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The Rila and Pirin mountain ranges of Bulgaria are home to vast alpine meadows, glacial lakes, rare vegetation and a rich variety of fauna. In the Rila Mountains, the highest peak, Musala (2925m) is a focal point of this engaging walk. Superb mountain vistas, hidden villages brimming with traditional culture and a visit to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's most famous monastery, are some of the many highlights of the program. Based in 3 star hotels in Govedartsi and Bansko and a mountain hut in the Pirin Range, this trip will appeal to keen walkers seeking an alternative mountain experience in a country that teems with history and beautiful natural landscapes.
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33kg of CO2-e PP per day
(228kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Sofia
Make your way to your hotel in Sofia. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city. We can assist with a private transfer from the airport to the hotel on request - please ask for our rates.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Transfer to Borovets and ascend Musala Peak (2925m/6hrs), transfer to Govedartsi
This morning after breakfast (own arrangements) there is a group transfer (time range 8.30-9.30am) from your hotel to Borovets (70km/43.5mi). From here we take the cable car to Yastrebetz (2300m/7546ft) and climb the highest peak in the Balkans, Mt Musala (2925m/9596ft). The view from the top is truly breathtaking – you can make out the other peaks of the Rila Mountains, the marble edges of the Pirin Mountains, Mount Vitosha and the Sredna Gora Mountains, the green summits of the Rodopi Mountains, and last but not least, the Balkan range. Afterwards, we transfer to Govedartsi (at 1150m/3773ft), where we stay overnight (40min drive from Borovets). Ascent: 650m/2132ft; Descent: 650m/2132ft
Meals: D
Day 3
Walk to Prekorechki Lakes and return to hotel (6.5hrs)
After breakfast we have another stunning trek. After breakfast we have a transfer to Maliovitsa resort then walk up along the valley to the wide circuit of Prekorechki Lakes. The lakes are enclosed by the steep slopes and rocky walls of several peaks exceeding 2700m. Later we return to Maliovitsa resort, then transfer back you our accommodation in Govedartsi. Ascent: 850m/2788ft; Descent: 850m/2789ft Option: If the weather is clear we can hike to Maliovitsa peak to experience 360 degree views of the Alpine part of the Rila Mountains. Ascent: 1016m/3094ft; Descent: 1016m/3094ft
Meals: B,D
Day 4
Seven Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery (5hrs)
This morning we have an early transfer to Pionerska hut, from where we take the chairlift to the Seven Rila Lakes (above 2200m/7220ft). From here we have a fabulous loop walk to Razdela and the stunning ridge 'Zeleni Rid', then descend to the chairlift. We continue with a transfer (1hr) to Rila Monastery, regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments, and afterwards drive to Bansko where we spend the night. Ascent: 400m/1320ft; Descent: 400m/1320ft
Day 5
Hut to hut trek across the Central Pirin mountains (6hrs)
This morning we pack our overnight requirements in our day pack and begin our 2 day trek across the most beautiful part of the Central Pirin Mountains. We start from Bezbog hut (at 2400m) and after 4-5 hours walking reach Tevno Ezero hut (2512m), where we stay overnight. Today the terrain is rocky and boots are essential. Ascent: 450m/1476ft; Descent: 150m/492ft Note: You need to carry your overnight gear today as it is not possible to transfer luggage to the hut. Your main luggage is stored at the hotel.
Day 6
Continue to Demyanitsa Hut, transfer to Bansko (6hrs)
Today's walk offers stunning views over the most beautiful glacial lakes of Pirin, Prevalski (2664m) and Valyavishki (2300-2475m). The trek takes 5-6 hours before we reach the road below Demyanitsa Hut. Here we meet our vehicle and transfer back to Bansko. Your main luggage will be available in Bansko. Ascent: 150m/4922ft; Descent: 650m/2132ft Bansko is a town known for its thermal spas - ask your guide for suggestions (optional).
Day 7
Ascend Mt Vihren (2914m)(6-7hrs), transfer to Sofia (2.5hrs) where the trip concludes
Today there is a challenging ascent to Mount Vihren (2914m/9560ft), the highest peak in the Pirin Mountains. On our way to the peak, there are fabulous views of many of the Pirin's high peaks as well as the Vlahini and Bunderishki glacial lakes. The path weaves through the Kazanite region, famous for edelweiss and other rare native plants. If the weather is good we'll have lunch on the peak, enjoying the amazing scenery. We descend on foot, then drive to Sofia. Note: This route involves negotiating a steep path all the way up and down, with many sections passing over rocks. It is only recommended for walkers in good physical condition. Ascent: 1000m/3280ft; Descent: 1000m/3280ft The trip concludes on arrival in Sofia, arriving at approx 5pm. We can assist with a transfer to the airport on request (we suggest not booking a flight departing earlier than 8.30pm) or if you'd like to stay longer we can assist with booking extra nights in Sofia - please ask for our rates.
Meals: B
Transfer Sofia to Borovets and ascend Musala Peak (6hrs), transfer to Govedartsi
Early pick-up from your self-booked hotel in Sofia (as a guide, at approx 8.30-9.30am) to Borovets (70km/43.5mi). From here we take the cable car to Yastrebetz (2300m/7546ft) and climb the highest peak in the Balkans, Mt Musala (2925m/9596ft). The view from the top is truly breathtaking – you can make out the other peaks of the Rila Mountains, the marble edges of the Pirin Mountains, Mount Vitosha and the Sredna Gora Mountains, the green summits of the Rodopi Mountains, and last but not least, the Balkan range. Afterwards, we transfer to Govedartsi (at 1150m/3773ft altitude), where we stay overnight (40min drive from Borovets). Ascent: 650m/2132ft; Descent: 650m/2132ft
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 4 - daily guided walks of around 5-7 hours, with a maximum ascent and descent of 1050m/3445ft. The walking is at around 2000-2500m altitude each day. There are some challenging stages with steep ascents and descents, and many sections of the trail which require care. Day 2, 3 and 7 are the most challenging whilst the other days are in the moderate range. On days 5 & 6 you will need to carry your overnight requirements in your daypack. You need to be comfortable ascending in a chairlift. The accent is on keeping a steady pace with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced walkers only. Early in the season (June departure) you may encounter snow on the passes which may be quite deep and alter the grading of the trip to challenging. At any time, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds. Transfers are required to cover the locations of the walks.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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