Pirin Mountains walking break

Pirin Mountains walking break

63 Views
5 Days From

$495

Pirin Mountains walking break

5 Days Starting and ending in Bansko, Bulgaria

Visiting: Bansko, Mount Vihren, Mount Polezhan

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

740

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $495

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

A five day self-guided Pirin Mountains walking holiday, within Pirin National Park which protects this spectacular range. The Pirin Mountains boast more than 60 granite peaks with elevations of over 2,500m and, on this short holiday, you trek to the top of two of them. These are Mount Vihren (2914m), Mount Polezhan (2,850m), but you also head up to the exquisite heights of Todorina Porta Pass at 2,550m, with superb views all around. This is a centre-based holiday, staying at a small, family-run hotel in Bankso, a popular ski resort in winter months

Highlights

  • Make a short stop to see the Baykusheva Mura, the oldest pine tree in Bulgaria, approximately 1,300 years old.

  • Visit Todorina Porta Pass for stunning views of the Eyes of Todorka glacial lakes and Strajite ridge.

  • Head towards Mount Vihren, the highest summit of Pirin National Park at 2,914 meters.

  • Climb Mount Polezhan, one of the most scenic peaks, offering a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Explore the glacial Frog Lakes and the north face of Mount Todorka during your hike.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival/ Bansko

Location: Bansko

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Bansko

Arrive in Bansko, where you'll be based for the next four days. You can get to Bansko by public bus from Sofia, there are several departures daily, with a journey time of approximately 3.5h.

Day 2 : Todorina Porta Pass (2,550M) 15Km

Location: Bansko

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Bansko

Meals Included: Breakfast

A short transfer (30mins) brings you to Vihren Hut, from where you start walking. En route to the starting point, you can make a short stop to see the Baykusheva Mura, the oldest pine tree in Bulgaria, with an approximate age of about 1,300 years. First, you follow the river that runs beside the hut, but soon you make a left turn and start ascending on a rocky trail and reach the rocky peaks that surround the valley. Take a break at the two glacial Frog Lakes from where you can see the north face of Mount Todorka. You continue your ascent towards the Pass and, after a short and steep ascent, you get to the highest point for the day – Todorka Pass. A beautiful view awaits on a clear day – with the Eyes of Todorka (two glacial lakes) to the east, and Strajite ridge in the background. The return path will take you down to Demyanitsa hut and eventually to an asphalt road where your transfer will pick you back to Bansko.

Walking for the day: 15km, ?550m, ?1,000m, 7-8h

Day 3 : Mount Vihren (2,914M) 8Km

Location: Mount Vihren

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Bansko

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a short transfer (30mins) to Vihren Hut, you head towards the highest summit of Pirin National Park - Mount Vihren (2,914m). The route will take you to the peak through its southwest ridge, and the last section of the climb finishes with a slightly more technical part (no scrambling) facilitated by a steel rope. The descent follows a different path back to the starting point where your transfer car will be waiting for you to take you back to Bansko.

Walking for the day: 8km, ?? 1,000m, 6-7h

Day 4 : Mount Polezhan (2,850M) 8Km

Location: Mount Polezhan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Bansko

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will explore a different part of the mountain, climbing one of its most scenic peaks, Mount Polezhan (2,850m). An early transfer will take you to the nearby town of Dobriniste (20mins), from where you will take a chairlift to the Bezbog Hut (2,240m), where your hike begins. The walk is much more relaxed than the previous day, although the last section is quite bit steep and rocky (no scrambling). Once you get to the top, in good weather, you will be able to enjoy an amazing 360-degree view, including some of the landscapes you explored yesterday. Return along the same path, taking the lift back to the car park, where your transfer will pick you up and get you back to Bansko.

Walking for the day: 8km, ?610m, ?610m, 6-7h

Day 5 : Departure

Location: Bansko

Meals Included: Breakfast

You depart using public transport (there is a local bus station with regular departures to Sofia and Plovdiv) or private transfer (upon request).

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 overnights in a small family hotel are included.

  • Meals

    4 breakfasts are included in the package.

  • Transportation

    All transportation as described in the itinerary is included.

  • Route Notes and Maps

    Detailed route notes and maps (a digital copy, provided before the tour) are included.

  • GPS Tracks

    GPS tracks are provided as part of the tour.

  • Phone Assistance

    24/7 phone assistance by our local office representative is included.

What's Not Included

  • Insurance

    Insurance is not included in the package.

  • Airfare

    Airfare and connecting land transfers are not included.

  • Additional Meals

    Meals not listed in the itinerary are not included.

  • Chairlift Tickets

    Tickets for the chairlift to Bezbog Hut on day 4 (BGN18 / €9 pp) are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as phone calls, extra transfers, tips, etc.

    , are not included.

  • Unspecified Items

    Any items not specifically mentioned as ‘included’ in the programme are excluded.

  • Optional Transfers

    Optional return transfer from/to Sofia is not included.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes short transfers to hiking starting points and return trips to Bansko, with public bus options available from Sofia, and a chairlift ride to Bezbog Hut on day 4.

Accommodation

Enjoy 4 overnights in a cozy 3-star family hotel, Rahoff or similar, located in Bansko, providing a comfortable base for your walking adventures in the Pirin Mountains.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 4 overnights in a cozy 3-star family hotel, Rahoff or similar, located in Bansko.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the package includes 4 breakfasts.

  • Is transportation included in the tour?

    Yes, all transportation as described in the itinerary is included, including short transfers to hiking starting points and return trips to Bansko.

  • What kind of support is available during the tour?

    The tour provides 24/7 phone assistance by a local office representative.

  • Are there any additional costs not covered by the tour package?

    Yes, the package does not include insurance, airfare, additional meals not listed in the itinerary, chairlift tickets to Bezbog Hut on day 4, personal expenses, unspecified items, and optional transfers from/to Sofia.

  • What is the difficulty level of the hikes during the tour?

    The hikes involve some steep and rocky sections, but no scrambling is required. The ascent to Mount Vihren includes a slightly more technical part facilitated by a steel rope.

  • What is the highlight of the hike to Mount Polezhan?

    The highlight of the hike to Mount Polezhan is reaching the peak, where you can enjoy an amazing 360-degree view of the surrounding landscapes in good weather.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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