The alpine ridgeline of Stara Planina and the waterfalls of the Old River gorge

June 22-23

Kupena and Krasttsite are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and difficult peaks in Stara Planina. They are part of the classic traverse "Dobrila - Botev" and sow respect even into the most experienced hikers! Below them, in the beech forests of the Old River reserve, is nestled the Levski refuge - the oldest in the Balkans. The refuge captivates with its coziness and rich history!

The views we will enjoy on this journey are worth every step! During our hike, we will have the pleasure to feel the total magic of the Central Balkan National Park - from sharp peaks, vast ridges and deep valleys to centuries-old forests, clear rivers and high waterfalls!

ITINERARY

Day one
Route: Cahir Lift ride from the town of Sopot to Dobrila hotel - Ambaritsa peak - Kupena peak - Krasttsite peak - Vasil Levski refuge

Meeting at 8:30 at the lower station of the lift above the town of Sopot. After a short ride with the lift, we will reach the Pochivaloto area at 1389m. From there, our walking tour begins, with the first goal of the day being the Dobrila hotel (1804 m.). From the hotel we go to Ambaritsa peak (2166m.), which is one of the most panoramic peaks in the entire mountain! 

Our next goal is Kupena peak (2169 m.), at the foot of which lies the most technical part of our hike! After a short climb we are at the top and we see the next goal - Krastsite! . With caution we pass through the challenges before us and before long we start the descent to the centuries-old beech forests and the Levski refuge (1450m.) - our final goal for the day, begins.

Elevation gain/loss: +1100m. / -1000m
Distance: 18km

Day two
Route: Vasil Levski refuge – Karlovo sprinkler waterfall – Black (Bashit) sprinkler waterfall – Hubavets refuge – the town of Karlovo

After breakfast, we will take a short walk to the Karlovo sprinkler waterfall - the highest waterfall in the Old River reserve. We head back to the lodge, grab our backpacks and head down the scenic river that will take us to our next destination for the day, the Black Sprinkler waterfall!

For lunch we will stop at the Hubavets refuge, and in the afternoon we will enjoy a pleasant and leisurely descent to the town of Karlovo.

Elevation gain/loss: +100m. / -1000m
Distance: 14km

Mandatory personal equipment:
mountain insurance - it will be provided for you by us.
small knife (recommended)
- backpack - about 25-35 liters
- small medical kit - 2pcs elastic bandages, 2pcs plain bandages, emergency blanket, various sizes of adhesive patches
- hiking shoes
- spare socks - 2-3 pairs
- suitable clothes:
* comfortable pants with long legs
* thermal blouse and leggings
* fleece jacket
* raincoat or membrane jacket
* * windbreaker jacket
* down jacket or jacket with synthetic insulation - with a hood
- winter hat
- gloves - two pairs
a buff, bandana or another type of head/ neck scarf - 2 pcs.
- headlamp or flashlight
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- hiking poles (recommended)

HIKES DURATION

     of 5

TERRAIN DIFFICULTY: 

 of 5 

Read more about the hikes difficulty HERE.

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MAXIMUM number of participants: eight persons

All Mountain Talk hikes in three-season conditions are conducted with a guide to participants ratio of no higher than 1:8 . This, in our opinion, is the best way to provide you with an excellent level of safety, an adequate level of itinerary personalization and a maximally pleasant experience, tailored to your needs and interests.

With great interest in the programs, we organize additional, independent groups with their own guide.

PRICE

  • MIXED GROUP PRICE: EUR 155 / participant

    • Mixed group with guide to participants ratio, not higher than 1:8
  • The Price Includes:

    • participation in the program
    • certified mountain guide
    • mountain insurance for the duration of the trip
    • overnight stay in a high mountain refuge
  • The price does NOT include: transportation, food and beverages, personal expenses, anything not listed as included

  • Discount for group bookings: 10% off the price

    • When you sign up with friend(s) and specify this in "Message" section of the sign-up form
    • Only valid for mixed groups!
  • VIP Couple: 260 EUR / participant

    • a private tour just for you and your partner
    • your own guide, fully committed to your custom tailored experience
  • VIP Individual tour: 450 EUR / participant

    • a private hike organized just for you
    • complete personal tailoring and adaptation of the program to your capabilities and wishes
    • private guide
  • VIP private group - three persons: 220 EUR / person

    • a private tour just for you and your two best friends
    • your own guide, fully committed to your custom tailored experience
  • VIP private group - four people: 200 EUR / participant

    • a private tour just for you and your closest friends
    • your own guide, fully committed to your custom tailored experience
  • FOR MORE INFORMATION (Call, WhatsApp or Viber): +359887990753

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