Stakevtsi – Waterfall, Landscape and Traditions

Stakevtsi brings together a mountain setting and a river, along with a protected waterfall, seasonal festivals, and regional specialties. If you are looking for a hotel in Stakevtsi, these themes can help you plan your stay around nature, culture, and the time of year. The approximate walking time to the waterfall and the different festival dates are particularly relevant when planning your trip.

Between the River and the Mountains

Stakevtsi lies at an elevation of about 540 metres above sea level on the northern and northeastern slopes of the Western Stara Planina. The Stakevska River flows through the village. The Chuprenski Buki protected area also includes land in Stakevtsi and extends across the territory of three other villages. The village’s setting on a mountain slope and its connection to a protected area shared with several villages are both part of its landscape.

The Waterfall at Bela Voda

One specific destination in this landscape is the Stakevska River Waterfall at Bela Voda, which is protected as a natural monument. It is set in a pine forest, and its area covers 1.6 hectares. From Stakevtsi, the route first follows an uphill road and then continues along a footpath to the waterfall. The walk takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Allow for this approximate walking time and check the trail conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Festivals Throughout the Year

A traditional Balkan festival takes place in Stakevtsi in August, and its date varies from year to year. So check the exact festival date for the year you plan to travel. At the 2016 Forest and Tourism Festival in Bela Voda, in the Stakevski Balkan, the third Saturday in August was scheduled. The programme at the time included folk performances by groups from Stakevtsi and Salash, horo dancing, brass band music, and forest herbs.

A traditional gathering in May is also part of the annual calendar. According to local tourism information, its date depends on the church calendar. For planning purposes, August and May therefore offer different date guides: the August date changes each year, while the church calendar determines the date of the May gathering. Check the specific event dates before your trip.

Regional Specialties

The local cuisine includes bel muzh and thick banitsa, which Stakevtsi serves to its guests. Bel muzh is made with unsalted fresh cheese and flour; banitsa is another local specialty. You can sample Turlak cuisine associated with Stakevtsi at a Turlak gathering. The dates and availability of such gatherings may vary.

Accommodation and Getting There

The Stakevski Houses complex consists of three guesthouses. Each house has a landscaped courtyard, garden lighting, a water feature, a barbecue, and relaxation areas. According to its own description, Stakevski Houses also offers tourist routes and organizes different types of tourism based on guests’ interests. Since the configuration and amenities may change, check the latest information before booking.

An asphalt road leads to Stakevtsi, making the village generally easy to reach. As road conditions may change, check the route before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Rabisha.

See the broader travel guide: Belogradchik.