Experience the Majestic Rila Lakes via Cable Car
Discover the stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters of the Rila Lakes with a scenic cable car ride in Bulgaria's breathtaking Rila National Park.
The Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes offers a breathtaking journey through stunning landscapes, connecting visitors to one of Bulgaria's most cherished natural wonders. Glide above lush forests and rugged mountains as you ascend to the crystal-clear lakes, each with its own unique charm. This experience not only provides access to a series of picturesque lakes but also presents an opportunity for hiking and exploration in the Rila National Park, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes
- Sapareva Banya, 2650, BG
- +359884163479
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful ride to the lakes.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as there are many beautiful trails to explore once you reach the top.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially from the upper station.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer tourists and milder weather.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car from Rila, start by heading east on the main road towards Sapareva Banya. Follow the signs for 'Sapareva Banya'. The drive should take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Sapareva Banya, look for signs directing you to the Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes, which is located just outside the town. You can park at the designated parking area near the lift station. Note: There may be a parking fee, so be prepared with some cash.
-
Public Transportation
If you're using public transport, you can take a bus from Rila to Sapareva Banya. Buses depart regularly from the main bus station in Rila. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Upon arriving in Sapareva Banya, follow the signs to the Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes, which is a short 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Make sure to check the bus schedule for return times to Rila, as service may vary.
-
Lift
Once you arrive at the Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes, you can purchase a ticket to take the lift up to the lakes. The lift operates from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM daily, so plan your visit accordingly. The ticket prices may vary, so it's advisable to check the official website for the latest information on costs.
Discover more about Lift to the 7 Rila Lakes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vada Hut
3.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
Ivan Vazov Hut
6.6 km
Experience the beauty of Bulgaria at Ivan Vazov Hut, a serene mountain retreat perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Hrelyo’s Tower
11.9 km
Explore Hrelyo’s Tower at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets stunning architecture in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
14.9 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.
Кът за отдих м. Камъка
17.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Beli Iskar, a hidden gem in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Sanctuary “The Cross”
18.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Sanctuary 'The Cross' in Rila, Bulgaria – a perfect blend of culture and nature.
Rila National Park
19.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Rila National Park: a natural paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers in Bulgaria.
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
19.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Rila Mountains at the Fish Lakes Hut, a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers seeking unforgettable mountain experiences.
Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
21.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at the Borovets Yastrebets Gondola in the stunning Rila Mountains of Bulgaria.
Borovets Hills Hotel
21.2 km
Experience the serenity and adventure of Borovets Hills Hotel in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, your perfect escape for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
21.2 km
Discover luxury and tranquility at Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa, a premier retreat in Borovets offering exceptional wellness and breathtaking mountain views.
Boroland Rope Town
21.3 km
Discover the excitement of Boroland Rope Town, where adventure meets nature in the heart of Samokov, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Bodrost
21.7 km
Experience the thrill of skiing in Bodrost, Bulgaria’s premier ski resort, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich local culture.
Yastrebec Express Lift
21.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling skiing at the Yastrebec Express Lift, a premier mountain cable car in Bulgaria's stunning landscapes.
Rila
21.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Rila, Bulgaria's majestic mountain range, rich in biodiversity and adventure opportunities for all.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skakavitsa
1.9 km
Discover the untouched beauty and tranquility of Skakavitsa Nature Preserve, a perfect escape for adventurers and nature lovers in Bulgaria.
Ski lift Panichishte, The seven Rila lakes
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes via the Panichishte Ski Lift, a scenic journey through Bulgaria's stunning alpine landscape.
Rila Lakes Chalet
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Rila Mountains at Rila Lakes Chalet, a serene cabin retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
водопад Малка Скакавица
2.5 km
Discover the enchanting Malka Waterfall in Sapareva Banya, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Skakavitsa waterfall
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Skakavitsa Waterfall in Bulgaria, an idyllic retreat surrounded by nature and adventure, perfect for all travelers.
Обесен камък
3.0 km
Explore Obesen Kamak, a stunning natural attraction in Panichishte, Bulgaria, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
PIC "Panichishte" National Park "Rila"
3.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails of Panichishte National Park Rila, a natural paradise in Bulgaria.
Panichishte Lake
3.7 km
Experience the serene allure of Panichishte Lake, a breathtaking natural attraction perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beauty of Bulgaria's mountains.
"The Giving Hands" Fountain
3.9 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at the Giving Hands Fountain in Panichishte, a serene escape amidst stunning landscapes.
Seven Rila Lakes
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Seven Rila Lakes, a stunning glacial landscape in Bulgaria's Rila Mountains, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Отовишки връх
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria, where stunning alpine beauty meets serene glacial lakes for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
The Seven Rila Lakes
4.2 km
Explore the Seven Rila Lakes, a breathtaking natural wonder in Bulgaria, featuring stunning glacial lakes and panoramic mountain views.
Yavorova polyana
4.4 km
Experience the unparalleled beauty and tranquility of Yavorova Polyana, an idyllic escape into nature's embrace in Bulgaria.
Haramiyata (Black Peak)
4.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Haramiyata, the Black Peak in Bulgaria, where adventure and serene nature harmoniously converge.
Lake Peak (2657 mamsl)
4.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Lake Peak, a stunning hiking area in the Rila Mountains, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Valyavitsa
5.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at Valyavitsa in Sapareva Banya – where delicious food meets breathtaking nature.
Restaurant "Seven Rila Lakes"
7.6 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at the Seven Rila Lakes Restaurant in Sapareva Banya.
Ресторант Гейзера
7.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Ресторант Гейзера in Sapareva Banya, where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
B&B with a diner
11.2 km
Experience the charm of Rilski Manastir at this family-friendly B&B featuring a delightful diner and stunning natural surroundings.
При Чичо Киро
11.2 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at При Чичо Киро near Rila Monastery – where tradition meets taste in a welcoming atmosphere.
Drushliavitza
11.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Drushliavitza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Rilski Manastir.
Ресторант Градина
11.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Ресторант Градина near Rila Monastery.
La Barraka Bistro
12.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian flavors at La Barraka Bistro in Govedartsi - where tradition meets taste.
Family Hotel-Restaurant "Pri Mecho"
13.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Family Hotel-Restaurant 'Pri Mecho', nestled in the breathtaking Rila Mountains – where tradition meets comfort.
Елешница
13.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Елешница Restaurant near Rila Monastery - a perfect blend of tradition and nature.
Gorski Kut Hotel And Restaurant
13.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in a serene setting at Gorski Kut Hotel and Restaurant – your gateway to nature's beauty.
Tavern "Magic of Rila"
14.0 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Tavern 'Magic of Rila', nestled by the iconic Rila Monastery amidst stunning natural beauty.
hotel Pchelina
14.1 km
Experience family-friendly comfort at Hotel Pchelina near Rila Monastery, where scenic beauty meets Bulgarian hospitality.
Gorchim
14.4 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine at Gorchim - a hidden gem nestled in nature's beauty.
Han Dyavolski Vodi
14.9 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine with stunning views at Han Dyavolski Vodi in Pastra.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Фреш Маркет
7.3 km
Discover the flavors of Bulgaria at Fresh Market in Sapareva Banya, where local produce and delightful treats await every visitor.
Store
7.6 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Sapareva Banya at this renowned fruit and vegetable store, offering fresh produce and local specialties.
Mima's clothing store
7.6 km
Explore Mima's Clothing Store in Saparevo for a unique shopping experience filled with stylish clothing, children's wear, cosmetics, and home goods.
Магия от дърво
7.7 km
Explore 'Магия от дърво' in Sapareva Banya for unique handcrafted wooden gifts that embody the artistry of Bulgarian culture.
Candlelight
9.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Candlelight in Ovchartsi, where fragrance and artistry blend seamlessly to create unforgettable experiences.
Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
12.1 km
Explore Govedartsi with Shop Rossi, your local supermarket offering fresh produce and traditional Bulgarian delicacies.
Дървени сувенири
12.3 km
Explore the charm of Govedartsi with unique handcrafted wooden souvenirs that embody Bulgarian artistry and culture.
Дървени сувенири
12.3 km
Explore the enchanting wooden souvenirs of Govedartsi, where every handcrafted piece tells a story of Bulgarian culture and craftsmanship.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
12.7 km
Experience the charm of Govedartsi at the Universal Store, where local culture meets everyday shopping in a picturesque Bulgarian village.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
12.7 km
Explore Govedartsi's Universal Store, a charming destination offering local goods and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bulgaria.
Универсален Магазин Говедарци
12.7 km
Explore Универсален Магазин Говедарци in Govedartsi - a local treasure for unique crafts, traditional foods, and a glimpse into Bulgarian culture.
Хранителен магазин
15.3 km
Explore Хранителен магазин in Мала църква for authentic local products and a taste of Bulgarian culture, perfect for every traveler.
Хранителен магазин
15.3 km
Explore the heart of Bulgarian culture at Хранителен магазин – your go-to store for local delicacies and unique crafts in Мала църква.
Хранителни стоки
15.4 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Bulgaria at Хранителни стоки in Мала църква, a local store offering traditional foods and delightful local products.
Микрис Фешън Груп
16.2 km
Explore stylish clothing and unique accessories at Микрис Фешън Груп, a must-visit fashion destination in Gorna Mahala, Dupnica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quattro Malyovitsa
6.0 km
Discover Quattro Malyovitsa, a serene bar in the heart of Bulgaria's Malyovitsa region, perfect for unwinding after your mountain adventures.
TheBrownBar
7.4 km
Discover the charm of The Brown Bar in Saparevo - a cozy spot for drinks, friendly faces, and unforgettable moments amidst stunning mountain views.
ВЕНДИНГ БАР - КЛИСУРАТА
10.5 km
Experience the charm of Vending Bar in Klisura, a cozy spot for travelers to enjoy refreshing drinks and the beauty of Bulgaria.
Cafe Blitz
14.4 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.
Park Life
14.9 km
Experience relaxation and local charm at Park Life, a delightful bar nestled in the scenic beauty of Bistritsa, Bulgaria.
WHISKY BAR DUPNITSA
17.2 km
Discover the spirited atmosphere and extensive whisky selection at Whisky Bar Dupnitsa, the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Underground Lodge
17.4 km
Discover the charm of the Underground Lodge Bar in Dupnica, where unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.
Factory Lounge & Garden
17.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of grill delights, signature cocktails, and artisanal coffee at Factory Lounge & Garden in Dupnica.
Bar Scolars
17.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local charm at Bar Scolars, a top bar in Dupnica offering delightful drinks and entertainment.
Fresh Bar Simona
17.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Fresh Bar Simona in Dupnica, where locals and tourists unite for unforgettable drinks and entertainment.
Bistro temenuga
20.8 km
Experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine in the heart of Rila National Park at Bistro Temenuga, where nature meets culinary excellence.
Taste the filing
20.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Bulgaria at Taste the Filing, a grill restaurant in Borowez offering sumptuous grilled delights and stunning mountain views.
СП ВОДЕНИЦА
21.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of СП ВОДЕНИЦА, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Delight bar & dinner
21.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bulgaria at Delight Bar & Dinner, where local cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere in Samokov.
Harp Bar
21.8 km
Experience the warm ambiance and local charm at Harp Bar in Samokov, a perfect spot for relaxation after exploring Bulgaria's scenic mountains.
