Rila National Park, the largest national park in Bulgaria, is located about 100 km. south of Sofia, in the central and highest regions of the Rila Mountains. The Park contains rare and endangered wildlife species and communities, self-regulating ecosystems of biological diversity, as well as historic sites of global cultural and scientific significance. Some of the largest rivers in the Balkan Peninsula originate here. The name Rila is derived from the Thracian word roula, meaning ‘lots of water’.
Seven Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes are a group of lakes of glacial origin, situated in the northwestern Rila Mountains between 2,100 and 2,500 metres elevation above sea level. Each lake carries a name associated with its most characteristic feature. The highest one (2,535 m) is called Salzata ("The Tear") due to its clear waters that allow visibility in depth.
A lot of wild animals come to drink water from the lake. By examining the trails in the mud or the wet sand you cold tell what creature was here not long ago.
Rila Monastery
The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, better known as the Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. It is situated in the southwestern Rila Mountains, 117 km (73 mi) south of the capital Sofia in the deep valley of the Rilska River at an elevation of 1,147 m (3,763 ft) above sea level. The monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Ivan of Rila (876 - 946 AD).
Founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery is regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments and is a key tourist attraction for both Bulgaria and Southern Europe.
Founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery is regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments and is a key tourist attraction for both Bulgaria and Southern Europe.
Far in the distance, surrounded by steep slopes, lies the monastery.
Ones in a while we organise trips and short walks in Rila Mountains, just for fun and to be close to the nature.
Project “TraLSud – Traditional Lifestyle as a Model of Sustainable Development” has been funded with support from the Grundvig Partnership program of the European Commission.