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The Beauty of the Sofia Waterfalls in Karachay-Cherkessia
No comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Nature, Regions, Travel
The Sofia Waterfalls are waterfalls of glacial origin flowing from the Sofia Glacier of Mount Sofia (3,637 meters) – one of the main natural attractions of the Arkhyz ski resort, located in the southern part of the Republic of Karachay-Cherkessia in the Western Caucasus.
These picturesque waterfalls are located approximately 15 km south of the village of Arkhyz. The Sofia Waterfalls reach their fullest flow in the height of summer (July and August), when the glacier is actively melting. The following photos were taken at the end of July by Fedor Lashkov. The Sofia Waterfalls on Google Maps.
The Sofia Waterfalls are a natural symphonic cascade consisting of nine waterfalls, making them not only a majestic spectacle but also a unique aquatic ensemble.
The waterfalls received their name in honor of Mount Sofia. The origins of its naming date back to 1896, when the eminent glaciologist N.A. Bush first explored the Sofia Glacier. He gave it the name Sofia, which was later given to the river that begins its journey at the foot of the mountain.
The best time to enjoy this natural wonder is summer – from June to September. At this time, the waterfalls reach their fullest flow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Vibrant rhododendrons, anemones, yellow elecampane, and pink knotweed bloom around the falls, transforming the grassy foothills into a veritable flower paradise.
A hike to the Sofia Waterfalls is a true adventure. The route meanders through forests and picturesque meadows, where you can admire wild animals – mighty buffalo, graceful rams, and elegant horses. If the weather is favorable, tourists will see majestic mountain peaks that seem to touch the sky.
How to get there? First, fly or train to Mineralnye Vody, a town in Stavropol Krai. Then take a bus to the village of Arkhyz. The distance between Mineralnye Vody and the resort is 220 km. There is also a train station in Cherkessk. Intercity buses run from Stavropol and Kislovodsk to Arkhyz.
From Arkhyz, you can reach the waterfalls on foot, in an SUV, or on horseback. If you hike to the waterfalls, you’ll have to spend the night in the mountains. Excursions to the waterfalls are available in Arkhyz.
Tags: Cherkessk city · Karachay-Cherkessia Republic · landscapes · Stavropol krai
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