Goritsa Waterfall

On the northern slopes of Rila Mountain, above the village of Ovchartsi, lies Goritsa Waterfall – 39 meters high, noisy and turbulent, a true pearl amidst the greenery. It is the lowest-situated waterfall in Rila – at about 900 meters above sea level – and is part of the group of the seven Ovcharentsi Waterfalls.

🚶 How to get there

The starting point is the village of Ovchartsi, 4 km from Sapareva Banya. A well-marked eco-trail starts from the village center, following the Goritsa River. The path is easy, gently sloping, and suitable for families with children. The distance to the waterfall is about 20–30 minutes on foot, and the walk itself is pleasant and refreshing.

✨ What not to miss

  • The waterfall itself – the falling waters from a height of 39 meters create an impressive sight and coolness.

  • The legend of Goritsa and Yovitsa – locals tell of a maiden who chose to throw herself from the rock rather than fall captive. The story adds a romantic and dramatic touch to the place.

  • The eco-trail – in addition to the main waterfall, six other smaller waterfalls, ranging from 5 to 15 meters high, can be seen further up the river.

🕒 How much time you'll need

About an hour is enough for a visit to Goritsa Waterfall – half an hour for the ascent and half an hour for the return. If you decide to explore the other Ovcharentsi Waterfalls as well, set aside at least half a day.

🗺️ Interesting places nearby

  • Sapareva Banya – famous for its mineral springs and the hottest geyser in Europe. An excellent place to relax after your walk.

  • The Seven Rila Lakes – one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bulgaria, about an hour's drive away.

  • Rila Monastery – a spiritual and cultural center, included in the UNESCO list.

  • Local taverns in Sapareva Banya – here you can try traditional Bulgarian dishes such as kapama, homemade meatballs, and delicious banitsas.

 

 

💡 Useful tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes – the path is easy, but it's still a forest trail.

  • Bring water and a light snack – there are no shops along the route.

  • The best time to visit is spring and early summer, when the waters are most abundant.

  • If you love photography, prepare your camera – the waterfall and surrounding nature offer great shots.


Goritsa Waterfall is the ideal destination for a short walk that combines natural beauty, legends, and proximity to other attractions. If you are in the area of Sapareva Banya or Rila, don't miss immersing yourself in the magic of this place.