Hiking in Pirin- the UNESCO World Heritage Natural Park with a visit of Bansko
Description
This tour is a great opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria-Pirin natural park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. In return for the relatively easy hike, you will admire some of Banderishki Lakes and will be able to see from below the highest pike of the mountain- Vihren. When we are done with the hike, we will go down to the biggest ski resort in Bulgaria- Bansko, where you will have the chance to try a very nice traditional Bulgarian lunch. After regaining your strength, you will have a short guided walk in the historical part of the town, during which you will learn about the history and the architecture of our Revival period.
Tour Options
Itinerary
At 8:00 you will be picked by your guide from your hotel/accommodation in Sofia. The driving time is around 2 hours on a very beautiful scenic road, during which you will see the highest mountain on the Balkans-Rila Mountain. Then we will reach the starting point of our hike – Vihren hut. The hiking will take approximately 3,5 hours in both directions, during which you will pass by 3 of the Banderishki lakes. When we are back in our vehicle, we will head towards Bansko Ski resort, which is 15 minutes from the parking.
When we come down from the mountain we will relax in Bansko-the biggest ski resort in Bulgaria, situated in a valley. We can sit and have a great Bulgarian lunch in a nice place in the heart of the historical part of Bansko. After that, you will have a half an hour walking tour of the place. You will be introduced to the local Revival period architecture and will learn about the beginning of the Revival period in the 18th century. At around 16:30 we will start our journey back to Sofia. Our guide will drop you off at your hotel.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(11)
Very polite staff, great and very energetic experience! My family loved it
This hike isn’t the easiest, but the breathtaking views make every step worth it! I had an amazing day exploring the mountains with my guide, Iliam. He was fun, personable, and made the whole experience really enjoyable. We visited four stunning lakes, each more beautiful than the last. If you’re up for a challenge and love nature, I highly recommend this adventure!
My husband and I were accompanied by Georgi who was available to answer the many questions especially by me. He didn't rush us, but he respected our pace of walking, letting us take pictures and videos in peace. We enjoyed the various stops to eat something, so as to make the walk lighter which is moderately challenging. It was nice to be able to talk not only about nature, but also about the history of Bulgaria and everything to do with this beautiful country. My husband and I are already planning to return to this beautiful National Park and Bansko next year. Thank you Georgi!
Tour was amazing, would strongly recommend. They contacted me the day before to advise of some bad weather but I only had one chance to make this work so I decided to go in the rain and wind. Be prepared for your trip with proper hiking boots, rain jacket, hiking pants and proper fitness condition. Expect altitude of 2500m+. Would definitely go again.
The day before the excursion, the company boss calls to warn me that the weather will certainly not allow the planned hike for safety reasons. He warns me that the Guide will offer me an alternative by picking us up at the Pension. Laura picks us up on time. We're alone with her all day. She is very friendly and organizes the day well. She listens to us and leaves us a choice. An unforgettable day, even if we did not go to Pirin.
Laura as a tour gide is absolutely amazing. Best driver and guide. That's it. End of 100 of whatever mandatory ... this is stupid, because I write what I want.
So glad Anna's article in The Guardian about Sifnos caught our attention and thankful we accepted her invitation to experience it with all of our senses for ourselves. A stunningly beautiful little island in The Cyclades, Sifnos is a hiker's paradise! Anna of Sifnos Hiking organised everything we needed to know so expertly and professionally. She accommodated individuals' needs seemingly effortlessly and we felt we were walking as longstanding friends. Her walks covered dramatically contrasting areas of the island and her knowledge of flora, fauna, history etc is vast. This unspoilt island treasure boasts ancient history, a deep respect of tradition, breath-taking scenery and all in heavenly peace. It's a haven of tranquility where lives are simply led, cuisine is a delight and all are so welcoming and friendly - a truly inspirational, humbling and beautiful experience. Booking up for next year!
Great organisation, fantastic guid (Iwo, thank you again) and awsome lanscapes. That was perfect trip. Highly recommended.
Excellent experience. Wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable guide (Ivo), unforgettable experience of outstanding natural beauty, small group, personal attention
The trip was well organized and the pickup on time. The hike itself could be individually adjusted in length. Picturesque landscapes!
Dear traveler, Thank you for the nice review. Our team wishes you many more pleasant experiences. All the best, BulTrips
