Vitosha mountain is a small mountain, rising above Sofia, one of the favourite places of the citizens of the capital. Though not very high it still has its charm and beauty. It is the home of 1,500 species of higher plants, 500 species of fungi, 500 species of algae, 326 species of mosses, and 200 species of lichens. Among them 31 species are Balkan endemics and 52 species are included in the Red Book of Bulgaria. Huge “stone rivers” spread across the mountainside are also a beautiful natural phenomenon which one can see here - they were once the moraines of ancient glaciers. Their further formation occurred due to the spherical erosion of the sienite rocks and their gradual movement to down stream valleys by the forces of gravity and moving water.
The Price Includes
- Professional mountain guide;
- Transport with car from Sofia to Dragalevtsi and back.
The Price Does Not Include
- Lift from Dragalevtsi to Baj Krustjo and from Goli vruh to Dragalevtsi;
- Mountain health insurance;
- Food.
Itinerary
We will reach the cable car station at Dragalevsti by car. The cable car will take us to Baj Krustjo midstation from where we start walking on a forest path leading west. In 3-40 minutes we will cross the Dragalevska river at the foot of the steep "Kominite" rocks.The Chimneys are in fact two peaks, which on the East side go down vertically for 70 meters. They are a beautiful natural phenomena and a favorite rock climbing venue for Sofia based climbers. The first climbing route there was established in year 1919.
From the on the path goes steeply up the left gulley. After gaining a lot of height we will reach a small clearing on a ridge with a full panoramic view revealing impressive sights. Here we will take also a good rest.
The next stop will be the "Plateau", then after 30 minutes walking our path will merge with the marked winter way. Following it will lead us to Cherni Vruh in about an hour and a half.
On the way down we will take the cable car from Goli vruh.
Personal Equipment
Climbing Cherni Vrah through the normal tourist route doesn’t require any special alpine skills or equipment, but the following gear is essential for any easy hike or trek:- Hiking boots;
- Warm long-sleeve pullover (polar) windstopper;
- Wind-proof jacket (preferably with a Gore-Tex membrane);
- Raincover;
- 2-3 short-sleeve t-shirts;
- Cap;
- Sunglasses (with UV-protection);
- Sunscreen.
