Hotnishki waterfall, Natural monument near Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria.
Hotnishki waterfall is a roughly 30-metre drop on the Bozhoto river, ending the gorge it has cut through the Tarnovo Heights about 2.5 km west of Hotnica. The water falls in several strands over brownish-grey rock, splitting into a narrower cascade on the left and a wider flow on the right, and meets a flat pale-green pool at the base.
The waterfall and its gorge were designated as a protected natural landmark in 1971. This protected status helped preserve the landscape from damage.
The name Kaya Bunar is Turkish for "rock spring", a reminder of the Ottoman period in this part of Bulgaria. The waterfall marks the start of a 1.5 km educational trail through the Bochot gorge, where walkers cross a series of small bridges and ladders. A street in Sofia's Simeonovo quarter is named after the waterfall.
Access is via a short path from the parking area and remains open throughout the year. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground can become slippery after rain.
The educational trail through the Bochot gorge starts at the waterfall and runs about 1.5 km, with steep sections crossed by a system of footbridges and ladders. The protected area covers 80 hectares. The waterfall is also called Kaya Bunar, and a street in Sofia's Simeonovo quarter bears its name.
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