Travel Guide to Ledenoto Ezero Shelter

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the town of Samokov. Head towards the Rila Monastery by taking the E-79 road. After approximately 20 km, follow the signs to the Rila National Park entrance. Once inside the park, continue driving until you reach the parking lot at the base of the hiking trail to Ledenoto Ezero. The last section of the journey requires you to park and then hike approximately 2 km along a well-marked path that leads directly to Ledenoto Ezero Shelter. Ensure you have proper hiking gear, as the terrain can be uneven.

• Public Transportation

  For those using public transportation, take a bus from Sofia to Samokov. Buses run frequently and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once in Samokov, you can take a local bus or taxi to the Rila Monastery area. From the monastery, you will need to hike approximately 2 km along a marked trail to reach Ledenoto Ezero Shelter. Be sure to check the bus schedules beforehand as they may vary.

• Taxi

  If you prefer a more direct route, consider hiring a taxi from Samokov to the Rila National Park entrance. This option may cost around 30 to 50 BGN depending on the time of day and the taxi service. After reaching the entrance, you will still need to hike approximately 2 km to Ledenoto Ezero Shelter. Make sure to confirm with the driver that they can wait for you or arrange for a return trip.

• Hiking

  Regardless of your mode of transportation to the Rila National Park, the final leg of your journey will be a scenic hike. The trail to Ledenoto Ezero Shelter is well-marked and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes to hike this distance. Ensure you have water and snacks, and enjoy the natural beauty along the way!