site.btaKranevo Central Beach Receives Blue Flag Award for First Time

Kranevo Central Beach has received the international Blue Flag award for the first time in 2026.

Beach operator Tihomir Tsvetkov told BTA that his team has consistently worked over the years to maintain high standards of service, cleanliness of the beach strip and excellent seawater quality.

According to him, inspections carried out by the Ministry of Tourism in recent years found no irregularities.

"There were no recommendations, penalties or sanctions. That gave us the opportunity to apply for the Blue Flag award," Tsvetkov said.

He noted that machine and manual cleaning are among the key factors behind the beach's high maintenance standards. In his view, such investments are more difficult to make on beaches leased for short periods, while concession agreements allow for longer-term planning and development.

Tsvetkov added that investments aimed at improving conditions for visitors are continuing during the 2026 summer season.

"Every year we reinvest, redesign areas and upgrade equipment. Visitors see something new each time they come. We do not rely on the previous year's results but constantly strive to improve," he said.

According to Tsvetkov, the prices of beach umbrellas and sun loungers remain unchanged from last summer.

"We are not among those who charged BGN 5 and then raised the price to EUR 5. Our prices comply with the concession agreement and the requirements of the Ministry of Tourism," he said.

He added that he would like to take over the management and landscaping of the area behind Kranevo Central Beach, which is public state property. The idea is to develop green spaces, recreation areas and sports facilities there, without any commercial activity.

"Entirely at our own expense, the area could be improved and the beach could become more accessible and attractive. Despite our efforts, there are still one or two sections behind the beach that have not been landscaped. A park, benches and recreational facilities could be created there," Tsvetkov said.

BTA will present all 32 Bulgarian beaches and ports awarded with the Blue Flag in 2026 by the international jury of the Copenhagen Programme. The first Blue Flag in Bulgaria was raised on Sunny Beach on July 4, 1995.