The Serene Sanctuary: The Cave of Saint John of Rila
Explore the Cave of Saint John of Rila - a tranquil retreat that intertwines spirituality with the breathtaking beauty of Bulgaria's natural landscape.
Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Kiustendil, the Cave of Saint John of Rila offers a spiritual retreat for tourists seeking history, nature, and serenity. This sacred site, steeped in Bulgarian heritage, is a must-visit destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty with profound cultural significance.
A brief summary to The Cave of Saint John of Rila
- 107 8, Рилски манастир, 2643, BG
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails around the cave.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural scenery.
- Consider visiting the nearby Rila Monastery for a complete spiritual experience.
- Take time to meditate in this serene environment for a reflective experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Borovets, head south on the main road (E79) towards Samokov. After approximately 10 kilometers, take the exit towards Rila Monastery (Rilski Manastir). Continue on the road for about 30 kilometers, following the signs for Rila Monastery. Once you reach the Rila Monastery area, look for signs directing you to the 'Cave of Saint John of Rila.' The cave is located near the monastery, and you can park in the designated parking areas nearby.
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Public Transportation
From Borovets, take a bus to Samokov from the local bus station. The journey will take around 30 minutes. Once in Samokov, transfer to a bus heading to Rila Monastery. This bus ride will take approximately 1 hour. Get off at the Rila Monastery stop. From the monastery, follow the signs to the 'Cave of Saint John of Rila,' which is a short hike from the monastery. Make sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time to plan your return trip.
Discover more about The Cave of Saint John of Rila
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hrelyo’s Tower
3.0 km
Explore Hrelyo’s Tower at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets stunning architecture in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Ivan Vazov Hut
8.4 km
Experience the beauty of Bulgaria at Ivan Vazov Hut, a serene mountain retreat perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Vada Hut
8.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains at the Fish Lakes Hut, a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking unforgettable mountain experiences.
Bodrost
11.9 km
Experience the thrill of skiing in Bodrost, Bulgaria’s premier ski resort, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich local culture.
Резерват Парангалица
12.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parangalitsa Nature Preserve, Bulgaria's serene sanctuary, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
17.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling swings at Madjare's Hug in Bulgaria's picturesque Madzhare village, a perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Ovchartsi Waterfall “Goritsa”
17.4 km
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Sanctuary “The Cross”
18.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Sanctuary 'The Cross' in Rila, Bulgaria – a perfect blend of culture and nature.
The Dead Lake (Martvoto Ezero)
18.2 km
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Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
18.4 km
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Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
19.4 km
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Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
21.3 km
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Rila park Dupnica
21.3 km
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Borovets Hills Hotel
21.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wandergebiet
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wandergebiet, a serene hiking area near Rilski Manastir, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Kirilova Polyana Meadow
2.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Kirilova Polyana Meadow, a perfect natural retreat in Bulgaria for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning landscapes.
Петлите, Рила
2.5 km
Explore the stunning Petlite in the Rila Mountains, where breathtaking hiking trails meet diverse wildlife in a serene natural setting.
Еленински Езера
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Eleninski Ezera, a breathtaking chain of glacial lakes in Rila National Park, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Malyovitsa
2.7 km
Explore Malyovitsa: Discover breathtaking alpine views, diverse hiking trails, and the untouched beauty of Bulgaria's Rila Mountains.
Връх Малък Мермер
2.8 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene trails at Vruh Malak Mermer, a hiking paradise in Bulgaria's stunning Rila region.
Rila Monastery
3.1 km
Discover the spiritual and architectural marvel of Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site set in Bulgaria's stunning mountain landscape.
връх Камилата
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Kamila, a hidden gem in Bulgaria perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Nature Park Rila Monastery
3.4 km
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Dodov Peak
3.4 km
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Malyovitsa Hut
4.3 km
Discover Malyovitsa Hut, a charming mountain retreat perfect for hiking and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Bulgaria's Rila National Park.
Божие място
4.5 km
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Връх Зелени камък
5.7 km
Experience Vrah Zeleni Kamak: A breathtaking hiking area in Samokov, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Вазов връх
5.9 km
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Лопушко езеро
6.3 km
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Essential places to dine
B&B with a diner
2.4 km
Experience the charm of Rilski Manastir at this family-friendly B&B featuring a delightful diner and stunning natural surroundings.
При Чичо Киро
2.6 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at При Чичо Киро near Rila Monastery – where tradition meets taste in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ресторант Градина
3.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Ресторант Градина near Rila Monastery.
Drushliavitza
3.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Drushliavitza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Rilski Manastir.
hotel Pchelina
6.4 km
Experience family-friendly comfort at Hotel Pchelina near Rila Monastery, where scenic beauty meets Bulgarian hospitality.
Gorski Kut Hotel And Restaurant
7.1 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in a serene setting at Gorski Kut Hotel and Restaurant – your gateway to nature's beauty.
Елешница
8.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Елешница Restaurant near Rila Monastery - a perfect blend of tradition and nature.
Family Hotel-Restaurant "Pri Mecho"
8.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Family Hotel-Restaurant 'Pri Mecho', nestled in the breathtaking Rila Mountains – where tradition meets comfort.
Tavern "Magic of Rila"
8.7 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Tavern 'Magic of Rila', nestled by the iconic Rila Monastery amidst stunning natural beauty.
Gorchim
10.4 km
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Han Dyavolski Vodi
11.3 km
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Pastra
12.3 km
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La Barraka Bistro
14.9 km
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Валдис хотел-ресторант
15.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Valdis Hotel-Restaurant in Rila.
Valyavitsa
15.5 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at Valyavitsa in Sapareva Banya – where delicious food meets breathtaking nature.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Чайната
12.0 km
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Резерват Парангалица
12.2 km
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Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
14.7 km
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Дървени сувенири
14.9 km
Explore the charm of Govedartsi with unique handcrafted wooden souvenirs that embody Bulgarian artistry and culture.
Дървени сувенири
14.9 km
Explore the enchanting wooden souvenirs of Govedartsi, where every handcrafted piece tells a story of Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
15.3 km
Experience the charm of Govedartsi at the Universal Store, where local culture meets everyday shopping in a picturesque Bulgarian village.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
15.3 km
Explore Govedartsi's Universal Store, a charming destination offering local goods and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bulgaria.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
15.3 km
Explore Универсален Магазин Говедарци in Govedartsi - a local treasure for unique crafts, traditional foods, and a glimpse into Bulgarian culture.
Sveta Gora Holiday Village
17.1 km
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Хранителни стоки
17.3 km
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Semkovo Mountain Resort
17.4 km
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Coliving Semkovo
17.5 km
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Хранителен магазин
17.6 km
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Хранителен магазин
17.6 km
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Фреш Маркет
17.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quattro Malyovitsa
7.0 km
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СП ВОДЕНИЦА
12.3 km
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Cafe Blitz
16.7 km
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Hotel Bor Semkovo
17.2 km
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Хотел Конде Семково
17.6 km
Discover the perfect family getaway at Hotel Conde Semkovo, where comfort meets adventure in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
TheBrownBar
18.0 km
Discover the charm of The Brown Bar in Saparevo - a cozy spot for drinks, friendly faces, and unforgettable moments amidst stunning mountain views.
Taste the filing
19.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
ВЕНДИНГ БАР - КЛИСУРАТА
20.0 km
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Bistro temenuga
20.1 km
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Park Life
21.3 km
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Snack bar Joy
23.2 km
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John Smith's Pub
23.2 km
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BJ's Bar Apres Ski Bar & Disco
23.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at BJ's Bar Apres Ski Bar & Disco, a perfect blend of music, drinks, and unforgettable experiences in Bоровец.
White Magic/БялаМагия
23.2 km
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Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and bar
23.3 km
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