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Duration
8 days
Activities
  • guided walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights in 3 star hotels
  • 1 night multishare dorm in mountain hut
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$950USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: BOF

Trip highlights


  • Experiencing the untouched Rila Mountains, the highest in Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula, including the highest peak Mt Musala (2925m)
  • Trekking in the Pirin Mountains, the second highest in Bulgaria and third on the Balkan Peninsula, including the highest peak Mt Vihren (2914m)
  • Visiting Rila Monastery (1147m), Bulgaria's most impressive monastery due to its size, natural surroundings, architecture, wall paintings and ancient history
  • Bansko (925m), situated at the northeastern foot of the Pirin Mountains beneath the highest and the most beautiful Karst part of the mountains, and a major ski resort

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 on which you only need to carry a day pack. 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 simply teems with history and beautiful natural landscapes.

Trip Grading

moderate to challenging

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

On arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Sofia (for arrivals 9am to 7pm only). The remainder of the day is free to explore the city. *arrival after 7pm - ask for our rates.

Meals:  Nil

This morning we will transfer to Borovets (70km/43.5mi). 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 remaining 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 (1150m/3773ft), where we stay overnight (40min drive from Borovets). Ascent: 650m/2132ft; Descent: 650m/2132ft

Meals:  B,D

In the morning we have a short transfer to Maliovitsa resort, our starting point for another stunning trek. We walk up along the valley to the wide circuit of Prekorechki lakes, enclosed by the steep slopes and rocky walls of several peaks exceeding 2700m. From the lake we walk back to Maliovitsa resort, then transfer to Govedartsi where we stay overnight. Ascent: 850m/2788ft; Descent: 850m/2789ft Or if the weather is clear we can choose an optional hike to Maliovitsa peak, to experience 360 degree views of the Alpine part of the Rila Mountains. Option: Ascent: 1016m/3094ft; Descent: 1016m/3094ft

Meals:  B,D

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 do a fabulous loop walk to Razdela and the stunning ridge 'Zeleni Rid', where we decend to the chairlift. We continue with a transfer (1hr) to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria's most famous landmark. Drive to Bansko for overnight. Ascent: 400m/1320ft; Descent: 400m/1320ft

Meals:  B,D

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. We start from Bezbog hut and after 4-5 hours walking reach Tevno Ezero hut, where we stay overnight. You will need to carry your overnight items today as it is not possible to transfer your luggage to the hut you will stay in tonight. Ascent: 450m/1476ft; Descent: 150m/492ft

Meals:  B,D

Today's walk offers stunning views over the Pirin glacial lakes, Pevalski and Valyavishki. The trek takes 5-6 hours before we reach the road under Demyanitsa Hut. Here we meet our vehicle to drive us back to Bansko. Our main luggage will be available in Bansko. Ascent: 150m/4922ft; Descent: 650m/2132ft

Meals:  B,D

A fairly difficult ascent to Mount Vihren (2914m/9560ft), the highest peak in the Pirin Mountains, awaits us. On our way to the peak, there are fabulous views of most of the Pirin's peaks and the Vlahini and Bunderishki glacial lakes. The path weaves through the Kazanite region, famous for edelweiss and other rare flowering 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 for overnight. 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

Meals:  B

After breakfast, the trip concludes with a transfer to Sofia airport.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts, 5 dinners - Continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, yoghurt, cheese, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner is generally 3 courses consisting of a mixture of local and international dishes.
  • 6 nights in standard hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities, 1 night multishare dorm in mountain hut (mixed dormitory room with outside WC and no showers)
  • English speaking mountain guide
  • Lift tickets as per itinerary
  • Transfers throughout as described in the itinerary
  • Luggage transfer except days 5-6, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Arrival & departure transfers between Sofia airport and the hotel on days 1 and 8
  • VAT and all local taxes

  • Travel to and from Sofia
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Maps (may be requested in advance when the trip is booked)
  • A supplement will apply if you book a single room, excluding the mountain hut
  • Tips
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Luggage transfer on days 5/6 where you will be required to carry your overnight requirements
  • Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

moderate to challenging  

The walking is moderate to challenging (4) grade with daily guided walks of around 5-7 hours, with a maximum ascent and descent of 1050 metres/3445 feet. There are some challenging stages during the walk with steep uphills and descents, and many sections of the trail which require care. Day 7 is considered 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. 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.


Departure dates


Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$950USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single SupplementUSD$160
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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