Summer activities in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria

The chain of the Seven Rila Lakes is the largest, most picturesque and most visited group of lakes in all of the Rila Mountains. The lakes are found at differing altitudes and appear like large footprints or steps leading up the mountain. Each of the lakes are named according to its shape.

The first lake - Salzata (The Tear) is the highest of the Rila Lakes. It is located at 2535 meters above sea level, has an area covering 7 hectares and is 4.5 meters at its deepest point. The other Rila lakes bear the following names; Okoto (The Eye), Babreka (The Kidney), Bliznaka (The Twins), Botanicheskoto or Trilistnika (The Botanical), Ribnoto (The Fish Lake), and Dolnoto.

The Seven Rila Lakes comprise an extremely sensitive and wonderous spot within the boundaries of Rila National Park. Many of its species are native to the area and are listed in the Red Data book of Flora and Fauna, which denotes them as endangered or rare.

An interesting event that occurs annually within the area of The Seven Lakes is the celebration of the followers of the Bulgarian Christian Spiritualist, Peter Dunov. "The Dunovistes" gather each year on the 19th of August to celebrate the teachings of Mr.Dunov by dressing in white and dancing and singing in large concentric circles under the peaks of the Rila. This event is held in cooperation with the Rila National Park and the Sapareva Banya Municipal Administration.

Respectful spectators are welcome.

Our Ski Apartments are based in the majestic Rila Mountains.

Not only does the Rila Mountains provide skiing in the winter, it also offers outdoor activities in the summer.

Just some of the many activities available are shown below.

Mountain Bike Riding

Come to Borovets and hire a mountain bike.

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Rila Mountains.

There is plenty of riding tracks to suit all levels from beginners to the more adventurous.

All the necessary equipment is available from local shops here in Borovets.

Mountain Walking

The Rila Mountains offers you some of the most beautiful walks in Bulgaria.

Conquer the summit of Mt Mussala, explore the famous Seven Lakes, a more adventerous walk to the Rila Monastary or a casual walk through the glorious pine trees.Whatever your walking capabilities are, the Rila Mountains caters for everyone, including you.

Horse Trekking

Horse riding is an enjoyable, quiet and ecologically sound way of seeing some of Bulgaria's glorious scenery.

Horses can be hired for short guided trips (at set rates), and possibly for long distance journeys (at negotiable rates).

In Borovets, you will find the horses all lined up, ready for your excursion.

Lake Iskar

Often known as "The Sea of Sofia".

This huge artificial dam serves as the water source for the capital, and is a popular day trip for residents of Sofia.

Pedal boats, windsurfers and canoes can be rented by the hour at several obvious spots along the Sofia-Samakov road.

Many locals enjoy picinics by the lake, or stop at one of the innumerable cafes and restaurants.