The Rila Mountains are the highest mountain range in Bulgaria

02.10.2018 18:38

The Rila Mountains lies 70km south of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria and is the highest mountain range in Bulgaria and in the Balkan Peninsula. It rises to 2,925 metres at Musala peak and contains the headstreams of 3 of the main Bulgarian rivers - Iskar, Maritsa, and Mesta.

Thracians called Rila ‘mountains of water’

Rila Mountains inspire awe for their spiritual history and stark beauty. The ancient Thracians called them ‘mountains of water’ because around 200 glacial lakes gleam between these peaks, and ice-cold alpine streams thrash down from their heights.

Rila National Park encompasses more than 800 sq km

Rila Mountains formed one of the most beautiful Bulgarian National Parks. Rila National Park is a peaceful habitat for deers, wild goats and falcons, encompasses more than 800 sq km.

Mount Musala is Balkans’ highest peak

Mount Musala with its 2925m is Bulgaria’s and Balkans’ highest peak. It is surrounded by around 100 other mountains tower above 2000m. The steep ascent to Mt Musala is popular with hikers, as are trails around the glowing Seven Rila Lakes area.

Bulgaria’s main ski hub is in Rila

Slightly north of Rila National Park lies Borovets, the region’s main ski hub, while west of the park boundary stands Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’sspiritual nucleus and a major tourist site.

The Seven Rila Lakes are main attraction for tourists and locals

Sitting at between 2095 and 2535 m above sea level the deep-blue to emerald lakes have names like the Tear (the highest at 2535 m), the Eye (the deepest at 37.7 m) and the Twin (the biggest with an area of just 91 000 sq m). Many liken them to a giant’s footsteps leading up into the mountain. Rugged mountain peaks surround the Seven Rila Lakes, forming a shimmering panorama of blues and greens.

Rila Monastery is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Rila Monastery is one of the most gorgeous and authentic places in Bulgaria. It is situated in 1147 meters altitude in the Rila mountain. The monastery is one of the 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria, designated in 1983. It is a key tourist attraction and many Bulgarians and foreigners visit it.

Snowshoeing in Vitosha and Rila Mountains (Bulgaria)