The Dadia forest lies in the middle of the region, covering the southeast hilly endings of the the Rodopi mountainous mass.The area was declared protected in 1980 and includes two strict protection zones -72,9 sm in surface area and a 357 sqm peripheral zone. The Management Association of the Dadia-Leykimi-Soufli National Park was founded in 2003.

The flat hills of Dadia are corrugated by dozens of streams and brooks, the mature pine and oak trees are interrupted by small clearings alternating with plains, pastures and farming fields while slopes and rocks emerge here and there from a dreamily misty landscape.
This lush mosaic of biotopes hosts numerous plants and animals. More than 48 species of mammals find refuge here such as wolves, roes, squirrels, bats as well as 41 species of reptiles and amphibians. What make the forest truly unique though are the birds of prey that live here.

Within the protected area, 36 out of the 38 species that still exist in Europe have been observed here. 20 of these species nest permanently in the area, whereas the rest either winter or come in the forest during migrations. 

The last remaining 20 pairs of black vultures in southeast Europe nest in the area every year. Some other very rare species include the lanner falcon, the long-legged buzzard, the golden eagle, the lesser-spotted eagle, the peregrine falcon and the Egyptian vulture. 
The landscape, the rare fauna along with the ever-developing activities make the Dadia forest a unique destination when visiting the Evros region.

500 meters from the village you will find the eco-tourist centre, which first opened in 1994 and chairs the Management Association of the forest. You can get all the information about the birds and their observation here, and you can relax in the café-restaurant with a nice drink or meal. There is also a shop where you can buy all kind of local products.

The eco-tourist centre is a very good base for exploring the wider area of Evros.

For information please contact:
Dadia-Leykimi-Soufli National Park Information Centre: 25540-32209