Summer in Mala Tsarkva/Borovets

The village of Mala Tsarvka borders the Rila Mountain National Park, with its spectacular alpine scenery, deep forests and river gorges, and there is easy access to an endless number of valley and mountain trails. The area will be of particular interest to nature lovers and those that love the outdoor life and is a perfect destination for mountain hikers and mountaineers. The Rila mountain range boasts the highest mountain on the Balkan Peninsula (Mt Musala - 2,925 m) and the average height of the peaks are 2,700 m. The mountains are registered in the UN list of representative protected areas and are Bulgaria's largest national park - 81,000 hectares, two thirds of which is forested.

The park contains over 100 peaks, with deep and dramatic river gorges, lakes and waterfalls. The national parks authority has marked many trails and built bridges and information boards and there are mountain chalets for hikers to shelter for the night, making it possible to walk to the Rila Monastery, for example. Another popular walk is to see the Seven Lakes.  There are easier walks for those not so energetic amongst us and the gondola is open all year round so you can just ride to the top and admire the views.

Summer Holiday

It is also a wonderful base for a summer holiday, with its hot summer Mediterranean climate and cool mountain breeze.