Six months after Bulgaria's EU accession, the local tourism industry is booming.

The Move Channel website reported that the number of European tourists who visited the country in the first half of 2007 increased by 30 per cent, compared to the same period of 2006.

MRI Overseas Property said that the increasing popularity of Bulgarian tourism was not surprising, considering the range of natural attractions and variety of activities.

Stara Planina and Pirin mountains are only two hours drive from the country's capital, and offer an excellent opportunity for a summer or winter vacation. Bulgaria also boasts a unique Black Sea coastline.

The growing number of tourists has lead to an increased demand for real estate, which means that the country is already attractive for long-term investment in real estate.