Pack your bags for an adventure
Written and photos by Veronika Zver, edited by Scott Green
Just 70 km from Sofia, on the northern slopes of the Bulgarian Rila Mountains, a true gem can be found - Borovets. Borovets gained its popularity thanks to its splendid ski resorts, but few people know that it has lots to offer in the warmer months too.
Today we are happy to present to you yet another awesome idea for a weekend getaway. Enjoy!
How to get there?
The easiest way to get to Borovets from Sofia is by car, it takes a little over one hour. If you would like to take public transportation, there’s a bus from Sofia South bus station. The bus will take you to the town of Samokov, from there you catch another bus that leaves every 30 minutes and goes straight to the resort.
Where to stay?
Apart from numerous spa hotels, Borovets also offers multiple wooden huts for nature lovers. I would recommend opting for them if you are a big family or a group of friends. Separate little houses are perfect for barbecuing outside and morning coffees on the porch. They are located further from the center of town, however, one of the main attractions is close-by - a Hiking Trail to the Black Rock.
Hiking
The trail is suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners. A relatively short (60 to 90 minutes) path will lead you all the way up to the Black Rock with a stunning view at the top. By the way, horseback riding is also available and would cost 120 BGN. During your picturesque hike, you will be surrounded by endless pine trees, fragrant flowers, and chirping birds. There’s an observation deck from which Rila Mountain on one side and the town of Dolna Banya surrounded by endless forests on the other side can be seen.
Despite the peace and calm that rules here right now, the place has a dark past and acts as the memorial of those who lost their lives here after 09.09.1944. A metal cross is installed at the edge of the Black Rock in memory of those victims.
What else?
If you have already hiked in the mountains or it’s simply not your cup of tea, there are some other activities you can enjoy in Borovets, such as the mountain bike park, rope park, alpinism, horse riding, guided tours, and even archery. If you’d like to take a lift up the Rila Mountain, the prices start from 25 BGN both ways for an adult.
Borovets is definitely a must-see if you live in or near Sofia, and we hope you’ll find an exciting activity for yourself. Stay tuned for more adventures.
More information about the resort can be found here.
