Villa Ivelina is the perfect venue for a big family holiday with the most breathtaking views.
We are a group of 14 who holiday together every 2 years; 7 of whom are children (mainly early teens but one of is under 2).
The villa itself has a great communal living space with 2 small kitchens (this worked brilliantly for us - one as the main kitchen and the other as a utility room with washing machine, clothes airers, iron, extra fridge space etc.). The bedrooms are a good size with comfortable beds, 6 of the bedrooms are upstairs which were preferred, there is 1 twin bedroom downstairs. 4 showers and 4 WC's was great for our group (2 of the WC's are downstairs). All rooms at the villa (except the only downstairs bedroom) have air conditioning which was absolutely needed in August. The villa is clearly a well loved home, had been freshly decorated, was clean and had everything we needed to knock up a few meals etc. (although eating out was so cheap we didn't cook much!).
The outside areas of the villa are beautifully kept, we met both the gardener and pool serviceman whilst there. The pools were clean and well maintained (although the main pool was pretty chilly but a welcome relief in the midday sun!). The BBQ/dining area is fabulous and where we spent most of our time when at the villa. The table was big enough for everyone and the views absolutely incredible, a lovely space to have an evening BBQ, a few drinks and chat the night away.
The villa is located up a very steep lane, not for the faint hearted although we did walk it several times night and day and survived to tell the tale. A car is highly recommended as the location is fairly rural (although other residential villas are around).
The closest restaurant/shop is a 20/25 minute walk, the shop is basic but sells essentials including great value beer and ice creams! Opposite the shop is Steak House Silvia, this restaurant is an absolute gem. The service is not quick, be prepared to book a table and make a night of it, and you will not be disappointed. We were asked to pre-order because we were a big group which was convenient for all. Steak (around 34 lev) is definitely the highlight but we had most other dishes on the menu and nobody ever left hungry. These are the only amenities close by hence a car being highly recommended for shopping in the big supermarkets etc.
Balchik is the most local town and we found everything we needed (cashpoint, supermarkets, souvenir shops, bars, restaurants etc.), we particularly liked Delano Beach Bar later in the evening, you can walk the steps/coastal footpath from Silvia's if you're feeling energetic (about 15 minutes) then get a taxi back to the villa (15 lev).
We spent a few days at Albena, a resort a 10/15 minute drive away (or 20 lev taxi fare). Very touristy, lots of all inclusive hotels, tacky shops etc. but a HUGE stretch of sandy beach with water sports that kept the children busy. AquaMania is also at Albena, a brilliant waterpark that kept us all entertained, get there early if it's a sunny day, the place is full of sun loungers but it did get busy.
Zico, the villa manager, was incredibly helpful. He organised our transfers, hire car, child car seat and cot with no problems. He was at the villa when we arrived to show us the ropes and was extremely prompt in replying when we had any questions or needed local advice. Great guy, nothing was too much trouble.
In summary, we had a wonderful time at Villa Ivelina with many fabulous memories made.
