Macedonia Hut to Ribni Ezera Hut

The traverse between Macedonia Hut and Ribni Ezera Hut is a true ridge day in Rila — long, exposed and filled with constantly changing views on both sides of the mountain.

The route crosses a succession of high ridges and saddles, and the sense of open space is almost continuous. There is no single summit that defines the day — moving along the ridge is the experience itself.

The finish is beautiful: after the long exposed sections, the Ribni Ezera cirque gradually appears below, with the hut sitting low beneath the ridge as a natural end to the traverse.

From Macedonia Hut, follow the red marking and begin the sustained climb toward the ridge below Golyam Mechi Peak. This is the first more demanding part of the day, so settle into a steady pace.

Once high on the ridge, continue toward the Angelov Peak area and then lose height toward Kadiin Grob. Another climb begins from there toward Aladzha Slap.

Around Aladzha Slap and farther toward Karaalanitsa, follow the marking carefully. In fog, the path and distant ridge landmarks can disappear, so keep checking the GPX track as well.

Continue toward Pavlev Peak. The terrain becomes rockier and includes a section assisted by a metal cable. Move calmly, especially if the rocks are wet.

Beyond Pavlev Peak, continue toward Zabtsite and traverse below them on the marked line. After this section, the Ribni Ezera cirque gradually comes into view.

At the junction for Ribni Ezera Hut, take the red-marked path downhill. The finish is a sustained descent to the lakes and the hut.