Tourist Guide (Part 4): Summer in Pirin – From the oldest tree to the marble peak

Many people associate Bansko only with skiing, but the true magic of Pirin is revealed in the summer. When the snow melts, the mountain turns into a hiking paradise, offering routes for everyone – from a leisurely stroll in sandals to serious mountaineering.

This guide will show you the Top 5 routes you must see, ranked by difficulty.

1. The easiest: Baikushevata mura (For all ages)

This is a must-see stop for every guest of Bansko.

What is: The oldest coniferous tree in Bulgaria (over 1300 years old). Its circumference is nearly 8 meters!
Access: By car or bus to Banderitsa hut (14 km from the city). From the parking lot to the tree there is a short path with stairs (5-10 minutes walk).
Difficulty: 1/10 (Accessible for children and adults).

2. Lake “Okoto” (Short and scenic walk)

If you have reached Vihren hut (a little further up from Baikusheva mura), don't miss this gem.

Route: From the parking lot of Vihren hut, you start along the marked trail. After only 20-30 minutes of gentle climbing, you will reach “Okoto” – the deepest cirque lake in Pirin.
The view: The water is crystal clear and ice cold, and the view of the peaks is incredible.
Difficulty: 3/10.

3. Bezbog Peak and Popovo Lake (The most beautiful hike)

This is the route that offers the best return on effort – little walking, spectacular views.

Logistics: You drive to Gotse Delchev hut (above Dobrinishte) and take the chairlift to Bezbog hut.
The route: From Bezbog hut (which is on a lake) there is a trail to Popovo Lake – the largest and deepest lake in Pirin. The hike takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes one way, mostly flat or with a slight incline.
Difficulty: 4/10 (Requires comfortable shoes, but is not technical).

4. Muratovo Lake (For photojournalists)

If you want the perfect Instagram photo with the reflection of the peak in the water, this is the place.

Route: It starts from Vihren hut, but instead of heading to the summit, you take the trail to Muratov Peak. The hike takes about 1 hour and is a bit steeper than the one to “Okoto”, but it’s worth it.
Difficulty: 5/10.

5. Vihren Peak (For champions)

The peak of Pirin (2914 m) is a challenge that demands respect.

Preparation: Leave early in the morning (07:00 – 08:00) to avoid afternoon storms. Bring at least 1.5 liters of water, as there are no water fountains along the way.
The route: The classic route from Vihren Hut (“The Royal Trail”) takes about 3 hours uphill and 2.5 hours downhill. The trail is steep, rocky, and open.
Difficulty: 9/10 (Requires mountain shoes and good physical fitness. Not for young children).

Important tips for the summer mountain

The shoes: Even for easy routes, forget about slippers and city sneakers with smooth soles. Pirin is rocky.
Weather: In the mountains, the weather changes in minutes. Always carry a raincoat and warm outerwear in your backpack, even if it's 30 degrees down in Bansko.
Water: Hydration is key at high altitude.
Lift tickets: The lift in Dobrinishte (to Bezbog) and the Gondola lift in Bansko (to Banderishka meadow) also operate in the summer, but check the opening hours - usually the last boarding/disembarking is around 4:30 PM.

Next step: You've planned your routes, but where will you park your car and how will you get around if you don't have one?

Read Part 5: Transportation and Logistics – Parking, Taxis and Shuttles