Smradlivo Lake
Smradlivo Lake may not sound particularly romantic, but it is actually one of the largest and most beautiful high-mountain lakes in Bulgaria. Located at over 2300 m in the Rila Mountains, it offers incredible nature, a sense of timelessness, and an adventurous spirit. And if you're wondering where its name comes from – no, it doesn't smell terrible. It's just that legends (and perhaps slightly exaggerated tourists) have had their say…
How to get there
· Elevation gain/loss: +309 m / −13 m
· Difficulty: 2/6 (easy)
· Distance: ~1.8 km
one way
· Time: approx. 1 hour (up to 1 hour
10 min)
Route
📍 Starting point: Tiha Rila locality
🛣️ Morning
·
Head right from Tiha Rila,
along a wooden fence and enter a forest.
·
The marking is yellow throughout the route
⛰️ During the ascent
·
Initially, the terrain is
steep, then it begins to flatten out.
·
After ~40 min, you reach
a section with low scrub and rocks.
·
In this section, you can
pick blueberries and raspberries.
·
A little later, you will see
a small but hidden spring with cold water
🏞️ Last meters
·
A few more minutes from
the spring and you leave the scrub.
·
After a total of ~1 hr–1 hr 10 min,
you will find yourself on the lake shore.
·
Around you rise
the majestic peaks of Rilets (2713 m) and Kyoravitsa (2612 m)
What not to miss
·
The yellow marking – follow it strictly to avoid getting lost.
·
The drinking fountain – a good place to refresh yourself!
·
Blueberries and raspberries – in summer they can entertain and nourish
the hike 🍓.
·
The view of Rilets and Kyoravitsa – a landscape worth every
step.
Fun fact
The legend says: after the storm, the lake washed up a whole fish on the shore, which gave off
a smell for at least 3 years. This earned it the name "Stinky", although today it smells
exactly like fresh mountain water.
📌 The route is easy, pleasantly varied and ideal for a
half-day trip – with no need for mastering techniques or extensive mountaineering
preparation.
