Bulgaria Inside

There are seven of them. People see these wonders as one of the most recognizable Bulgarian symbol. It would be unusual to find someone who has not heard of the Seven Rila Lakes.

The lakes are located in the northwestern part of Rila Mountain and have been listed as one of the 100 national tourism sites. Tiny streams connect the seven lakes, which are situated above each other at heights varying from 2100 to 2500 m.

Nearly 280 glacial lakes are to be found in Rila and the seven are part of the group. Similar lakes can be seen in Pirin Mountain as well. During the winter, the surface freezes and the ice coverage can reach up to two meters.

Each lake has been named after one of its specific features. Sylzata (the teardrop) is the lake that is positioned highest up in the mountain. The name comes from its pure and clean water.

Okoto (the eye) and Bubreka (the kidney) got their names from the form they have. Bliznaka (the twin) has almost split in two separate lakes. Trilistnika, Ribnoto and Dolnoto are the three lowest lakes. The water of Dolnoto (the lowest) lake flows into the river of Dzherman.

These are the seven most famous of the Rila lakes. The rest are either grouped together in a similar manner, or dispersed.

Out of the seven lakes, Okoto is the deepest with its 39 meters.

Skakavitsa cabin and Skakavitsa waterfall are located nearby. The waterfall is the one positioned highest up in Rila.

Tourists can reach the lakes using several routes. From Sofia head to Samokov, from where you can travel to Vada cabin. The cabin owners will direct you and help you get to the lakes.

A three-hour walk will take you from Rilski Ezera cabin to Sedemte Ezera cabin. Another option involves traveling to Panichishte or Sapareva Banya. The walk to the lakes from the village of Sapareva Banya lasts nearly six hours.