The Classic: Dobrila to Botev
The traverse from the Dobrila hut to Botev peak is among the most classic routes in Bulgarian hillwalking. It follows the crest of the Balkan range and crosses characteristic summits such as Ambaritsa (Levski), Golemiya Kupen, Krastsite and Zhaltets, finishing with the ascent of Botev - the highest point of the range. Along the way wide panoramas open up, with chances to watch sunrise and sunset from key points on the route. The trek offers a full mountain experience across open high ground and suits anyone who enjoys long and varied routes.
Price Includes / Excludes
Price Includes
- Complete organization and coordination of the program
Tour Itinerary
The transfer to the town of Sopot takes about 2:15 hours. On arrival in Sopot we take the lift, which brings us to the intermediate station - as far as the lift runs. From there we begin a steady climb on a path that brings us out onto the dirt road to the Dobrila hut. After about an hour and a half of easy walking we reach the hut, where we give ourselves time to rest. We then head for the first serious summit on the route, Ambaritsa (Levski). The climb is not long, and the views from the top are worth every step. From the summit the whole picture of the ridge ahead opens up - the peaks we are to cross stand out clearly. Our next objective for the day is Golyam Kupen, one of the most striking summits in this part of the range and often called the alpine jewel of the Balkan. On the summit we take a short break, enjoy the views and sign the book. We continue eastwards, passing the characteristic forms of Krastsite and Kostenurkata. Gradually we come out onto the broad grassy crests of Zhaltets and Mlechniya Chal, from which wide views open in every direction. From here a steady descent to the Botev shelter awaits, where we settle in and rest. Towards evening, if there are any enthusiasts, we go out with a light pack to meet the sunset from Botev peak, the highest point of the Balkan range.
The day begins with the chance of an early climb to Botev peak to meet the sunrise. The first rays of sun washing over the ridge create an unforgettable atmosphere. We then return to the shelter for breakfast and to pack up. We head south on the path that traverses beneath Zhaltets peak and brings us to the Dyuza col, also known as Petolachkata - an important crossroads from which routes run in several directions. We continue to the Vasil Levski hut, where we pause for a rest. After a short break we set off down the course of the Stara Reka towards Karlovo. Along the route we pass two more huts, which offer the chance of a short break before we reach the end point of our crossing.
Important:
Three seasons trekking equipment
Shoes
Suitable shoes for the mountain, according to the weather forecast. High ankle or low shoes. You may wear sneakers to change into at the end of the program
Spare socks
Lighting
Headlamp - An absolute must-have accessory for every mountaineer. It may be necessary for the group to start a trek very early or finish the trek in the dark (force majeure). In these situations, each participant must have a headlamp. We recommend going with a proven brand like Petzl or BlackDiamond
Spare batteries
Backpack
About 40 liters backpack - Quite enough for one or two day hikes.
Backpack cover - in case of rain
Clothing top
Depending on the season and weather conditions
T-shirt or thin thermal base layer - from merino or synthetic. In no case cotton material
Fleece
A down jacket or other jacket with synthetic insulation - a thin down jacket is recommended. Evenings and mornings in the mountains, temperatures are low. No expensive down jacket needed
Wind and water proof jacket
Thin hat and gloves
Buff
Clothing bottom
Depending on the season and weather conditions
Comfortable long pants - in the perfect case with zippers for ventilation
Sun protection
Sunglasses
Summer hat
Sun cream with high protection
Buff with UPF protection
Rain protection
Raincoat
-or-
Waterproof top and bottom
Water and food
Water (1.5 liters)
Food for the trek
Money and documents
Money
ID or passport
Other
First aid kit
Trekking poles
Cancellation Policy:
Чл. 89. (Изм. – ДВ, бр. 37 от 2018 г., в сила от 01.07.2018 г.) (1) Пътуващият има право да прекрати договора за туристически пакет по всяко време преди започването на изпълнението на туристическия пакет. The tourist owes a penalty as follows: