Situated between Balchik and Kavarna, Thracian Cliffs is with no doubt the most popular golf course in Bulgaria. The golf course is designed by Gary Player – one of the most popular golfers of all time. Thracian Cliffs was opened in 2011 and very quickly it becomes popular among the golf fans. The golf course gained worldwide popularity in 2013 when it hosted the Volvo World Match Play Championship. This is one of the most prestigious events in the history of the European Tour and in the winners list we can see the names of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Nick Faldo. Some of the most popular golfers of our time arrived in Bulgaria for the tournament. Ian Poulter, Henrik Stenson and Francesco Molinari were in the field that week. The tournament was won by the 2010 U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell. The Match Play Championship was televised by more than 250 TV channels across the world which presented Bulgaria as undiscovered golf destination.
Thracian Cliffs and Cape Kaliakra
“You will not find a golf course like this anywhere else on the planet.” described the course Gary Player when he presented it to the public. The course lies on the natural terrain on the cliffs alongside the Black Sea which makes is looks like it has been there forever. What makes the course unique is the fact that you have breathtaking views to the Black Sea from every single hole. The modern design of the course makes Thracian Cliffs enjoyable for all players. You have five tee boxes, so you can easily choose the one responding to your skills.
It’s difficult to say which is the most beautiful hole on the course, but there is one that stands out from the rest. The par 3 sixth is the one that you should bring your camera for. The green lies on the cliff edge and it’s a good idea to get some more balls…just in case. The hole is measured 211 meter from the back tee, but because of the elevation drop it is played shorter. Depends on the tee, but you have at least 40 meters height change.
The North-East Bulgarian coast is a perfect destination for golf or family trip. Thracian Cliffs is next to BlackSeaRama Golf & Villas Resort, another course designed by Gary Player and only 10 minutes by car from Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort. Lighthouse offers superb Spa facilities, pools and kids animation which makes it a great choice for family vacation.
What to see in the region
If you get tired from golfing (which you certainly won’t 🙂 ) you can explore the cultural heritage of the region. A must sea destination is Kaliakra Fortress. The oldest finds were dated to the IV cent. B.C., when this area was inhabited by the Thracian tribe “Tirizis”. The Palace and the Botanical Garden in Balchik is another must see attraction. Balchik Botanical Garden has an area of 65,000 square meters and accommodates 2000 plant species belonging to 85 families and 200 genera.