Mount Vitosha is one of the most adored and visited mountain in Bulgaria. It is the first officially declared Nature Park on the Balkans to protect alpine meadows, century-old forests and peat bogs. The dome-shaped mountain is crisscrossed by many walking trails, but the most scenic area is the Plateau and the highest peak named Cherni Vrah (2290m/7625ft.)
Difficulty: this walking route is moderately arduous, without steep paths. Please bring along comfortable hiking boots. Sandals and flip-flops are not accepted. Rain jacket might be useful in summer as heavy showers sometimes occur in the afternoons.
The tour is offered as guided (small group) or self-guided. Check the PRICES tab below for further details.
Total transfer time: 2 hours
Walking time: 4-4,30 hrs (hiking time only; moderate difficulty; no steep parts)
Best period: June – October (possible also in May and November; options for snowshoeing treks in Vitosha during winter – contact us for details)
Circular trek, starting from Aleko hut, climbing Cherni Vrah (2290m) and descending along a different route back to Aleko hut. (4-4,30hrs hiking time only; 14km; +590m/-590m)
Our hiking trek takes you on a loop trail, starting from Aleko Hut and going as high as Cherni Vrah summit (2290m), then descending along a different path back to Aleko Hut. Starting from appr. 1750m. above sea level we first traverse the foot of Golyam Rezen Peak and Malak Rezen Peak. This stage is particularly scenic with constant views towards the capital Sofia, the Balkan Mountains, and the highest summits of Rila Mountains far in the distance. Eventually we arrive at Cherni Vrah Peak (2290m), where we will have well-deserved rest. When descending down along a different trail we will pass through the Torfeno Branishte (The Peat) Reserve, eventually arriving back to Aleko Hut. The wet meadows on either side of the path are home to a number of rare and endemic plant species, including a few species of orchids. During the morning ascent you might also be lucky to encounter some of the recently introduced Balkan Chamois (wild goats). Nutcrackers, Ring Ouzels and Common Crossbills may be spotted too, along with other mountain species.
Prices: Rates vary (also depending on the option you choose: guided or self-guided); Please check options (incl. dates with discounted tours!) on the BOOK ONLINE tab
The price includes: Transfer from Sofia to Vitosha Mountains and back; English-speaking guide (for the guided hiking option); Detailed route notes, GPS tracks in English and map (for the self-guided hiking option)
Food: basic food is available in the eatery at Cherni Vrah station (i.e. beans soup, meatballs, French fries, tea, pancakes), but if you come prepared with a sandwich or two you can stop at any place to enjoy our food.
Hiking time: hiking time only is mentioned on each day (not including stops for pictures, picnics, breaks etc.!); these are based on an average hiker’s speed of 4-5km/hr on flat terrain, additional 30min for each 300m elevation gain, and a backpack weighing not more than 10-15% of your body weight. Still this varies a lot on the terrain, the group size and the hiking experience of each client within the group.
Customers’ reviews for this particular tour you can check on our dedicated website for hiking tours in Bulgaria >>> HERE <<<
