Kaylaka

About

Kaylaka (Bulgarian: Кайлъка [kɐjˈɫɤkɐ]) is a large park and protected area south of Pleven, Bulgaria, situated in a Karst valley. The park is spread over 10 km2 and is surrounded by sheer cliffs that suggest favourable conditions for rock climbing. The ruins of the Roman fortress of Storgosia are located in Kaylaka, as well as ponds and reservoirs with boats and pedalos, a swimming pool, hotels, cafés, restaurants, discothèques and playgrounds.

The place is suitable for different outdoor activities including jogging, cycling, kayaking, rock climbing, fishing, and many others. Kaylaka is masterfully modeled by nature. It is located on about 10 thousand cedars in the karst valley of the river Touchenitsa.

For centuries the river has cut through the limestone rocks and formed a small gorge with parallel vertical cliffs, 20-30 meters high from each other at a distance of 100-150 meters. The natural canyon of the river is home to rich and diverse flora and fauna, where plants unique to Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula are found, and many of the birds and mammals are included in the Red Book of Bulgaria. Prehistoric animals and creatures lived there millions of years ago, and fossils of...