The interior of the south Bulgarian coast is dominated by the wooded Strandzha, a region of plateaus and hills interrupted by rift valleys, where Ropotamo, Veleka and other rivers flow. It is an extensive range – 270 km long and 90 km wide. Only the north-eastern section lies in Bulgaria. The rest of the mountain lies in Turkey.

     The mountain is not very high but the scenery is magnificent. The estuaries of their rivers, flowing into the Black Sea, offer spectacular exotic views. Their wooded spurs form picturesque coves along the coast. The untouched forests are thick with oak, beech, alder and elm trees and would be perfect for hiking if there were more distinct paths and enough accommodation. Being the habitat of deer, wild boars and cats, hares, Strandzha range offers individual and group hunting holidays. The mountain is sparsely populated. The main occupation of the villagers is sheep- and pig-breeding.

     The mountain is unique for their folklore, songs and dances. Lying on one of the main routes to the border crossing into Turkey at Malko Tarnovo, are Kondolovo and Bulgari – villages renowned for the ancient custom of nestinarstvo (fire dancing), which is said to be directly descended from the Dionysian rites of the ancients and a link with the religion of the Thracians.