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Rila Monastery Snowshoeing
Price range: €180.00 through €240.00
The monastery of Rila is situated at the heart of the Rila Mountains, within the broadleaf forests of the Rila Monastery Nature Park and surrounded by the sharp rocky peaks that look like giant guardians. Here is an opportunity to combine a visit to Bulgaria’s most famous monastery with an easy winter snowshoe walk in the surrounding Rila Mountains.
Let’s explore snowy forests, the Rilska River and the spectacular mountain scenery around Kirilova Polyana — with no previous snowshoeing experience required. Most visitors are greatly surprised by the surrounding nature and the monastery itself. Join us to see for yourself!
Trip Difficulty: Easy.
- Fitness level: Average;
- Technical difficulty: Non-technical;
- Terrain: Snowy forest trails, river paths and mountain meadow;
- Altitude: ~1150 to 1465 m;
- Snowshoeing: 2 – 2.5 hours
- Group level: Beginners and families;
- Experience required: No previous snowshoeing experience;
Best season: January – March, depending on snow conditions.
Location: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
Note! This is a price per person.
Please contact us for price and availability options for a different group size. We can prepare a custom quote for you.
Rila Monastery Snowshoeing Day Trip from Sofia
We would like to offer you a combination of a visit to the UNESCO site with a winter snowshoe walking trip that will present the beauty of the surrounding area and will add an additional value to the day trip to the Rila Monastery. This is one of our easiest snowshoeing day trips from Sofia. The walk is designed for people without previous experience and we would grade it as an easy and pleasant walk that is accessible for participants with an average fitness level.
The Journey at a Glance
Sofia – Rila Monastery
The transfer to the Rila Monastery takes around 2:30 hours drive.
First we explore the outdoors around the monastery and will leave the visit of the cultural site for later.
Kirilova polyana & Rilska river (+150/-150 m)
Another 15 minutes drive will take us to Kirilova meadow (Kirilova polyana) – a locality at 1465 m of elevation above the monastery. It is near the most alpine peaks in Rila and offers spectacular views towards the main ridge of the mountain with all its granite vertical walls and needles.
We walk along Rilska river enjoying the forests and the winter landscapes of the area.
Return to Rila Monastery
Return back to the monastery with a few options for lunch. Visit to the monastery – 1h.
Option!
It is possible to add a visit to a local winery and wine tasting to extend the day with a local food-and-wine experience.
Travel back to Sofia
Transfer back to Sofia 2:30 hours.
Note!
The snow conditions around Rila Monastery can vary significantly during winter. January to March is generally the best period for snowshoeing, but the route depends on current snow, weather and trail conditions.
If there is insufficient or unsuitable snow, we will do a hiking trip in the area, without the snowshoes, instead.
Is this trip for you?
This is the best snow-shoeing trip for beginners, families and first-time snowshoers. It offers a relaxed mountain experience combined with a monastery visit. It is a good choice if you want to experience snowshoeing and the Rila Mountains without committing to a demanding mountain hike.
Why choose to go to the Rila Monastery for snowshoeing?
Rila Monastery is located deep in the Rila Mountains, surrounded by forests and dramatic granite peaks.
A winter visit offers more than the monastery itself:
- Snow-covered forests around the monastery;
- The Rilska River and peaceful winter landscapes;
- Mountain views from Kirilova Polyana at around 1500 m;
- A combination of culture, nature and easy winter adventure;
- A different perspective on one of Bulgaria’s most important landmarks.
More info on the sight itself here or at the website of the monastery: https://rilskimanastir.org/en/.
| PRICE INCLUDES | ✅ The transfers from/to Sofia; |
|---|---|
| NOT INCLUDED | ❌ Packed lunch; |
| Group Size | 2-3 person, 4-7 person, 8+ person |
| Call Us! | Contact us if you have any additional questions. |
| Are you ready to join us? | YES. |
| Equipment Needed: | ☑️ winter hiking boots – warm and waterproof (to cover the ankle § with hard soles), |
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