The Rila Mountains hold some of the highest and most beautiful peaks in the Balkan Peninsula. Offering great summer walking, in winter the mountains here are transformed into an even wilder and more dramatic environment. Over the course of your week you’ll enjoy a variety of snowshoe treks. In the shadow of Mt. Maliovitza (2729m) you’ll trek in this beautiful wilderness area. Whilst snowshoeing from your pension in Guiletchitza to Panichiste, you’ll enter the celebrated Seven Lakes area.

Rest your limbs on a gentler day visiting some thermal pools and enjoying lunch with a local family. Snowshoe amongst frozen lakes to reach the 60-metre ice-encrusted Skakavitza waterfall – possibly the biggest icicle you’ll ever see! Finally you’ll visit two of Bulgaria’s historic highlights, Rila Monastery and Sofia.

Transport- Minibus, on foot. Distinctive Accommodation- Pensions (6nts), hotel (1nt).

On most days you’ll be out for 4-5 hours and although travel across snow is much easier with snowshoes (compared to just boots), a good level of walking/general fitness is required.