Pomorie Lake | Pomorie

Pomorie Lake is a unique natural landmark on Bulgaria’s southern Black Sea coast, located immediately north of the town of Pomorie. It is a coastal lagoon of exceptional ecological, medical, and economic importance, known for its therapeutic properties, salt production, and rich biodiversity.

Here is a detailed overview of Pomorie Lake:

1. General Description

Type: Coastal hypersaline lagoon (also called a liman).

Size: About 8.5 square kilometers, with shallow waters rarely deeper than 1.4 meters.

Separation from the sea: The lake is divided from the Black Sea by a narrow sand spit and artificial embankments.

The lagoon has very high salinity, making it ideal for sea salt extraction and therapeutic treatments.

2. Healing Properties

Pomorie Lake is internationally recognized for its medicinal resources:

Black healing mud (peloid): Rich in minerals, used for spa treatments, especially for:

Joint and skin conditions

Post-traumatic recovery

Gynecological and neurological disorders

Lye (mineral brine): Used for baths and compresses to treat rheumatism, arthritis, and other ailments.

These natural substances are used in clinics, sanatoriums, and hotels throughout Pomorie, most notably in spa centers like those in Sunset Resort or the Sanatorium for Rehabilitation.

3. Salt Production

Salt has been extracted here since ancient Thracian and Roman times.

The southern end of the lake is divided into salt pans, where sea salt is harvested manually using traditional methods.

The Pomorie Salt Museum is located on the lake’s shore and offers visitors insight into the history and process of salt-making.

4. Biodiversity and Ecological Significance

Pomorie Lake is part of the Natura 2000 ecological network and a protected area under the Ramsar Convention for wetlands of international importance.

It is located on the Via Pontica migration route, one of the most important bird migratory paths in Europe.

Birdlife

Over 260 bird species have been observed around the lake, including:

Flamingos (occasionally seen in spring and autumn)

Avocets, terns, herons, pelicans, black-winged stilts

Several globally threatened species, such as the Dalmatian pelican and pied avocet

Birdwatching towers and observation platforms are available for enthusiasts.

Flora and Fauna

The lake supports a range of salt-tolerant plants, rare in other regions.

Numerous aquatic invertebrates and fish species inhabit the lake and its channels.

5. Activities and Tourism

Birdwatching: Popular among eco-tourists and ornithologists.

Therapeutic mud bathing: Informally, people apply mud from the shores during summer.

Photography and walking: Nature trails run along parts of the lake, especially near the salt pans and museum.

Cycling: Bike routes connect the lake area with Pomorie and the nearby resorts.

6. Threats and Protection

While protected, the lake faces challenges like:

Urban development pressure

Pollution from nearby roads

Climate-related water level fluctuations

Conservation organizations in Bulgaria work to ensure the sustainable use of the lake’s resources.

7. Significance

Pomorie Lake is a rare example of a living ecosystem where ancient traditions, natural medicine, and biodiversity conservation coexist. It is a destination of interest for:

Nature lovers

Health and wellness seekers

Photographers and eco-tourists

Cultural tourists exploring Pomorie’s salt and spa heritage

Visiting Pomorie Lake offers a tranquil yet enriching experience that combines natural beauty, health benefits, and a deep connection to the region’s ancient traditions.