Take a deep breath the moment you arrive in Elenite and, despite the journey and time difference taking its toll on your body, you will find yourself feeling instantaneously refreshed. Maybe it's the fresh puff of mountain wind that soars over the hills through this picturesque holiday resort town - a recognised natural phenomenon that has not only attracted tourists but had them returning in their droves. Or perhaps it's the light turquoise waters that lap against the perfect beach, that seem to deepen and transform into a deep azure as you look further out. Or else, it's the cosy welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home. Whatever draws you to Elenite, you are certain to enjoy a fantastic holiday here.
Nestled between the hills of Bulgaria and against the sea - which is, as we've already mentioned, stunning - Elenite is a resort town stretched out on an attractive piece of coastline under a sweltering sun. Expect nothing but blue skies during your stay as the beach enjoys more than 200 sunny days a year. It's perfect for those who like nothing better than to spread out a towel in the soft white sand and lie there with a book, perhaps getting up to seek out an ice cream. Sunbeds line the splendid coastline, which remains beautifully calm with only the occasional fishing boat or windsurfer to be spotted meandering across the horizon. People take things easy here.
Elenite is located just ten kilometres from its big brother Sunny Beach, which draws many thousands of tourists in every year. However, the younger sibling has a number of unique advantages over the older. Firstly, you'll find fewer people here, making seclusion and isolation much more feasible if that's what you seek in a holiday. However, since plenty of tourists still visit, you'll have no shortage of people to socialise with in the evening.
Secondly, the area is less developed, with hotels blending more seamlessly with the stunning backdrop and intricate streets that make up the majority of the town. They still dominate the seafront, of course, but the architecture much more closely resembles a Bulgarian style.
Speaking of accommodation, there are four major options - Royal Bay, Royal Park, Atrium and Andalusia and the Holiday Village Elenite. These offer spacious rooms with everything you could require - balconies, great beds, world-class service, a general air of comfiness in all the communal areas. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the local beautification and relaxation options at the Victoria Spa centre, which possesses a variety of techniques and gizmos both traditional and modern designed to enhance your holiday and make you feel completely at ease.
All these aspects - beautiful surroundings, great beach and stunning amenities - serve to make Elenite one of the most charming resorts in Bulgaria.
To eat and drink
Whether you want to try top Bulgarian cuisine or seek out something that you know the kids will eat, you will find it in Elenite. Hotels recommend a number of restaurants - notably the Talyana, which lies close to the Perla hotel right on the beach. It's a beautiful setting, and when you step inside you'll be even more impressed. Nets and other boating paraphernalia cover the walls, giving you the impression of eating inside a fishing ship. Grilled and barbecue dishes feature prominently on the menu. The Sunshine Restaurant is also worth a visit, with excellent food and a well-designed menu.
Transportation
Thanks to its status as a particular haven for tourists, Elenite is extremely well-connected to the surrounding towns and attractions, as well as to other transportation hubs. Regular shuttle buses depart from the local Burgas (Sarafovo) airport, for example, making it fairly easy to get to and from wherever you need to be. Rent-a-car options are also available for those who value their independence on the roads.
Things to do
As with any resort town on this stunning stretch of coastline, the beach is the main draw. However, efforts have been made throughout Elenite to ensure tourists have plenty to do, and it shows. The kids will particularly adore the water park Atlantida Aqua Park, which includes pools for adults as well. Families will also want to visit the mini golf course, which provides hours of fun and some great family memories. Sport fanatics will find themselves well catered for with options for billiards, fitness, windsurfing, horse riding and bowling - plenty of opportunity to get active. Horse riding along the beach at sundown is particularly encouraged.
Other water sports also provide a way of making the most of the sun, beach and the deliciously warm sea, with specialised centres dotted along the coast. These are a great way to have fun with the family - why not take the kids to try something you've all never tried before and learn together?
When all else fails, lather up the sunscreen and head to the beach in search of a lounger and parasol. The kids are fine to play in the waters - which are generally calm, although it is obviously important to exercise reasonable caution in any situation.
In a nutshell
Elenite is a well-equipped little holiday village that does a better job of bringing the Bulgarian charm to proceedings than many other resorts. More natural architecture and fewer tourists help to create this atmosphere, as well as the stunning scenery of hills, mountains and sea. Being blessed with a golden arc of sand probably helps too!
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