The oldest ski resort in Bulgaria, Borovets (1350 m) is situated under the lee of the highest mountain on the Balkans – Rila Mountains. Until the middle of the last century when the ski resort was open, the evergreen forests full with game were the most attractive part of a holiday area, well-visited by wealthy Bulgarians. Tsarska Bistritsa, the favourite hunting lodge of two Bulgarian kings, was built near the resort at the riverside of Bistritsa River. It is opened for visiting and that is a great opporunity to take a closer look of the private life of the last king of Bulgaria – Boris III.
The temperate, climate and the perfect conditions for skiing make Borovets one of the most popular winter resorts in Bulgaria. Situated only 70 km away from the capital Sofia, on the northern slopes of Rila Mountains, this beautiful place offers splendid opportunities to practice a wide variety of winter sports. The most popular of course is the alpine skiing. The season may last almost 5 months – from December to April and the heavy snowfall assures the necessary quantity of snow. There are 24 ski-runs with different a level of difficulty and total length almost 60 km. The longest one is 12 km.
Three ski centres, located in central places of the resort, are the spots where everyone can find their personal challenge of the mountain and the snowy slopes. For those who want to practice ski-running, there are specialized traces with the required width (6 m). Biathlon is the other winter sport which takes place here and there are special installations constructed for that purpose. And of course, Borovets is the best place for the snowboarders because of the many ski-runs with different difficulty and the two snow parks. We should not forget that the mountain is a place where everyone needs to be careful and prepared, so don’t take unnecessary risks.
The evergreen pine trees covered with snow offer a breathtaking view, but the summer gives a different perspective to the mountain. Borovets is located in one of the most beautiful mountains in Bulgaria, Rila. Large part of it is included in the biggest national park in Bulgaria with the same name and there are four unique reserves on its territory. The nearest to the resort is the Central Rila Reserve which covers the highest peaks of the mountain – with Musala (2,925 m) at the top. One of the most popular hiking routes is to the top of this peak. It takes about 3 hours in the one direction and it’s worth every step of the way. The first part of this amazing hiking itinerary begins with the gondola lift which will take you to Yastrebets Peak, at the foot of Musala. The ascent after goes along mountainous terrain at relatively high altitudes (above 2400 m) so be prepared with proper equipment. One hour away from Yastrebets is Musala Hut and further are the seven crystal pure lakes, one of which is the highest in Bulgaria and the Balkans – The Icy Lake. The last part of the walk is the hardest one but at the end you will find yourself at the top of the world. The amazing view will take your breath away and will be etched as a fond memory forever.
One of the most significant sights which you cannot miss is the area of the Seven Rila Lakes. They are situated near the town of Sapareva Banya, around 50 km away from Borovets. A chair lift leads to the first step of the path – The Seven Rila lakes Hut. Just 45 away from it is the shallowest lake of the seven, named The Fish Lake (Ribnoto ezero). There is a legend about two giants who were in love and lived in this amazing paradise till one day an evil power killed one of them. From the sad tears of the one who survived was born these pure water drops – the lakes. Maybe that legend gave the name of the highest lake – the Tear (Salzata). The most distinctive feature of each one of it is leading to their names – The Eye (Okoto), The Kidney (Babreka), The Twin (Bliznaka), The Trefoil (Trilistnika) and The Lower Lake (Dolnoto). One thing is clear, this area is a true peace of heaven.
In 2010 a network of traces both for advanced and beginners in mountain biking were constructed in Borovets, served by one of the chair lifts. Different downhill and cross-country routes encircle the resort and offer extreme adventures for everyone interested in this mountain sport. The duration of most of it is around two hours and there are options for children and parents to spend some time together in the fresh air and amongst amazing nature. What a perfect idea for a summer vacation!
It is not coincidentally that the old Slavs named Rila – the mountain abounding in water – because three of the longest and high-watered rivers in Bulgaria originate from it – Mesta, Maritsa and Iskar. One of the most picturesque gorges in Bulgaria is formed by Iskar River. Swift-flowing waters offer high adrenaline emotions for all fans of rafting. It is not necessary to be a professional athlete in this sport, the only thing you need is a brave spirit.
Borovets is a perfect solution for every season and every person who loves wild nature and extreme sports. Rila Mountains will show you its secrets and will stay in your heart so you will feel compelled to return here again.
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