The Smolyan Lakes are located in a stepped pattern on the left bank of the Cherna River, and they shyly overlook Snezhanka Peak, Orpheus Rocks, and Nevyastata. The lakes are of landslide origin. In the past, there were 20; today, there are only seven. A large part of them has been lost over the years, and others have simply become swamped and are now difficult to find.
The lakes are a magical place near the city, where many locals and tourists find relief and coolness from the summer heat. There are very good opportunities for camping and fishing, and the three highest lakes are connected by a beautiful eco-trail.
Trevisto (Trevnoto, a.k.a. the Grass Lake)—shown in the shot—is emblematic of Smolyan. Almost half of the area of Trevistoto Lake is covered with a one-meter peat layer, on the surface of which lush grasses grow. The surrounding landscape turns into a true colourful extravaganza during the autumn.
In the waters of the next (Bistroto) Lake, centuries-old spruce forests can be seen. The Muddy Lake is the highest of all, and the landscape around it creates a feeling of ghostliness and mystery. The lakes Salazha and Osmanovy Vir are located higher up. In the immediate vicinity is the highest-located Smolyan district, Ezerovo, named after them. The Smolyan–Stoykite road winds picturesquely past the two lakes.
