Deep in the majestic Matka Canyon lies Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest underwater caves in Europe and the deepest in the Balkans. This natural attraction, located on the left side of the canyon, is a remarkable speleological phenomenon that attracts explorers and tourists from all over the world. Vrelo Cave is part of the Jovica Grozdanovski Speleological Park.

Features and records

Vrelo Cave stands out for its impressive dimensions:

• Water depth: more than 330 metres
• Length of dry channels: about 100 metres
• Two natural openings
• Unique cave decorations
• A constant source of water at a constant temperature

Organized visits

A visit to the cave is possible via:

• Guided tours
• Renting a boat or kayak from the harbor
• Arranged group visits
• Specialized speleological expeditions (with special permission)

Inside the cave

Vrelo Cave delights with its inner beauty:

• Stalactites and stalagmites of unusual shapes
• Beautiful cave decorations
• Crystal clear water
• Unique geological formations
• Natural terraces and swimming pools

Scientific significance

The cave is of great scientific importance because:

• Unique geological structure
• Rich underground ecosystem
• Hydrological characteristics
• Opportunities for speleological research

Best Time to Visit

The cave can be visited all year round, but the best conditions are from May to October. The temperature inside the cave is constant, making it suitable for visiting at any time of the year.

Legends and legends

There are numerous legends surrounding Vrelo Cave. Locals believe that the cave hides many secrets, and some legends speak of underground lakes and canals leading deep into the mountain.

Protection and conservation

The cave is under a special protection regime:

• Strict control of visits
• Prohibition of independent research
• Protecting the Cave Ecosystem
• Regular monitoring of the condition

Research history

Over the years, the cave has been the subject of numerous exploratory expeditions:

• International Speleological Teams
• Scientific research
• Underwater exploration
• Mapping of cave channels

Vrelo Cave is one of the most important natural phenomena in North Macedonia. Its unique location in Matka Canyon, its impressive dimensions, and natural beauty make it an outstanding tourist attraction that deserves to be explored and preserved for future generations.