About this place
About Popovo Lake
Popovo Lake is the largest by surface area and the deepest lake in the Pirin Mountains. It lies at an elevation of 2,234 m in the wide Popovo Lake cirque.
The lake is surrounded by some of the most distinctive peaks of central Pirin, including Dzhangal, Sivria, Kralev Dvor, Dzhano and Momini Dvori.
A small dwarf-pine-covered island rises from the lake and is one of its most recognizable features.
Access
How to get there
1
BEST APPROACH: The usual starting area is Gotse Delchev Hut above Dobrinishte. From there, the easiest way to reach Bezbog Hut is by chairlift. When the lift is not operating, Bezbog Hut can also be reached on foot. Check the current lift schedule before setting out.
2
START OF THE HIKE: From Bezbog Hut, follow the trail along the right-hand shore of Bezbog Lake. The route initially follows the green trail marking together with the yellow marking.
3
DUSHEVADKATA CLIMB: A few minutes after leaving the hut, the steepest part of the route begins. This short but noticeable ascent is locally known as 'Dushevadkata'. The trail climbs through dwarf pine before gradually becoming easier.
4
FIRST IMPORTANT JUNCTION: After the climb, the trail reaches a junction for Bezbog and Polezhan peaks. Do not take the branch leading toward the summits. Stay on the marked route toward Popovo Lake.
5
TOWARD THE LAKE: Beyond the junction, the route continues across open high-mountain terrain with a mixture of gentle climbs and descents. Views gradually open toward the Popovo Lake cirque, Sivria and Dzhangal.
6
SECOND IMPORTANT JUNCTION: Shortly before reaching the lake, the yellow-marked trail separates toward Demyanitsa Hut. Continue on the green-marked trail for Popovo Lake. After the final low rise, the lake comes fully into view.
7
TIME AND DISTANCE: Allow approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes from Bezbog Hut to Popovo Lake in one direction. The distance is around 3.7 km each way. For the return trip, plan at least 3 hours of walking time, excluding longer breaks.
8
DIFFICULTY: In summer conditions the route is relatively easy for hikers with normal mountain fitness. The main physical effort is the Dushevadkata climb. The trail is mountainous and rocky in places.
9
EQUIPMENT: Most of the route is exposed to the weather. Carry enough water, sturdy hiking footwear, sun protection and an extra layer. Conditions in the high mountains can change rapidly.
10
WINTER CONDITIONS: This description applies to snow-free conditions. When snow is present, the summer trail should not automatically be followed. Snow stability, avalanche conditions and winter route choice must be assessed by hikers with suitable experience and equipment.
Stories
Legend
One of the best-known local legends tells of a priest who, overcome by grief, threw himself into the waters of the lake. According to the tale, his cap remained above the surface and became the small island now known as Popova Kapa.
Another version connects the story with the ancient god Perun. After the Christianization of Bulgaria, a priest climbed into Pirin to challenge the old god. Perun became enraged and cast him into the lake, while the priest's cap remained above the water and turned into the island.
The wider Popovo Lake cirque is also associated with older folklore involving the god Bes, Dzhangal and the daughter of the god of storms. Several names in the surrounding landscape are linked to different versions of these stories.
Map
BGMountains
Interactive topographic map showing the location of the lake.
Details
Basic information
Mountain
Pirin
Elevation
2234 m
Area
123.6 decares
Max. depth
29.5 m
Interesting
Interesting facts
1
Popovo Lake is of glacial origin.
2
Its surface area is approximately 123.6 decares and its maximum depth reaches about 29.5 m.
3
Until 1942 the lake was known as Papazgyol.
4
The small island in the lake is traditionally known as Popova Kapa, meaning 'The Priest's Cap'.
5
The lake lies within Pirin National Park.
Nearby
Nearby places
Bezbog LakeBezbog HutSamodivski LakesKremenski LakesDzhangal PeakSivria PeakDzhano PeakKralev Dvor Peak
BGMountainGuide
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