Beli Iskar Eco Trail: A Walk Through Rila's Natural Beauty
Discover the Beli Iskar Eco Trail: A scenic and accessible hiking experience in the Rila Mountains, perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
The Beli Iskar Eco Trail, located near the village of Beli Iskar and south of Samokov, offers a serene escape into the Rila Mountains. This well-maintained, circular route follows the Beli Iskar River, crossing it via a series of wooden bridges and showcasing the region's lush forests and diverse wildlife. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, it's an ideal way to experience Bulgaria's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Beli Iskar eco trail
- Unnamed Rd Beli Iskar, 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 shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the trail includes both paved and natural surfaces.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend several hours on the trail, as there are limited options for purchasing refreshments nearby.
- Visit during the spring or summer for the best weather and to see the wildflowers in bloom.
- Follow the blue markings to stay on the correct path, especially near the upper part of the route where there may be unmarked detours.
Getting There
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Car
From Samokov, head southeast towards Beli Iskar. Follow the signs for Rila National Park. Once you reach Beli Iskar, continue through the village, keeping right at any intersections. After exiting the village, drive approximately 3 km on the road with broken asphalt to the trailhead. A parking lot is available near the first bridge. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
From Samokov Bus Station, take a minibus to Beli Iskar. Several daily routes are available. From Sofia, a direct bus to Beli Iskar is available, departing once daily from Alexander Nevski Cathedral. From the Beli Iskar village center, walk for about an hour (approximately 3 km) to reach the trailhead. The walk is easy, with a gentle ascent along the river. Bus fare from Sofia to Beli Iskar is approximately 11-16 USD. Bus fare from Samokov to Beli Iskar is approximately 3 BGN.
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Walking
If you are in the center of Beli Iskar village, the eco trail is accessible on foot. Follow the main road (Unnamed Rd) towards the Rila Mountains. The eco trail begins just outside the village. It's a pleasant walk through scenic landscapes leading to the trail entrance.
Discover more about Beli Iskar eco trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
3.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at the Borovets Yastrebets Gondola in the stunning Rila Mountains of Bulgaria.
Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
3.8 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
3.9 km
Experience the serenity and adventure of Borovets Hills Hotel in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, your perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
4.2 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.
Yastrebec Express Lift
4.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling skiing at the Yastrebec Express Lift, a premier mountain cable car in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
Hotel Musala
5.6 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and adventure at Hotel Musala in Borovets, Bulgaria – the perfect destination for winter sports and summer escapes.
Balkan PMS Travel
5.6 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
5.6 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.
Silver Fox
5.6 km
Experience the essence of Bulgarian cuisine at Silver Fox, where stunning alpine views meet authentic flavors in Borovets.
Hotel Breza
5.7 km
Experience the charm of Borovets at Hotel Breza, a cozy retreat with easy access to skiing, hiking, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
White horse
5.7 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Borovets at the White Horse Hotel, your cozy retreat for adventure and relaxation in Bulgaria's majestic mountains.
bistro Salamander
5.8 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Bulgaria at Bistro Salamander in Borovec, where local ingredients meet traditional recipes in a cozy ambiance.
The Green King, Borovets
5.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Bulgaria at The Green King in Borovets, where hearty meals and warm hospitality await in a charming setting.
WipeOut Bar&Grill
5.8 km
A lively Borovets bar and grill serving up grilled specialties and good times, with a ski shop for all your slope-side needs.
BJ's Bar Apres Ski Bar & Disco
5.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Borovets at BJ's Bar Apres Ski Bar & Disco, the ultimate destination for après-ski fun and entertainment.
Unmissable attractions to see
Кът за отдих м.Камъка
0.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and local charm of Kŭt za Otdikh in Beli Iskar, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Кът за отдих м. Камъка
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Кът за отдих м. Камъка in Beli Iskar, Bulgaria, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the Rila Mountains.
м-т Национален парк Рила
2.9 km
Discover the beauty of nature at M-T Nacional Park Rila, where adventure meets tranquility in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
Парк Мала Църква-Бели Искър-Боровец
3.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Park Mala Tsŭrkva-Beli Iskar-Borovets, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Меча Глава
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Mecha Glava, a hidden gem in Bulgaria's Borovets region, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Езеро Искровете-Боровец
4.0 km
Explore Iskrovete Park in Borovets for a tranquil escape into Bulgaria's breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Ястребец 1
4.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Yastrebets Park in Borovets, where nature meets tranquility for the ultimate outdoor escape.
The hidden creek (р. Бистрица)
4.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Hidden Creek in Samokov, Bulgaria – a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Резиденция Царска Бистрица
4.8 km
Explore Tsarska Bistritsa: A royal hunting lodge in the Rila Mountains with stunning architecture, history, and natural beauty.
Мусаленска пътека
4.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Musalenska Pathway in Bulgaria, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and rich biodiversity for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Musala Peak Trailhead
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating hikes at Musala Peak Trailhead, the gateway to Bulgaria's highest mountain.
Tsarska Bistritsa
5.0 km
Explore the royal elegance and natural beauty of Tsarska Bistritsa, a historic gem in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains.
Национален парк Рила
5.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Rila National Park, Bulgaria's largest national park, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and nature exploration.
Lift Yastrebets
5.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling rides at Lift Yastrebets in Borovets, your gateway to the stunning Rila Mountains.
Tracking Trail to Musala - View point
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tracking Trail to Musala, a scenic hiking adventure in the heart of Bulgaria’s Rila Mountains.
Essential places to dine
Последенъ Грошъ
3.4 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
4.1 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Finish Line Guest House and Food in Samokov - where tradition meets taste.
La Barraka Bistro
5.7 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at La Barraka Bistro in Govedartsi - where tradition meets taste.
Bistro Hrima
5.7 km
Discover authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Bistro Hrima in Samokov - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
BISTRO SUNSKI
5.8 km
Experience the warmth and flavors of mountain dining at Bistro Sunski in Borovets - your perfect après-ski destination.
Chinese Moon
5.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine in Borowez at Chinese Moon - where every dish tells a story.
Jack's
5.8 km
Experience fast food with local flair at Jack's Pub in Borovets—where hearty meals meet vibrant entertainment.
The Black Cat Restaurant
5.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at The Black Cat Restaurant in Bоровец - where flavor meets hospitality in a charming alpine setting.
Sunny's Food and bar
5.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Sunny's Food and Bar in Bоровец - a culinary haven with mountain views and warm hospitality.
Napoli Bar & Dinner
5.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Napoli Bar & Dinner in scenic Borovets – where flavor meets stunning mountain views.
Vicky’s Pizza
5.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Vicky's Pizza in Боровец—where every bite is a delightful experience amidst stunning mountain views.
Lawina avalanche restaurant
5.9 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Lawina Avalanche Restaurant in Borowez – where delicious cuisine meets stunning mountain views.
Panorama
5.9 km
Experience delicious cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Panorama Restaurant in Bоровец.
Titanic Bar &Dinner Borovets
6.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Titanic Bar & Dinner in Borovets - where tradition meets taste amid stunning mountain views.
Samokovi
6.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Bоровец at Samokovi - your culinary retreat in the mountains.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Хранителни стоки
3.4 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
4.1 km
Explore Хранителен магазин in Мала църква for authentic local products and a taste of Bulgarian culture, perfect for every traveler.
Хранителен магазин
4.1 km
Explore the heart of Bulgarian culture at Хранителен магазин – your go-to store for local delicacies and unique crafts in Мала църква.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
5.5 km
Experience the charm of Govedartsi at the Universal Store, where local culture meets everyday shopping in a picturesque Bulgarian village.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
5.5 km
Explore Govedartsi's Universal Store, a charming destination offering local goods and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bulgaria.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
5.5 km
Explore Универсален Магазин Говедарци in Govedartsi - a local treasure for unique crafts, traditional foods, and a glimpse into Bulgarian culture.
Ollie Moly Ski Depot and School
5.6 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
5.7 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.
Winter Bros Borovets Rental Shop
5.7 km
Discover the ultimate ski and snowboard experience at Winter Bros Borovets Rental Shop, your trusted partner for winter adventures in Bulgaria's breathtaking mountains.
ProX-treme Ski Depot
5.7 km
Explore ProX-treme Ski Depot in Bansko, Bulgaria - your ultimate destination for ski rentals, gear, and expert advice for an unforgettable skiing experience.
Дървени сувенири
5.8 km
Explore the charm of Govedartsi with unique handcrafted wooden souvenirs that embody Bulgarian artistry and culture.
Дървени сувенири
5.8 km
Explore the enchanting wooden souvenirs of Govedartsi, where every handcrafted piece tells a story of Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship.
Ски и сноуборд под наем
5.8 km
Discover top-quality ski and snowboard rentals in Borovets, perfectly suited for both beginners and experts, ensuring a fantastic winter retreat.
Selva
5.8 km
Explore Selva in Bоровец for a delightful grocery shopping experience, featuring local specialties and all your culinary essentials.
Lira Supermarket
5.8 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Lira Supermarket in Bоровец, your go-to stop for a delightful shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Taste the filing
3.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
Cafe Blitz
4.4 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.
Snack bar Joy
5.8 km
Discover authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Snack Bar Joy, a cozy restaurant in Bansko offering delightful dishes and a warm atmosphere.
White Magic/БялаМагия
5.8 km
Unwind and socialize at White Magic, a cozy bar in Borovets offering a wide selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
John Smith's Pub
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service at John Smith's Pub in Bоровец, a perfect spot for relaxation after mountain adventures.
Forest Bus Bar
5.8 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.
Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and bar
5.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and Bar in Боровец, where delicious food meets unforgettable karaoke entertainment.
PAPPA MIA sports bar
5.8 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.
Red Lion
5.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Red Lion Bar in Borowez, where great drinks and good company meet in a charming setting.
Harp Irish Bar, Guinness on Tap
5.9 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at Harp Irish Bar in Боровец, where Guinness flows and friendships are made.
KATINA Bar & Dinner
5.9 km
Discover the best barbecue and pizza at KATINA Bar & Dinner, a culinary gem located in the scenic Borovets, Bulgaria.
Champions Lobby Bar and Diner
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Champions Lobby Bar and Diner in Bоровец, where delicious cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Misfits Bar
6.0 km
Discover the lively Misfits Bar in Borovets, where fun meets fantastic drinks in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Delight bar & dinner
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bulgaria at Delight Bar & Dinner, where local cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere in Samokov.
3+3
10.4 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local flavors at 3+3 Bar in Samokov, a perfect spot for tourists to unwind and enjoy Bulgarian nightlife.
