Hiking in Pirin Mountain

Welcome to Sofia. Depending on the time of arrival, you can join our complementary city tour of Sofia starting at 14:00. We shall explore Sofia numerous attractions. Visit some of the city's most remarkable sites such as: Alexander Nevski Cathedral gold domed Cathedral emblematic for Sofia, the church of St. Sophia which gave the name of the city, the Rotunda of St. George, which is the best preserved Byzantine building, the Russian church st. Nikolas, St. Petka medieval church, Banya Bashi Mosque, the ruins of ancient Roman Serdica and many more. At 16:30 we head to Bansko for an overnight.

In the morning, drive to hut Vihren (15 km from Bansko) from where you start hiking. From here is the easiest way to conquer the top. The climbing takes about 3 - 3.5 hours in and has a displacement of about 964 meters, so it requires good physical training. A stunning landscape of high peaks, jagged cliffs and beautiful lakes will accompany you throughout your trek. Back to Bansko. In the afternoon you will have free time to stroll through the town center with its winding streets, stone houses and numerous taverns.

Drive from Bansko to nearby town of Dobrinishte and take the chair lift to Hut Bezbog from where you start hiking. Today's terrain is easy and gentle and you will reach Popovo lake - the largest and the deepest in Pirin Mountain. On the way back you may visit the village of Dobarsko to see its well known church of st. Theodore Tyro and st. Theodore Stratelates. The church is noted for its abundance of original frescoes and icons, some of which are interpreted as portraying Jesus in a rocket. Back to Bansko for an overnight /B/

Drive back to Sofia. On the way back you may stop to see Bulgaria's most famous landmark - Rila monastery - a national icon for Bulgarians, and a wonderfully situated monument of the highest architectural and historic interest. This monastery is a sanctuary of Bulgarian literature and spiritual life. Founded in the middle of the 10th century by St. Ivan of Rila it played a key role in preserving Bulgarian culture and language during the centuries. It is included in the UNESCO world heritage list. Visit the monastery church with its amazing frescos painted by the most famous Bulgarian finest artists from 19th c. Arrive in Sofia..