 Project description
The goal of the “Smolari Waterfall” project was to make a rare natural beauty available to the general public and thereby affirm the natural and cultural heritage of Smolari and its surroundings. A path was cut through to the length of some 500 metres; stairs were made, and a bridge over the waterfall, a view site, a fence, and other infrastructure facilities were also developed. Local population took part in this action through voluntary work actions. A comprehensive media campaign was initiated after which Smolari became one of the most visited natural attractions in Macedonia. Encouraged by the many visitors throughout the year, the project team, the local population and the municipality of Novo Selo proposed activities to further arrange the space, affirm the Smolari Waterfall, and develop tourism in rural areas and in the mountains in the municipality.
Contact
Gligor Mitev, president of the Smolari neighbourhood unit tel. 034/356-529.
Panco Stojanov, Municipality of Novo Selo, St. Manus Turnovski b.b. Novo Selo, 070/651-700, 034/355-202, opstinanovoselo@hotmail.com
Location
Smolari, municipality of Novo Selo, Strumica region, southeastern Macedonia
 About Smolari and the waterfall
The Smolari Waterfall is 35 metres high and is located on the Lomnica river, at 651 metres above the sea level. The Smolari village is a typical settlement in the foot of Belasica Mountain where people do agriculture and fruit growing (do ask to try local currants, kiwi, figs, and other fruits).
How to reach Smolari?
You can reach the Smolari village via Strumica and Novo Selo. It is located at a distance of 30 kilometres away from Strumica, and at 8 kilometres from Novo Selo. There is no bus line to Smolari, yet vans often drive on the route Strumica - Novo Selo - Smolari. The waterfall itself is located at 1,2 kilometres away from the asphalt road passing through villages at the foot of the Belasica mountain. You can reach it passing through the village. The path is covered with stone and its slope angle is relatively small.
 Where to stay overnight?
Local people in Smolari sometimes rent their rooms for overnight stay. There is no organized room of accommodation offer - you should agree on this with local people directly. There are no accommodation facilities in Novo Selo, yet very close (10 km), the spa tourist centre is located of Bansko Spa with several hotels offering accommodation at acceptable prices. The “Syrius” hotel is located close to Strumica (25 km).
Local specifics
There are no catering facilities in Smolari, yet in days with many visitors, local people offer food and refreshment items. Of course, you should ask to try local farming products and fruits abundant in this region. There are 15 restaurants in Novo Selo offering delicious barbecue specialties. While in the Mokrino village, visit the “Panorama” restaurant having marvelous ambient and rich offer of traditional Macedonian cuisine.
What can you see in the surroundings?
Out of other natural beauties, you can visit the Kolesino Waterfall and the wonderful springs in Mokrino. While visiting Strumica, you should try to visit the monastery of St. Eleusa in Veljusa. The Kolesino Waterfall is located in the vicinity.
 |
