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Draft:Sopot Reservoir

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Sopot Reservoir

Sopot Reservoir is a large artificial lake located in north-central Bulgaria, in the northern foothills of the Balkan Mountains. It lies within the territory of the village of Golyama Zhelyazna, Troyan Municipality, Lovech Province. The reservoir was constructed in 1961 primarily for irrigation purposes.

It is one of the largest reservoirs in Bulgaria, with a surface area of approximately 8,500 decares (850 hectares) and a water volume of around 62 million cubic meters. The main inflow is the Kalnik River, a tributary of the Vit River.

The reservoir is about 7 km long and up to 2 km wide, with a maximum depth of approximately 28 meters. During its construction, parts of the villages of Lesidren and Golyama Zhelyazna were relocated due to submersion of their lands.

Today, Sopot Reservoir is a popular destination for recreation and ecotourism. It offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with species such as carp, catfish, perch, whitefish, bighead carp, rudd, bleak, sunfish, and chub commonly found in its waters. There are several campsites, bungalows, and guest houses around the reservoir, as well as rental options for boats and kayaks during the summer months.

Nearby, the Toplya Cave is a notable natural and archaeological site. The surrounding region is known for its scenic landscapes, making it attractive for hiking, biking, and nature tourism.

Access

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Sopot Reservoir is accessible by road from the towns of Troyan and Lovech. Public transportation is available via intercity bus lines serving the village of Golyama Zhelyazna.

References

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  1. Visit Troyan – Sopot Reservoir
  2. Trip.dir.bg – Sopot Reservoir Travel Guide (in Bulgarian)
  3. Slynchevi Bungala – Fishing and Tourism Information (in Bulgarian)