-Snow-shoe in the wild & spectacular Rila Mountains
-See the monastery of Rila, a UNESCO World Heritage site
-Stay in family run traditional accommodation

Rila Mountains
From Sofia we head south towards the Rila Mountains arriving in Govedartsi, a village at the foot of the mountains. Donning our snow-shoes for the first time, we should need just a few minutes to master the easy technique, after which we can head off for an introductory walk in the National Park with views of the mountain peaks. The following day we plan to do another full day of snow-shoeing, taking silent paths up through the fragrant pine forest and deep into the untouched snow-covered wilderness of the Maliovitsa region. The Christmas and New Year departures include an additional day snow-shoeing through the forest and snow fields near Rujdavitsa with stunning views of the mountains of the area including Goilam Kupen.

Rila Monastery & Sofia
From our hotel, we transfer to the Kirilova Vada area where we should see a panorama of high rugged peaks and begin a snow shoeing walk. We visit the world famous Rila Monastery in the early afternoon. Beautifully preserved, covered in breathtaking frescoes and with the pine-clad Rila Mountains as a backdrop, the monastery is a wonderful sight at any time of year; but with a light dusting of snow it promises to be absolutely sublime. No doubt leaving our hearts in the mountains, we return to the capital for some sightseeing.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Sofia airport; drive to Rila Mountains. 2 & 3 Two full days snow-shoeing. 4 Morning snow-shoeing; drive to Sofia via Rila Monastery. 5 End Sofia. Please note: 6 day itinerary includes 3 full days snow shoeing on Day 2,3 and 4.

Accommodation: 4nts hotel staying in standard accommodation throughout; 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 2 dinners included. Accommodation is en-suite rooms in a standard family run hotel throughout. The hotel is known for its strong traditions and local cuisine and is located near meadows and coniferous woods. (Christmas and New Year departures: 5nts hotel; 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 2 dinners).
Transport: Bus/On foot.
Comment: This short but active hotel-based trip requires no previous snow-shoeing experience. The walking is moderate (approx 4-6 hours a day, with a maximum of 650m ascent). Equipment is provided.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Leader/mountain guide(s) plus driver.
Trip Reference: BG