The Enigmatic Cave of Saint John of Rila
Explore the spiritual haven of The Cave of Saint John of Rila, a serene destination rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Nestled within the serene landscapes of Bulgaria, The Cave of Saint John of Rila is a spiritual haven that invites tourists to explore its rich history and natural beauty. This sacred site provides profound insights into the life of the revered saint, offering a place for reflection and tranquility amid the stunning backdrop of the Rila Mountains. Visitors can witness the remarkable rock formations and ancient frescoes, making it a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
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
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking as the path to the cave can be rocky and steep.
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and breathtaking views.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and intricate frescoes.
- Respect the sanctity of the site by maintaining silence and avoiding loud conversations.
Getting There
-
Car
From Malyovitsa, head northwest on the main road towards the town of Rila. Follow the signs for Rila Monastery (Рилски манастир). After about 20 km, you'll reach a fork in the road where you should take the left towards Rila Monastery. Continue for another 5 km until you reach the monastery area. Park your car in the designated parking area near the monastery, which may incur a small parking fee of around 5 BGN.
-
Hiking
Once you have parked your car at Rila Monastery, start your hike towards The Cave of Saint John of Rila. There are marked trails leading from the monastery to the cave. The hike is about 3 km and will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. Follow the trail signs, and be prepared for a moderately steep ascent. Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry water.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, take a bus from Malyovitsa to the nearest town with bus services to Rila Monastery. You may need to take a bus to Dupnitsa first and then transfer to a bus heading to Rila. Once you arrive at Rila Monastery, follow the same hiking instructions as mentioned above. Be aware that bus schedules may vary, so check local listings for times.
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
Explore the enchanting Ovchartsi Waterfall in Bulgaria, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in a stunning preserve.
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
Experience the serene beauty of The Dead Lake in Yakoruda, Bulgaria, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
18.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ledenoto Ezero Shelter, your perfect mountain retreat in Bulgaria, combining breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.
Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
19.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at the Borovets Yastrebets Gondola in the stunning Rila Mountains of Bulgaria.
Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
21.3 km
Discover luxury and tranquility at Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa, a premier retreat in Borovets offering exceptional wellness and breathtaking mountain views.
Rila park Dupnica
21.3 km
Explore Rila Park Dupnica, a serene escape for nature lovers and families, offering stunning landscapes and recreational activities in Bulgaria.
Borovets Hills Hotel
21.4 km
Experience the serenity and adventure of Borovets Hills Hotel in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, your perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor fun.
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
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nature Park Rila Monastery, a natural paradise enveloping the historic Rila Monastery in Bulgaria.
Dodov Peak
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Dodov Peak, a serene hiking paradise in Bulgaria's Rila region, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Bozhie Myasto in Govedartsi, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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
Explore the breathtaking trails of Vazov Vrah in the Rila Mountains, a perfect escape for hikers and nature lovers seeking stunning vistas.
Лопушко езеро
6.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Lopushko Lake, a breathtaking natural sanctuary in Samokov, where adventure meets serenity amidst stunning landscapes.
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
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Gorchim - a hidden gem nestled in nature's beauty.
Han Dyavolski Vodi
11.3 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine with stunning views at Han Dyavolski Vodi in Pastra.
Pastra
12.3 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Pastra's premier restaurant, blending tradition with modern flair in a cozy setting.
La Barraka Bistro
14.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at La Barraka Bistro in Govedartsi - where tradition meets taste.
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
Discover the charm of Чайната Coffee Shop, a tranquil haven in Bulgaria offering exquisite brews and a cozy atmosphere for all coffee lovers.
Резерват Парангалица
12.2 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Резерват Парангалица, Bulgaria's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
14.7 km
Explore Govedartsi with Shop Rossi, your local supermarket offering fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian delicacies.
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
Experience the serene beauty of Sveta Gora Holiday Village, your ideal retreat in the heart of Bulgaria's stunning nature.
Хранителни стоки
17.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Bulgaria at Хранителни стоки in Мала църква, a local store offering traditional foods and delightful local products.
Semkovo Mountain Resort
17.4 km
Experience the ultimate adventure at Semkovo Mountain Resort, where skiing meets stunning hiking trails in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Coliving Semkovo
17.5 km
Discover a harmonious blend of work and leisure at Coliving Semkovo, the perfect retreat for digital nomads in the heart of Bulgaria's natural beauty.
Хранителен магазин
17.6 km
Explore Хранителен магазин in Мала църква for authentic local products and a taste of Bulgarian culture, perfect for every traveler.
Хранителен магазин
17.6 km
Explore the heart of Bulgarian culture at Хранителен магазин – your go-to store for local delicacies and unique crafts in Мала църква.
Фреш Маркет
17.7 km
Discover the flavors of Bulgaria at Fresh Market in Sapareva Banya, where local produce and delightful treats await every visitor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quattro Malyovitsa
7.0 km
Discover Quattro Malyovitsa, a serene bar in the heart of Bulgaria's Malyovitsa region, perfect for unwinding after your mountain adventures.
СП ВОДЕНИЦА
12.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of СП ВОДЕНИЦА, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Cafe Blitz
16.7 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Blitz in Madzhare - a cozy bar with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying local refreshments and soaking up village life.
Hotel Bor Semkovo
17.2 km
Hotel Bor Semkovo: A serene retreat nestled in Bulgaria's breathtaking Semkovo area, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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
Experience the charm of Vending Bar in Klisura, a cozy spot for travelers to enjoy refreshing drinks and the beauty of Bulgaria.
Bistro temenuga
20.1 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in the heart of Rila National Park at Bistro Temenuga, where nature meets culinary excellence.
Park Life
21.3 km
Experience relaxation and local charm at Park Life, a delightful bar nestled in the scenic beauty of Bistritsa, Bulgaria.
Snack bar Joy
23.2 km
Discover authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Snack Bar Joy, a cozy restaurant in Bansko offering delightful dishes and a warm atmosphere.
John Smith's Pub
23.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service at John Smith's Pub in Bоровец, a perfect spot for relaxation after mountain adventures.
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
Unwind and socialize at White Magic, a cozy bar in Borovets offering a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and bar
23.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and Bar in Боровец, where delicious food meets unforgettable karaoke entertainment.
