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Private Guides & Alternative Tourism
VITOSHA MOUNTAIN
Few cities around the world are blessed to have a natural reservation as close as Vitosha. It welcomes people from all over the world all year long. It's a quick escape less than 30 minutes away from downtown Sofia.
DESCRIPTION:
Vitosha is the oldest nature park in the Balkans and one of the symbols of Sofia. It happens to be the closest site for hiking, alpinism and skiing. The mountain emerged as a result of volcanic activity and has been subsequently shaped by the slow folding of the granite rock layers and a series of gradual uplifts of the area. Black Peak is the highest point of the mountain at 2290 m and is one of 10 peaks of Vitosha over 2000 m in height. Due to a great variability in elevation a rich diversity of climates, flora and fauna can be found within the park. Research has revealed that on the comparatively small area of the mountain there are 1,500 species of higher plants, 500 species of fungi, 500 species of algae, 326 species of mosses, and 200 species of lichens.
Since the ancient times of the Thracians a large population has always existed at the base of Vitosha. For the last four thousand years the economy of this large settlement has always been connected, in one way or another, with the neighboring mountain. The name Vitosha comes from the two-peaked, twin ridge mountain, which rises above the Sofia field and has acquired its present shape in stages over many millennia.
SCHEDULE:
There are many options for trekking in Vitosha - from easy to very difficult, according to your physical conditioning. There is a lift chair that can spare a lot of effort and time, however the mountain is accessible by car as well. For those who want to see it all we have the cross-Vitosha trek, from Zheleznitsa to Kopitoto, via Cherni Vrah, Goli Vrah and Kamen Del. Duration of treks vary from 3 hours to a full day. We could sleep over at a nearby lodge or hut and enjoy the sunrise and observe the wonderful view of Stara Planina (Old Mountain) and Rila Mountain. There is a hot spring swimming pool and baths in close proximity of Vitosha where we can relax after the trek.
DIFFICULTY: Easy/Hard - beginners to advanced
POSSIBLE ACCOMMODATION: Lodge/Hut/Camping
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Transportation from and to hotel
- Guide fee
- Coffee and tea
DON'T FORGET:
Make sure you bring warm clothes regardless of season, sunscreen lotion, camera and a smile.
OUR TIPS:
Avoid using new unbroken boots, pack light, bring only what you really need, wear loose clothing, stay well hydrated, stretch, eat strong breakfast prior to hike. We recommend the use of high above the ancle boots.