Seven Rila Lakes + Rila Monastery Day Trip

Embark on an enriching journey to the Seven Rila Lakes and the Monastery for a chance to experience some of Bulgaria's most stunning natural vistas combined with an exploration of a significant medieval site.

Tour Overview

Our meeting point is at Vasil Levski Square, where we'll depart for Rila National Park. A scenic chairlift ride will take us within 25 minutes to the trailhead located in the charming resort town of Panichishte. Get ready to explore one of Bulgaria's remarkable natural wonders: the Seven Rila Lakes!

Soaring to over 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) above sea level, we will embark on a captivating 5-hour trek through the stunning landscapes surrounding the Seven Lakes, the highlight of this park. Our knowledgeable guide will share insights about the unique features of this ecosystem as we visit the marvelous lakes along this intermediate hiking path. Be aware that the duration of the hike may vary, occasionally being completed in around 4 hours.

Following our exploration of the Seven Rila Lakes, the adventure will continue to the historic Rila Monastery, revered as one of Bulgaria's architectural jewels. Walking around its impressive walls, standing at 65 feet (19 meters), you’ll delve into its intriguing past and many fascinating anecdotes.

This monastery stands as a crucial emblem of Bulgarian heritage, having served as a defender of cultural identity during the Ottoman era. As you wander through its grounds, you are invited to step back in time and uncover sites such as the tomb of Boris III, the final king of Bulgaria.

After concluding our tour, we will return to Sofia, where the journey will end at Vasil Levski Square.

Tour Choices

When booking, you may select from the following options:

Transport only: this option allows you to explore independentlyGuided tour with an English-speaking guide along with an audio guide in English