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The Seven Rila Lakes hike and SPA tour offers an immersive day in Bulgaria’s most iconic natural site, combined with relaxing mineral springs. Departing from Hotel Samokov in Borovets, this full-day experience takes you to the heart of Rila National Park, where you’ll explore the famous glacial lakes and unwind in a forest SPA. The tour is priced at around 30 leva for the lift and SPA entrance, with a total duration of approximately one day. It features a moderate 4-hour hike, making it suitable for those with some hiking experience and comfortable footwear.
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the expert guidance from multilingual guides who bring Bulgaria’s natural landscape to life. The experience emphasizes stunning views, fresh mountain air, and the chance to capture impressive photos at the lakes’ highest point. While it involves some physical effort, the tour’s well-organized schedule includes plenty of opportunities for rest and refreshment—including a lunch break at the top of the hike. The combination of adventure and relaxation makes this tour ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both activity and comfort.
Key Points
- Includes transportation from Borovets in an air-conditioned vehicle, making travel easy and comfortable.
- Guided experience led by a professional multilingual guide, ensuring safe and informative hiking.
- Visit seven distinct lakes, each with unique features like Salzata’s crystal waters and Okoto’s oval shape.
- Hike at elevations between 2,100 and 2,500 meters, with a moderate difficulty level suitable for most active travelers.
- Relax in mineral springs after the hike, with SPA entry available for 30 leva.
- Full-day tour with flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
The Seven Rila Lakes: Bulgaria’s Most Famous Natural Attraction
The tour’s main highlight is the Seven Rila Lakes, the most visited group of lakes in Bulgaria. Located at high altitude in Rila National Park, these glacial lagoons are known for their diverse shapes and vivid waters. Each lake is named after its appearance: Salzata (The Tear), with its crystal-clear waters revealing depths; Okoto (The Eye), with a perfect oval shape and a depth of 37.5 meters; and Babreka (The Kidney), featuring steeper banks. The lakes of Bliznaka (The Twin), the largest in area, and Trilistnika (The Clover) with its irregular form, round out the set. Nearby, Ribnoto Ezero (The Lake of Fish) and Dolnoto Ezero (The Lower Lake) join waters to form the Dzherman River.
The journey to these lakes involves a 30-minute cable car ride that transports participants from the base to the starting point of the hike. During the ascent, travelers can enjoy breathtaking mountain views and the crisp mountain air. The schedule allows time at the top for lunch, photography, and soaking in the scenery before descending back down.
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From the Hotel to the Mountain Top: The Transportation and Cable Car Experience
The tour begins at Hotel Samokov, where participants meet their guide before boarding an air-conditioned vehicle heading toward the cable car station. The 30-minute ride takes you closer to the park’s natural wonders, reducing the amount of walking needed at the start of the hike. The cable car is a highlight for many, offering panoramic views as it transports guests to the mountain, making the journey part of the adventure.
Once at the cable car station, the group prepares for the moderate hike to the lakes. The entire transportation setup ensures a smooth start and finish, making it accessible for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and avoiding long stretches of walking from the base.
The Guided Hike: Discovering the Lakes’ Unique Features
Led by an experienced guide, the hiking route takes you through the stunning landscapes nestled between 2,100 and 2,500 meters. The guide shares fascinating stories about each lake’s name and shape, enriching the experience with local insights. The 4-hour hike is designed to be manageable, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Along the way, you’ll stop at each lake to admire their distinctive features, whether it’s Salzata’s transparency, Okoto’s depth, or the twin lakes’ symmetry. The tour emphasizes beautiful views and the fresh air that makes the effort worthwhile. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for photography and rest before reaching the top, where a lunch break allows you to recharge amidst impressive scenery.
Relaxing in the Mineral Springs and the Forest SPA
After descending from the lakes, the tour includes a visit to a forest SPA for relaxation. Entrance to the SPA costs 30 leva and offers the chance to unwind in hot mineral springs. The springs are ideal for soothing muscles after the hike, providing a pleasant end to the active part of the day.
The SPA experience is appreciated by travelers who want to combine adventure with comfort. Surrounded by nature, this setting enhances the overall sense of relaxation, making it a perfect way to cap off the outing.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details: Meeting Points, Inclusions, and What to Bring
The meeting point for this tour is Red Hat, located in front of the main entrance of Hotel Samokov. The tour includes transportation from Borovets, an air-conditioned car, and guidance in English, German, Hebrew, and Russian—catering to diverse travelers.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, as the hike involves about 4 hours of walking. Sandals or flip-flops are not allowed, given the terrain and safety considerations. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, or individuals with certain health conditions such as height phobia, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or altitude sickness.
The overall duration is around one day, with flexible starting times based on availability. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.
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Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?
This experience appeals to those who enjoy moderate hiking, impressive mountain scenery, and nature photography. The guided support ensures a safe and informative journey, making it suitable for travelers with some hiking experience. The inclusion of SPA relaxation offers a nice balance for those wanting physical activity combined with comfort.
However, it’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for very young children, people afraid of heights, or individuals with certain health conditions. The altitude and physical demands require a reasonable level of fitness.
Final Thoughts: An Excursion for Nature and Relaxation Enthusiasts
The Seven Rila Lakes hike and SPA tour provides a well-rounded experience of Bulgaria’s spectacular natural landscape. The guides’ expertise and the beautiful scenery make this a memorable day, while the relaxing mineral springs add a touch of luxury. The moderate hike is manageable for most active travelers, especially with the support of the cable car.
The tour’s flexible booking options and included transportation make it convenient, and the small, private group enhances the personal experience. If you’re seeking a combination of adventure, stunning views, and relaxation, this tour offers a thoughtful way to enjoy Bulgaria’s mountain treasures.
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Seven Rila Lakes hike and SPA
“We had a really great experience!!!Our tour guide Petar is so nice and professional!! He is very experienced for seven lakes hiking. We are very gr…”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times based on availability.
How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike involves about 4 hours of moderate walking at elevations between 2,100 and 2,500 meters. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for hiking—sandals or flip-flops are not allowed.
Is the SPA included in the price?
The SPA entrance costs 30 leva and is optional after the hike.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, Hebrew, and Russian.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Red Hat, in front of Hotel Samokov.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from Borovets is included in the price.
What makes this tour different from other Rila Lakes excursions?
This tour combines guided hiking with a relaxing spa in a private group setting, with easy access via cable car and flexible booking options, making it both comfortable and memorable.
