There’s only one way to describe this classic ski touring trip in Rila mountains, Bulgaria – a complete immersion in timelessness…
Over the course of three days, we’ll climb peaks of varying difficulty and ski wide slopes to enjoy perfect turns deep in the mountains.
We’ll experience the unparalleled coziness of the Ivan Vazov hut (2300 m above sea level), where we’ll feel as if we’re cut off from the rest of the world, and for dessert, we’ll ski along an unusual and adventurous route through the mountains!
PROGRAM
Day 1
Route: lower station of the Rilski Ezera ski lift – Rilski Ezera Hut – Razdela Saddle – Damga Peak – Ivan Vazov Hut
The group will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the lower station of the Rilski Ezera lift.
We’ll take the lift up to the hut, fasten our crampons, apply sunscreen, check our gear, and set off along the gentle trail toward the old hut and Lake Okoto. Amid the beauty of the Rila Lakes, we’ll climb to Razdela saddle and Damga Peak for spectacular views of the Malyovitsa Ridge and the Urdini Lakes Cirque. From here, a long, gentle descent awaits us all the way to the Ivan Vazov Hut. We’ll settle into this haven of timelessness and rest properly before the next challenge… or rather, supreme pleasure!
If conditions are good and we still have energy, we’ll enjoy a sunset hike and ride down the wide, gentle slopes of Otovitsa Peak!
Next up: a hearty and delicious dinner, followed by a sound sleep — because tomorrow brings breathtaking beauty and plenty of riding!
Distance: 10–12 km
Elevation gain: 620/1020 m+
Skiing: 400/900 m-
Day 2
Route: Skiing on the slopes of Golyam Kalin, Varla, and/or Seymenski Kamak
On this day, we’ll have a choice between two or three classic runs in the area, and everyone will be able to ride as much as they want, depending on their ability.
First, we’ll head to the northern slopes of Golyam Kalin Peak to properly enjoy the panoramic views and the summit ride, and then we’ll head to Varla Peak, where the gentler slope will give our legs a chance to relax. Next is a long lunch break at the mountain hut, and after that — only for the most motivated — we’ll try one more sunset run down the southern slopes of Seymenski Kamak. Of course, anyone who wants to can enjoy the sunset from the hut as well! IMPORTANT: Depending on snow conditions, the order of the planned runs will change so we can find the best possible snow everywhere!
Distance: 11–15 km
Elevation gain: 1000/1400 m+
Skiing: 1000/1400 m-
Day 3
Ivan Vazov Hut – Otovitsa Peak – Kabul Peak – Rilski Ezera Hut – lower station of the Rilski Ezera ski lift
After we have breakfast and say goodbye to the cozy mountain hut, we’ll climb the steep Otovitsa Peak, where we’ll enjoy the morning sun. The descent will be an adrenaline rush, and once we reach the foot of the peak, we’ll put on our touring skins again and climb the nearby Kabul Peak, which means “hospitable.” From there, our guide will choose the best route for the descent back to the Rilski Ezera hut, from where we’ll return to our starting point via the official ski trail.
Distance: 11–12 km
Elevation gain: 660 m+
Skiing: 1400 m-
EVENT PRICE:
389 € per person
Ski tours require a minimum of 4 participants. For smaller groups and VIP tours, please ask about the price.
The price includes:
- certified English-speaking or French-speaking ski touring guide
- mountain insurance for the duration of the program
- avalanche kit for every participant
- overnight stay at Ivan Vazov mountain hut (x2)
- trip planning
The price does not include:
- transportation, food and beverages, personal expenses, and anything not listed as included
Mandatory personal equipment:
- backpack of about 30–35 liters
- ski touring or splitboard set
- ski helmet
- crampons
- ski poles with large baskets
-
appropriate clothing for ski touring:
- comfortable pants (winter model)
- quick-drying T-shirt
- thermal undershirt and leggings
- fleece jacket
- waterproof jacket
- puffer jacket with a hood
- spare dry clothes and 2 pairs of spare socks
- winter hat
- summer hat
- 2 pairs of gloves (well-insulated and waterproof)
- buff, bandana or another type of head coverage
- headlamp
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- personal first-aid kit as needed
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions We Often Receive
The maximum number of participants in a group with one guide is 6 (ski tours). This ensures the highest level of service and safety.
For ski tours, the price includes an avalanche kit for each participant. You can rent all other equipment (ski touring set, crampons, ice axe, helmet, etc.) from us for an additional fee.
No, transportation is not included, but we can assist you if you'd like. Additional fees apply.