Ecopaths in the Elena Balkan
Elenski Balkan is one of the beautiful corners of the country, where nature has preserved its natural appearance and charm. There are many eco-trails that can lead to the natural wonders of the Balkans such as Markov Kamak, Hristovski waterfall, Rayuv Kamak, the “Elephant” tree, Chumerna peak and others. One of the most preferred directions is the eco-path in the city of Elena – Hanche Boaza, which can be covered in about 4 hours, on foot or by bike. The route starts from the town of Elena, moving north of the city to the hamlet of Dolni Chukani and passing through Boaza – one of the most picturesque and beautiful areas in the Elenski Balkan. The place is distinguished by an unusual flora, which is generally found at a higher level. Wild ferns, various types of herbs, mosses, lichens, interesting rock forms and chukars can be seen here. Protected plant species such as ox tongue, used in folk medicine to treat diseases such as chest frog, biliary and kidney diseases, are also found on the site. The eco-trail reveals picturesque views depicting the beauty of the entire gorge. The forest waterfall is extremely interesting, the bed of which is formed by sheer rocks. On the opposite bank you can cross the built wooden bridge. For adventurers, other crossing options are offered – with a rope trolley or rappel. Hristovski waterfall is one of the natural wonders in the Elenski Balkans, which can also be reached by a built eco-path. It is located between the two hamlets of Hristovtsi and Ruhovtsi and about 7 km. from the city of Elena. For the convenience of visitors, places for recreation, barbecue, rest are marked along the marked path. The waterfall is located on the Miykovska river, which forms a rock bed, so that the water falls in stages from 15 m. The strange stone pieces – Markov and Rayuv Kamak are located 3 km away. from the city, and the built eco-path can be reached by transport. A total of 9 routes are available on the territory of the municipality of Elena. Each of them leads to extraordinary and wonderful Balkan beauties, which distinguish the area as an attractive and preferred place for many people. For those who wish to walk around the Balkans, we offer you a map of some of the most popular ecopaths: Miikovtsi – Chumerna hut, Miikovtsi – Byala Krava Reserve and others. Ecopath “Markov – Rayuv Kamak”
Elena town – 5 exciting ideas for a walk
If you are wondering which eco-trails around the city of Elena to choose, you are in the right place! The “Markov-Rayuv Kamak” ecopath starts at 3 km. south of the city, in the direction of the Elena-Tverditsa pass. Its beginning can be reached by transport. The route passes through a mountain range, offering ascent and impressive views near the natural landmark “Markov Kamak”. “Markov Stone” is an imposing rock that looks as if it is placed by human hands on several smaller stones on the ridge of the ridge. Its dimensions are impressive: 6 m long, 3.5 m wide and 3.2 m high. According to legend, this massive stone was thrown by King Marko on a Turkish troupe, which led Bulgarian maidens tied to a chain. Continuing along the eco-path, you pass over steep rocky slopes, from where a majestic panorama is revealed to the Elenska valley and the northern slope of Stara Planina with the highest peak in the area – Chumerna (1536 m.). When climbing the plateau of the mountain hill, nature leaves breathless with its whimsical shapes – rocks resembling needles, turtles and troughs, surrounded by a beautiful oak and hornbeam forest. If desired, a picnic can be organized with the tasting of local deer specials prepared over an open fire. At the end of the plateau, another natural landmark awaits you – “Rayuv Kamak”, a 20-meter rocky slope, which offers a breathtaking view of the “Yovkovtsi” dam and the surrounding area. South of “Markov Kamak”, on the ridge of the ridge, “Rayuv Kamak” consists of scattered rocks, among which two are distinguished by their shape – “big” and “small turtle”. A round cauldron with a diameter of about 100 cm is carved on the “big turtle” surrounded by several smaller ones. At the base of the rock there is a carved vertical niche, still used today for worship according to Christian customs. On the reverse side of the rock you can see a figure of a shaman with a pointed hat and staff, as well as the ancient Bulgarian symbol IYI. For true adventurers, alpine rappelling is offered at the foot of the cliff led by experienced instructors. The route continues with a descent from the mountain hill, passing through the “Shumka” hamlet until you reach the asphalt road. Along the winding road to the town of Elena, there are views of the northern slope of the Elenska valley and the old cell school. The walk passes through the picturesque hamlets “Gorni Genovtsi” and “Miroslavtsi”, and finally you imperceptibly return to the town of Elena, bringing with you unforgettable memories.
