About this place
About Ribno Banderishko Lake
Ribno Banderishko Lake is the largest lake by surface area in the Banderishki lake group. It lies at an elevation of 2,190 m within the broad Banderishki cirque.
The lake is surrounded by the characteristic granite terrain of high Pirin, extensive dwarf pine and open alpine slopes. The surrounding area offers impressive views toward Todorka, Muratov Peak and Banderishki Chukar.
Unlike some of the other Banderishki Lakes, the main hiking trail does not pass directly along its shore. Reaching the lake therefore requires a short detour from the main route.
Access
How to get there
1
BEST APPROACH: The most convenient starting point is Vihren Hut. The hut is reached from Bansko via the mountain road through Banderishka Polyana. Vehicle access may be restricted during busy periods, so check the current access arrangements before travelling.
2
START OF THE HIKE: From Vihren Hut, head south toward the Banderishki cirque. The route follows the Banderitsa valley and initially shares the trail used for several other destinations in the area.
3
RAVNAKO AREA: After the initial ascent, the route reaches a gentler section beside the Banderitsa River. Continue deeper into the cirque along the clearly defined high-mountain trail.
4
TOWARD RIBNO LAKE: As the trail gradually gains elevation, Ribno Banderishko Lake lies to the west of the main path. The lake is not directly on the main hiking trail, so reaching the shore requires a short side detour.
5
FINAL APPROACH: The side approach crosses a mixture of grassy and rocky terrain with areas of dwarf pine. As you approach the lake, its broad surface and characteristic small peninsula become visible.
6
TIME: Allow approximately 50–60 minutes from Vihren Hut to the lake in one direction at a normal hiking pace. Breaks and slower movement over rocky terrain can increase the total time.
7
DIFFICULTY: In dry summer conditions the route is relatively easy and contains no technical climbing sections. It does, however, involve steady elevation gain and uneven high-mountain terrain.
8
NAVIGATION: Because the main trail does not lead directly to the shore, monitor your position carefully on the BGMountains map. Avoid attempting direct shortcuts through dense dwarf pine even when the lake appears close.
9
EQUIPMENT: Wear hiking footwear with good grip and carry sufficient water, sun protection and an extra layer. Much of the area is exposed and mountain weather can change quickly.
10
WINTER CONDITIONS: This description applies to snow-free conditions. In winter, the area around Vihren Hut and the Banderishki cirque can be exposed to avalanche danger. The summer route should not automatically be treated as a safe winter line.
Map
BGMountains
Interactive topographic map showing the location of the lake.
Details
Basic information
Mountain
Pirin
Elevation
2190 m
Area
65 decares
Max. depth
12.2 m
Interesting
Interesting facts
1
Ribno Banderishko Lake is of glacial origin.
2
It is the largest by surface area among the main Banderishki Lakes.
3
It is also known as Golyamo Banderishko Lake and Dolno Banderishko Lake.
4
Its surface area is approximately 65 decares and it measures roughly 384 by 230 metres.
5
Its Bulgarian name 'Ribno' refers to the fish found in its waters.
6
One shore features a distinctive small peninsula covered with dwarf pine and high-mountain vegetation.
7
Water from the higher Banderishki Lakes eventually contributes to the Banderitsa River system.
Nearby
Nearby places
Vihren HutOkoto LakeMuratovo LakeZhabeshko LakeDalgoto Banderishko LakeTodorka PeakMuratov PeakBanderishki Chukar
BGMountainGuide
Take the lake with you
Map, access and useful information directly in the app.