Discover the Majestic Seven Rila Lakes
Explore the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria, where stunning alpine beauty meets serene glacial lakes for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Nestled high in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria, the Seven Rila Lakes offer breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable hiking experience. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers, this stunning location is a must-visit for tourists seeking picturesque landscapes and serene beauty.
A brief summary to Отовишки връх
- The Seven Rila Lakes, 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
- Best visited during late spring to early autumn when the trails are clear and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and pack plenty of water and snacks for your trek.
- Consider starting your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique colors of the lakes, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in mountain areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the nearest major town, which is Samokov. From Samokov, take the road towards Rila Monastery. After about 15 km, you will reach the town of Rila. Continue on the road towards the Seven Rila Lakes. The road will lead you to the base of the Seven Rila Lakes area. There is a parking lot near the starting point of the hiking trail to Отовишки връх (approximately 20 BGN per day for parking). From the parking lot, follow the marked hiking trails to reach Отовишки връх, which is approximately a 2-3 hour hike depending on your fitness level.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transport, you can take a bus from Sofia to Samokov (approximately 1.5 hours). From Samokov, you will need to catch a local bus to the town of Rila, which operates several times a day. The journey from Samokov to Rila takes about 30 minutes. Once in Rila, you can either take a taxi or a local minibus to the Seven Rila Lakes area. The fare for the taxi should be around 15-20 BGN. Upon reaching the Seven Rila Lakes area, you'll find a parking lot. From there, follow the marked trails to Отовишки връх, approximately a 2-3 hour hike.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at the Seven Rila Lakes area, prepare for a hike. Make sure you have appropriate hiking gear, enough water, and snacks. The trail to Отовишки връх is well-marked. Start at the parking lot and follow the signs leading to the lakes. The hike is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of the lakes and surrounding mountains. Allow yourself 2-3 hours to reach the summit, and don't forget to take breaks to enjoy the scenery!
Discover more about Отовишки връх
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Seven Rila Lakes
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Explore the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria, a stunning natural wonder offering tranquility, adventure, and unforgettable views year-round.
The Seven Rila Lakes
0.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of the Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria's breathtaking natural gem, nestled in the stunning Rila Mountains.
Ivan Vazov Hut
3.3 km
Experience the beauty of Bulgaria at Ivan Vazov Hut, a serene mountain retreat perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes
4.2 km
Reach Bulgaria's stunning Seven Rila Lakes with ease: Ride the lift and explore breathtaking alpine scenery near Sapareva Banya.
Vada Hut
4.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
Hrelyo’s Tower
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Explore Hrelyo’s Tower at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets stunning architecture in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Ovchartsi Waterfall “Goritsa”
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Explore the enchanting Ovchartsi Waterfall in Bulgaria, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in a stunning preserve.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
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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.
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
17.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains at the Fish Lakes Hut, a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking unforgettable mountain experiences.
Bodrost
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Escape to Bodrost Ski Resort in the Rila Mountains: Serene slopes, stunning nature, and a perfect getaway for beginner skiers.
Rila
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Rila, Bulgaria's majestic mountain range, rich in biodiversity and adventure opportunities for all.
Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
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Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
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Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
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Borovets Hills Hotel
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Unmissable attractions to see
"The Giving Hands" Fountain
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Haramiyata (Black Peak)
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Haramiyata, the Black Peak in Bulgaria, where adventure and serene nature harmoniously converge.
Lake Peak (2657 mamsl)
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Explore the natural beauty of Lake Peak, a stunning hiking area in the Rila Mountains, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Връх Зелени камък
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Experience Vrah Zeleni Kamak: A breathtaking hiking area in Samokov, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Вазов връх
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Hike to Вазов връх in the Rila Mountains for panoramic views and a rewarding outdoor experience in Bulgaria's natural landscape.
Връх Отовица
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vrъh Otovitsa, a premier hiking destination in Bulgaria, offering stunning views and serene natural landscapes.
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Skakavitsa waterfall
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Skakavitsa
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водопад Малка Скакавица
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Discover the serene beauty of Malka Skakavitsa Waterfall near Sapareva Banya, a hidden gem in the Rila Mountains perfect for nature lovers.
Dodov Peak
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Връх Малък Мермер
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Malyovitsa
4.8 km
Explore Malyovitsa: Discover breathtaking alpine views, diverse hiking trails, and the untouched beauty of Bulgaria's Rila Mountains.
Yavorova polyana
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Еленински Езера
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Discover the serene beauty of Eleninski Ezera, a breathtaking chain of glacial lakes in Rila National Park, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Drushliavitza
7.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Drushliavitza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Rilski Manastir.
Ресторант Градина
7.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Ресторант Градина near Rila Monastery.
Valyavitsa
8.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at Valyavitsa in Sapareva Banya – where delicious food meets breathtaking nature.
B&B with a diner
8.4 km
Experience the charm of Rilski Manastir at this family-friendly B&B featuring a delightful diner and stunning natural surroundings.
При Чичо Киро
8.5 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at При Чичо Киро near Rila Monastery – where tradition meets taste in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gorski Kut Hotel And Restaurant
9.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in a serene setting at Gorski Kut Hotel and Restaurant – your gateway to nature's beauty.
Family Hotel-Restaurant "Pri Mecho"
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Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Family Hotel-Restaurant 'Pri Mecho', nestled in the breathtaking Rila Mountains – where tradition meets comfort.
Елешница
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Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Елешница Restaurant near Rila Monastery - a perfect blend of tradition and nature.
hotel Pchelina
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Experience family-friendly comfort at Hotel Pchelina near Rila Monastery, where scenic beauty meets Bulgarian hospitality.
Tavern "Magic of Rila"
10.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Tavern 'Magic of Rila', nestled by the iconic Rila Monastery amidst stunning natural beauty.
Gorchim
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Restaurant "Seven Rila Lakes"
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Ресторант Гейзера
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Han Dyavolski Vodi
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Pastra
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Malyovitsa Hut
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Фреш Маркет
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Store
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Магия от дърво
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Candlelight
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Mima's clothing store
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Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
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Дървени сувенири
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Универсален Магазин Говедарци
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Garden and traditional kitchen ceramics
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Explore Rila's unique garden and kitchen ceramics, celebrating Bulgarian craftsmanship and cultural heritage in every piece.
Микрис Фешън Груп
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Хранителни стоки
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Хранителен магазин
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ДиВен 169
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Eli Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quattro Malyovitsa
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TheBrownBar
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ВЕНДИНГ БАР - КЛИСУРАТА
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Experience the charm of Vending Bar in Klisura, a cozy spot for travelers to enjoy refreshing drinks and the beauty of Bulgaria.
Park Life
15.1 km
Experience relaxation and local charm at Park Life, a delightful bar nestled in the scenic beauty of Bistritsa, Bulgaria.
Cafe Blitz
16.3 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.
СП ВОДЕНИЦА
16.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of СП ВОДЕНИЦА, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
WHISKY BAR DUPNITSA
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Discover the spirited atmosphere and extensive whisky selection at Whisky Bar Dupnitsa, the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Factory Lounge & Garden
18.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of grill delights, signature cocktails, and artisanal coffee at Factory Lounge & Garden in Dupnica.
Underground Lodge
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Discover the charm of the Underground Lodge Bar in Dupnica, where unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.
Bistro temenuga
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Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in the heart of Rila National Park at Bistro Temenuga, where nature meets culinary excellence.
Bar Scolars
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Experience the lively ambiance and local charm at Bar Scolars, a top bar in Dupnica offering delightful drinks and entertainment.
Fresh Bar Simona
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Fresh Bar Simona in Dupnica, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable drinks and entertainment.
Taste the filing
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Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
Delight bar & dinner
24.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bulgaria at Delight Bar & Dinner, where local cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere in Samokov.
Hotel Bor Semkovo
24.2 km
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