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

Price

$1230USD

 

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), a thermal spa resort town at the foot of the Pirin Mountains beneath the highest and most beautiful Karst part of the mountains

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.

Traveller Rating

 

Trip Grading

moderate to challenging

More info about grading system

Carbon Footprint

33kg of CO2-e PP per day

(228kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

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

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

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

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

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 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.

Meals:  B,D

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).

Meals:  B,D

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


Map

Elevation

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


Inclusions

  • 5 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 accommodation - 5 nights in hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities, 1 night multishare dorm in mountain hut (mixed dormitory room with shared facilities - outside WC and no showers)
  • English speaking mountain guide/driver (from day 2 to day 7)
  • 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
  • All local taxes
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Sofia
  • Accommodation in Sofia on day 7 - we can book an extra night (or more) on request
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Maps (as this is a guided walk)
  • A supplement will apply if you book a single room (excludes at the mountain hut, which is multishare dorms)
  • Tips
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included. We can assist with airport arrival/departure transfers on request (additional cost applies)
  • Luggage transfer on days 5/6 where you will be required to carry your overnight requirements
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

moderate to challenging  

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.


Departure dates


Notes

Note:
While the minimum group size is 4, a Small Group Surcharge can apply if the group size is 2-3 people. Please ask our team for more information

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

$1230USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Extra night Sofia - twin/double (without breakfast) ppUSD$47
  • Extra night Sofia - single room (without breakfast)USD$90
  • Small group supplement - applies if 2-3 people in the groupUSD$140
  • Single Supplement (5 nights in hotels)USD$310
*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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