Inspiration: 5 ideas for trekking in bulgaria

> Environment:mountain
> Difficulty: moderate
> Recommended season: May to September
> Average duration: 6 days
> Average elevation: 2900 D+ and 3200 D-

Bulgaria is the most mountainous country in Eastern Europe. Its iconic peaks shelter the sumptuous landscapes and isolated monasteries. In Rila and Pirin National Parks, you'll cross the high-altitude mountains of the Balkans Range, discovering glacial lakes and impressive forests.
This trekking route in Bulgaria is suited to hikers in good physical condition. Even if the trail doesn't present any major technical difficulties, some sections involve high and steep elevation gains.

> Environment:mountain
> Difficulty: moderate to challenging
> Recommended season: May to September
> Average duration: 6 days
> Total elevation: 1350 D+ and 2300 D-

Set off on foot, at the heart of the Central Balkan region, to discover traditional villages and enchanting monasteries in the midst of wild nature. Immerse yourself in an authentic experience with the locals, and step back in time, discovering Thracian civilisation. Don't miss out on the Valley of Roses and the old town of Plovdiv.
You'll cross an Alpine relief with rocky terrain. This trek requires hikers to be in good physical conditions and to have experience with regular walking.

> Environment mountain
> Difficulty: moderate
> Recommended season: May to September
> Average duration: 2 to 3  days
> Total elevation: 2 210 D+ and 2165 D-

Bulgaria has some superb hiking circuits to offer to beginner hikers. The Orehovo loop is a great example of this, presenting a mountain route located close to the traditional villages of Tchepelare and Smolyan. On this route, you'll be able to discover the Chudnite Mostove, a rocky phenomenon that is sure to leave you awestruck.
Spend the night at the Hut Persenk mountain cabin, before continuing this moderate-difficulty circuit. This Bulgarian trekking route is fairly quiet, and the trail markings occasionally disappear altogether. Why not contact a local agency or experience guide to accompany you?

> Environment:mountain
> Difficulty: moderate to challenging
> Recommended season: May to September
> Average duration: 3 days
> Total elevation: 2 000 D+ and 2000 D-

This mini trek through the Bulgarian mountains is the perfect occasion to spend the night in small, traditional accommodations, while enjoying stunning panoramic views. This loop route starts close to Lake Okoto, at the foot of Mount Vihren. You'll pass by Lake Tevno, crossing typical vegetation of the region, with landscapes that may remind you of the vast, wild expanses of Lapland.
It's best to do this loop clockwise, as the section connecting Vihren and Tevno is fairly athletic. You'll pass over very rocky terrain, which requires you to be in good physical condition. The rest of the route is much more accessible, even if it includes significant elevation gain.

> Environment:mountain
> Difficulty: moderate
> Recommended season: December to February
> Average duration: 6 to 7 days
> Total elevation: 2 300 D+ and 2900 D-

You can enjoy snow shoe walks in Bulgaria, too! At an altitude of 2000 metres, Vitocha Natural Park shelters a stunning ski resort. During this snow shoe trek, you can discover the Rila Monastery, which is a UNESCO site. You can then head towards the loop of 7 lakes, before crossing the alpine pastures to reach the valley of Maliovista.
Even when simply trekking, this snow shoe hike is accessible for all. To do this circuit, the services of a guide are obviously essential. You can sleep in family-run boarding houses, or in cabin inns, based on the steps.