Krka Waterfalls | Bilušića buk

The first of seven cascades on the course of the Krka River is Bilušića buk. The falls are found wedged in a canyon approximately 16 km downstream from the source, specifically 9 km downstream from Knin, at an altitude of 214 m above sea level. The appearance of the waterfall and current has been changed on four occasions, when dynamite was used to stop flooding in the Knin Field (in 1834, 1895, 1953 and 1954).

These operations lowered the water levels of the upstream current, which dried out Bobodol Lake. Though damaged, the waterfall today is still very loud and attractive as this is the only waterfall which has not been impacted by the utilization of the river’s water for energy needs. Year round, the entire current of the Krka River flows over this cascade. It is made up of two main steps and several intermediate steps 300 metres in total length, with a total difference in altitude of 22.4 metres. The width of the waterfall is approximately 100 metres, but even during low water levels, the water flows through a cutting which is only thirty metres wide. Bilušića buk is formed by travertine formations such as tufts and small caves. There are numerous barriers downstream from the falls, with travertine thresholds and islands directly beneath the falls. Near today’s riverbed, well-maintained and attractive “dead travertine” can be seen. Between the travertine steps, there are small lakes.

Downstream from the lowest step, the river widens and the current calms. The waterfall is surrounded by lush sub-Mediterranean vegetation and thick purple loosestrife. Next to the river, there are several small fields where vegetables grow. Of the numerous mills, columns and valjavica (natural washing hole in which water is channelled to a natural hole in the karst, where centrifugal force causes the water to spin), today only two mills and one washing hole have been maintained.

The falls can be reached from the Bukovac side via the road Knin-Kistanje by taking the turnoff at the village of Radučić (Omčikus) and continuing down the unpaved road to the Radučić railway station. To reach the ledge of the canyon, you must walk several hundred metres. From the edge of the canyon, there is a narrow path that leads to the river at the foot of the waterfall. From the Promina side, you can reach the waterfall via the road Drniš-Oklaj by taking the turnoff at the village of Gornji Čitluk; continue on this road to the village of Ljubotić. From Ljubotić, the unpaved road leads to the edge of the canyon where a ten minute walk will lead you to the waterfall.

– See more at: http://www.np-krka.hr/stranice/bilusica-buk/80/en.html

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