LONG WEEKEND Snowshoeing Adventure in Rila Mountains Bulgaria FOREIGN TRIP

Discover a winter wonderland where soft snow covers rugged peaks, glacial lakes lie frozen and ancient forests hum with quiet serenity. Welcome to the majestic Rila Mountains – the highest and most breathtaking range in the entire Balkan peninsula. Dotted with glacial lakes, icy waterfalls, and soaring summits, Rila is a place of raw, untamed beauty just waiting to be explored.

On this snowshoeing journey, we will immerse ourselves in the serenity of this unique landscape. Wander through deep conifer forests, marvel at frozen waterfalls and explore the mystical Seven Rila Lakes - a cluster of glacial jewels nestled high in the mountains. With an experienced guide leading the way, we’ll learn snowshoeing techniques while embracing the tranquility of nature, punctuated only by the crunch of snow beneath our feet in this crisp and awe inspiring landscape.

Join us and walk in the footsteps of ancient Thracians who first named these mountains, experiencing a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Just 2 days off work for a 3-night winter escape
• No winter mountain experience required - perfect for anyone who has never snowshoed before
• Marvel at the frozen cascades of Skakavitsa Waterfall, the highest in the Rila Mountains at 1,750m
• Snowshoe across the vast Rila National Park – Europe's sixth-highest mountain range and Bulgaria's most spectacular winter wilderness, covered in snow from October to April/May
• Hike past the frozen glacial Seven Rila Lakes, each with its own legendary story
• Learn snowshoeing with experienced English-speaking local guide/s.
• Discover Sofia’s vibrant history and culture, from Roman ruins to modern boulevards.
• Small group adventure, limited to just 8 participants
• Stay in cozy hotels - with twin bedded en suite rooms
• Rest in the mountain resort of Panichishte at 1,350 meters offering breathtaking views of Rila National Park
• Flexible itinerary: Relax at a mineral spa if weather impacts hiking plans

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

The Rila Mountains – Bulgaria’s crown jewel and the sixth-highest mountain range in Europe – offer a winter landscape unlike any other. Glacial peaks, icy cascades, and centuries-old pine forests create a serene and otherworldly setting for our adventure.

On this trip, we’ll snowshoe across spectacular, crisp snowy trails in Rila National Park, where ancient legends and breathtaking scenery converge. Admire frozen waterfalls tumbling from rugged cliffs, traverse snowy ridges with panoramic views, and discover the mystical Seven Rila Lakes, frozen into a shimmering wonderland. Guided by an experienced local mountain guide, we’ll learn to snowshoe with confidence while soaking in snow-covered wilderness and the peaceful stillness of winter. Our frozen magic concludes in Sofia, Bulgaria’s historic and cultural heart, where vibrant streets, ancient ruins, and cozy cafes invite you to explore at your own pace.

From the thundering Skakavitsa Waterfall to the mythical Seven Rila Lakes, we'll experience a winter wonderland that few travelers ever get to see.

Important Notes

This trip is ideal for beginners to snowshoeing with a good level of fitness and some experience of mountain hikes. Hiking boots with ankle protection and proper winter clothing are essential. Snowshoes require hiking boots to attach securely.

ITINERARY

Friday

Arrive at Sofia Airport and transfer to Panichishte – a peaceful mountain resort nestled at 1,350m on the edge of Rila National Park. Surrounded by ancient pine woods and dramatic landscapes, our mountain hotel offers stunning views of the snowy peaks. After check-in, enjoy a warm traditional Bulgarian dinner and relax before the winter magic begins.

Saturday

Hike: Skakavitsa Waterfall (1750m)
Grading: Intermediate
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

After breakfast, we strap on our snowshoes and begin our journey into the magical winter landscape, following the gentle flow of the Skakavitsa River. We trek through ancient conifer forests, feeling the snow crunch beneath our feet as sunlight filters through frosted branches, the air crisp and filled with the soothing sound of running water.

Our destination is the majestic Skakavitsa Waterfall thundering 70 meters through a cathedral of centuries-old white pine forests. In winter, its cascading waters freeze into a stunning curtain of glistening ice, surrounded by the silence of winter – a true playground for ice climbers and a breathtaking sight for adventurers.
Return to our cozy hotel in Panichishte for a well-earned evening of relaxation and warm dinner.

Sunday

Hike: Seven Rila Lakes
Grading: Intermediate
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Today, we set off to explore one of the most iconic places in Bulgaria – the Seven Rila Lakes. Nestled between sharp, rocky ridges at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, these stunning glacial lakes sparkle like gems in the alpine landscape. After a scenic chairlift ride with sweeping views of the snow-covered peaks, we begin our snowshoe hike through this breathtaking glacial valley.

Each lake carries a poetic name reflecting its unique character: Salzata ("The Tear") with its crystal-clear waters, Okoto ("The Eye") as the deepest cirque lake in Bulgaria, Babreka ("The Kidney") with its steep shores. In winter, these lakes transform into a frozen wonderland, their surfaces a glittering canvas of white and blue. Local legend speaks of two giants, lovers turned to stone, whose endless grief created these pristine waters – a romantic tale that adds mystical depth to our adventure.

In the evening, we'll transfer to Sofia, where you'll have a free evening to explore Bulgaria's vibrant capital nightlife - a city where ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and modern boulevards coexist in harmonious contrast.

Monday

After breakfast, enjoy some free time to self explore Sofia at your own pace - wander through ancient ruins, visit bustling markets, or admire the stunning mix of mosques, cathedrals, and modern architecture. Then take a short metro ride or taxi to the airport for your flight back home.

COST & PAYMENT

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT - £366 for the first 2 sign ups, then £396. Click “Attend” and pay the £100 deposit by Paypal. The remainder is due by bank transfer before Sunday 30th November, we’ll email payment details 1 week before.

Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. When the trip is sold out fully paid spaces can be advertised to the same gender, for details: FAQ

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Bulgaria are in Bulgarian time.
We suggest the inbound group flights below, for anyone on these flights or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 1:50pm, this collection is from TERMINAL 1 arrivals area. If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flight if delayed)

Inbound flight 27.02.2026
1. Easyjet London Gatwick (LGW) 06:00 - Sofia Terminal 1 (SOF) 11:05
Flight EZY8755
2. Ryanair London Stansted (STN) 05:55 - Sofia Terminal 2 (SOF) 11:20
Flight FR1730
3. Wizzair London Luton (LTN) 08:20 - Sofia Terminal 1 (SOF) 13:30
Flight W64302

RETURN

The trip ends at the hotel in Sofia and you can make your own way to the airport. The cheapest way to do this is via metro (underground) and it costs about 1.60 BGN (£1), taxis are also cheap.

FOOD

Breakfast will be provided each day. We will stop by a local grocery shop where you can buy your favourite items for lunches. For dinner you can explore the local cuisine for approximately £8-£12 excluding drinks.

Vegetarian food can be catered for, vegan cannot in the mountain hotel but can be in the Sofia hotel. Some dietary requirements such as nut free and gluten free cannot be catered for.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us to verify if they can be catered for first: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 3 nights hotel accommodation in twin en suite rooms
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to Sofia
• Breakfast each day
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Hikes by an experienced local Mountain Guide (Outdoor First Aider)

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Flights
• Dinners and lunches (a typical dinner can be had for approximately £8-£15)
• Drinks and personal expenses
• Chair lift pass - approx 30 Lev (£13)
• Hire of essential equipment (snow poles and snow shoes) - 42 Lev (£18)
• Transport from Sofia to Sofia Airport on Monday (Metro is approx £1)
• Travel insurance
• Valid documents

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of snowshoeing (up to 3000m in this case). It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.

There are lots of insurers who cover snowshoeing, for example the BMC: LINK

You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Bulgaria is within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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