Rila Rally

The Rila Rally takes you across the highest mountain range on the Balkan Peninsula – a pure mountain bike adventure filled with the scent of pine forests, the freedom of alpine heights, and the sparkle of glacial lakes.Our trails lead through centuries-old woods and high ridges close to the tallest peaks. Along the way, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping panoramas and untouched nature. We also dip into thermal hot springs, visit Bulgaria’s grandest monastery, and unwind in cozy guesthouses and mountain huts. This is a tour you’ll remember forever – challenging, scenic, and deeply rewarding.

Day 1. Arrival in Sapareva Banya

Arrival in Sofia, airport pick-up, and transfer to the Rila foothills. We spend the first two nights in Sapareva Banya – famous for Bulgaria’s hottest mineral spring. Check-in, relax in the spa pool, bike check, welcome get-together, and dinner with traditional Bulgarian dishes.

Day 2. First impressions of Rila

27 km, ↑ 1100 m, ↓ 1920 m

We drive up the mountain and climb toward the iconic Seven Rila Lakes area (above 2100 m). Expect some pushing and hike-a-bike to reach the best viewpoints and most of the lakes. A long, rewarding descent brings us back to the valley, passing one of Rila’s tallest waterfalls. Overnight in the same accommodation.

Day 3. To the highest hut in Bulgaria – Ivan Vazov

19 km, ↑ 1100 m, ↓ 850 m (could be less)

We retrace part of yesterday’s climb through the Seven Lakes area, then venture higher and deeper into the range. Riding along ridges with spectacular views, we reach Ivan Vazov Hut (2350). Enjoy homemade beer, delicious food, and an unforgettable sunset.

Day 4. Descend to Rila Monastery. Borovets

17 km, ↑ 580 m, ↓ 1730 m

After breakfast, we ride fantastic trails – mostly downhill today. A hike-a-bike climb takes us to our highest point of the rally at 2650 m, with stunning views over the Seven Lakes cirque. From there, we launch into one of Rila’s most varied and thrilling 2000 m descents. We finish at the majestic Rila Monastery – Bulgaria’s spiritual heart and UNESCO site. Transfer to Borovets for the night.

Day 5. Musala area and high up again

34 km, ↑ 1600 m, ↓ 1750 m

Morning ride beneath Musala (2925) – the Balkan Peninsula’s highest peak. We take the gondola to Musala Hut, then ride one of our favorite Rila trails down to Borovets Bike Park for lunch. In the afternoon, we climb the historic “Kaiser’s Road” and overnight at Zavratitsa Hut (2190).

Day 6. Epic day on the main ridge

24 km, ↑ 1150 m, ↓ 1700 m

A true rally highlight! We follow the “Kaiser’s Road” to the main ridge. Then we start climbing giant granite peaks above 2700 m. Every summit rewards us with incredible views and exhilarating descents. Late afternoon, a 1000 vertical meters singletrack drop brings us to the peaceful Semkovo resort for the night.

Day 7. The southwest part of Rila

41 km, ↑ 650 m, ↓ 1500 m

From Semkovo, we climb 15 km to Makedonia Hut (2150 m) in the quieter, milder southwest part of Rila. After a snack break, we enjoy a long, flowing descent back to the Rila Monastery valley. Overnight in the valley to recharge for the grand finale..

Day 8. Epic climb leads always to epic descent

37 km, ↑ 1900 m, ↓ 2060 m (could use partly a shuttle)

One of Bulgaria’s most legendary ramps awaits – 16 km and 1,700 vertical meters of steady climbing. We are at a panoramic place at 2550 m. The reward? One of the country’s longest and most epic descents. We finish in the valley with huge smiles, then transfer to Sofia for our last night.

Day 9. Final day at Vitosha (Optional)

23 km, ↑ 500 m, ↓ 1550 m

A classic closing ride: from Cherni Vrah (2,290 m) – Sofia’s rooftop peak – we drop 17 km of flowing singletrack straight into the capital. Optional shuttle for the climb. Collect bags, say goodbye, and depart.

Optional Extra Day

Add a full session in Borovets Bike Park for more lift-assisted fun and flow.