Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RILA MOUNTAINS
'Mountains of Water' was the ancient Thracian name for this compact, majestic set of
peaks covering 2629 sq km - a reference to the 180 lakes, streams and springs gushing
with pure alpine aqua. These waters give the range famous attractions such as the small but
stunning
Sedemte Ezera (Seven Lakes)
, and entice hikers and day-tripping travellers from
Sofia. A hiking trail from the lakes also leads to Bulgaria's most important religious shrine,
the captivating Rila Monastery, which draws throngs of devout Bulgarians and curious for-
eigners to gaze upon its dramatic architecture and vivid, wall-to-wall frescoes and icons.
The Rila Mountains also include Bulgaria's biggest ski resorts, Bansko and Borovets,
and new access roads that will substantially reduce the driving time to Sofia are sure to ex-
pedite their expansion. Now increasingly popular for skiing (and partying) with groups
from Britain, Israel, Russia and beyond, these resorts are growing at the expense of the nat-
ural environment; lovers of untouched natural beauty are encouraged to come before Bul-
garia catches up with more developed winter resort countries.
