Bulgaria's coastal resorts all run a similar theme - that of stunning white beaches dotted with palm trees, cool crystalline waters glinting under a blazing sun and plenty of local culture for visitors to immerse themselves in. Duni offers all of these and more, with its sleepy village feel proving particularly attractive for visitors. Standing on the beach here, feeling the sand between your toes, you'll feel completely at peace with yourself and the world around you.
At a Glance
First impressions of Duni are likely to take into account the coastline, which really is rather spectacular. The beach itself measures 4.5km and is more than 100 metres wide depending on the tide, dotted with natural dunes and strewn with beautiful little cottages designed in the architectural style of the Bulgarian National Revival. Its edge is forested, with trees and bushes encroaching onto the soft white sand. It's easy to lose oneself on a beach like that.
The sea laps gently at the shore - a calm and docile beast that children can safely splash around in. Sheltered against the northern winds by the natural bay, it is ideal for water sports. One thing you will notice - from the first days of spring until late August, the air carries a sweet fragrance of the forest as the trees bake under the sun and go through their natural cycles.
In the way of accommodation, luxury villas boasting three and four stars are common, the studio apartments contained within often featuring balconies that allow a wonderful view onto the beach. Imagine sitting there of an evening, smelling the fragrant forest behind you, coupled with the scent of the sea. You might hear the sound of migratory birds in the surrounding trees, who, like you, come to experience the sunshine and holiday atmosphere. Life doesn't get much better than this.
And then, you might decide to take a stroll into the holiday village of Duni itself, which is jam-packed with the latest in modern amenities. For families, there are plenty of activities and services, including childcare and specially-equipped playgrounds that will keep them entertained for hours on end. Also worth a look is the Museum of Nature and Science, located just a few kilometres away in Bourgas. Some 1,200 exhibits of insects and reptiles are contained here, living alongside 140 species of fish and plants that call the local area their home. A daytrip to Bourgas might also feature the Sea Garden, filled to the brim with flowers, trees, sculptures and even a small zoo and open air theatre.
Keeping things local, though, Duni itself possesses some pretty fantastic parks and gardens. The resort is constructed in a natural bay that arcs inwards, giving way to rolling hills covered with leafy, lush forest that stretches as far as the eye can see. These provide a great atmosphere and allow you to get some fantastic photos of the kids, friends or partners amongst the branches. See how far up the hill you can climb for a great view over Duni.
To eat and drink
A brief stroll through Duni will reveal a bustling centre and a main high street that thrives with dozens of cafes offering a good cup of coffee and a snack. These will typically - but not always - provide outdoor seating to account for the sweltering heat. Wander through the charismatic streets in search of more substantial offerings in the evenings. Efforts have been made to ensure tourists can obtain anything they want here, and that includes restaurants.
Transportation
Situated as it is with a close proximity to Bourgas and Sorozol, which are both fellow tourist-friendly resorts, you should have no trouble at all getting to Duni. Once here, you will have little need for transport unless you feel like visiting one of the neighbouring villages, in which case a bus is the most likely option. Check in at the tourist information centre to obtain a timetable.
Things to do
You'll find plenty of ways to keep yourself and your family occupied in Duni. The resort's biggest assets are undoubtedly natural, with the gorgeous forests and plentiful natural parks possessing enough charm and beauty to keep anyone occupied throughout their holiday. Birdwatching is particularly common here, largely thanks to the aforementioned migratory species, who fill the air with sweet chirruping all day long.The later you go in the year, the more you are likely to see.
But the biggest draw of Duni is undoubtedly the beach. A golden stretch of sand that arcs away, as far as the eye can see. It has great paddling conditions for children in the calm and warm waters. Head to one of the many water sports instruction centres if you fancy getting the blood pumping - there are many on the unspoilt beaches of Alepou and Arkutino. Hop in a boat or a pedalo and make an afternoon of exploring the small coves and sandy inlets that make this stretch of coastline particularly charismatic.
In a nutshell
Duni has plenty to offer travellers, with stunning natural scenery and a sleepy atmosphere. Life is convenient, with everything you can possibly need on your doorstep. A wide range of accommodation gives you the options you require without proving overwhelming, and a plentiful supply of activities is ever present to keep you entertained. All holidays here should include a visit to the university city of Bourgas for an authentic taste of Bulgarian life. In short, you are certain to have an excellent holiday here, whatever you like to do with your downtime.