The highest peak in Europe, the main ridge of the Kavakaza, mysterious gorges, the transparency of the waters of mountain rivers, flower plains, snowy peaks - all these are the most beautiful places in Kabardino-Balkaria. Traveling to this fascinating land is a rich choice of attractions, interesting excursion tours... Photos and videos taken in these places will leave this breathtaking trip in memory for a long time.
In this region you can admire the mysterious Baksan and Chegem gorges, enjoy the power and beauty of the Dzhily-Su tract, marvel at the scale of the towers in the village of Kunnyum and visit many others no less interesting places.
Mountain Elbrus
This is the real pride of the local region, capricious, rebellious and so majestic - the queen among the mountain peaks of the Caucasus. Its name is translated as "eternal mountain", some call it "the mountain of happiness".
The height of Elbrus is more than 5000 meters above sea level, they tried to climb to its summit for many years, and only at the beginning of 1829, a group of climbers led by the military leader G.A.Emmanuel climbed to the very peak. The mountain is shrouded in snow, at the top there are a large number of glaciers that do not melt even in summer.
A large number of climbers come to this place every day, dreaming of conquering the top. For those who do not want to climb the peak on their own, a cable car has been built.
Mount Cheget
One of the most high mountains Caucasus, its height is about 3700 meters. From the mountain you can admire the view of highest peak Europe - Elbrus. Another feature of Mount Cheget is the second line cable carwhich runs through an area where snow lies throughout the year.
There are 3 sections of the cable car in total. The first one is one of the most popular among tourists, its height is 1500-1600 meters. The second one starts from a height of 2700 meters. The third starts at an altitude of 3100 meters, but the subscription does not apply to it and you can get there only for a fee. The best period for skiing on Cheget is from late November to mid-May, at other times of the year there is a danger of avalanches.
Chegem waterfalls
The Chegem waterfalls are the real pearl of the Chegem gorge. Streams of water fall from a height of 55 meters, falling off the cliff and flowing out of numerous crevices. A powerful stream of water falls down, and a rainbow appears in a cloud of flying drops. If you look closely at the rocks, you can see unusual images, all this has been done by water over the years.
Chegem waterfalls are very beautiful and spectacular not only in summer, but also in winter: a large number of icicles hang from above, ice blocks of impressive size rise from below, covering the entire rock.
Waterfall Maiden's Braids
On the rocks of Sheep Foreheads not far from the southern slopes of Terskol peak is the most powerful waterfall Kabardino-Balkaria Maiden braids. It got its name not by chance - the streams of water flowing down small gutters are very reminiscent of the hair of a mountain girl.
Here the water flows in a stormy stream from the melting Gara-Bashi glacier, the height of the Devichye Kosti is 25 meters, the width at the lowest part is about 14-15 meters. Up close, the waterfall seems huge and very noisy.
In this place, in 1967, one of the scenes of the movie "Vertical" was shot with Vladimir Vysotsky in the title role.
Gedmishh waterfalls
In the Zolsky district of Kabardino-Balkaria, 11 kilometers from the village of Khabaz, there is a beautiful cascade of Gedmishkh waterfalls.
Waterfalls fall from a cliff over 55 meters high; it seems that rocks and trees hang over your head with a huge umbrella, along the edges of which water flows. The waterfall is especially beautiful in clear weather, it is filled with sunbeams and reflections of colorful greenery, and many rainbows appear in the spray cloud.
The peculiarity of Gedmishkh is that the water in this place is clean and suitable for drinking, since its sources are the purest springs. Scientists are still studying them, trying to identify the healing properties of this water.
Blue Lakes (Chirik-Kel)
The lakes are a network of 5 karst reservoirs, one of which is considered the second deepest karst spring in the world and is an aquiferous karst mine with steep walls. On the surface, the length of Blue Lake reaches 230 meters, width - 125 meters, while its depth is not known for sure. Maximum depth the mine is 258 meters, in the extended upper part the water depth varies from 0 to 35 meters.
Blue pond - mysterious place, keeping many secrets. One of the main questions is where the lake is replenished from, located 800 meters above sea level. Neither streams nor rivers flow into it, but a river with a daily volume of more than 70,000 cubic meters of water flows out. Scientists suggest that there are underground springs in this place.
Lake Donguz Orun-Kel
It is surrounded by two peaks - Nakra-tau and Donguz-orun-towers, the height of which is 4228 meters and 4450 meters, respectively. Orun-Kel is located at an altitude of just over 3000 meters. In translation, Donguz Orun-Kel means "next to the pig pen."
A feature of Lake Donguz is its unusually beautiful color, which it received thanks to glaciers: along with melting water, minerals from mountain deposits enter the reservoir, which painted the amazing lake in 3 colors.
The lake is flowing, from one side the Donguzorun river and the Medvezhy stream flow into it, and the Donguz-Orun Baksan river flows out.
Syltran-kel lake
It is considered one of the most delightful alpine lakes in the Caucasus region. It is located at an altitude of about 3000 meters between the mountain peaks Mukal and Syltran, its area is more than 9 hectares. It is located in a deep pit of a rock-talus circus. Translated from Turkic, the name Syltran-kel sounds like "beautiful lake".
This place has a kind of harsh charm thanks to the rocky shores of Syltran-kel, the proximity of snow-capped peaks, bright plants in the rocky crevices and the remains of icebergs floating in the pond in summer.
Narzan Valley
Not far from the village of Baidevo is the famous Narzanov valley. This is the only convenient and accessible source of narzan for tourists. The glade has an area of \u200b\u200babout 3 square kilometers and is equipped for the convenience of visitors.
In a clearing, surrounded by a pine grove, several mineral springs narzan, painting everything around in a bright orange color - the water here is rich in calcium, iron, sodium, magnesium and potassium.
Since ancient times, narzan has been famous as water of extraordinary healing power. According to legends, the water from this source strengthened the strength of the soldiers, healed mortal wounds and raised the hopelessly sick to their feet. The healing liquid should be drunk only from the source, since when the narzan is drawn into the container, a "rusty" sediment appears after a short time.
Baksan gorge
The most famous gorge in the Central Caucasus. The Baksan Gorge takes its origin near two ridges (Pasture and Skalisty), in an area with rare forests that lead to the foot of Elbrus.
The ridges stretch through the villages of Zhanhoteko and Lakshuty. On one side of the gorge, one can see yellowish limestone steep walls, on the other - a cliff to the Baksan River.
The Baksan gorge is wide enough, it begins to narrow only behind the village. Outside the town of Tyrnauz, the gorge is covered with a picturesque pine forest, which stretches to the Azau glade, located at an altitude of 2300 meters. At this point, the gorge road ends at the village of Terskol and the route to Elbrus and other Caucasian mountains begins.
Cherek gorge
Highly beautiful place, which has gained great popularity among tourists. In the gorge there are Blue Lakes and ancient historical monuments of the Balkar people. According to legends, it is the original place of settlement of the local people - Balkars.
The main attractions of the gorge are the Kurnoyat castle, Andemirkan's mound, Zylgi fortress, City of the dead, Amirkhan Tower, Hot Lake, small waterfalls. A turbulent river Cherek flows along the bottom of the canyon. The most interesting section is the place where the old road to Upper Balkaria passes.
The walls of the Cherek Gorge are almost vertical, their height reaches 500 meters. They are vertical and converge at some points up to a distance of 30 meters. The majestic canyon of the gorge is the Tesnina, so deep that sunlight rarely gets here.
Chegem gorge
The gorge of the Chegem River, which divides the Kabardino-Balkarian mountain zone into northern and southern parts. Rocks rise above the waters of the winding and deep river, as if artificially decorated with greenery of trees and bushes. Noisy falls from the rocks, beautiful waterfalls... All this creates a unique flavor of the Chegem gorge.
The narrowest part of the gorge is the Chegem gorge, in which the main part of the waterfalls is concentrated. Up the gorge stands watch tower XVII century, and next to the bridge is a "stone of shame", according to legend, criminals were tied to it.
Walking along the Djilgi-su river, you can see the destroyed ancient Greek sanctuaries, carved into the rocks. Also in this beautiful place there are lakes with crystal clear water and mineral springs.
Adyr-Su gorge
A picturesque place located on the territory national park "Elbrus". At the beginning of the gorge, you can admire the mesmerizing waterfall formed by the stormy waters of the Adyr-Su River. There are many mountain peaks (Dzhailik, Sullukol, Tyutyu-bashi, Kayarta, Sakashil, Killar and others), which have routes of varying complexity.
In Adyr-Su, the reserve regime is observed, there are few casual visitors and tourists. Tours live in these places, bears live on berry fields and in thickets of undergrowth. Mountain turkeys - ulars live among the talus and rock walls. However, this bird is rarely seen by anyone, but often in the silence of the mountains you can hear its melodious singing.
The lows of the gorge are covered with forests, but with height they thin out, give way to alpine meadows, and behind them - snowy peaks, impregnable rocks, glaciers.
Jil-Su tract
This is the place where you can admire the waterfalls, mountain ranges, rough rivers with crystal clear water, alpine meadows and mineral springs.
The mineral springs of the tract were formed in layers of solidified volcanic magma and are located at a summit of 2350 kilometers above sea level. Scientists have found that substances contained in mineral water can cure many diseases, including cancer.
Also in this area there is a large river Malka, along which pastures are spread. In the Jil-Su tract, you can admire the Sultan waterfall, the height of the water fall of which is more than 35 meters.
National Park "Elbrus"
The territory of the national park is located in the Central Caucasus and includes a part of the Lateral and Main Caucasian ridges. Within the Elbrus region, several forms of relief are distinguished: medium-altitude mountainous, alpine-glacial, lacustrine-hollow and lava flows.
The beautiful nature of the park attracts many tourists here. Here you can enjoy the view of the majestic Mount Elbrus, picturesque gorges North Caucasus, snow-capped mountain peaks.
Also, in the park, you can visit many wonderful places, for example, the Narzan Glade, the upper reaches of the Malka River, the Dzhil-Su tract, and numerous lakes. One of the most interesting is Syltran-Kel, located at the source of the Syltran river.
The rivers of the national park are famous extraordinary beauty waterfalls. These are Sultan, Maiden's braids and others. Monuments of archeology, history and ethnography are represented in this place by the remains of household and residential buildings, burials.
Archaeological and tourist complex "Upper Balkaria"
The final point of the popular excursion route across Aushiger and the Blue Lakes. The complex is located in the village of Verkhnyaya Balkaria, in the southeast of the Cherek region.
The territory of the archaeological and tourist complex is rich in various sights. Here you can admire the objects of the cultural heritage of the indigenous people of the late Middle Ages: watchtowers and battle towers, feudal residences, underground and ground mausoleums - crypt-tombs, fortifications Malkar-kala, Zylgy-kala, Bolat-kala, Karcha-kala, Kurnayat-bashi castle , the ruins of ancient Balkarian villages.
Not a single river or stream flows into one of them, the Lower Lake, although it loses up to 70 million liters of water every day, but its volume and depth do not change at all. The lower lake, or Tserik-Kol, is one of the deepest in the region. Some claim that the distance to the bottom here is more than 200 meters, others add another 100 meters to this figure. Jacques-Yves Cousteau himself could not accurately determine the depth of Tserik-Kel. However, it rightfully bears the title of one of the deepest lakes in Europe.
According to legend, the lakes were called blue by travelers who once stopped here: they were struck by the unusual color of the water. And soon people from all over the world began to come here to see this miracle of nature with their own eyes. However, in all its glory, the lakes did not appear to every wanderer. Someone later said that the water in them was muddy green, someone argued that these lakes in Kabardino-Balkaria were not blue, but emerald.
Soon the mystery of the lakes was solved. It is best to admire them, especially Tserik-Kel, in clear, sunny weather, when the water in it has a really pale blue color (it is due to the content of hydrogen sulfide). The lake can change color up to 16 times a day (from azure to emerald). But the water temperature in it is constant: no more than nine degrees - both in winter and in summer. By the way, Lower Lake is the quietest, time around it seemed to have stopped, and the water seemed to have stopped.
Upper lakes
Climbing higher to the cliffs, you will come across the Upper Blue Lakes on the way. They are not as deep as Tserik-Kol, they do not have such a rich blue color. True, in good weather, when the sky is reflected in the water surface, it may seem that it is really blue. First, the travelers go to the Secret Lake. You can see it only by going to the cliff. This reservoir, about 130 meters deep, is home to carp, trout and carp.
The largest in area, but the smallest is Lake Verkhnee. The water in it is so clear that you can see the bottom. It feeds on precipitation, so the water level here fluctuates and averages about 17 meters.
One of the legends says that a folk hero used to live among these rocks. One day he saw a huge flying dragon, took out his bow and arrows, pulled the bowstring and slain the monster. A dragon fell between the rocks, and at this place one of the blue lakes was formed. And now the dragon lies, defeated by the national hero, at the bottom, and fills the lake with his tears.
Hello!
Blue Lakes are located in the Cherek Gorge, there are five of them. Four have fresh water, you can swim and fish in them.
We were on the lower Blue Lake, the Balkars call it "Tserik-Kel", which translates as "rotten lake", this name is explained by the presence of hydrogen sulfide in the water. I didn't go down close to the water, so I didn't feel any smell.
Arriving at Blue Lake the first question that arises in the head: "Well, where is it blue?"
A blue lake can be seen in sunny, clear weather, then it will actually be blue, and tourists from our group, who have already been to the lake, confirm this.
We arrived at the lake in cloudy weather, and in such weather the lake is not blue at all. Therefore, if it is cloudy or raining outside, if possible, it is better to postpone the trip for a more sunny weather. Although you can't guess when we left, there was nice weather, but approaching closer to the lake area, clouds began to thicken.
The blue lake is karst, i.e. formed as a result of erosion of rocks and filling the resulting voids with water.
The lake is located at an altitude of 809 meters above sea level, it is not large in size - 2.6 hectares. The maximum depth is 365 meters known today.
The shape, if you drain all the water from the lake, resembles a funnel that narrows towards the bottom.
The transparency of the water reaches 20 meters. Reflecting rocks and trees can be seen in the water like in a mirror.
The constant water temperature of this reservoir all year round keeps about +9 degrees Celsius, and does not freeze even in winter.
Walking around the lake, in one place, I still saw that very blue water. I would even say not blue, but emerald.
In the building behind the lake there is a restaurant, an assembly hall for holding conferences, and below there are cabins for storing divers' equipment, they change there and go to the lower platform of the lake and begin diving into the reservoir.
The maximum depth to which Russian and German divers dived is 216 meters.
To understand how the water in the Blue Lake is replenished, last year employees of the Russian Geographical Society worked on it, with the help of special equipment they lowered into the depths of the lake. The fact is that visually there are no sources (streams, rivers) that would replenish this lake, and almost 70 thousand cubic meters of water flow from it into the Cherek River per day, while the level of the lake itself does not decrease. Upon submersion, found karst cavesfrom where mineral water flows out, replenishing the blue lake.
βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°
The guide told us several stories related to this lake. One of them seems to be real, and the second is the legend of the lake.
The first story is true.
At the depths of the lake, the divers found three cars standing nearby and a trailer with boxes of port, they raised one bottle to the surface, tried it, and appreciated the drink well.
Legend of the Blue Lake.
When the shepherds were herding flocks of sheep, there was a young shepherd among the experienced shepherds, and he kept asking why one should not swim in this lake, as the old shepherds said. And so this curious shepherd took and jumped into the lake, the lake pushed him out. He tied a stone and again jumped into the lake, began to plunge and sank to the very bottom. There he saw an aul exactly the same as on the top, he looked into the first saklyu (peasant house), and there was a black witch, the young man got scared and began to run away, and the witch said: "I didn't let you in, I pushed you out, but now I won't let you go ". But the nimble shepherd rose to the surface and told the old shepherds what was happening at the bottom of the lake. The shepherds did not believe him, and in the morning a ram with golden horns emerged from the lake. The shepherds thought this was a good sign, the ram kept herding all day with the flocks of sheep, and when the sun began to go down, the ram accelerated, and jumped into the lake and all the flocks of sheep jumped after him. And until now, local residents say that breakers (high wind waves on the lake) appear in the middle of the lake, this black witch shears our sheep.
βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°βπ°
You cannot swim in the lower Goluboe Lake and only the gammarus crustacean is found in it.
Despite this, two swans and two ducks swam on the lake. According to the guide, swans have always been on this lake, disappeared for a while, and now they have reappeared.
From under the building of the cafe, water from the Blue Lake flows into the Cherek River.
Also, next to the lake there is a shallow artificial reservoir where you can ride on catamarans.
There are several cafes and a market along the perimeter of the lake.
We did not buy souvenirs here (and, in principle, I am not chasing after them).
I won't say anything about the cafe either, because the visit to this place was not long, we had a rich program, there was no time to walk and relax, unfortunately.
Now sitting at home and looking at photos taken in our little tripHaving stopped, so to speak, and pondered what he saw, I can tell you that you can look at this lake once, but probably not more. I hope you are lucky with the weather and you will see that very Blue Lake.
Successful travels and unforgettable emotions!
Blue Lakes is one of the favorite places of tourists and local vacationers. It is very easy to find the way. ...
As elsewhere in Kabardino - Balkaria, the places here are very picturesque. We stopped near the monument. β¦ We were surprised by the stones of an even round shape and in the shape of pancakes. I wonder if nature came up with it or people did it?
The road from Nalchik took about forty minutes.
And now we are near the first or Lower Blue Lake. It is also called Tserik - Kel - "rotten lake" in translation from the Balkarian language.
We do not know how it earned its name, whether by the presence of hydrogen sulfide, or by a legend about a dragon that fell to its bottom. But we did not feel any smell, the water in it is beautiful, bright turquoise, clean and transparent. It changes its color a little, depending on the weather and time of day. We have visited Blue Lake not once. It does not freeze in winter and does not change in summer. The water in the Lower Lake is like a smooth mirror. The clouds are reflected in it so clearly that it is not always clear in photographs where the sky is and where its reflection is.
The water temperature is always 9.3 degrees. The lake is very deep - the data on its depth, according to various sources, differ, there are versions of 255 meters and 389 meters. And there is the most intriguing story - that no one has actually measured its depth.
In any case, with its small area, the depth is very impressive. In some places, you can see how the bottom abruptly, almost as a vertical wall, goes into the depths, the lake has the shape of a deep well.
A whole recreation park was set up around the lake. The owners of numerous cafes attract tourists as much as they can. Tables all over the shore.
Quite large traditional local market. Handmade knitwear, sheepskin products, numerous souvenirs.
Everything is very clean, there are playgrounds. Many residents of neighboring towns and villages come here for a walk, sit in a cafe on the shore. Wedding corteges are arriving.
There is an international research center for deep-sea research, which is called "Blue Lake". Divers come here throughout the year. Both scientific research and diving for amateurs are carried out.
Last year we were lucky enough to get here just in time for research. We ourselves are not divers, but we talked with the guys. We found out that there is practically no equipment for hire. But the instructors were highly praised for their professionalism.
There is a hotel of the same name nearby. You can book seats for several days. Even if you are not diving, there are many interesting places in these parts. Do you want to stay at this hotel? _You can book a room through the servicebooking.com
The hotel room fund consists of cozy rooms of "standard", "comfort" and "luxury" categories with all the necessary amenities. Vacationers' meals are served in the hotel's cafe, the menu of which includes dishes of European and national cuisine, including barbecue.
And we went higher - to the upper Blue Lakes. I must say that they are not blue at all! But the places are very picturesque, the road is good, and we always go up here with pleasure and take a walk.
The first Upper Lake, also called the Western Lake, is located five minutes from the Lower. You can walk. A road leads up to the left, a few sharp turns and we are there. There are not many people here at all.
Upper Lake video.
There is a large asphalt parking lot, a cafe on the beach. The place is very quiet and peaceful. The lake is round in shape, surrounded by forest. They say that there are many fish here, but we have never seen fishermen.
A few more minutes drive up and here it is the Second Upper or East Lake. For 200 rubles, you can ride here on catamarans. You can stop and dine in the gazebo on the shore. There are always few people there, just bewitching tranquility of nature.
In winter, the upper lakes freeze over. But, again, Kabardino-Balkaria is beautiful at any time of the year.
After walking in the fresh mountain air, we returned to the Lower Lake for a snack. The food is delicious. Traditional Caucasian cuisine, there is simply no other, and it is not necessary.
This time we ate a dish with the ominous name "zhaobaur". This is a lamb liver in a fat net, baked, of course, on the grill. And khychiny with cheese and herbs and meat. Herbal tea is a must. As usual, lunch costs about 300-400 rubles per person.
Upper Balkaria.
After walking along the Lakes, be sure to go to Upper Balkaria. It is not far at all, several kilometers along the Cherek Gorge.
The most vivid impressions are the road along the gorge. The height of the mountains is mesmerizing. Photos, of course, do not convey all our emotions.
The road itself is narrow, with sharp turns; you can stop only where there are pockets for cars. There is no asphalt in some places, but the road is well packed. You can drive a car without any problems.
One of the attractions of these places is the tunnel and the remains old road... Be sure to stay here. The road inside the cliff is also impressive.
Before the construction of the tunnel, the old road connected the mountain villages of Balkaria with the outside world. It's scary to even stand on a cliff, how did they ride it? The mountains in this place reach a height of about 600 meters. Approximately 300 meters drop down and the same sheer cliffs up. The views are stunning at any time of the year.
Upper Balkaria Caravan
Parking near the Caravan cafe. There is enough room for everyone. They also offer quad biking and horse riding.
This is the only place to eat. Prices, as elsewhere in Kabardino - Balkaria, are pleasing, lunch will cost you around 500 rubles per person. The cuisine is, of course, Caucasian. Be sure to try the lamb kebab. Delicious.
You can catch the trout yourself. You are offered to cook it right away. We did not go fishing, went to see the main attraction of these places - the old ruined city and the tower.
The remains of the settlement are located on the mountain. If you dream up, you can imagine how the dwellings of the Balkars looked like before.
Where to stay, spend the night?
The trip to Upper Balkaria took us a lot of time, despite the fact that we had planned a trip for a couple of hours, we skated until the evening. So if you are going to see these parts, plan a trip for at least a couple of days. And better for three days. You should take your time to enjoy the beauty of the Caucasus!
If you want to stay overnight. For the convenience of tourists, there is a guesthouse with two suites. The house is made of a timber frame, and its facade is decorated with stuffed local animals.
Since we were limited in time, the end point of our excursion was the village of Terskol. I wanted to see more attractions.
Blue Lakes truly called natural monument, which is located in Cherek district of Kabardino-Balkaria... To be more precise: 30 km south of the capital Kabardino-Balkaria, the city of Nalchik, in the valley of the Cherek-Balkarsky river. This is a relatively sparsely populated mountainous region, and the possibilities to enjoy the vibrant beauty of the natural landscapes are truly endless.
A large number of tourists coming to the resorts of the Caucasian mineral waters, have the opportunity to get on Blue Lakes as part of organized bus tours. During the summer tourist season buses from Pyatigorsk, Minvod, Kislovodsk, Nalchik and even from Stavropol, Rostov and Krasnodar go to these unique places.
It is also not difficult to get here on your own: by bus from Nalchik (Nalchik - Upper Balkaria) to the rural settlement of Babugent. For those who like to travel in comfort, there are unlimited opportunities to use taxi services. If travelers travel by their own vehicles, then, having driven from Nalchik along the E117 / E50 / M29 highway, and turning onto the P291 highway, after 40 kilometers they reach the Babugent village and the Blue Lakes themselves.
Blue lakes - beauty and mystery of the mountainous region
This group of reservoirs with a poetic name is not just a beautiful landscape, it is a truly unique place. Five lakes, each with its own characteristics, amazing and beautiful. They are united by their territorial location and the fact that all reservoirs are of karst origin.
Karst lakes are cavities filled with groundwater. The water in them is absolutely transparent, mineralized and purified from various biological impurities. Sometimes it is even called "alive".
The northern slope of the Rocky Ridge is home to unique water bodies: Lower Lake, two Upper, Secret and Sukhoi lakes. The largest and most mysterious of them is the Lower Lake. It has many names (rotten lake; mother of Cherek; round water) and is one of the deepest karst reservoirs in the world. Interestingly, the depth of the Lower Blue Lake is still unknown. No one has yet been able to reach its bottom in any way. total area the lake is relatively small - slightly more than two hectares. Opinions about the depth differ: 200 m, 225 m and even 386 m. Researchers suggest that at a depth of 2559 meters there is only a bend, not a bottom: if the data are confirmed, this lake will be the deepest water source on the entire planet.
This stunning in its immensity reservoir is very reminiscent of a mine with sheer walls. In its wide part, the lake is sometimes very shallow (1 m), and sometimes very impressive depth (up to 40 m). The water temperature never changes - about + 9ΛΠ‘. About 70 million liters of water flows out of this reservoir per day. If we take into account the fact that not a single, even the smallest river flows into the lake, then one can imagine what power and power the underground sources feed it, because the water level here is always unchanged.
There are no fish at all in the lake. Why is there a fish! Due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide in the water, there are almost no living creatures in these waters. The water itself is blue and amazing, just perfect, purity and transparency. By the way, the color of the water in this reservoir is not just blue. It is constantly changing, shimmering in various shades of blue, light blue and greenish emerald. It depends on the time of day and the lighting conditions. The transparency of the water is such that you can see through it at a distance of 30 to 50 meters, regardless of weather conditions.
To admire the lake, you need to be very close to it, as dense tree thickets can hide it from sight. Oaks, hornbeams, alder grow around the lake. In spring, in a beautiful frame of high mountains, bushes of Pontic azalea, wild rose, viburnum bloom. There are many flowering trees around the lake in the spring on a carpet of bright and fragrant herbs.
Blue Lake is a real spectacle of beauty that amazes the imagination. In addition, it is located in a very interesting place - the Cherek Gorge. Above the road leading to the lake, there are cliffs with tunnels about 800 meters long. The Chereksky district is famous for the fact that there are five highest caucasus mountains (over 5000 m) and the longest glacier in Europe. The valley of the lower Blue Lake consists of two large gorges: Balkarskoe and Bezengiyskoe.
The upper lakes are popularly called Western and Eastern. They were also called Communicators: they are connected by a dam, and water flows from the East Lake to the West. These reservoirs are rich in fish.
The secret lake is called so for a reason. You can walk very close to him and not even suspect about it. "The secret" of the Secret Lake is that it is located in a sinkhole of great depth. The banks of an almost perfectly round crater are overgrown with beech trees. In such a forest, a feeling of complete peace envelopes, here you can spend hours admiring the smooth movements of the carp that live in its warm water. The comfort and tranquility of this place does not destroy, and maybe even emphasizes a small cafe with a fireplace room, where it is wonderful to spend time in cool weather. And on a fine day, you can admire the mesmerizing view, sitting on his veranda.
Last but not least of the five Blue lakes - Dry or The Lost Lake. In fact, it is a karst sinkhole, the depth of which is about 180 m, as well as sheer walls. And it really was a body of water. The hole was completely filled with water. But the mountains shook and the lake disappeared. Rather, it sank to the bottom of the canyon.
In order to see the lake itself, you have to climb on foot along a rather steep mountain road. It is not easy, but if the difficulties are overcome, then the reward will not be long in coming: a fantastic landscape opens up in front of the travelers: almost vertically directed rocky walls abut the bottom, on which huge boulders are piled chaotically. Ferns more than two meters high grow between the stones. And between the boulders a lake gleams under the sun's rays. You can go down to it only with the help of climbing equipment.
Ancient world of the Caucasus
If amazing natural phenomena are exactly what the journey was started for, then you can go beyond sightseeing lost world Blue Lakes, and take a stroll around their surroundings. At a quite reachable distance, only 54 kilometers from Nalchik, near the village of Khushtosyrt, there are Chegem waterfalls, amazing water garlands falling in a picturesque narrow well. This spectacle is worthy of the attention of travelers at any time of the year. In winter, it becomes almost unbelievable as the water jets freeze, transforming the waterfall into a surreal landscape. Another unique phenomenon, located near the lakes, attracts tourists (and local residents) both in winter and in summer. it hot spring with a water temperature of about 56 ΛΠ‘. A specially equipped outdoor swimming pool provides the opportunity to take natural baths, enjoying an amazing sensation.
You can get to the waterfalls by a regular bus that goes to the Bulungu village (stop at the Chegem ferry), or take a taxi. Tourists who travel by own car, it is preferable to use the M-29 highway to Pyatigorsk.
The surroundings of the lakes attract not only with impressive landscapes, but also historical monuments... Traveling around this region, you suddenly find yourself among the fortresses and towers of the Middle Ages. These are witnesses to the history of these places.
Walking along the road to the Lower Lake, you can find a rocky cave with traces of an ancient parking lot V-X centuries AD.
Moving up the slopes of the gorge beyond the Blue Lakes, you see the Cherek tunnel and sections of the old road. Twenty kilometers further is the settlement of Upper Balkaria, which has more than 400 years of existence. It is easy to get to the ruined ancient village along the suspension bridge behind the village, where the foundations of houses and walls are preserved, which lead the traveler, like the ancient streets of mountain villages. An impregnable watchtower can be seen two kilometers from the village. This cannot be overcome without durable mountaineering equipment.
Legends poeticize the origin of the lakes. The most famous legend tells: the hero-forefather of all the peoples of the Caucasus killed a huge dragon, whose body, falling to the ground, created the Lower Blue Lake.
Another legend is beautifully lyrical: a girl is crying over an abyss, grieving over the death of her beloved. Her tears are the water of the Blue Lakes.
The unattainable depth of karst reservoirs is a good basis for other fascinating stories associated with it. The oldest and most romantic one says that the entire cavalry army of Tamerlane with all its military weapons rests at the bottom. A similar, only more relevant story is associated with the flooding of German and Romanian military equipment of the times Civil War... These stories are, of course, unverifiable.
Scientists researchers also do not ignore the unique places. The first descriptions of these natural phenomena were made already in the middle of the nineteenth century.
Nowadays, divers have joined the study of the Blue Lakes. Jacques-Yves Cousteau, while conducting research, still could not accurately name the depth of the lake.
The clear waters and endless possibilities of the lakes here are simply meant for deep sea diving. Even cold water is not an obstacle for those who like to explore the secrets of karst reservoirs. This is even an advantage, since the constant temperature (+9.3 C) does not allow the lake to freeze, diving takes place at any time of the year. If someone likes such an extreme sport, his chance is the Dive Center on the shores of the Lower Lake. The creation of the center is associated with a kind of record, one might even say a feat. Roman Prokhorov dived 70 meters here in 1982. The enthusiast diver did not even have the appropriate equipment and miraculously survived.
Today it houses the Underwater Research Center and Diving Club - a base for professional and amateur diving in the blue depths of unusual reservoirs. The center is comfortably equipped and experienced instructors supervise training and dives. They do more than just professional research. For amateurs, classes are held in "extreme groups". Group members dive 15-20 meters. The original design of the two-story building of the center (two-tier, with a lower tier, carved into the rock to provide access directly to the diving site) has all the successful work: a compressor and pressure chamber, rooms for training and storage of equipment, comfortable changing rooms. The lower tier is fully equipped with warm floors.
In 2009, on the basis of the Center, an absolute record of diving in Russia was set - 185 meters.
For thrill-seekers, Blue Lakes is not only an extreme diving opportunity. There is a good chance to try yourself in such an unprecedented adventure as rafting - descent along mountain rivers on inflatable rafting boats.
If Lower lake rather inhospitable for various kinds of living creatures, the Upper Lakes are very rich in fish. In the reservoirs are found carp, trout and carp, grass carp. Fans of fishing will be able to prove themselves for the joy and benefit of others.
We travel in comfort
How organized tourist route on the Blue Lakes, completely depends on the possibilities and desires of the travelers themselves. If there is not much time, and impressions beckon, then the "weekend tour" will be optimal. Such excursions are regularly organized by recreation centers, boarding houses and travel companies. The tour includes: accommodation in a comfortable hotel, travel, insurance and interesting story guide or guide.
If tourists have a lot of time, are in the mood for relaxation and a longer acquaintance with the bewitchingly beautiful bodies of water, there are numerous hotels and tourist baseslocated in the vicinity of the Blue Lakes and in the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria.
Camp "Blue Lakes"
- a wonderful opportunity for a comfortable stay not only for amateurs mountain tourism and diving. It is good to have a rest here with the whole family. The base has modern, comfortable rooms. Specialist guides conduct multidirectional excursion programs. On the territory of the tourist center there is a conveniently equipped bathhouse with a swimming pool. The buildings are heated, which makes it possible to relax at any time of the year.
Hotel "Blue Lake"
offers its guests opportunities for a comfortable stay, as well as excellent national cuisine, a cafe, a bar.
Hotels in Nalchik
Hotel "Grand Caucasus"
, located in a clean sanatorium and park area of \u200b\u200bthe city of Nalchik, provides the comfort of spacious rooms, gyms, massage rooms and much more for tired travelers. The hotel conducts excursions to the most amazing and beautiful places of Kabardino-Balkaria.
The Rossiya Hotel was built in the center of Nalchik. Not far from it there is a musical and drama theater, many cinemas, a huge shopping center and many other equally important objects.
Hotel "CINDICA"
it is a convenient opportunity not only for relaxation, but also for taking care of your health. IN hotel includes: a congress center, which is a venue for events that are significant for the entire region, and a health-improving building, where you can undergo a variety of health and medical procedures.
Hotel "Crown"
located in the most picturesque resort part of Nalchik. It can be equally comfortable for an active traveler and a large family. Territorial location "Crown" helps to quickly get to the hotel from the airport or railway station... In 5 minutes you can easily walk to famous park Dolinsk is a very large city park in Europe, where you can spend your free time. Moreover, the hotel "Korona" offers all its guests interesting excursion programs that remain in the memory of tourists for a long time.
.
