Saint Anastasia Island | Burgas

St. Anastasia Island (Bulgarian: Остров Света Анастасия) is a small yet fascinating island in the Black Sea, located about 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) southeast of the port city of Burgas. Known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere, the island is the only inhabited island along Bulgaria’s coast and is a popular day-trip destination for both locals and visitors.

Key Highlights and Features

Historic Monastery: St. Anastasia Island is home to a medieval monastery that dates back to the 14th century. Originally known as St. Anastasia Monastery, it served as a religious and cultural center over centuries. Although it was abandoned for a time, it was restored and converted into a museum that now shares the island’s history, including religious artifacts, old manuscripts, and exhibits on the island’s use over time.

Island Museum: The museum explores the island’s fascinating past, including its role as a place of refuge, a hideout for pirates, and even as a prison in the early 20th century, where political prisoners were held under the communist regime. Visitors can tour former prison cells and learn about the island’s intriguing political history.

Stunning Natural Scenery: The island is small, covering only about 0.01 square kilometers (0.0038 square miles), but its natural beauty is a big draw. It features rocky cliffs, sea views, and unique rock formations. Visitors can take a stroll along the paths and enjoy views of the Black Sea and the Burgas coastline.

The Lighthouse: St. Anastasia has a small lighthouse that has been guiding ships safely to the Burgas harbor for decades. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but it adds a charming nautical touch to the island’s landscape.

Chapel of St. Anastasia: Adjacent to the monastery is a small chapel dedicated to St. Anastasia, the patron saint of healing. Pilgrims and tourists often visit the chapel to pray or light candles, adding a spiritual element to the visit.

Café and Guesthouse: The island has a cozy café and restaurant serving traditional Bulgarian dishes and seafood, providing a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the views. For those who want to experience the island after sunset, a small guesthouse is available, offering unique overnight accommodations on the island.

Getting to St. Anastasia Island

The island can be reached by a ferry service departing from Burgas, typically running from late spring through early autumn, depending on the weather. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes, and schedules vary throughout the season.

Visiting Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Summer is the ideal time to visit, as the ferry runs more frequently, and the warm weather enhances the island experience.
• Nature Walks: There are walking paths around the island, allowing for scenic strolls along the coastline, with plenty of spots for photography.
• Amenities: The island is small and amenities are limited, so plan accordingly if you want to bring extra snacks or supplies.

St. Anastasia Island is a tranquil escape from the city and a unique place to explore Bulgaria's maritime history, natural beauty, and monastic heritage. Whether visiting for a day trip or an overnight stay, the island offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views that leave a lasting impression.