MTSZ
MTSZ térképportál
Turista Magazin
TuristaShop
Kéktúra
Gerecse50
A kéktúrázás napja
-
Tzar Shishman of Bulgaria fortress, SamokovPhoto: Mpb eu, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Fortress_of_Ivan_Shishman_in_Samokov#/media/File:Tzar_Shishman_of_Bulgaria_fortress_-_Samokov.JPG/2
The route passes Mala Tsarkva and Govedartsi before arriving at the Mechit hut.
For centuries, these mountain valleys supported forestry, livestock grazing, and seasonal movement between lowland settlements and alpine pastures. The villages also stood along local routes linking the interior basins of western Bulgaria with the mountain crossings further south to Greece and the Mediterranean Sea.
Beyond Govedartsi, the trail enters denser forest and climbs deeper into the Rila massif. The stage ends at Mechit Hut, situated high in the mountains below the alpine slopes and peaks of Bulgaria’s highest range.
Author’s recommendation
In the Mechit hut, it might be useful to arrange dinner in advance.
A full description of the Mechit hut can be found here
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
At this stage, no specific safety precautions are required.Tips and suggestions
Accommodation can be found along the way in Beli Iskur, Mala Tsarkva, Madzhare, and Govedartsi. At the stage end stands the Mechit Hut, a solid two‑storey lodge offering a restaurant and buffet, 12 indoor beds, full sanitary facilities and a bathroom, while a separate building provides dormitory accommodation for up to 80 people; both buildings have electricity, running water, and heating via solid‑fuel stoves and electric radiators. The recently renovated main hut delivers a notably comfortable, cosy atmosphere.Roadbook
At Govedartsi, the route leaves the Iskar behind and begins the ascent toward the Mechit Hut, climbing through conifer forests and alpine meadows into the heart of the Rila range. Here, the hydrology of the mountains becomes strikingly clear: the Cherni Iskar, descending from Malyovitsa Peak (2,636 m), and, before entering the Samokov basin at 950 m. meets the Beli Iskar, whose source lies on the slopes of Musala (2,925 m), Bulgaria’s highest summit. The Iskar is a classic mountain river—steep, loud, and fast—its energy shaping both the valley and the rhythm of this stage.
Great fountain, Samokov
Bayrakli Mosque, Samokov
Public transport
Samokov can be reached from Sofia by bus.Govardartsi can be reached by bus and taxi from Samokov.
The Mechit hut can be reached by taxi from Samokov.
Directions
The direct bus from Sofia to Samokov is operated by Traventuria and departs from the Vasil Levski Monument in central Sofia. Travel time is approximately 1h20. Check the timetable at traventuria.com hereTaxi Samokov:
- Taxi stand Samokov +359 887 708 623
- Taxi IVAN Samokov +359 888 507 042
- Taxi VID +359 897 964 965
The bus to Govardartsi from Samokov is also operated by Traventuria, check the timetable on traventuria.com here
Coordinates
Equipment
This stage of the Sultans Trail requires standard long-distance hiking equipment. Weather protection is essential, including rain and cold gear, depending on the season. In late spring and early summer, mosquito deterrents are strongly recommended, while during the hot season, sun protection and a sufficient water supply are essential. Reliable offline navigation tools should be carried at all times.Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
User Questions