Ovcharitsa Reservoir, reservoir in Bulgaria
Ovcharitsa Reservoir is a large body of water spanning Nova Zagora, Radnevo, and Tundzha municipalities, measuring approximately 1600 meters wide and over 8000 meters long. The water is kept at a constant temperature year-round because it serves as a cooling basin for a nearby thermal power plant, preventing it from freezing in winter.
The reservoir was built to store water for irrigation purposes and to support the operation of a nearby thermal power plant that provides electricity to the region. Over decades, it became an integral part of local infrastructure and shaped how the surrounding area developed.
The reservoir serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors seeking outdoor relaxation and simple leisure activities. People come to fish, walk along the shores, and enjoy the quiet countryside away from busy urban life.
The area is accessible by car with parking available close to the water's edge in several spots. Simple dirt roads and paths run along the shoreline, making it easy to walk around, though sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain.
The water never freezes even in the coldest winter months, making it a rare refuge for migratory birds and waterfowl that struggle to find open water elsewhere. This unusual feature attracts thousands of birds from different species each year, turning the site into a hidden haven for bird watchers seeking to observe rare visitors.
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