Walking in Bulgaria's national parks - Julian Perry

A guide to walking and trekking in Bulgaria. The routes are based in the Pirin, Rila and Central Balkan national parks that cover the three wildest and most majestic mountain regions of Bulgaria.12 superb two to four-day routes are described including ascents of Musala and Vihren, Bulgaria's highest peaks. Each walk is broken down into day stages with each stage finishing at either a mountain hut or another suitable source of accommodation. The distance of each route varies from 7 to 61km in length and covers a variety of terrain. The routes described are challenging and aimed at fit, experienced mountain walkers. The trails are often physically demanding, with long steep ascents and descents, often over rocks and boulders. Furthermore, most of the ridge walks require a good head for heights - especially the exposed scramble along the Koncheto crest.For walkers and trekkers Bulgaria is an unexpected paradise, boasting an amazing variety of landscapes and an outstandingly rich biodiversity.