Sophia Lakes: description and attractions

Famous Sofia Lakes are in the valley of the river Psysh. To be more precise, in such a mountain range as Kel Bashi. There are depressions in the form of bowls filled with water. Given the geographical location of the lakes, it should be noted that they are located at 2830 meters above sea level. The nearest settlement is the village of Arkhyz, which is the starting point for a trip to the reservoirs.

Group of lakes

The Sophia lakes consist of three large and several small reservoirs. If you disassemble them by features, then the deepest one can be called Big. In some places, the bottom moves away from the water surface by about 17 m, and its diameter is about 300 m. The title of the highest was given to Severnoye Lake. The connection between these two reservoirs is provided by the river Kashha-Echkichat. The third lake of the described system is called the Lower Lake.

A little about the flora and fauna

Sofia's lakes are surrounded by rich flora and fauna, for good reason the Caucasus is called one of the most beautiful places in Russia. For the most part, you can see fir plantations, Caucasian pine trees and many other coniferous trees. In addition, the district is inhabited by a large number of wild animals - it is a sign of a virgin nature.

Color of water

It is interesting that the colors of the three large lakes from the Sofia group are completely different. The largest has a shade of azure, the next looks sky-blue, and the last seems completely black. And before you approach this miracle of nature closer, from the height of the array you can admire all three lakes at once. This is an unforgettable impression that will forever remain in the memory of the tourist.

Ledostav

In general, the Sophia lakes are considered glacial. This is reflected in their water temperature, which fluctuates within about zero degrees. A paradise for amateur walruses. It is best to go to these places somewhere in the end of July, since it is during this period that ice comes down from the reservoirs. You can even see some ice blocks that have not yet melted. They look like little winter islets in the middle of summer. It's amazing that local plants and grasses blossom around, which are not affected by the frosty freshness of the lakes.

How to get there by yourself?

So, the Sofia Sophia (Arkhyz) became quite famous. How to get to this unique place? It is worth noting that part of the way to such a beautiful area can be reached by car, but then it will be necessary to go on foot. More brave and hardy choose a walk from the very beginning to the end.

So, the beginning of the road should be considered the village of Arkhyz. From it you have to go straight through the pass, where the valleys of the rivers Sophia and Psyshha are divided. At the same time, during the ascent to the water bodies, one can feel the difference in altitude about 1 km. Therefore, to some extent for tourists, the danger of the Sophia Lakes. Excursions are developed, as a rule, by guides and other specialists in the area. But it is undesirable to overcome this path independently. On the way to the place is the extraordinary Ullu-Chuchhur waterfall, which looks great against the backdrop of the local nature. Especially considering that it flows directly from the Sofia River. You can see it walking on sheep trails. The path to the lakes can not be called very easy, since the road constantly goes up, and in some places more like a vertical path.

Travel through tour operators

Sophia Lakes (Arkhyz) can be seen, obtained both independently and using the services of tour operators. Perhaps the second option will cost a bit more, but there is a chance to see the sights of the region not only of natural origin. For example, along the road there is a monument of the Patriotic War in the form of a bayonet aimed at the sky, and next to it there is a metal layer with a map of military operations, and all this is protected by stones that symbolize the Caucasus mountains beyond the control of the German invaders.

To the left of this memorial there is a coniferous forest with the same firs, spruce trees and pine trees, with which the Caucasus is so rich. Further following passes through the zone, where, moving along the path, you can see the Glacial Farm. It is considered the most recent of those that are in the gorge. A glacial it is called because of the Sophia glacier, which is nearby, which you can easily see without even straining.

After the coniferous forest, there is another beautiful view that you should enjoy. These are alpine meadows with many local herbs and plants. Where all this herbage ends, stony embankments and rocky faults begin. In the summer, you can see the remains of snow that has not melted yet, but there is no feeling of cold at all.

Another obstacle, or perhaps a feature on the way to such a beautiful place as the Sofia Lakes (see the photo of reservoirs in the article), are the two spiers through which it is necessary to pass. This is a rocky way, as, in principle, and all the previous, so it is better to stock up on special shoes, then not to get back barefoot. And after all this, the most recent ascent to the gorge with the desired goal will be. The road itself is quite complicated, but the spent forces will pay a hundred percent once the magnificent views of the lakes appear on the horizon.

Tourists are usually shown two or three bodies of water, but if you go your own way, you can see much more, though it will take a lot of time. So, if you look at everything, you just need to stock up on a tent and all the tourist equipment for spending an overnight stay, as this can not be avoided without it. Good luck in the hike and great emotions!