Snowshoeing Day Trip to the Seven Rila Lakes

Rila Mountains are the highest range in Bulgaria (and on the Balkans as well) and a great place to go hiking, climbing, ski touring or snowshoeing. It is quite close to Sofia and a trip from the capital to the main starting points of Malyovitsa or Panichishte would take about 1,5 hours by car.

We offer a day snowshoeing trip in Rila National Park, that includes the main sight of Northwestern Rila – the Seven Rila Lakes cirque. You`ll completely change the scenery for a day – from the busy city to the infinite white and solitude of the snowy mountains.

You`ll completely change the scenery for a day – from the busy gray city to the infinite white and solitude of the snowy mountains.

Sample itinerary:

Early start, drive from Sofia to Panichishte area in Rila Mountains – 1,5 hours. Chair lift up to 2140 m. 3-4 hours walk around the lakes. We start walking along the Dry Ridge until we reach the Kidney Lake. Further we descent near the Trefoil Lake, the Fish Lake, the old Seven Lakes Hut and above the Bottom Lake back to the start point. Lift down to Pionerska Hut. Stop at the thermal pools of Sapareva Banya on the way to Sofia. Arrival around 19-20h.

Equipment needed: Get your sun glasses, sun cream and sun hat, also warm hat and gloves. Don`t forget to take a water bottle, some snacks and a sandwich. Most important – you need proper winter walking boots – warm and waterproof and a pair of gaiters, also water/windproof jacket with hood and pants.