Golden Sands is a purpose built resort located on the coast of the Black Sea 18km (11 miles) north of the Bulgarian city of Varna.
Famed for its miles of golden coastline, legend has it that ancient pirates buried their stash of gold at the site, and nature took it from them by turning it into pure, golden sand!
These days the resort is a fast growing, highly popular holiday choice.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
Weekly, fortnightly, all inclusive, family etc.
Being conveniently located in eastern Europe, Golden Sands attracts holiday makers from all over the continent and is a short plane ride away from the UK. It has a range of facilities and accommodation options to suit everybody.
Younger holiday makers looking for a budget break will certainly find it here, as you can stay in a self catering apartment fairly cheaply. In the evenings you will also be able to dance the night away at one of the resortâs many bars and nightclubs!
Families are well catered for, whether you want an apartment or to go all-inclusive. There is a staggering array of childrensâ activities on offer, from various sports to the Aquapolis water park, and you can even drop them off at Children's World, where they will be looked after and entertained while you relax! Eating is also not a problem as there are a number of child-friendly themed restaurants to choose from.
Luxury accommodation right on the beach is also perfect for older holiday makers looking for a secluded bit of peace and quiet, or those looking for a romantic getaway!
BEST TIME TO GO
Golden Sands is a seasonal resort. It can be fairly cold in the winter months, so there are fewer accommodation options and less facilities open. However, it still tends to be milder than the UK so if you fancy a budget getaway from the cold then this is the place to go.
Of course the summer is the best time to go weather-wise, with long, hot sunny days awaiting you. This does mean that prices are higher, but the full range of accommodation and entertainment is available to you at this time.
SIGHTS TO SEE
While there is plenty to keep you busy within the resort itself, there is a lot to see in the surrounding area as well.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Golden Sands Nature Park, situated in the hills just behind the main resort. This spans over 3000 acres and is a protected area is home to huge array of plant life and wildlife, such as deer, boar, rabbit, tortoises, thrushes, woodpeckers and even snakes!
The best way to enjoy the park is via a jeep safari. You can hire a vehicle yourself or go along with a knowledgeable English speaking guide who will tell you all about your surroundings.
For a taste of local history you can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Perperikon, the remains of which date from Roman and Greek times. Highlights here include the ruins of a palace dating from the 13th century BC. Archaeologists recently uncovered the remains of a church dating from the 4th century AD, and archaeological work at the site is ongoing.
The nearby town of Balchik has a Historical Museum that houses many artefacts from the site. This pretty town is well worth a visit to stroll around and visit the Botanical Garden and small harbour.
ACTIVITIES
Sporty holiday makers will be spoilt for choice with the number of activities on offer. There are over 30 tennis courts, a bowling alley and even a paintballing centre!
Golf lovers will be in their element at one of the several recently built courses such as the Lighthouse Club and Rama Club.
Scuba diving is a popular activity at the resort, and you can head to Harryâs Diving Centre to hire equipment and take lessons. Other water sports available include water skiing and jet skiing.
And for a fun day out with the kids you can also visit the Aquapolis water park!
BEACHES
Golden Sands Beach is over 3km (2 miles) long and up to 100m wide in places. It has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness several times. As the resort is located right on the beach front, you are next to all the amenities you could want such as kiosks, toilets, showers, cafes, bars and restaurants.
There is also an abundance of sun beds and umbrellas on the beach.
NIGHTLIFE
Whether you are a party animal or simply want to entertain the children, then Golden Sands has plenty to offer when the sun has gone down.
There is a fairground that operates well into the night, so to get a birdâs eye view of the resort you should hop on the Big Wheel!
The main strip is where most of the action is. If you fancy a flutter you can head to one of several casinos such as the International.
If youâre looking to sip some cocktails, there are many bars along the beach front where you can enjoy the warm night air and relax, but if you want to dance the night away then you can head to one of the clubs, including Arrogance, Admiral, Papaya and Masai.
ACCOMMODATION
There are hundreds of different types of accommodation to choose from in Golden Sands.
Grifid Club Hotel Bolero is one of the most popular resorts for an all inclusive stay. There are two swimming pools, a tennis court and football pitch, as well as a wellness centre offering a range of treatments. The resort is also ideally located for access to shops, bars and restaurants.
Kini Park Hotel is very close to the beach but is known for being a much quieter resort among the hustle and bustle of Golden Sands â" ideal for a more peaceful holiday!
The Melia Grand Hermitage is just 100m from the beach and has a wide range of restaurants, cafes and pubs located on-site. The resort is perfect for a relaxing break as it features an extensive spa centre featuring a sauna and Turkish bath.
And the Hotel Horizant offers great budget accommodation located just 300m from the beach. On-site there is a restaurant serving both Bulgarian and international food, as well as a snack bar.
Even when it is the winter season in Golden Sands, some hotels, such as the Admiral and the Imperial, are open all year round. Accommodation will also be much cheaper at this time of year.