Tsarska Bistritsa: A Royal Retreat in the Rila Mountains
Explore Tsarska Bistritsa: A royal hunting lodge in the Rila Mountains with stunning architecture, history, and natural beauty.
Tsarska Bistritsa, a former royal palace nestled in the Rila Mountains near Borovets, served as a hunting lodge for Bulgarian kings Ferdinand I and Boris III. Built between 1898 and 1914, its architecture blends Bulgarian National Revival style with European influences. Today, visitors can explore the palace grounds, art gallery and hydroelectric power plant.
A brief summary to Резиденция Царска Бистрица
- Unnamed Rd,, 2010, BG
- Visit website
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and witness the park's beauty.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking to fully explore the park's scenic trails.
- Check the opening hours before visiting, as the palace is not open every day.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Borovets, head towards the ski lift area. Take the path leading to the right, which will take you through the forest to Tsarska Bistritsa. The walk is approximately 30 minutes and is free.
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Public Transport
From the center of Borovets, take a local bus towards Govedartsi. Disembark at the 'Tsarska Bistritsa' stop, approximately a 15-minute ride. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the park. The bus fare is typically around 2 leva.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from anywhere in Borovets to Tsarska Bistritsa. Ensure the taxi is registered and agree on the fare before starting the ride. The taxi fare should be around 5 to 10 BGN, depending on your starting point.
Discover more about Резиденция Царска Бистрица
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