A European biodiversity hotspot

Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, the Rhodope Mountains in southwestern Bulgaria are a true biodiversity hotspot. Boasting rugged peaks, sweeping forests, lush meadows, and steep gorges, the area is a stronghold for vultures and other raptors. Carnivores such as wolves and golden jackals roam the landscape, brown bears are recolonising the area, and an array of reptiles, amphibians, and rare plants also thrive here

Rhodope Mountains | Bulgaria

The Rhodope Mountains are a large, forested mountain range known for their natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and fascinating cultural heritage, including traditional villages and historical sites. With a blend of Mediterranean and continental influences, pristine landscapes, and relatively limited human disturbance, the area boasts a huge variety of species and habitats and has become one of Europe's best places for birdwatching.

The Rhodope Mountains are the only breeding spot in Bulgaria for griffon vultures, while they are also an important Balkan site for the globally threatened Egyptian vulture. The efforts of the Rewilding Rhodopes team and local partners have seen remarkable comeback of many species, such as European bison, Konik horses, griffon vultures, and red and fallow deer. More recently, the team have stepped up their work to support the return of cinereous vultures, which means the future of this iconic, hugely impressive scavenger in the landscape now looks even brighter.

Rewilding vision

The Rhodope Mountains have emerged as one of Southeast Europe's most dynamic wild landscapes, where revitalised natural processes shape a rich mosaic of forests, grasslands, rivers, and rocky slopes. Thanks to large-scale rewilding efforts, wildlife populations are regaining their natural abundance, with native species that were once lost reclaiming their place in the ecosystem. Core rewilding zones are now connected through wildlife corridors, with nature largely managing itself.

This revival has breathed new life into local communities, with a thriving nature-based economy boosting jobs, sustainable business opportunities, and regional pride. This transformation means people are able to stay in and return to the landscape, while growing numbers of visitors from across Europe come here to experience wild nature and see the benefits of rewilding at their most inspirational.

Do you want to know more about Rewilding Europe's efforts to make the Rhodope Mountains a wilder place?

Visit Rewilding Europe