Tsarev peak (2,376 m) and the Thracian megalithic sanctuary of Markov's Stone are among the most impressive and least-visited destinations in Southwestern Rila, rising above the Kartala ski zone near Blagoevgrad. This one-day summer trek combines dense conifer forests, alpine meadows, ancient history, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Tour Itinerary
Tsarev peak is not for everyone - and that is precisely what makes it so special. Standing at 2,376 metres above sea level, it rises apart from the busy tourist routes of the Rila Mountains, guarding its wild, untouched beauty for those willing to seek it out.
The trek begins at Bodrost hut in the Kartala area, approximately 30 km from Blagoevgrad. From the very start, the trail leads you upward along gentle switchbacks through dense spruce forest, where the air is thick with the scent of resin and damp earth. Gradually, the woodland gives way to open alpine pastures and rocky ridges - and it is here that the views begin to unfold and reward every step of the way.
Along the route, we will pass Markov Stone - one of the highest-situated Thracian megalithic sanctuaries on the Balkan Peninsula, located at the foot of Tsarev Vrah on the Dobro Pole saddle. Legend has it that the giant Krali Marko once walked these very slopes, while the peak itself carries the memory of Tsar Peter I's legendary meetings with Saint Ivan of Rila, whose cave can be seen in the distance. The sense of sacredness that hangs over this place is difficult to put into words.
The final ascent to the summit follows grassy and juniper-covered slopes, with sections where no marked trail exists. From the top, a full 360-degree panorama awaits: the jagged ridges of the Malyovitsa massif, the cirques of the Fish Lakes, the ridge stretching from Hizha Makedonia to Predela, and on a clear day - the peaks of Northern Pirin. The total elevation gain is approximately 1230 metres over 16 km and around 8 hours of walking - more than enough to send you home feeling like you have truly earned something today.
The total elevation gain is approximately 1230 metres over 16 km and around 8 hours of walking - more than enough to send you home feeling like you have truly earned something today.
Important:
Three seasons trekking equipment
Shoes
Suitable shoes for the mountain, according to the weather forecast. High ankle or low shoes. You may wear sneakers to change into at the end of the program
Spare socks
Lighting
Headlamp - An absolute must-have accessory for every mountaineer. It may be necessary for the group to start a trek very early or finish the trek in the dark (force majeure). In these situations, each participant must have a headlamp. We recommend going with a proven brand like Petzl or BlackDiamond
Spare batteries
Backpack
About 40 liters backpack - Quite enough for one or two day hikes.
Backpack cover - in case of rain
Clothing top
Depending on the season and weather conditions
T-shirt or thin thermal base layer - from merino or synthetic. In no case cotton material
Fleece
A down jacket or other jacket with synthetic insulation - a thin down jacket is recommended. Evenings and mornings in the mountains, temperatures are low. No expensive down jacket needed
Wind and water proof jacket
Thin hat and gloves
Buff
Clothing bottom
Depending on the season and weather conditions
Comfortable long pants - in the perfect case with zippers for ventilation
Sun protection
Sunglasses
Summer hat
Sun cream with high protection
Buff with UPF protection
Rain protection
Raincoat
-or-
Waterproof top and bottom
Water and food
Water (1.5 liters)
Food for the trek
Money and documents
Money
ID or passport
Other
First aid kit
Trekking poles
Cancellation Policy:
Чл. 89. (Изм. – ДВ, бр. 37 от 2018 г., в сила от 01.07.2018 г.) (1) Пътуващият има право да прекрати договора за туристически пакет по всяко време преди започването на изпълнението на туристическия пакет. The tourist owes a penalty as follows: