Fish Lake: A Tranquil Jewel of the Rila Mountains
Discover Fish Lake in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains: A picturesque hiking destination with serene beauty and crystal-clear waters.
Fish Lake, also known as Ribnoto Ezero, is a serene glacial lake nestled within Bulgaria's Rila Mountains. Part of the famous Seven Rila Lakes, it's a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering stunning scenery and a peaceful escape.
A brief summary to Fish Lake
- 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 hiking shoes to navigate the trails easily.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake for a relaxing break.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe hiking experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Fish Lake using public transport, start by taking a bus from Sofia to Dupnitsa from the "Ovcha Kupel" station. Buses depart frequently, and the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, costing around 6 BGN. From Dupnitsa, take a local bus to Sapareva Banya (30 minutes, 1.2-1.5 BGN). Finally, a shuttle bus or taxi from Sapareva Banya to Pionerska Hut (Seven Rila Lakes lift) costs approximately 15 BGN. From the lift, it is a 30-minute hike to Fish Lake.
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Driving
If driving, start from the town of Rila and head east on the E-79 highway towards Dupnitsa. After about 10 km, take the exit for Rila Monastery and follow the signs. Continue towards the Rila Monastery, then turn left onto the road leading to the Fish Lake trailhead. Drive carefully on the potentially bumpy road. Park in the designated area and hike for about 30 minutes to reach Fish Lake. Parking costs are variable but expect to pay around 5-10 BGN. Note that during peak season, parking may be limited.
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Walking
From the Rila Lakes Hut, which is accessible via a scenic chairlift (25 BGN return ticket), follow the well-marked hiking trail towards Fish Lake. The hike is roughly 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Ensure you have sturdy hiking shoes and water.
Discover more about Fish Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains at the Fish Lakes Hut, a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking unforgettable mountain experiences.
Резерват Парангалица
9.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parangalitsa Nature Preserve, Bulgaria's serene sanctuary, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
11.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ledenoto Ezero Shelter, your perfect mountain retreat in Bulgaria, combining breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.
Hrelyo’s Tower
12.8 km
Explore Hrelyo’s Tower at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets stunning architecture in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Bodrost
14.4 km
Escape to Bodrost Ski Resort in the Rila Mountains: Serene slopes, stunning nature, and a perfect getaway for beginner skiers.
Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
15.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at the Borovets Yastrebets Gondola in the stunning Rila Mountains of Bulgaria.
Vada Hut
17.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
Haramiyata (Black Peak)
17.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Haramiyata (Black Peak) in Bulgaria's Seven Rila Lakes region, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rila National Park - Hiking Trail Viewpoint
17.6 km
Explore Rila National Park, Bulgaria's largest national park, featuring breathtaking viewpoints, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable hiking trails in a stunning natural setting.
Seven Rila Lakes
17.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria, a stunning natural wonder offering tranquility, adventure, and unforgettable views year-round.
Lake Peak (2657 mamsl)
18.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Peak, a premier hiking destination in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
18.1 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.
The Seven Rila Lakes
18.3 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of the Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria's breathtaking natural gem, nestled in the stunning Rila Mountains.
Дворец Ситняково
18.3 km
Explore Дворец Ситняково near Samokov: a royal residence with architectural charm and historical significance in the Rila Mountains.
Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
18.5 km
Discover luxury and tranquility at Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa, a premier retreat in Borovets offering exceptional wellness and breathtaking mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Panorama Viewpoint - Fish Lake
0.9 km
Experience stunning views and serene nature at the Panorama Viewpoint - a hidden gem by Fish Lake in Bulgaria's picturesque Kiustendil region.
Рибните езера
2.6 km
Discover the serene Rila Monastery Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich Bulgarian history.
Черното езеро (Черни гьол)
3.3 km
Explore the tranquility of Черното езеро (Black Lake), a captivating natural wonder in Bulgaria perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers.
Rila National Park
5.0 km
Explore Rila National Park, Bulgaria's natural paradise, featuring breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes, and rich wildlife in the heart of the Balkans.
Rila
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where stunning peaks, glacial lakes, and rich biodiversity await.
Скакавешко езеро
6.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Skakavets Lake in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria - an idyllic escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Царски Рилски езера
6.3 km
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and serene landscapes of Tsarskо Rilski Lake in Bulgaria's stunning Rila Mountains.
Царските Рилски езера
6.4 km
Explore the Tsarski Rilski Lakes: Bulgaria's hidden gem of glacial beauty, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Голям Мечи връх
6.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Golyam Mechi Vrah in the Rila Mountains, a top destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts seeking stunning views and tranquility.
Kovach peak
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Kovach Peak in Bulgaria, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Царското езеро
6.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Царското езеро, a tranquil lake near Мала църква, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature exploration in Bulgaria.
Царските Рилски езера
7.3 km
Explore the enchanting Tsarskite Rilski Ezera, Bulgaria's glacial lakes nestled in the Rila Mountains, perfect for hiking, relaxation, and breathtaking views.
The Dead Lake (Martvoto Ezero)
7.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of The Dead Lake, a hidden Bulgarian gem perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers amidst stunning landscapes.
Semkovo Mountain Resort
7.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Semkovo Mountain Resort, a perfect destination for skiing, hiking, and relaxation in Bulgaria's stunning Rila Mountains.
Рибното езеро
8.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Ribnoto Ezero, a serene lake in Bulgaria perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and picturesque scenery.
Essential places to dine
Хотел Конде Семково
7.6 km
Discover family-friendly adventures at Hotel Conde Semkovo, where comfort meets nature in beautiful Dobarsko.
При Чичо Киро
9.2 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at При Чичо Киро near Rila Monastery – where tradition meets taste in a welcoming atmosphere.
B&B with a diner
9.3 km
Experience the charm of Rilski Manastir at this family-friendly B&B featuring a delightful diner and stunning natural surroundings.
Bear Park BBQ
11.1 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian barbecue at Bear Park BBQ in Beliца – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Hristiana heavenly place
12.4 km
Experience exquisite Bulgarian cuisine amidst breathtaking nature at Hristiana near Belitsa.
Ресторант Градина
12.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Ресторант Градина near Rila Monastery.
Drushliavitza
12.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Drushliavitza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Rilski Manastir.
hotel Pchelina
15.0 km
Experience family-friendly comfort at Hotel Pchelina near Rila Monastery, where scenic beauty meets Bulgarian hospitality.
Gorski Kut Hotel And Restaurant
16.1 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in a serene setting at Gorski Kut Hotel and Restaurant – your gateway to nature's beauty.
Rila fish
16.9 km
Discover Rila Fish in Belitsa: where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality in a picturesque setting.
La Barraka Bistro
17.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at La Barraka Bistro in Govedartsi - where tradition meets taste.
Последенъ Грошъ
17.7 km
Savor traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a cozy setting at Последенъ Грошъ - a must-visit meyhane in Мала църква.
Елешница
17.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Елешница Restaurant near Rila Monastery - a perfect blend of tradition and nature.
Family Hotel-Restaurant "Pri Mecho"
17.9 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"
18.2 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Tavern 'Magic of Rila', nestled by the iconic Rila Monastery amidst stunning natural beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sveta Gora Holiday Village
7.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sveta Gora Holiday Village, your ideal retreat in the heart of Bulgaria's stunning nature.
Coliving Semkovo
7.6 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.
Резерват Парангалица
9.6 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Резерват Парангалица, Bulgaria's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Чайната
13.1 km
Discover the charm of Чайната Coffee Shop, a tranquil haven in Bulgaria offering exquisite brews and a cozy atmosphere for all coffee lovers.
Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
17.0 km
Explore Govedartsi with Shop Rossi, your local supermarket offering fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian delicacies.
Дървени сувенири
17.0 km
Explore the charm of Govedartsi with unique handcrafted wooden souvenirs that embody Bulgarian artistry and culture.
Дървени сувенири
17.0 km
Explore the enchanting wooden souvenirs of Govedartsi, where every handcrafted piece tells a story of Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
17.3 km
Experience the charm of Govedartsi at the Universal Store, where local culture meets everyday shopping in a picturesque Bulgarian village.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
17.3 km
Explore Govedartsi's Universal Store, a charming destination offering local goods and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bulgaria.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
17.3 km
Explore Универсален Магазин Говедарци in Govedartsi - a local treasure for unique crafts, traditional foods, and a glimpse into Bulgarian culture.
Хранителни стоки
17.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Bulgaria at Хранителни стоки in Мала църква, a local store offering traditional foods and delightful local products.
Magazin Gorelski
17.8 km
Explore Magazin Gorelski in Yakoruda – a shopping haven blending local culture and modern retail experiences.
Смесен магазин
18.1 km
Discover the local flavors and essentials at Yurukovo's beloved convenience store, your go-to stop for snacks and regional treats.
Хранителен магазин
18.3 km
Explore Хранителен магазин in Мала църква for authentic local products and a taste of Bulgarian culture, perfect for every traveler.
Хранителен магазин
18.3 km
Explore the heart of Bulgarian culture at Хранителен магазин – your go-to store for local delicacies and unique crafts in Мала църква.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel Bor Semkovo
7.2 km
Hotel Bor Semkovo: A serene retreat nestled in Bulgaria's breathtaking Semkovo area, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Хотел Конде Семково
7.6 km
Discover the perfect family getaway at Hotel Conde Semkovo, where comfort meets adventure in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
Quattro Malyovitsa
14.4 km
Discover Quattro Malyovitsa, a serene bar in the heart of Bulgaria's Malyovitsa region, perfect for unwinding after your mountain adventures.
Taste the filing
15.0 km
Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
СП ВОДЕНИЦА
17.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of СП ВОДЕНИЦА, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Cafe Blitz
17.8 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.
Martini Restaurant & Bar
18.7 km
Experience culinary excellence and vibrant nightlife at Martini Restaurant & Bar in Belitsa, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
John Smith's Pub
19.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service at John Smith's Pub in Bоровец, a perfect spot for relaxation after mountain adventures.
Red Lion
20.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Red Lion Bar in Borowez, where great drinks and good company meet in a charming setting.
Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and bar
20.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and Bar in Боровец, where delicious food meets unforgettable karaoke entertainment.
KATINA Bar & Dinner
20.0 km
Discover the best barbecue and pizza at KATINA Bar & Dinner, a culinary gem located in the scenic Borovets, Bulgaria.
PAPPA MIA sports bar
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at PAPPA MIA Sports Bar in Bоровец, where sports, drinks, and friendly faces come together for an unforgettable night out.
Misfits Bar
20.0 km
Discover the lively Misfits Bar in Borovets, where fun meets fantastic drinks in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Champions Lobby Bar and Diner
20.0 km
Discover the charm of Champions Lobby Bar and Diner in Bоровец, where delicious cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
White Magic/БялаМагия
20.0 km
Unwind and socialize at White Magic, a cozy bar in Borovets offering a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
