Upper Gazey Lake
Welcome to one of Bulgaria's most picturesque and secluded mountain gems – Gorno Gazey Lake! Nestled in the embrace of the Rila Mountains, this crystal-blue lake will not only take your breath away but will also give you the feeling of stepping into a fairy tale. Here, time slows down, and nature speaks with the silence of the wind and the song of waterfalls.
How to get there
📍 Starting point: Kirilova Polyana
It is located about 7 km from the Rila Monastery and is easily accessible by car via an asphalt road. There are designated parking spaces, as well as accommodation options (Ribni Ezera Hut) for those who want to split the hike into two days.
Route
🚶♂️ The Start of the Trail
The trail to the Gazey Lakes begins at the southern end of Kirilova Polyana, initially following a wide forest road that runs along the left bank of the Gazey River (left, when looking downstream). This is a calm and pleasant section that gently introduces you to the atmosphere of Rila.
The terrain here is easy with a moderate ascent. You will hear the murmuring of the river and pass through shady areas, ideal for a short break and refreshment.
🌲 In the Forest
After about 30–40 minutes, the trail narrows and a steeper ascent begins. You enter a mixed forest, dominated by pine, fir, and spruce trees. Here you will cross several small wooden bridges that span side streams – especially beautiful in spring.
Important: Please note that these bridges can be slippery in wet weather. Shoes with good grip are recommended.
🪨 Crossing the River
After about 1 hour of walking, you reach a large wooden bridge where the trail crosses from the left to the right bank of the Gazey River. Here the terrain begins to change – the forest starts to thin out, and the first sharp Rila peaks appear on the horizon.
🌄 Above the Forest
After the bridge, a more open section begins with small alpine meadows, overgrown with mountain flowers and dwarf pines. The ascent here becomes more noticeable, but the panoramic views become increasingly rewarding. You will see the climate zone change, and the air becomes cooler and fresher.
After another about 1 hour of walking, the trail approaches the cirque of the Gazey Lakes.
🧭 Just Before the Final Destination
Just before reaching Upper Gazey Lake, you will notice a fork:
Lower Gazey Lake.
Upper Gazey Lake, which is located at 2,350 m a.s.l.
You have another 10–15 minutes, during which you climb through a stony area – the terrain here is slightly rocky, but without technical difficulties.
🌊 And... You've Arrived!
Upper Gazey Lake suddenly reveals itself before you – like a hidden treasure amidst the rugged but beautiful nature. The lake is glacial, with blue waters and surrounded by granite peaks. On a quiet day, it reflects the sky like a mirror, and in July and August, mountain flowers and junipers bloom around it.
🏕 For the Most Enthusiastic
Above the lake rise peaks such as:
Golyаm Polich Peak (2,854 m)
Mаlаk Polich Peak
and the more distant Vazov Peak (2,698 m)
What not to miss
The view from the southern shore of the lake – a perfect spot for a picnic and photos with the reflection of the rocks in the mirror-like water.
The small waterfalls along the path upwards – especially in spring and early summer when the snow melts.
Maiden's Rock – an impressive granite formation above the lake, seemingly protecting the entire valley.
If you have the time and energy, you can continue to Lower Gazey Lake, which is slightly lower and just as beautiful.
Fun fact
Upper Gazey Lakes is often called "the mirror of the gods" by mountaineers who believe that its water is so clean and calm that it reflects not only the clouds but also heavenly thoughts. According to an old Rila legend, the lake is the tear of a mountain fairy in love with a shepherd who descended from the mountain every autumn and never returned. Since then, every spring she would cry a lake, waiting for him...
📍Don't forget: bring sunscreen, water, something to eat and... a fully charged phone – you'll need it for photos!
