Malyovitsa · Rila Mountains · Bulgaria

The Seven Rila Lakes

lakeshikingnaturemountaingoogle verified

challenging

10/10

best: summer, early autumn

epic, natural, tranquil

A local would say...

Seven turquoise glacial lakes in a line up a Rila Mountain ridge — each one a different shade of blue, each one higher and wilder than the last.

Seven glacial lakes strung like jewels across rolling meadows in the central Rila Mountains at elevations between 2100m and 2500m, accessible by hiking trail from the village of Malyovitsa or by lift from the Panichishte resort. The lakes are known for their distinctive turquoise colour and the reflections of the surrounding granite peaks. The area is one of Bulgaria's most popular hiking destinations, with mountain huts along the trails providing accommodation.