Malyovitsa Base – Malyovitsa Hut – Strashnoto Lake

Strashnoto Ezero is one of the most impressive high-mountain lakes in the Malyovitsa section of Rila. The route begins in a broad valley and gradually enters a rugged rocky cirque surrounded by sharp granite peaks.

Beyond Malyovitsa Hut, the forest falls away and the landscape opens up. More and more of the route crosses rocky slopes, moraines and exposed high-mountain terrain.

The lake itself lies in a dramatic natural amphitheatre of rock, and in calm weather the setting is both rugged and beautiful. Its name may sound intimidating, but it is the scenery around the lake that makes the place so memorable.

From the Malyovitsa Mountain School, follow the blue marking up the valley toward Malyovitsa Hut. The first part is fairly gentle and follows the broad trail beside the river.

At Malyovitsa Hut, continue on the route toward Strashnoto Ezero. The trail passes beside and behind the hut, then enters terrain of dwarf pine and moraine.

A steeper section follows. Once above it, the gradient eases somewhat, but the ground remains rocky and uneven. Follow the combined red-and-yellow marking toward the high cirque.

The route crosses the Malka Malyovitsa River and passes several small lakes. Continue through the moraines on the marking until you reach Strashnoto Ezero and the shelter beside it.

For the return, follow the same marked route back toward Malyovitsa Hut and the Mountain School. On wet rock, take extra care on the steeper section above the hut.