Thermal Trails: Bulgaria’s Hiking and Healing Escape

Difficulty: Strenuous (4/6) | Elevation gain: 964 m | Distance: 6 km | Duration: 6h

After a hearty breakfast, a short transfer takes you to Vihren Hut (1,950 m) in the Pirin Mountains. Begin your ascent toward Vihren Peak (2,914 m) — the second-highest in Bulgaria and third in the Balkans. The trail offers rocky ridgelines, alpine serenity, and a picnic with sweeping views. After summiting and a reflective pause on the peak, descend to the hut and return to the hotel for mineral bathing or optional wine tasting, followed by a nourishing dinner.

Difficulty: Moderate (3/6) | Elevation: 409 m | Distance: 6 km | Duration: 6h

Journey to Gotse Delchev Hut, then take a chairlift to Bezbog Hut (2,236 m). Begin your alpine hike to Bezbog Peak (2,645 m) through Pirin’s crystalline air. A peaceful picnic stop in nature precedes the descent to Popovo Lake, one of the region’s largest and most beautiful glacial lakes. Afterward, descend via chairlift and transfer to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and relax.

Discover the soul of Bulgaria in Plovdiv, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe. From its Thracian roots to its Roman legacy, visit:

• The Ancient Forum and Odeon
• The Roman Stadium and Amphitheater
• The Old Town, Kapana District, and Nebet Tepe ruins (4000 BC)
• The Ethnographic Museum

Enjoy a traditional lunch and explore cobbled streets lined with local crafts. Return to your hotel for dinner and a restful night.

Difficulty: Moderate (3/6) | Elevation: 704 m | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 8h

Travel to Kalofer, then begin a rewarding hike through the Djendema Reserve toward Paradise Hut (1,430 m). Pass scenic ridges with dramatic views before reaching the base of Raysko Praskalo, the tallest waterfall in Bulgaria. Enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by pristine nature. After a short hike to the falls, return to the hut for a hearty mountain dinner and overnight in the highlands.

Difficulty: Strenuous (4/6) | Elevation: 1,651 m | Distance: 14 km | Duration: 10h

Embark on the Tarzan’s Path — a thrilling trail up to Botev Peak (2,376 m), the highest summit in the Balkan Range. After a picnic near the summit, enjoy sweeping views across Bulgaria. Descend back to Panitsite and transfer to the luxurious Strosel Wine & Spa Hotel. Unwind with wine tasting, a spa session, and a well-deserved gourmet dinner.

This day is dedicated to relaxation and exploration. Start with spa treatments or optionally visit the Thracian Cult Center. Then explore Hisarya, famed for its Roman walls, amphitheater, baths, and tombs — all beautifully preserved. Wander the streets of this tranquil resort town before returning to the hotel for wine tasting and a delicious dinner.

Difficulty: Moderate (3/6) | Elevation: 571 m | Distance: 13.7 km | Duration: 6h

After breakfast, take the Yastrebets chairlift and begin your ascent through Rila National Park to Musala Hut, followed by the Ice Lake (2,709 m) and the summit of Musala Peak (2,925 m) – the highest point in the Balkans. This unforgettable hike offers alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and panoramic views. Return to the hotel for spa time and dinner.

Difficulty: Strenuous (4/6) | Elevation: 1,006 m | Distance: 6.5 km | Duration: 8h

Travel to the Malyovitsa region (1,700 m) and trek through alpine landscapes to Malyovitsa Hut. Continue to the Malyovishki Lakes and finally summit Malyovitsa Peak (2,729 m), a striking crest surrounded by glacial rock formations. Enjoy a mountain picnic, then descend back and transfer to the hotel for a warm soak and dinner.

Difficulty: Moderate (3/6) | Elevation: 469 m | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5h

After breakfast, ascend by chairlift from Panichishte resort to the Rila Lakes Hut (2,081 m). Begin your hike to Lake Peak (2,535 m) for a jaw-dropping view of the iconic Seven Rila Lakes Cirque. Spend the afternoon exploring this magical region before transferring to Sofia, where you’ll check in, dine, and relax.

Difficulty: Moderate (3/6) | Elevation: 482 m | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 5h

Head out for a final hike on Vitosha Mountain, summiting Black Peak (2,290 m) for panoramic views of Sofia. In the afternoon, return to the city for a cultural tour:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Rotunda of St. George
• Ancient Serdica ruins
• National Archaeological Institute

Enjoy your last dinner in a cozy Sofia setting, reflecting on the journey.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Sofia Airport, or request a custom drop-off point. As you leave Bulgaria, carry with you unforgettable memories of towering peaks, mineral springs, ancient ruins, and new friendships. We hope to see you again soon!