Rest in Kabardino-Balkaria: Shadhury Lake and Gedmishh Waterfall

The region of Kabardino-Balkaria is amazing. The ridges of the Greater Caucasus pass through the territory of the republic. In the north-west side is located the most beautiful lake Shadhurey. And to be more precise, there are two reservoirs. The first is often called the Upper Or, given its size, Bigger. The second is a little lower, and that is why it is called the Lower or Small, since its area is less by 0.2 square meters. Km. It should be noted that earlier in the composition of these lakes there was one more, but for obscure reasons at the beginning of the 20th century it completely became shallow. At the present time, only the basin remains in its place.

Lake Shadhurey is a popular tourist destination. Currently, a large number of tourists come here to admire the unearthly landscapes. It is also worth noting that this area was used for the filming of the popular film "The Land of Sannikov." The lower lake can be found in the scene of the deer sacrifice, and near the Upper in the film the shaman conducts his rituals.

Description

There are several variants of the names of these lakes: Shanthury, Chan Khurey and others. The cause of their occurrence became difficulties with transcription when translated into Russian. So, "Shadhurei" means "a round whirlpool". If we take a literal translation, then "round standing water". But this is fully consistent with reality, since no rivers flow into and out of water.

The only source of their supply is groundwater. And when residents of local areas dug a canal for irrigation of the fields, literally the next day the level in the upper body of water greatly decreased, which is why it was decided to fall asleep.

Located Lake Shadhurey at an altitude of more than 1000 m above sea level. Five kilometers from it is the village of Kamennomostskoye in the Zola district.

a brief description of

Described attractions are very deep. The hollows have a depression up to 180 m. The reservoirs are of karst origin. The water in them is stagnant, but crystal clear. Unfortunately, they are little studied, and the reason for this was powerful underwater whirlpools.

The upper Lake Shadhurei is larger than the Lower Lake . The area covers an area of 0.54 km ². Has an almost perfect oval shape. The length of the reservoir is 350 m, and its width is 120 m. The banks are steep, overgrown with forests, which makes it very difficult to get to the water. It is best to do this from the west side. It is there that there is a path that leads directly to the shore.

Lower Shadhury Lake is surrounded on all sides by mountain formations. Its area is 0,35 km ². The slopes of the coastline are very steep. The lake is located in a deep depression, and according to some sources its depth reaches 200 m. It is possible to approach water only from the southeast. However, tourists should be extremely cautious, as the steep slope overgrew grass, and when it is covered with dew, the road becomes very slippery.

Flora and fauna

On the steep slopes that surround the named reservoirs, lie beautiful alpine meadows. But from the west you can see low forest plantations. Wild animals such as fox, wolf, bear, wild boar live here and even you can find a deer. And from the birds this area was chosen by pheasants, tits, quails and others.

Near the Great Lake you can see traces of fishermen. This is not surprising, since there are many fish in the pond (amur, carp, and others). In the lakes there are several types of algae that fill the water with oxygen, creating favorable conditions for underwater animals.

Lake Shadhurei: how to get there?

In order to get to the local attractions, you need to take a direction to the village of Kamennomostskoe. You can overcome this distance both by private car and by bus. If you follow from Pyatigorsk, then you need to get to Nalchik and already there to change seats for any minibus that moves in the required direction.

For example, you can take a flight to Khabaz. This bus passes through Kamennomostskoye. And from here it is very easy to get to Shadhurye Lake. How to get to them, you can ask any local resident. Moreover, if necessary, you will be taken to the destination with pleasure. The path lies on a dirt road, which means that it is very important to take into account the weather conditions, as sometimes it is greatly eroded and it is difficult to overcome this distance even on an off-road vehicle.

Waterfall "The Royal Crown"

Shadhury Lake is not the only landmark of this region. At 16 km from them is a beautiful waterfall. It is called Gedmish. However, for tourists, he is better known as the "Royal Crown", "Royal Waterfalls" or "70 jets".

Looking at him, you can immediately say that he is 100% justified by these names. The clearest water rushes from the height of about 60 m with stormy currents, it consists of several thousand different jets that flow down from a semicircular sheer cliff. On sunny days, by the way, you can see how the surrounding nature reflects the water.

The waterfall takes its beginning from a small streamlet. It is of karst origin and is in the upper reaches of the river. Gedmysh.

The closest settlement from the landmark is Khabaz. From him to the waterfall a dirt road is laid , but only high-speed vehicles can pass through it. Therefore, those wishing to climb to the cascade overcome the distance on foot, since the road in this place is often very fuzzy.