From the series: With a Backpack on My Back
When I travel, I discover new places and create new friendships. I experience not just enjoyment, but something more profound: grounding, peace of mind, a return to nature, a sense of where our ancestors spent their time. I try to pass this passion on to my children, whom we’ve been taking to the mountains from a young age. We’ve chosen to live in an area surrounded by many attractions and only an hour’s drive from the majestic Rila and the beautiful Pirin mountains. This provides us with direct access to a wide variety of new and interesting places to visit. My husband is a mountain rescuer, which gives me a sense of peace when we explore different and unfamiliar mountain terrains. The night before, we pack our backpacks with all the necessary items, always prepared for the unexpected, and that’s how it should be!
We decide to visit one of our favourite places in the Rila Mountains this weekend – the Seven Rila Lakes! They are unique natural formations that attract tourists from all over the world with their beauty and magic. Anyone who has been there can confirm that it is one of the most inspiring places in Bulgaria. The lakes are situated at different elevations, creating an impressive natural amphitheatre.
The Journey to the Seven Rila Lakes
To reach the Seven Rila Lakes from the capital, Sofia, we head towards Sapareva Banya, from where we take the road to Panichishte. We leave the car in the car park and from there we have the option to continue on foot or take the lift, which will take us to the “Rila Lakes” hut. To save time (an extra hour’s walk), we take the lift. The lift is open, two-seater, and the total travel time is 16 minutes, passing through beautiful pine forests, with the stunning Rila peaks visible in the distance. We get off the lift and find ourselves at the hut, which is also a starting point for several interesting routes.
We are heading towards Panichishte. The road to the Seven Rila Lakes is marked with signs.
The “Rila Lakes” hut was built in 1981 and is located on the site of the old hut, which had been in use since 1932. The new hut offers modern amenities and is the perfect place to rest after a long day of exploring. With warm food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, the hut provides everything needed for a comfortable stay in the mountains.
Mountain Rescue Service Base and “Rilski Ezera” Hut
View of the Rila Peaks
On the way to “The Kidney” Lake
View of the Rila Peaks
The nature around the lakes is incredibly rich and diverse. The paths pass through open spaces with little vegetation, occasionally dotted with alpine flowers and herbs. Many tourists enjoy collecting medicinal herbs that grow abundantly in this area. Here you can find rare and valuable plants such as thyme, St. John’s wort, plantain, cat’s foot, and oregano, which are known for their healing properties.
One of the most remarkable phenomena that attract visitors from all over the world is the practice of Paneurhythmy – a spiritual dance performed by the White Brotherhood. Every year, from the end of July to the beginning of August, followers of the teacher Peter Deunov gather around the Seven Rila Lakes to perform this sacred dance, which symbolizes the connection between man and nature. The dance is performed around the Kidney Lake, one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the group. Paneurhythmy is not only a beautiful sight but also an expression of deep spirituality and harmony with nature.
In the area around the lakes, you can also see various wild animals. With a bit of luck, visitors can observe wild goats, deer, and numerous birds that inhabit the mountainous areas. This adds another dimension to the experience and connection with nature.
Paneurhythmy – The White Brotherhood around “The Kidney” Lake. Photo by Valeri Hristov – Taurus 13.
Paneurhythmy – a spiritual dance performed by the White Brotherhood. Photo by Beinsadouno.
The Lakes in the Order of Their Location
- Lower Lake (Dolnoto Ezero) – The lowest of the seven lakes, located at an altitude of 2095 metres. This lake is often the starting point for tourists beginning their adventure.
- Fish Lake (Ribno Ezero) – Named for the many fish that inhabit its waters. This is the second lake in order and offers wonderful views and tranquillity.
- The Trefoil (Trilistnika) – The lake with a unique shape resembling a leaf. Its unusual shape makes it easily recognizable and attractive.
- The Twin (Bliznaka) – The largest lake by area, impressive with its size and beauty. It is often a favourite spot for photos and rest.
- The Kidney (Bubreka) – This lake is known for its depth and incredible views. It is one of the most popular spots for practising Paneurhythmy.
- The Eye (Okoto) – The deepest of all the lakes, reaching a depth of 37.5 metres. Its crystal-clear waters make it one of the most beautiful lakes in the group.
- The Tear (Sulzata) – The highest lake, located at an altitude of 2535 metres. The Tear impresses with its crystal-clear water and tranquillity.
The lakes “The Eye,” “The Kidney,” “The Trefoil,” and “The Twin.”
A view of the Seven Rila Lakes from above, during the visit of the “White Brotherhood.” Photo courtesy of Yasen Dzhabirov.
The mountain can be unpredictable. The weather can change quickly, and the terrain can surprise us with its complexity. In such moments, preparation can make the difference between a safe adventure and a dangerous situation. That’s why we always need to take care of ourselves and be ready to react adequately to any possible situation.
First of all, appropriate clothing is essential. Even in summer, the high parts of the mountain can be cold and windy. Therefore, it’s good to have extra clothes, a waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, and suitable shoes that provide good traction and protect our feet. It’s always useful to have a sleeping bag, raincoat, and also a scarf, hat, and gloves because temperatures can drop suddenly.
Carrying enough water and food is mandatory. Hydration is extremely important, especially during physical exertion at high altitudes. Light, energy-giving snacks can also help maintain energy during a long hike.
We mustn’t forget to bring a headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries. Even if we plan to finish our hike before dark, it’s always a good idea to have a light source. The trails can be difficult to follow in the dark, and unforeseen circumstances can only delay us.
In our backpacks, we always carry a first aid kit with basic medicines and bandages. They can be an indispensable help in case of injury or illness.
The mountain can present us with unexpected challenges, but preparation gives us the confidence to handle them. It not only helps us take care of ourselves but also gives us the opportunity to help others. We never know when we might meet someone in need of help.
One such encounter can change everything. Like ours, with a young man of medium height with Asian features, who turned out to be an American. He was walking alone in the mountain, which made a strong impression on us. Unprepared, he was only wearing ordinary sneakers, a sweatshirt, and a small backpack, with almost no water. Our conversation with him revealed that he was following offline navigation because he hadn’t purchased a SIM card when entering Bulgaria, and his friends were waiting for him at the Rila Monastery, without realizing how long and difficult the path there was. He had about 6 hours of hiking left, and it was already noon. He would definitely arrive there after dark. We asked him if he had enough water and food, as well as warm clothes, because once the sun sets, temperatures drop drastically in the mountains. He just smiled and told us not to worry, saying that he had been on much more serious routes and returned unscathed. We shared our coordinates with him on a piece of paper, gave him some food and water for the journey, and asked him to contact us when he reached his meeting place. Twelve hours later, we hadn’t received any response and started checking the media for a lost tourist in the mountain. Fortunately, there was no report. When we received a message two days later, saying, “Thank you guys for your kindness, I successfully got to the Rila Monastery and met with my friends but forgot to write to you earlier!”, we felt immense relief.
A photo of part of the Seven Rila Lakes, viewed from the highest terrace accessible to tourists.
This encounter reminded us of how important it is to be well-prepared in the mountains. Preparation not only protects us but also gives us the opportunity to help others in need. The mountain is beautiful and inspiring, but we must always respect it and treat it responsibly. This way, we can enjoy its beauty and create unforgettable memories, while ensuring our safety and that of others.
In the end, after many adventures and exciting encounters, our journey concluded happily. We returned to our daily lives with new memories and inspirations. Regardless of the season, the Rila Mountains and their lakes will always be a special place for our family, where nature and adventures connect us in the most wonderful way.
A view from the highest terrace accessible to tourists.
