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RilaSummer route
Malyovitsa Base – Malyovitsa Peak – Ivan Vazov Hut
Malyovitsa Peak (2,729 m) is the main high point of this long traverse, linking the rugged Malyovitsa section with the quiet valley around Ivan Vazov Hut.
Time
6–7 h (one way)
Distance
13.5 km
Elevation gain
+700 m
Difficulty
Difficult
Risk
4/5
Route
Description
Malyovitsa Peak (2,729 m) is the main high point of this long traverse, linking the rugged Malyovitsa section with the quiet valley around Ivan Vazov Hut.
The first half passes through the classic granite scenery of Malyovitsa — a steep valley, terraces, Elenino Lake and an open ridge. Beyond the summit, the route remains high above the Rila valleys for a long time.
In clear weather, the ridge offers wide views toward the Urdini Lakes, Kalinite, Otovishki Peak, the Seven Rila Lakes and much of northwestern Rila.
Beyond Razdela, the character gradually softens and the finish toward Ivan Vazov Hut becomes greener, although the full route remains serious because of its length and prolonged exposure.
Access
How to get there
From the Malyovitsa Mountain School, follow the blue marking to Malyovitsa Hut. From the hut, continue on the classic route toward Malyovitsa Peak through the First and Second Terraces and Elenino Lake.
Beyond Elenino Lake, the climb becomes steeper and rockier. Reach the ridge junction for Malyovitsa Peak and make the out-and-back visit to the summit.
Return from the summit to the main ridge trail and continue west on the red marking toward Dodov Peak, Damga and Razdela. This section is long and almost entirely exposed to wind.
Razdela is an important junction where several routes meet. Leave the red ridge marking here and take the green marking toward Ivan Vazov Hut.
The trail descends from the ridge toward the Dupnishka Bistritsa Valley and the Pazardere area. Continue on the green marking to Ivan Vazov Hut.
⚠️ In fog, pay extra attention at the junctions around Razdela. Do not turn toward the Seven Rila Lakes or the other ridge routes if your destination is Ivan Vazov Hut.
BGMountainGuide
Peak Legend
According to local legend, Malyovitsa Peak was named after Malyo — a shepherd, renowned kaval player and later a haydut. He fell in love with Bosilka, but when she was taken away by Emin Pasha, Malyo gathered a band of men and set out to rescue her. After being betrayed, he was mortally wounded and died at Mecha Polyana, while the high peak above the valley remained to bear his name.
Navigation
Key points
1
Malyovitsa Base – start on blue marking.
2
Malyovitsa Hut – end of the easy section.
3
First and Second Terrace – key route landmarks.
4
Elenino Lake – key point before the final ascent.
5
⚠️ Ridge junction – turn right toward Malyovitsa Peak.
6
Malyovitsa Peak (2729 m) – highest point.
7
Return to junction and continue on red marking.
8
Dodov Peak – ridge landmark.
9
Damga Peak – passed along the ridge before Razdela.
10
Razdela – saddle above the lakes; marking turns green.
11
Descent toward Panitsite – rocky section.
12
Zeleni Rid – short climb.
13
Ivan Vazov Hut – finish.
14
💧 Water: there are two fountains before Malyovitsa Hut and water at the hut. After the high section, the next reliable fountain is about 5 minutes beyond Razdela toward Ivan Vazov Hut, where water is also available.
Map
BGMountains route
Interactive topographic map with the full route, start and finish.
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Details
Trail markingBasic information
Trail marking
Blue → Blue–Red → Red → Green
Time
6–7 h (one way)
Distance
13.5 km
Elevation gain
+700 m
Difficulty
Difficult
Risk
4/5
Preparation
Equipment
Water
Hiking shoes
Windproof jacket
Sunglasses
Hat
Food
Phone with offline map + power bank
Headlamp
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