The Garden of Eden complex is a new resort (having only opened for business in July 2007) and combines the hotel with apartments buildings (most of which are privately owned) on the site. It was quiet when we visited - partly due to being towards end of season, and also I guess, the hotel has yet to establish itself.

Most things were operational, although in the future, more facilities will become available. There are a total of 5 pools on site (plus an indoor one if the outside ones are a bit chilly) along with 3 very nice restaurants and an additional 2 bars (plus pool bars). The food was very good - although you can buy cheaper off site. But for the quality on site, it was still good value.

The hotel sits at the top of the site, overlooking the resort and with nice sea views. Our room (513) had a lovely balcony looking over the complex. Being brand new, everything was very clean and virtually unused. The room was a very good size with quality fittings and provided well for our needs. The only slight downside was that it was close to reception, and sometimes the noise travelled. Buffet breakfast was very nice, with all the food being nicely presented and of a high standard.

There is a private beach at the bottom end of the resort - a short walk from the hotel with a small pier and plenty of sunbeds. If you're feeling energetic, there is a modestly sized gym and to relax, a spa area.

The nearby small town of St.Vlas is a short walk away and offers many eating places and some limited shopping experiences.But the people are friendly and it feels very safe (apart from lack of decent pavements at the side ot the road!)

Further down the road (10 minutes drive) there is the tourist area of Sunny Beach - which is purpose built area for the many hotels lining the road. If you want the hussle and bussle and nightlife, I guess this is the place to go. However, it's good to get back to the Garden of Eden to escape all this!

It's also worth a trip (by bus, boat or car) to Nessebar which is a UNESCO heritage site, and one of the oldest towns in Europe.

We really enjoyed our stay at Garden of Eden, and it represented very good value for money. The locals were all very helpful and the site itself looks great being virtually brand new.