Rewilding Rhodopes

Rewilding Rhodopes, part of the Rewilding Europe initiative, works to restore ecosystems and wildlife in Bulgaria’s Eastern Rhodopes. The project supports natural processes such as forest regeneration, free-flowing rivers, and the role of herbivores and carnivores, while also promoting nature-based tourism that benefits local communities. 

The Eastern Rhodopes are one of Europe’s biodiversity hotspots, shaped by their location between Europe and Asia, Mediterranean influences, and relatively low human disturbance. It sustains a range of species, from threatened vulture species and wolves to rare orchids and subterranean lizards. Yet many remain vulnerable, making ongoing conservation vital. 

With ERF support, Rewilding Rhodopes can scale up its efforts to restore natural processes, protect key species, safeguard habitats, and expand wildlife-based tourism.