Царските Рилски езера: Jewels of the Rila Mountains
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tsarskite Rilski Ezera, a stunning glacial lake complex in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria.
The Tsarskite Rilski Ezera (Royal Rila Lakes) are a group of stunning glacial lakes nestled high in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty and hiking opportunities, these lakes offer a serene escape into nature. Each lake has its own unique charm, making them a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Царските Рилски езера
- 5G74+3H, Мала църква, BG
Local tips
- Visit during the summer (June-September) for the best weather and trail conditions.
- Wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots, layers, and rain protection, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on the trails.
- Start your hike early to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the lakes.
- Check the lift operating hours if you plan to use the Panichishte lift to access the lakes.
Getting There
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Car
If driving, start from Samokov and follow the Rila National Park road towards Rila Monastery. After approximately 25 kilometers, you'll reach the Rila Monastery area. Continue for another 15 kilometers to the parking area near the 7 Rila Lakes trailhead. Parking fees may apply. From the parking area, hike approximately 2-3 hours to reach the Tsarskite Rilski Ezera.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Sofia to Samokov from Sofia Central Bus Station (approx. 1.5 hours). From Samokov, transfer to a local minibus or taxi to Rila Monastery. From Rila Monastery, continue by minibus or taxi to the parking area near the 7 Rila Lakes trailhead. Check minibus schedules in advance. From the parking area, hike approximately 2-3 hours to the lakes.
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Lift
From Sofia, travel to Panichishte, which is the closest town to the lift. From Panichishte, take the lift to the Rila Lakes. The lift is a two-seater and takes about 20 minutes one way. From the top lift station, it is about an hour and a half of hiking to the Seven Rila Lakes. A one-way ticket costs 25 BGN, and a round-trip ticket costs 35 BGN.
Discover more about Царските Рилски езера
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains at the Fish Lakes Hut, a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking unforgettable mountain experiences.
Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
7.2 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
9.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at the Borovets Yastrebets Gondola in the stunning Rila Mountains of Bulgaria.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
11.8 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.
Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
12.3 km
Discover luxury and tranquility at Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa, a premier retreat in Borovets offering exceptional wellness and breathtaking mountain views.
Borovets Hills Hotel
12.6 km
Experience the serenity and adventure of Borovets Hills Hotel in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, your perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Yastrebec Express Lift
12.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling skiing at the Yastrebec Express Lift, a premier mountain cable car in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
Tsarska Bistritsa
13.1 km
Discover the beauty and history of Tsarska Bistritsa, Bulgaria's royal summer retreat nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains.
Hotel Musala
13.7 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and adventure at Hotel Musala in Borovets, Bulgaria – the perfect destination for winter sports and summer escapes.
Silver Fox
13.7 km
Experience the essence of Bulgarian cuisine at Silver Fox, where stunning alpine views meet authentic flavors in Borovets.
Balkan PMS Travel
13.8 km
Discover the beauty of Bulgaria with Balkan PMS Travel, your local guide to unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Balkans.
Studio Borovets in Hotel Flora
13.8 km
Cozy studio in Borovets' Hotel Flora, offering ski-to-door access, mountain views, and a perfect base for exploring the Rila Mountains year-round.
Vada Hut
13.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
White horse
13.9 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Borovets at the White Horse Hotel, your cozy retreat for adventure and relaxation in Bulgaria's majestic mountains.
Hotel Breza
13.9 km
Experience the charm of Borovets at Hotel Breza, a cozy retreat with easy access to skiing, hiking, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Царското езеро
1.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Царското езеро, a tranquil lake near Мала църква, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature exploration in Bulgaria.
Скакавешко езеро
1.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Skakavets Lake in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria - an idyllic escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Царските Рилски езера
1.7 km
Explore the enchanting Tsarskite Rilski Ezera, Bulgaria's glacial lakes nestled in the Rila Mountains, perfect for hiking, relaxation, and breathtaking views.
Rila National Park
2.5 km
Explore Rila National Park, Bulgaria's natural paradise, featuring breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes, and rich wildlife in the heart of the Balkans.
М-т Йозола-Царските Рилски езера
2.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of M-т Йозола-Царскити Рилски езера, a natural paradise in Bulgaria ideal for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Царски Рилски езера
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and serene landscapes of Tsarskо Rilski Lake in Bulgaria's stunning Rila Mountains.
Рибните езера
4.1 km
Discover the serene Rila Monastery Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich Bulgarian history.
Преход Мала Църква-Рилски манастир
4.7 km
Explore the stunning hiking trails and rich cultural heritage of the Mala Tsarkva area near the iconic Rilski Monastery in Bulgaria.
Rila
4.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where stunning peaks, glacial lakes, and rich biodiversity await.
Планински преход Мала Църква-Рилски манастир
5.1 km
Hike through the Rila Mountains on this scenic trail connecting traditional villages with the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Rila Monastery.
Черното езеро (Черни гьол)
5.5 km
Explore the tranquility of Черното езеро (Black Lake), a captivating natural wonder in Bulgaria perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers.
Panorama Viewpoint - Fish Lake
6.1 km
Experience stunning views and serene nature at the Panorama Viewpoint - a hidden gem by Fish Lake in Bulgaria's picturesque Kiustendil region.
Fish Lake
6.4 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and serene waters of Fish Lake, a hiking paradise in Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
връх Малък близнак
6.5 km
Discover the scenic trails and breathtaking vistas of Vrah Malak Bliznak, a perfect hiking destination near Samokov, Bulgaria.
Голям Близнак
6.7 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails and natural beauty of Goliam Bliznak in Borovets, Bulgaria, a perfect escape for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
При Чичо Киро
8.8 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
9.0 km
Experience the charm of Rilski Manastir at this family-friendly B&B featuring a delightful diner and stunning natural surroundings.
La Barraka Bistro
11.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at La Barraka Bistro in Govedartsi - where tradition meets taste.
Последенъ Грошъ
11.4 km
Savor traditional Bulgarian cuisine in a cozy setting at Последенъ Грошъ - a must-visit meyhane in Мала църква.
Finish Line Guest House And Food
12.5 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Finish Line Guest House and Food in Samokov - where tradition meets taste.
Хотел Конде Семково
13.4 km
Discover family-friendly adventures at Hotel Conde Semkovo, where comfort meets nature in beautiful Dobarsko.
Bistro Hrima
13.9 km
Discover authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Bistro Hrima in Samokov - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Chinese Moon
14.0 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine in Borowez at Chinese Moon - where every dish tells a story.
The Black Cat Restaurant
14.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at The Black Cat Restaurant in Bоровец - where flavor meets hospitality in a charming alpine setting.
Ресторант Градина
14.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Ресторант Градина near Rila Monastery.
Lawina avalanche restaurant
14.0 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Lawina Avalanche Restaurant in Borowez – where delicious cuisine meets stunning mountain views.
Napoli Bar & Dinner
14.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Napoli Bar & Dinner in scenic Borovets – where flavor meets stunning mountain views.
Jack's
14.0 km
Experience fast food with local flair at Jack's Pub in Borovets—where hearty meals meet vibrant entertainment.
Kristal Restaurant
14.1 km
Experience traditional Bulgarian flavors in a charming setting at Kristal Restaurant in Боровец.
BISTRO SUNSKI
14.1 km
Experience the warmth and flavors of mountain dining at Bistro Sunski in Borovets - your perfect après-ski destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
11.0 km
Explore Govedartsi with Shop Rossi, your local supermarket offering fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian delicacies.
Дървени сувенири
11.0 km
Explore the charm of Govedartsi with unique handcrafted wooden souvenirs that embody Bulgarian artistry and culture.
Дървени сувенири
11.0 km
Explore the enchanting wooden souvenirs of Govedartsi, where every handcrafted piece tells a story of Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
11.3 km
Experience the charm of Govedartsi at the Universal Store, where local culture meets everyday shopping in a picturesque Bulgarian village.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
11.3 km
Explore Govedartsi's Universal Store, a charming destination offering local goods and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bulgaria.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
11.3 km
Explore Универсален Магазин Говедарци in Govedartsi - a local treasure for unique crafts, traditional foods, and a glimpse into Bulgarian culture.
Хранителни стоки
11.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Bulgaria at Хранителни стоки in Мала църква, a local store offering traditional foods and delightful local products.
Хранителен магазин
12.0 km
Explore Хранителен магазин in Мала църква for authentic local products and a taste of Bulgarian culture, perfect for every traveler.
Хранителен магазин
12.0 km
Explore the heart of Bulgarian culture at Хранителен магазин – your go-to store for local delicacies and unique crafts in Мала църква.
Sveta Gora Holiday Village
13.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Sveta Gora Holiday Village, your ideal retreat in the heart of Bulgaria's stunning nature.
Semkovo Mountain Resort
13.2 km
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Coliving Semkovo
13.4 km
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Ollie Moly Ski Depot and School
13.8 km
Discover the thrill of skiing in Borovets at Ollie Moly Ski Depot and School, offering expert lessons and top-quality gear rentals for all adventurers.
Спортен магазин MEGA SPORT
13.9 km
Discover quality sporting goods at MEGA SPORT in Borovets, your go-to place for outdoor adventures and athletic wear in the heart of Bulgaria.
ALPIN Rent Ski & Ski School Borovets
14.0 km
Discover top-notch ski rentals and expert instruction at ALPIN Rent Ski & Ski School Borovets, the perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Taste the filing
9.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
Quattro Malyovitsa
11.1 km
Discover Quattro Malyovitsa, a serene bar in the heart of Bulgaria's Malyovitsa region, perfect for unwinding after your mountain adventures.
Cafe Blitz
11.6 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
13.0 km
Hotel Bor Semkovo: A serene retreat nestled in Bulgaria's breathtaking Semkovo area, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Хотел Конде Семково
13.4 km
Discover the perfect family getaway at Hotel Conde Semkovo, where comfort meets adventure in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
John Smith's Pub
13.9 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
14.0 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
14.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and Bar in Боровец, where delicious food meets unforgettable karaoke entertainment.
KATINA Bar & Dinner
14.0 km
Discover the best barbecue and pizza at KATINA Bar & Dinner, a culinary gem located in the scenic Borovets, Bulgaria.
PAPPA MIA sports bar
14.0 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.
Snack bar Joy
14.1 km
Discover authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Snack Bar Joy, a cozy restaurant in Bansko offering delightful dishes and a warm atmosphere.
White Magic/БялаМагия
14.1 km
Unwind and socialize at White Magic, a cozy bar in Borovets offering a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Champions Lobby Bar and Diner
14.1 km
Discover the charm of Champions Lobby Bar and Diner in Bоровец, where delicious cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Misfits Bar
14.1 km
Discover the lively Misfits Bar in Borovets, where fun meets fantastic drinks in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Forest Bus Bar
14.1 km
Discover the charm of Forest Bus Bar in Borovets, where delicious hot wine and a cozy atmosphere await in the heart of the Rila Mountains.
