There is definitely a place in nature as if taken out of a fairy tale. It is not far from the Medieval Bulgarian capital Veliko Tarnovo and never fails to fascinate nature lovers, willing to participate in eco-tourism - a trend currently gaining popularity in this country. That is the canyon of the river Negovanka, whose meanders flow at the foot of the steep cliffs, which house various rare species of birds. There are also waterfalls and picturesque rock formations. When in 1997 the Bulgarian Association for Rural Tourism created the first eco trail in the vicinity of the Negovanka canyon, no one had the idea that it would become such a favourite attraction for thousands of tourists from Bulgaria and abroad.
Today, 8 years later, the nearby village of Emen /from which the eco trail starts/ has its prominent place on the tourist map of this country. Up till recently the village had some 100 habitants, but now it boasts with its two brand new hotel complexes, equipped with swimming pools, pleasant restaurants, recreation centres and whatever else you can wish for a pleasant vacation.
At the same time everything around tempts you for a day among nature. We are not here to take a long needed rest, however, but to start on a 3-hour tour. With ransacks on our backs we leave the last houses of the village behind and set to explore the winding path of the river.
Our first stop along the eco trail is the breathtaking view of the steep cliffs, covered with lilac and other flowers. Wherever the eye looks one sees fantastic views. The waters of the waterfalls are clean and cool. The whole trail is clearly marked and there is no way one can lose his way.
The vicinity offers also delightful places for picnics amidst the greenery. Continuing along the path we suddenly face the cave gaping in front of us in the cliffs. “The cave houses 6 types of bats which one can see only in this part of Europe” explains the guide Valentin who is a favourite among the tourists. In his opinion the canyon also offers unique opportunities for the daring.
One is challenged by the chance to attempt cliff climbing even in winter conditions. We however continue along the safe trail, which soon leads us to the next gorgeous view. The canyon of the river Negovanka is included in the protected zone “Nature 2000 of the EU” informs Ivan Gaberov, owner of the tourist complex “The Estate” nearby. He also adds:
“The canyon is extremely picturesque from its very beginning. It also is situated in the heart of Bulgaria, where the terrine is relatively flat. The waterfall at the end of the path is 35 meters high. We have also mapped out different routes so that everyone is satisfied. One has the choice to spend an hour or a whole day, according to his desire.”
There is an awesome legend connected with the region. People say that during the Ottoman domination the maidens of the village jumped from the cliffs above the waterfall in order not to marry among the oppressors. We reach the end of the trail by the end of the day and witness a fantastic sunset. All the colours - from yellow to crimson - are present. Tired but needless to say deeply satisfied, we head back towards the village where we know that delicious dinners await us in both of the restaurants.
While enjoying the roast lamb and helping it go down with the local red wine we all definitely promise that next year we will again be here – in the village of Emen, in order to enjoy the beauties of the canyon of the river Negovanka.