From Sofia: 7 Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery Extended Trip

Depart Sofia early in the morning and travel by shuttle bus with a professional driver. Journey in air-conditioned comfort to Panichishte in the beautiful Rila National Park. Get briefed on departure from Sofia by your English speaking host, who will tell you the different options and routes you can take up the mountain.

Get 6 hours of free time to go on some amazing nature walks independently to experience the glacial lakes from different perspectives. Choose to ride up with the chair lift to the Rila lakes hut (to save you somme physical effort) or hike all the way up from the parking lot to the lakes area. In case you use the lift, please kindly note that there is still hiking involved. The number of lakes seen can vary according to the route you take, the walking speed and number of breaks and other factors.

Board the shuttle bus at the agreed meeting point and relax on the 1-hour 45-min drive to Rila Monastery in a deep valley of the Rilska River. Founded in the 10th century, the monastery complex is regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural and historical monuments. Get 1 hour 15 min to explore the largest Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria at your own pace.

Then, return to Sofia in the evening and get dropped off at the meeting point.