Búlgaría: THE RILA MOUNTAINS

 THE RILA MOUNTAINS rise to the south of Sofia and are the highest mountains on the Balkan Peninsula. The highest peak – Moussala (literally meaning ‘near to God’) rises 2,925m above the sea level. The wind velocity is often over 40meters per second and the snow cover, up to 2 meters thick, remains until the end of June.
The Rila Mountains were once covered by glaciers, which left some 180 lakes glistening among the green meadows and the rocky screens. The deepest is the lake called “The Eye”, from the Seven Rila Lakes, situated on different terraces ranging from 2,100m to 2,800 m above the sea level, very close to one another in a valley.
The deepest and the longest rivers on the Balkan Peninsula, the Maritsa, Iskar, Mesta, also rise in Rila. The Rila Mountains are difficult to climb but roads have been built for the convenience of mountaineers, hikers and tourists.
 

The resort of Borovets is currently Bulgaria’s largest ski centre, created at the end of the 19th century. It is located 1350 above sea level on the northern slopes of the Rila Mountains among age-old pine woods, at the foot of peak Mousala. Borovets is a resort of alpine type and provides excellent opportunities for a whole range of winter sports. The resort has twice hosted World Cup Alpine skiing rounds. It is also famous for its world-class biathlon track. The slopes of Borovets have a permanent snow cover from November to May, more than 1.5 m thick. Ski runs of various difficulty provide opportunities for the full range of skill levels. This excellent resort combines the convenience of modern hotels and chalets with the sweet smelling forests of spruce and pine. Borovets has spectacular views and the cleanest air you are likely to find. During the summer you’ll find glorious walking country around Borovets and during winter, a lovely ski resort.
* Borovets is located just 73 km from Sofia and is easily accessible by car or bus.