Bulgaria Inside

Rila National Park happens to be the biggest park in Bulgaria. It is situated 100 km south of Sofia and spreads over the central parts and highlands of Rila Mountain. The park features rare animal and plant species, as well historic landmarks of international importance.

One of the biggest Bulgarian rivers takes its source in the park. Four preserves form the park’s territory.

Most of the forests in the park are ancient. The trees include spruce, pine and white fir. Many plants have been included in Bulgaria’s red book of rare species.

The animal species inhabiting the region exceed 3000. Nearly 100 types of birds and five species of fish can also be observed there. The types of reptiles and amphibians reach 20.

Rila National Park also features 100 peaks of height exceeding 2000 m. Other natural landmarks include more than 120 lakes.

Hikers prefer the park. It has 17 huts and four shelters that offer accommodation. The aim of the region is to encourage eco and hiking tourism yet assemblies of more people are not recommendable. To limit the number of tourists, shelters and huts offer one-night accommodations only. During the summer, you can walk in the park and spend the night in a tent. Since weather in the mountain changes often, it would be best to plan such adventure during the warmest summer months.

Most of the routes have been marked. A wide network of paths crosses the territory of the entire park. Thematic routes take tourists to the park’s hidden treasures. One of them is Friends of Plants and presents the botanical diversity of the park. Climbing, biking and horseback riding are also possible.