 8 hectares, the highest point is 502 m above sea level. Since 1980 for the conservation of flora, fauna and natural landscapes this place is officially declared as a protected area.

Temperate continental climate promotes the development of vegetation – forests cover about 90% of the territory of the plateau. The diversity of flora: for example, in this Park there are 14 species of orchids and more than 250 species of various medicinal herbs and flowers. Of the 64 species of plants are protected. Especially for their protection on the territory of the reserve created special areas: "Marasca Coria (forest of ancient oaks, some of them – more than 350 years), "Bukaka" (century-old beech forest), "dervish" (the only place in Bulgaria, where it grows horse chestnut, some copies of which reach 35 m in height), "Megilat" (steppe part of the plateau).

In the Park found a home to about 600 species of vertebrates and invertebrates. This deer, foxes, wild boars, badgers, squirrels, etc. are Richly presented and bird Kingdom. Many representatives of the local fauna have the status of protected: Goshawk, black woodpecker, hamster Newton, etc.

No less varied and inanimate nature Shumen plateau. The Park is found about 60 karst caves, two of them – Tinite ponari and Bubbly – are among the largest caves in Bulgaria. Visitors can enjoy the scenic long incisions, similar to the small canyons, karst pits and rocky peaks.

People since ancient times lived on the plateau. In different ages there existed the ancient Thracian and medieval settlements. Well preserved Shumen fortress and fortress complex of residential buildings. In XII - XIV centuries in hard to reach places on the rocks monasteries were built.

Shumensko plateau is the ideal place for outdoor activities. This created the perfect conditions for Hiking and Cycling, and also for extreme sports – caving, climbing, paragliding, etc. In the Park are tourist arbours, springs and a place to rest, and in the information centre you can get all the required information about routes, attractions, rent a bike and hire a guide.

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