Rila National Park

Rila National Park

Bulgaria's largest national park, protecting the heart of the Rila Mountains, the highest range in the Balkan Peninsula. Here stands Musala, the peak that rises above 2,900 meters and is the highest point in the Balkans. The park takes in alpine ridges, vast coniferous forests, high-altitude meadows and dozens of glacial lakes left behind by the glaciers that shaped these mountains. It is a benchmark hiking destination — our top tier for mountain nature, with a 4.9 rating.

What you'll see

The best-known attraction is the Seven Rila Lakes, a chain of glacial lakes set in tiers, each with its own name and shape — from "the Tear," the clearest and highest, to "the Kidney" and "the Twin." The view from the ridge above them, with the stepped lakes below, is one of Bulgaria's iconic images. Beyond the lakes, the park offers routes to Musala, wild valleys, springs and rich wildlife. This is the protected wilderness zone; the famed Rila Monastery lies nearby within the Rila Nature Park and is well worth adding to the itinerary.

Practical

Common starting points are the Malyovitsa area and the chairlift that climbs toward the Seven Lakes, reached by car from Sofia in a few hours. The best season for hiking runs from late spring through autumn; in winter the high-altitude routes demand experience and proper gear. Mountain weather changes fast — bring warm layers, water and trekking footwear whatever the forecast says. Check that the chairlift is running before you set out.