Hotnitsa Waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Veliko Tarnovo region. We first visited it and hiked along the picturesque eco-trail along it 10 years ago. Captivated even then by the beauty of the waterfall and the entire area, we returned there more than once. All the relatives and friends we took there over the years to see it remained enchanted.
Through this article I would like to take you on a walk to the beautiful Hotnitsa Waterfall and the eco-trail built near it. It is a travel guide with directions, useful tips and information what to expect.
I have personally visited this place many times. I am sure that you will like it too. It is so beautiful and addictive!
Contents
Why visit the Hotnitsa Waterfall?
How to get there
Eco-trail “Hotnitsa Waterfall”
Frequently Asked Questions
Final thoughts
Why visit the Hotnitsa Waterfall?
The Hotnitsa Waterfall is 30 meters high. Its waters fall among high rocks, forming a small canyon of the river that feeds it – the Bohot River. The waterfall “works” all year round – yes, it is much fuller in the spring after the snow melts, but on the other hand, it does not dry up during the summer months.
The charm of the landscape is beautifully complemented by the blue-green waters of the lake, thirstily absorbing the waters of the waterfall.
There are good conditions for a picnic near the waterfall.
The Hotnitsa Waterfall is also known by the name Kaya Bunar (from Turkish it means spring in the rock). The Bohot River, which feeds it, forms an entire cascade, with it being the lowest and highest in it. The river is 32 kilometers long and rises near the Veliko Tarnovo village of Novo Selo, passes through the village of Balvan and then past the village of Hotnitsa, to continue towards the Danube Plain and finally flow into the Rositsa River, not far from the remains of the ancient Roman city of Nicopolis ad Istrum.
How to get there
The waterfall is very easily accessible – you can get to it by car. It is located about 230 kilometers northeast of Sofia and about 20 kilometers north of Veliko Tarnovo – just after the village of Hotnitsa, Veliko Tarnovo region. For orientation, to get to the village of Hotnitsa you have to go through the village of Samovodene. When you get to Hotnitsa, you pass through the square and shortly after it turn right onto the road. It used to be a bit unclear, but now there are directional signs.
The road almost reaches the river. You stop at the wide place in front of the waterfall, cross the river on the wooden bridge and you are in front of the waterfall. Enjoy it!
Coordinates:
- parking: 43.14660041444396, 25.515389084315675
- Hotnitsa waterfall: 43.14598660722876, 25.514775640880863
Eco-trail “Hotnitsa Waterfall”
To the left of the waterfall, clinging to the steep rocks, begins the Hotnitsa Eco-Trail. Though relatively short—about 1.5 kilometers and walkable in roughly half an hour—it is highly engaging. The trail follows the river upstream to the upper part of the canyon, looping around the entire cascade of the Hotnitsa waterfalls on the Bohot River.
The trail begins with stone steps up, which reach a small platform right above the large waterfall. Then the trail continues even higher.
After the first wooden ladder from the eco-trail, a beautiful panoramic view of the nearby fields opens up. Then you pass through a very narrow place between the rocks with a view of the river secured by a grate.
A little further along the path are several interesting wooden stairs. Further up the river there are several more interesting waterfalls, yet small. The trail emerges from the top of the canyon. As you walk along it, you can admire the river, its falls, and the high cliffs surrounding it, forming the canyon.
The path is secured with a wooden railing, which serves as a help when climbing the steps, and then back when descending. At the top you come out onto a wide meadow with a fountain for watering animals. There is also a road to the nearby settlements nearby. You can use it to return to the parking lot in front of the waterfall.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hotnitsa waterfall
Is Hotnitsa Waterfall worth visiting?
Yes, definitely. This is the highest waterfall near Veliko Tarnovo and falls over interesting rocks, and the river that feeds it forms a picturesque canyon around it.
Is there convenient parking?
Yes, there is a wide place very close to the waterfall, convenient for parking.
Is there a restaurant nearby?
No. Bring water and sandwiches, but leave behind clean!
When is the best time to visit Hotnitsa Waterfall?
The waterfall is active all year round, but is at its fullest in spring and after heavy rains.
How to prepare for the visit?
Make sure you have comfortable shoes, especially if you decide to hike the eco-trail. In addition, check the weather forecast, as the trail can be quite slippery after rain.
Final thoughts
On our first visit to the Hotnitsa Waterfall and the eco-trail, there were almost no people – it was deserted and quiet in front of the waterfall, and on the way up the trail we passed very few tourists like us. With each subsequent visit, the noise around the waterfall increased – besides being beautiful, the place is very suitable for a picnic. The last time there were also campers. And although all this takes away some of the beauty of the place, it is definitely worth a visit!
A visit to the Hotnitsa Waterfall can be combined with a visit to the ancient city of Nicopolis ad Istrum near the village of Nikyup, as well as with a visit to the Emen and Zarapovo waterfalls.
If you stay in Veliko Tarnovo and the region for at least a few days, make a plan to pass through this wonderful place!
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