The Cave of Saint John of Rila: A Spiritual Sanctuary
Discover the serene Cave of Saint John of Rila in the Rila Mountains, a sacred sanctuary and historical hermitage of Bulgaria's patron saint.
Nestled in the Rila Mountains, the Cave of Saint John of Rila is a sacred site where St. John of Rila, the patron saint of Bulgaria, lived as a hermit in the 10th century. The cave features a small chapel adorned with vibrant frescoes, offering visitors a serene atmosphere for meditation and reflection. It's a pilgrimage destination that combines spiritual significance with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Rila Mountains.
A brief summary to The Cave of Saint John of Rila
- 107 8, Рилски манастир, 2643, BG
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail to the cave can be steep and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Consider visiting the nearby Rila Monastery for a complete cultural experience.
- Respect the spiritual significance of the site by maintaining silence inside the cave.
Getting There
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Walking
From Rila Monastery, follow the signs towards the Cave of Saint John of Rila. The well-trodden path leads through a beautiful forest. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no entrance fees or tolls for the trail or cave.
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Taxi
From Rila Monastery, taxis are available to take you closer to the cave entrance. The drive is about 5 minutes. After the short taxi ride, a 15-20 minute walk through the forest is still required to reach the cave. The taxi fare is approximately 10-15 BGN. Confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey.
Discover more about The Cave of Saint John of Rila
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hrelyo’s Tower
3.0 km
Explore Hrelyo’s Tower at Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets stunning architecture in Bulgaria's breathtaking landscapes.
Ivan Vazov Hut
8.4 km
Experience the beauty of Bulgaria at Ivan Vazov Hut, a serene mountain retreat perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Vada Hut
8.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Vada Hut in the Rila Mountains, where nature and Bulgarian cuisine come together for an unforgettable retreat.
Fish Lakes Hut (ribini ezra)
11.0 km
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Bodrost
11.9 km
Escape to Bodrost Ski Resort in the Rila Mountains: Serene slopes, stunning nature, and a perfect getaway for beginner skiers.
Резерват Парангалица
12.2 km
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Madjare's Hug - Swing with a View
17.2 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.
Ovchartsi Waterfall “Goritsa”
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Sanctuary “The Cross”
18.2 km
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The Dead Lake (Martvoto Ezero)
18.2 km
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Ledenoto Ezero Shelter
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Borovets Yastrebets Gondola - top station
19.4 km
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Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
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Rila park Dupnica
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Borovets Hills Hotel
21.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wandergebiet
0.6 km
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Kirilova Polyana Meadow
2.3 km
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Петлите, Рила
2.5 km
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Еленински Езера
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Eleninski Ezera, a breathtaking chain of glacial lakes in Rila National Park, Bulgaria, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Malyovitsa
2.7 km
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Връх Малък Мермер
2.8 km
Hike to the summit of Връх Малък Мермер in the Rila Mountains for breathtaking views and a rewarding outdoor experience near the iconic Rila Monastery.
Rila Monastery
3.1 km
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връх Камилата
3.3 km
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Nature Park Rila Monastery
3.4 km
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Dodov Peak
3.4 km
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Malyovitsa Hut
4.3 km
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Божие място
4.5 km
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Връх Зелени камък
5.7 km
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Вазов връх
5.9 km
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Лопушко езеро
6.3 km
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Essential places to dine
B&B with a diner
2.4 km
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При Чичо Киро
2.6 km
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Ресторант Градина
3.0 km
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Drushliavitza
3.0 km
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hotel Pchelina
6.4 km
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Gorski Kut Hotel And Restaurant
7.1 km
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Елешница
8.4 km
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Family Hotel-Restaurant "Pri Mecho"
8.4 km
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Tavern "Magic of Rila"
8.7 km
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Gorchim
10.4 km
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Han Dyavolski Vodi
11.3 km
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Pastra
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La Barraka Bistro
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Валдис хотел-ресторант
15.4 km
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Valyavitsa
15.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Чайната
12.0 km
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Резерват Парангалица
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Shop Rossi Магазин Роси
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Дървени сувенири
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Дървени сувенири
14.9 km
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Универсален Магазин Говедарци
15.3 km
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Универсален Магазин Говедарци
15.3 km
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Универсален Магазин Говедарци
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Sveta Gora Holiday Village
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Хранителни стоки
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Semkovo Mountain Resort
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Coliving Semkovo
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Хранителен магазин
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Хранителен магазин
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Фреш Маркет
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quattro Malyovitsa
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СП ВОДЕНИЦА
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Cafe Blitz
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Hotel Bor Semkovo
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Хотел Конде Семково
17.6 km
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TheBrownBar
18.0 km
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Taste the filing
19.1 km
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ВЕНДИНГ БАР - КЛИСУРАТА
20.0 km
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Bistro temenuga
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Park Life
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Snack bar Joy
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John Smith's Pub
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BJ's Bar Apres Ski Bar & Disco
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White Magic/БялаМагия
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Frankos Restaurant Karaoke and bar
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