Yovkovtsi, body of water
Yovkovtsi is a reservoir in northern Bulgaria, formed by damming a river in the Yantra basin. It serves both as a water supply source for the surrounding region and as a facility for hydroelectric power generation.
The reservoir was built in the second half of the 20th century during Bulgaria's communist period as part of a national push for water and energy infrastructure. The dam transformed the valley, replacing the original landscape with what became a key regional resource.
Yovkovtsi reservoir sits in a hilly part of northern Bulgaria and is popular with local fishermen who come on weekends. Along the banks you can often spot small groups of people fishing or simply sitting by the water.
The reservoir is reachable by road near the town of Gabrovo, and several spots along the way offer open views over the water. Sturdy footwear is a good idea if you plan to walk along the banks, as the ground can be uneven and rocky in places.
The reservoir is part of a network that also supplies drinking water to Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria's most visited historic cities. This connection makes it a working part of daily life for a much wider area than its remote location might suggest.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
