Gornata Koria Reserve lies in the Berkovska Mountain, Western Stara Planina, on the northern slopes below Kom peak, in the lands of Berkovitsa. It was declared in 1968 and covers 160.71 ha.
The reserve protects primary beech and conifer forests: spruce and spruce-fir stands, rare in the Stara Planina, and beech about 160 years old, with single sycamores and ash trees. Dwarf mountain pine grows under the spruce near the tree line. The reserve lies between 1,100 and 1,700 m above sea level and is also a water catchment zone. It was declared partly for the only capercaillie population in northern Bulgaria; roe deer, wild boar, wolf, fox and wildcat also live here. The area is in the Western Stara Planina and Predbalkan and Western Balkan Natura 2000 sites.
All activity in the reserve is banned except guarding, scientific visits, walking on marked paths, and collecting seeds and specimens for science. We found no published order setting visitor paths. Local hiking descriptions mention a signed turn-off to the reserve near the start of the path from Kom hut to Kom peak; check the waymarks on site and stay on the path.
Kom hut stands in the Gorna Koria area, about 15 km from Berkovitsa, and an asphalt road leads to it. On foot from Berkovitsa to the hut takes about 3.5 hours.
Sofia region
2.0 km away
Montana region
2.1 km away
Montana region
2.2 km away
Montana region
2.2 km away
Gornata Koria Reserve is located in Montana, Bulgaria.
Gornata Koria Reserve is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Gornata Koria Reserve is best walked from May through October, when the trail is clear of snow and weather is generally stable. Summer middays can be hot at lower altitudes — start early. Winter walking requires proper gear and route knowledge.
Suitability depends on the specific route. Bulgarian trails range from paved family-friendly paths to multi-day high-mountain crossings. Check the length, elevation gain, and surface before setting off. Sturdy footwear, water, and a basic map (offline or paper) are essential even on short walks.
