Malovitsa is the cradle of Bulgarian mountaineering and alpinism. This is where Bulgarian mountain guides were once trained and where alpinists practiced before setting out on distant expeditions.
Even today, this peak continues to attract thousands of tourists. The view from it is phenomenal.
The starting point for the climb is located just 1.5 hours from the capital, Sofia.
PROGRAM
The group will meet in the parking lot of the Malyovitsa ski resort at 7:30 a.m.
We’ll head up through the valley along the well-known trail to our favorite Malyovitsa hut. After a short break there, we’ll begin our ascent to the first and second glacial terraces, flanked by the majestic rock faces of Kuklata, Malka Malyovitsa, Chernata Skala, and Kamilata. From the second glacial terrace, we head straight toward the formidable ridges of Petlite and Orlovets, and just below them, we begin climbing the steep slope toward Elenino Lake.
Once we reach the cirque, a break is a must! There’s simply no way we can’t take a moment to enjoy all the peaks surrounding us. Once we’ve regained our strength, we tackle the slope leading to our main destination—the panoramic summit of Malyovitsa. After a challenging climb, we reach the ridge and are rewarded with spectacular views of the peaks of Dvuglav, Igla, Kupenite, Vodni Chal, and Musala. On the other side, nestled deep down in the valley, lies the Rila Monastery. And to the south, we can see all the snow-capped giants of the Pirin Mountains in the distance…
All that remains is to cross the summit ridge and traverse the final flat stretch before standing in awe on Malyovitsa and enjoying the view of the snow-covered Malyovi and Urdini Lakes, Dodov Peak, and Vazov Peak.
After a break for a well-deserved meal, we’ll retrace our steps all the way back to the Malyovitsa ski resort. Of course, we won’t miss the chance to stop for some hot tea at the hut along the way!
Distance: 14 km
Elevation gain: 1000 m+ / 1000 m-
Duration: 8–10 hours
EVENT PRICE:
89 € per person
Winter hikes require a minimum of 4 participants. For smaller groups and VIP hikes, please ask about the price.
The price includes:
- certified English-speaking mountain leader
- mountain insurance for the duration of the program
- avalanche kit for every participant
- 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 30–40 liters
- winter hiking shoes + gaiters
- snowshoes — depending on conditions, you can rent them from us
- crampons — you can rent them from us
- ice axe — you can rent it from us
- trekking poles with snow baskets
-
appropriate clothing for winter mountaineering:
- 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 (winter hikes). This ensures the highest level of service.
For winter mountain treks, the price includes an avalanche kit for each participant. You can rent all other equipment (crampons, ice axes, snowshoes, etc.) from us for an additional fee.
No, transportation is not included, but we can assist you if you'd like. Additional fees apply.