Route No. 17: From the Izvorite area to Djano peak – through the magic of the Kremen Lakes

Are you looking for a panoramic and less popular route that will take you to some of the most beautiful lakes in Pirin and end with the conquest of a panoramic peak? Route No. 17 is your next adventure. Breaking off from the main trail in the Izvorite area, this hike will take you past the deep blue waters of the Kremen Lakes to take you to Mount Dzhano (2,668 m) – the place with one of the most impressive 360-degree panoramas in the entire mountain.

17. ROUTE No. 17 — Izvorite village – Giano peak.

💡 Interesting information

• From Gianno Peak (2668 m) one of the most photographed views in Pirin is revealed – simultaneously towards Popovo Lake on one side and the Kremen Lakes on the other.
• The Lower Kremensko Lake, along which the trail passes, is the second deepest in Pirin (reaching 27 meters) and the third largest.
• The name of Mount Jano most likely has Thracian or Old Bulgarian roots, although some legends associate it with an outlaw named Jan.

🚗 How to get there? (Logistics)

It is important to note that to the starting point – The Izvorite area – there is no direct car access. This is an intra-mountain fork. The Springs are most often reached by following the brown markings (Route No. 16) – coming from Harami Bunar (on the dirt roads above the village of Kremen) or descending from Popovo Lake. Peak Dzhano itself can be included as an excellent one-day destination if you are staying at the Bezbog hut (via Popovo Lake).

🥾 Description of the route

1. From the Springs to the Kremen Circus
The route separates from the brown marking at the Retije River (Izvorite village) and follows the yellow marking steeply upwards. The path winds through a thinning coniferous forest and scrublands, quickly gaining height to overcome the threshold of the circus.

2. Kremen Lakes
After the initial climb (about 1 hour), you come out at the Lower Kremensko Lake. The trail runs along its eastern shore. A little further up you reach the Upper Kremensko Lake. The place is extremely wild, beautiful and ideal for a long rest before the final assault.

3. To the Janska Gate
After the Upper Lake, there is another steep climb over rocky terrain to the Dzhanska Porta saddle, which connects the peaks of Dzhano and Chengelchal. The slope here is serious, and the moraines require steady steps.

4. On Mount Jano
From the saddle, you take the very edge (to the right/northwest) for the final short climb to Jano Peak (2668 m). Once you step on top, Pirin will literally unfold at your feet!

⛰️ Basic information about the site (Mount Jano)

Mount Jano is high, completely exposed, and has no shelter options in bad weather.

• 📌 Tip: The wind at the summit is usually very strong. Put on your windbreaker on the saddle before you reach the highest point.
• 🕒 Working hours: The route is accessible at any time, but hikes should only be done in daylight.
• ☀️ Season: Recommended only in summer (July - September).
• 🛏️ Beds: The nearest hut for overnight stays is "Bezbog" (about 2.5 hours' descent from the summit).
• 💰 Price: Free.
• 🐕 Dogs: Allowed, but the terrain with the moraines can hurt their paws.
• ☎️ Emergency phone: 112 (PSS).

⚠️ Important to know

There is water along this route to the Upper Kremensko Lake. Then, during the climb to the Dzhanska Gate and at the very top, the terrain is completely dry. Stock up on at least 1.5 liters of water from the lakes.
The terrain in the upper part is mostly scree and large stones (moraines). Hard hiking boots are mandatory to protect the ankles. In winter, the route poses a serious avalanche danger!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the route suitable for beginners?
No. The large elevation gain, rocky terrain, and its distance from huts make it suitable for experienced hikers in good physical shape.

Can I reach the summit directly from Popovo Lake?
Yes! There is a trail (without official color markings, but with stone pyramids) that branches off from Popovo Lake and goes directly up to the Dzhanska Gate and the summit. This is the shortest route from the Bezbog hut.

🔗 Nearby routes

• Climbing Polezhan Peak from Bezbog Hut
• Transition from Popovo Lake to Tevno Lake shelter
• From Harami well to Popovo lake (brown marking)