About this place
About Smradlivo Lake
Smradlivo Lake is one of the most impressive high-mountain lakes in Rila. It lies in the central part of the range, surrounded by rugged granite terrain and high Rila peaks.
With a surface area of approximately 212 decares, it is the largest glacial lake in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula. The surrounding area is considerably quieter than Rila's busiest destinations and retains a strong sense of mountain wilderness.
Access
How to get there
1
MAIN ACCESS AREA: The approach begins from the Rila Monastery and Kirilova Polyana area, following the Rilska River valley toward Tiha Rila.
2
FROM TIHA RILA: This is the shortest common hiking approach to the lake. Continue uphill toward the high valley and Smradlivo Lake. In normal summer conditions the walk takes approximately one hour.
3
VIA THE RIBNI LAKES: A longer option passes through Ribni Ezera Hut and can be combined with a visit to the Upper and Lower Ribno Lakes.
4
NAVIGATION: Follow the current trail markings together with BGMountains. Do not rely on informal side paths in poor visibility.
5
CONDITIONS: This description applies to snow-free conditions. When snow is present, treat the area as winter high-mountain terrain requiring appropriate experience and equipment.
Stories
Legend
According to the best-known local tale, a violent storm once disturbed the lake and threw large numbers of fish onto its shores. The fish began to decay and the powerful smell remained in the area for a long time. Tradition links this event with the lake's unusual name, which roughly means 'the smelly lake'.
Map
BGMountains
Interactive topographic map showing the location of the lake.
Details
Basic information
Mountain
Rila
Elevation
2294 m
Area
212 decares
Max. depth
24 m
Interesting
Interesting facts
1
The lake is of glacial origin and lies at an elevation of 2,294 m.
2
Its surface area is approximately 212 decares and its maximum depth reaches 24 metres.
3
The lake is approximately 800 metres long and reaches a maximum width of about 375 metres.
4
Rilets and Kyoravitsa peaks rise above the surrounding area.
5
Smradlivo Lake lies within Rila Monastery Nature Park.
Nearby
Nearby places
Ribni LakesDyavolski LakesRibni Ezera HutTiha RilaRilets PeakKyoravitsa PeakKirilova Polyana
BGMountainGuide
Take the lake with you
Map, access and useful information directly in the app.