Rila is among the most attractive Bulgarian mountains, both for Bulgarians and for guests from abroad. The highest peak not only in Bulgaria, but also on the Balkan Peninsula - Musala (2925 m) is located here, as the name means "close to God". There are about 200 lakes in Rila, or almost half of the lakes in Bulgaria.

The most famous of them are the Seven Rila Lakes as above them is the Ezeren Peak (Lake Peak). One can reach the place in two ways - on foot or by lift.

Your walking or waiting will be richly rewarded with divine views that you will forever cherish and they will keep you coming back to this place again and again.

Nearly all Bulgarians know the names of the Seven Rila Lakes. The highest lake, situated 2,535 m above sea level – is Salzata (The Tear), named this way because of its transparent waters. Okoto (The Eye) is below with its characteristic oval shape – the deepest of the glacial lakes in the Balkans (over 37 m deep).

Then follows the most emblematic lake in the area – Babreka (The Kidney), which got its name because of its shape, although many say it resembles a heart.

At this time of the year, and more specifically on August 19, admirers of Petar Deunov aka Beinsa Deuno and his White Brotherhood gather at the Seven Rila Lakes from all over the world. Dressed in white, they perform their Paneurhythmy dance on the meadow next to Babreka.

• Peter Deunov’s paneurhythmy is a philosophy and a dance of joy

Descending, we reach Bliznaka (The Twin) - the largest one in the area of the Seven Rila Lakes

and further on – Trilistnika (The Trefoil), Ribnoto (Fish Lake), located in front of the old "Seven Lakes" hut.

and Dolnoto ezero (Lower Lake) (the lowest of the magnificent seven - at 2095 m above sea level).

Many tourists have a goal to reach Ezeren Peak (Lake Peak), where a magical panorama is revealed. And with that "Mission Rila" ends for them.

However, another not so widely known lake group of glacial origin is located nearby - the Urdini Lakes.

The Urdini Lakes are six  – Suhoto, Ribnoto, Triagalnoto, Botanicheskoto, Golyamata Panitsa and Malkata Panitsa.

They are smaller, but no less charming. The fact that they are less popular turns out to be a good thing, as here, away from the crowds, you can catch the pulse and breath of Rila.

The Urdina River, a tributary of Cherni Iskar, originates from the Urdini Lakes.

While hiking, you can also enjoy the encounters with freely grazing horses or graceful roe deer. The captivating views along the way will fill you with a lots of positive energy for days ahead.

Author: Miglena Ivanova

Phots: Miglena Ivanova

English: Alexander Markov