Over the past years, Olympus Mountaineering has taken you on countless journeys through the wild heart of Greece. From technical climbing routes on sheer limestone cliffs to multi-day treks in remote alpine landscapes, from serene summer hikes through blooming meadows to demanding winter ascents on ice and snow, we’ve covered nearly every corner of mainland Greece’s majestic mountains.

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These adventures have not only been about reaching summits but also about enjoying the landscapes, cultures, and hidden corners that make each journey unique. And yet, after years of exploration, one fact became clear: we have walked, climbed, and camped in nearly every major mountain range Greece has to offer.

That realization sparked a new idea and it was time to look beyond Greece’s borders and seek out new peaks, valleys, waterfalls and wilderness experiences in foreign lands. After all, the spirit of mountaineering is one of curiosity and constant discovery.

For 2025, we’ve decided to start on a new series of cross-border explorations, starting with a country that is rich in natural beauty: Bulgaria. Known for its wild mountains, ancient forests, and well-preserved nature parks, Bulgaria offers an incredible variety of outdoor experiences, from rugged alpine terrain to serene forest trails leading to spectacular waterfalls.

And so, for our very first step in this new chapter, we travel to the Belasitsa Mountains, where a a real treasure awaits: the enchanting Kamena Waterfall.

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How to Reach Kamena Village from Thessaloniki (Greece)

Reaching Kamena Waterfall from Thessaloniki is surprisingly straightforward, making it an excellent day-trip option for travellers from northern Greece.

Starting Point – Thessaloniki:
Take the A25/E79 motorway heading north towards the Kulata–Promachonas border crossing. The total driving distance to Kamena village is roughly 130 km, which takes about 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and border wait times.

Crossing into Bulgaria:
After passing customs at Promachonas, continue along Route 1/E79 towards Petrich. Crossing the border is an easy task with no official controls. Just make sure to have the Bulgaria Tolls arranged and payed.

Towards Kamena Village:
From Petrich, follow signs for the village of Kolarovo, and then continue to Kamena. The roads are in relatively good condition, and the scenery as you approach the Belasitsa foothills is spectacular.

Waterfall Parking:
At the entrance to Kamena, there are clear signs leading you to the small parking area for the waterfall trailhead.

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Hiking To Kamena Waterfall

The hike to Kamena Waterfall is a short and pleasant, easily accessible and ideal for those looking to combine it with other nearby nature walks. Covering roughly one kilometre each way, the route takes about twenty-five to thirty minutes at a relaxed pace, making it a perfect choice for families and casual hikers. The path is clearly marked with signage in both Bulgarian and English, ensuring that even first-time visitors can find their way with ease.

The adventure begins at the small parking area near the trailhead, where the path quickly draws you into the cool shade of the forest. The terrain is gentle, with minimal elevation gain, though certain sections can be uneven. As you move deeper into the woods, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, it’s not uncommon to spot small forest snakes basking in sunny patches or to hear the flutter of birds moving through the trees.

Sections of the trail feature wooden railings and steps, making the walk more comfortable and secure. Just before reaching the waterfall, you’ll come across a charming wooden gazebo, an inviting place to pause for a snack, rest, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. From this point, you can continue along another marked path that leads to the Chatala Waterfall. While smaller and less striking than Kamena, it offers an additional dose of nature and can be a pleasant extension to your day’s adventure.

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Kamena Waterfall (Камешнишки водопад)

As you turn the final corner of the trail, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation. Then, the forest opens to reveal the magnificent Kamena Waterfall cascading down a sheer rock face into a small pool below.

At roughly 20–22 meters high, the waterfall is both powerful and graceful. The air here is noticeably cooler and fresher, a welcome relief in the summer months. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can carefully approach the pool’s edge, just be mindful of slippery rocks.

The surrounding area is perfect for photography, with natural light filtering through the trees, casting a magical glow on the waterfall. Many visitors simply sit and take in the view, enjoying the soothing sounds of nature before heading back.

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About Belasitsa Mountains

Kamena Waterfall lies within Belasitsa Nature Park, a pristine region covering 117 km² on the northern slopes of the Belasitsa Mountain range. The park borders North Macedonia to the west and Greece to the south, creating a unique crossroads of cultures and ecosystems.

Declared Bulgaria’s newest nature park in 2007, Belasitsa boasts around 1,500 plant species, including rare and protected ones like common chestnut, European holly, and Albanian lily. The region is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from woodpeckers and warblers to small mammals and amphibians.

Hiking in Belasitsa offers a blend of biodiversity, well-preserved forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Beyond waterfalls, the park’s trails reveal chestnut groves, ancient beech forests, and panoramic viewpoints that stretch across three countries.

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Details of the hike

• Location: Kamena (Belasitsa Mountains)
• Trail Signs: Yes
• Maximum Elevation: 612 m.
• Minimum Elevation: 461 m
• Total Distance: 2.1 km
• Hiking time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy (family friendly)
• When to Hike: All year round

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Support the journey — buy me a coffee

I share these articles and the climbing guidebooks because I love the outdoors, and they’ll always be free. If they’ve helped you, help me keep them coming. Click the button to support my work.

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