There is no way to visit the region of Kardzhali without jumping to some of the meanders of Arda! Just before it flows into the dam, the river just dances in graceful curves around the shore… And the most famous of them is the “horseshoe”. The bend of the Arda River, which attracts photographers and tourists from around the world…
Where is located and how to get there
Most of the meanders of Arda are relatively difficult to access, and can be reached by old and narrow roads. And this one is no exception… As a starting point you can use the road Kardzhali – Ardino, turning from it of the village of Kobilyane (almost in the middle). From there it takes to the village of Borovitsa. The distance from the turnoff to the village of Borovitsa is only 10 km, but the road is bad and dotted with many bends…
At the end of the village there is a large crossroads with five directions and it turns slightly to the right, following the signs for Suhovo. Views of the river begin to creep in, but don’t be distracted, because cows or other animals often roam the road freely… After less than 2 km you reach the almost depopulated village of Star Chitak, and only a few hundred meters after his last houses reveals the most beautiful view of the meanders of Arda…
💡 You can find the exact location HERE.
You can leave the car on the slight extension on the right side of the asphalt. The road from Kardzhali to here takes about 45 minutes – 1 hour. Although the distance is only 30 km, the route is difficult and you can predict the time well. I advise you to plan your visit so that you arrive at sunset…
The horseshoe or the bend of Arda River
Uniquely beautiful place! On the left is the Arda River, making a U-turn around the opposite bank, and in the distance on the right is the Borovitsa River, which decides to join it right here… Dance of nature! Below the road there is a steep path that leads to an improvised panoramic place on the rocks. From there you can enjoy the scenic view… The blue waters of Arda, circling around the uneven slopes of the Western Rhodopes…