Travel Guide of Rila in Bulgaria by Influencers and Travelers
Rila is the highest mountain range of Bulgaria, the Balkan Peninsula and Southeast Europe. It is situated in southwestern Bulgaria and forms part of the Rila–Rhodope Massif.
Pictures and Stories of Rila from Influencers
9 pictures of Rila from Yuliyan Grozdev, Dimitry Anikin, Antonia Chekrakchieva and other travelers
- The Kidney, one of seven Rila lakes ...click to read more
- Experienced by @Yuliyan Grozdev | ©Unsplash
- Monastery of Saint Ivan in Rila, Bulgaria. ...click to read more
- Experienced by @Dimitry Anikin | ©Unsplash
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Map of Rila
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More Travel spots to explore around Rila
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⛰️ Mountain spots 🌲 Ecoregion spots Natural landscape spots ⛰️ Hill spots Landscape spots ❄️ Glacial landform spots ⛰️ Mountain range spots 🏞️ Watercourse spots 🏰 Temple spots Valley spots ⛰️ Highland spotsLearn More about Rila
Rila is located 120km from the capital Sofia, of which the last 32 kilometers are mountain roads, winding beautifully between nature and forests. Rila is actually the name of the northwestern Bulgaria mountain range. On the mountain, there are 7 natural lakes spread along the climbing path. The best time to visit Rila seven lakes is in summer. That is, from July to October, during this time the temperature ranges from 8 to 12 degrees.
There are many ways to go to Rila, that is taking the shuttle bus from Sofia, this is the simplest, on time and convenient but quite expensive. The second way is to take a bus from Sofia to Sapareva and then go hiking to the Rila Mountains. Most of the Rila road is quite gentle, to be able to climb this mountain range is quite easy. To reach the lowest lake, it takes about 2 hours to climb the mountain.
If you have come to Rila, do not miss the opportunity to visit Rila Monastery. Considered the Jerusalem of Bulgaria, this picturesque ancient monastery is the largest religious center in Bulgaria, located southwest of Sofia in the Rila Mountains. Founded in the 10th century, Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments in Bulgaria. Located in the Rila Mountains, the monastery is like a peaceful oasis of religious hermits. The main basilica of the church has five domes, three altars and chapels on either side. You will be surprised by the perfect combination of architectural features here, its graceful domes are highlighted by bold black and white stripes, above the ceiling of the domes and on the walls are paintings. Exquisite frescoes with clear vibrant colors.
Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Rila
If possible, come early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Monastery is open from 7am to 8am.
There aren't too many options in Rila but you can stay at Centaur Family Hotel in Rila, or you can stay at Family Hotel Gorski Kut in Rilski Manastir city 13km from Rila
https://www.booking.com/hotel/bg/family-hotel-gorski-kut.html
https://www.booking.com/hotel/bg/centaur.html
It takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on your strength
Where to Stay near Rila
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