Description of the attraction
Goritsa Waterfall is located at the northern foot of Rila Mountain, near Ovchartsi, a small village in Western Bulgaria. Ovchartsi is located a few minutes drive from the town of Sapareva Banya and is known for its magnificent nature and seven beautiful waterfalls nearby. The Goritsa River gives rise to these unique natural phenomena, which both adults and children come to see with pleasure. The waterway originates at the top of Mount Kabul and descends, cutting a path in the rocks and forming beautiful water cascades.
The highest waterfall of the Goritsa River is the one that descends from an almost 40-meter height.
You can get to the sights along a special hiking trail that runs from the village of Ovchartsi, then - past the river, through a dense forest. It is especially good here in late spring, when everything is blooming around, and the waterfall appears to visitors in full splendor.
The total height of the natural landmark is 39 meters. Nearby there is a specially equipped small area with benches where you can sit, relax and watch Goritsa. The surrounding area is ideal for relaxation and picnics.
The locals tell an interesting legend about the name of the waterfall. She is associated with a young girl Goritsa and her lover Jovitz. Goritsa was a real beauty - more beautiful than anyone in the village. The governor wanted to make her his wife. He ordered his servants to kidnap her. The girl managed to escape, she hoped to find shelter in the mountains, but the Turks overtook her. To avoid being captured again, Goritsa threw herself into the river from a high cliff. In honor of this girl, the waterfall was named.
There are many other attractions not far from the Goritsa waterfall. In the village of Ovchartsi, the Church of the Holy Mother of God and the temple built by craftsmen from the village of Krushevo are of interest. In the town of Sapareva Banya you can watch the only geyser fountain in Bulgaria.
