#Pirin National Park

[pangeen]

“ Evening in Pirin “ // Krasi Matarov

[travelella]

Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

Maria Teneva

[friluftsliv-arctic]

23 de junho de 2024 - Rila National Park, Bulgaria

Dia 4

Acordei quebrada, fraca, sem energia. Sabia que teríamos 20km pela frente, mas não conseguia pensar como faria isso. Tentei dormir mais um pouco, não consegui. Comecei então a organizar algumas coisas e a comer.

Quando Julien acordou também me disse que estava cansado e começamos a pensar em um plano B. Tinha a possibilidade de parar em um hut nos 15km, mas veríamos como seria o dia.

A princípio não era pra ser difícil. Não tinham muitas subidas e descidas longas. Estaríamos no topo da montanha o tempo todo. Mas não teríamos sombra e fazia calor. Também não tínhamos muitos pontos de água no caminho.

Juntamos as energias que nos restavam e fomos, pensando km a km. O começo eram os 3km de subida do dia anterior que havíamos evitado. Já não aguentávamos mais. Faltava força, faltava fôlego, faltava energia.

Seguimos, sabendo que seria difícil. Achamos uma fonte de água não muito confiável, mas tratamos com pílula. Depois uma mais confiável, onde descansamos um pouco, colocamos os pés na água e confirmamos que pararíamos no hut.

Foram 9km desejando chegar o mais rápido possível. Eu fui na força do ódio, literalmente. Não parava tanto, ia em um pace lento, mas só queria chegar.

A paisagem mudava muito. Víamos cada vez mais as montanhas do Pirin, atrás de nós, e as do Rila, na nossa frente. A vegetação também mudou considerável, de pasto de vaca a pedras e pinheiros.

A gente não aguentava mais. Foi difícil, foi penoso. Tudo doía. Quando cruzamos o vale e terminamos a última dúvida, apertei o passo e foquei: só queria chegar. Só olhava pro chão. As vezes levantava a cabeça pra ter certeza que não estava perdendo nada interessante. Não encontremos ninguém na trilha.

Quando vimos o hut o coração até acelerou. Mas ainda parecia muito longe e não chegávamos nunca. Finalmente, depois de uma longa descida, acabamos.

Segundo Julien, nos top 5 dos piores dias dele. Não sei como aguenta: nao come, não toma água direito. Eu já estaria caída por aí.

Tinham 3 homens que cuidavam do hut e um mal falava inglês. Pedimos o quarto. Tomamos banho e comemos. O quarto aqui era compartilhado. Achamos que estaríamos sozinhos. Que engano: hoje é sábado. Ao longo do dia foram chegando mais pessoas, até que fim de tarde chegou um grupo enorme, de umas 20 pessoas. Com a gente, mais 2. Mas um que vai roncar muito, de certeza.

Depois de 4 dias sozinhos 99% do tempo, estranhei ver gente. Eram muitos e falavam alto. Só queria voltar pra minha concha e ficar ali quieta. Não sei o que aconteceu do ano passado pra cá. Não posso dizer que me tornei uma pessoa super introspectiva porque ainda me comunico bastante e me expresso muito, mas tenho cada vez mais me sentindo pra dentro.

Refizemos os planos para os próximos dias. Continuar 40km divididos em 3 ou fazer mais um dia e ir pro mosteiro de Rila e depois pra Plovdiv. Decidiremos amanhã cedo, de acordo com a energia da manhã.

Apesar de cansada, to feliz com o desempenho: foram 70km até agora. Meu maior esforço em todo esse tempo. E me sinto bem, apesar de cansada. Acho que não sou um completo desastre.

[carylee1]

Discover the Best Affordable Ski Resorts in Europe for Thrifty Snow Enthusiasts

Are you dreaming of carving through fresh powder and breathing in the crisp mountain air? Look no further than Europe, home to some of the most breathtaking ski resorts in the world. While skiing in Europe is often associated with luxury and high prices, there are plenty of options for those on a budget. In this guide, we'll explore the most affordable ski resorts in Europe, where you can enjoy world-class slopes without breaking the bank.

1. Bansko, Bulgaria

Tucked away in the Pirin Mountains of Bulgaria, Bansko offers excellent skiing at a fraction of the cost compared to its western European counterparts. With affordable lift tickets, budget-friendly accommodations, and a charming old town atmosphere, Bansko has become a favorite among thrifty snow enthusiasts. The resort boasts over 70 kilometers of slopes suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for families and beginners.

2. Jasna, Slovakia

For those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, Jasna in Slovakia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With stunning views of the Tatra Mountains and an extensive network of well-groomed runs, Jasna offers exceptional value for money. Lift tickets and dining options are significantly cheaper here compared to other Alpine resorts, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Pamporovo, Bulgaria

Another budget-friendly option in Bulgaria, Pamporovo, is renowned for its sunny weather and excellent ski conditions. Situated in the Rhodope Mountains, Pamporovo features gentle slopes perfect for beginners and families. With affordable ski packages that include equipment rental and lessons, this resort caters to those looking for an accessible and enjoyable skiing experience without the hefty price tag.

4. Vogel, Slovenia

Nestled within Triglav National Park, Vogel offers breathtaking scenery and diverse terrain for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Despite its stunning location, Vogel remains one of Europe's best-kept secrets, offering affordable lift tickets and accommodations. With over 22 kilometers of slopes and reliable snow conditions, this Slovenian gem provides an excellent alternative to pricier Alpine resorts.

5. Sierra Nevada, Spain

While Spain might not be the first destination that comes to mind for skiing, Sierra Nevada surprises visitors with its impressive slopes and sunny Mediterranean climate. With affordable ski passes and a vibrant après-ski scene, this Andalusian resort offers a unique skiing experience unlike any other in Europe. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging black runs, Sierra Nevada caters to skiers of all levels.

Conclusion

When it comes to cheap ski resorts in Europe, there are plenty of options to choose from that won't break the bank. Whether you're a novice looking to learn or an experienced skier seeking adventure, these budget-friendly destinations offer world-class slopes and stunning mountain scenery without the hefty price tag. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable skiing holiday that won't cost a fortune.

Looking to plan your next ski getaway on a budget? Explore the most affordable ski resorts in Europe with OneAir comprehensive guide. From budget-friendly accommodations to insider tips on saving money, we've got you covered. Visit https://www.oneair.ai/guides/explore-most-affordable-ski-resorts-in-europe/ to start planning your dream ski vacation today!

[1thekdonna]

Underrated Winter Destinations in 2024: USA Travel Tickets

As the year 2024 unfolds, it’s time to break away from the usual winter destinations and explore the underrated gems that promise a unique and enchanting experience. While popular destinations attract crowds, these underrated winter retreats offer tranquility, beauty, and a touch of magic. Here are the hidden gems waiting to be discovered in 2024.

1. Kakslauttanen, Finland: Arctic Dreamland

Escape the ordinary and venture to Kakslauttanen, a hidden gem in the Finnish Lapland. Far from the bustling crowds, this Arctic dreamland offers cozy glass igloos for a night under the Northern Lights. Embrace winter with activities like husky safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, and the chance to witness the serene beauty of Lapland.

2. Bansko, Bulgaria: Winter Charm in the Balkans

Bansko, nestled in the Pirin Mountains of Bulgaria, is an underrated winter destination with Old World charm. This picturesque town boasts a rich history and offers excellent skiing opportunities without the crowds of more famous European resorts. Explore the cobbled streets, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the warmth of Bulgarian hospitality.

3. Shirakawa-go, Japan: Historic Winter Village

Step into a winter fairy tale in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan. Famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses, this historic village transforms into a snowy wonderland in winter. Experience the magic of illuminated gassho-zukuri houses against a backdrop of pristine snow-covered landscapes.

4. Rila Monastery, Bulgaria: Spiritual Winter Retreat

Embrace the tranquility of winter at Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s spiritual haven. Nestled in the Rila Mountains, this UNESCO site is a serene retreat with a rich history. Explore the monastery’s ornate architecture, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, and experience the spiritual ambiance that permeates the winter air.

5. Abisko, Sweden: Arctic Adventures Await

For a true Arctic experience, head to Abisko, Sweden. This underrated destination offers a winter wonderland with frozen lakes, the chance to witness the Northern Lights, and thrilling activities like ice climbing. Explore Abisko National Park and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Arctic landscape.

6. Snowdonia, Wales: Winter Magic in the Mountains

Snowdonia, known for its stunning landscapes, is a hidden gem for winter enthusiasts. The mountains of Wales offer a picturesque setting for winter hikes, snow-dusted peaks, and charming villages. Experience the magic of Snowdonia’s winter, where tranquility meets breathtaking natural beauty.

7. Jasper National Park, Canada: Rocky Mountain Retreat

Escape the crowds of Banff and discover the underrated beauty of Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies. In winter, the park transforms into a pristine wilderness with frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and the chance to spot wildlife against a backdrop of majestic mountain peaks.

8. Svaneti, Georgia: Ancient Wonders in Winter

Svaneti, nestled in the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, is an underrated winter destination with a rich cultural heritage. Explore medieval towers, visit ancient churches, and experience the hospitality of the local Svan people against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks.

9. Arosa, Switzerland: Alpine Elegance Off the Beaten Path

While Switzerland is known for its Alpine resorts, Arosa remains a hidden gem. This charming village offers an intimate winter retreat with a touch of elegance. Enjoy skiing on pristine slopes, explore the local boutiques, and savor Swiss cuisine in a quieter Alpine setting.

10. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: Winter Waterfall Wonders

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is renowned for its cascading waterfalls, but in winter, it becomes a hidden gem. The frozen landscapes and icy waterfalls create a surreal winter wonderland. Take a peaceful stroll along snow-covered boardwalks and witness nature’s frozen masterpiece.

In 2024, consider stepping off the beaten path and discovering the underrated winter destinations that offer a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. From Arctic adventures to historic retreats, these hidden gems promise a winter experience like no other.

[nemanjak]

[soliloquyinthedark]

Pirin National Park, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria

[natureandanimals91]

National Park Pirin  / Национален парк „Пирин”

Follow us  / Последвай ни !

[travelbinge]

Tender morning by Albena Markova

Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

[iamhrb]

Pirin during workweek is awesome.

Making it through the ridge without passing 20-30 people was surreal.

[bookingvacation]

MELNIK

Melnik, one of the smallest towns in Bulgaria, is tucked away in the folds of the South-western Pirin Mountains. . . In the Middle Ages the Bulgarian boyar Alexi Slav made the town the capital of his principality (1215). From those times dates the prosperity of the town, which during Bulgaria’s National Revival (18th and 19th centuries) reached the peak of its cultural and economic development. During the Balkan War (1912- 1913), it was burned down. Today it numbers 417 inhabitants.

The most valuable and oldest architectural monument in Melnik is the Boyar House, which is in fact the oldest house in Bulgaria, built between the 10th and the 14th centuries. The impressive Kordopoulo House, which dominates the whole town, dates from the time of the Bulgarian National Revival period and is a veritable fortress. Its walls are decorated with mural paintings. Deep in its basement there is a huge wine cellar, in which tens of thousands of litres of the famous Melnik wine was kept.

The Pashova House today holds the town museum. Many wood carvings and paintings on glass are kept in it. South of Melnik in the Slav Park are the ruins of the old St Nikola Monastery, built in the 13th century. Not far away are the ruins of the fortress of the despot Alexi Slav ephesus daily tour.

Some 5-6 km east of the town is the Rozhen Monastery, which was founded in the 14th century. In the church the iconostasis is decorated with exquisite wood carving and there are rare icons and beautiful glass paintings.

Melnik is best reached from the E-20 International Highway from Sofia to Athens. The distance is some 186 km. South of the town of Sandanski, near the village of Delchevo, a road branches off to Melnik, 12 km away.

KOTEL

As legend has it, Kotel was founded in 1545 by immigrants. It is situated in the eastern folds of the Balkan Range amid wooded hills. It was called Kotel (the Bulgarian for cauldron) because it lies in a valley and the waters of its abundant springs boil as if in a cauldron. Only part of the town has survived the great fire of 1894. This part of the town is now given the status of an architectural historical reservation. The houses which have been preserved reveal the skill of the master-builders from the time of the Bulgarian National Revival. A folklore museum is laid out in one of the old houses, and not far from it, in the building of a school erected in 1869, is the Historical Museum of the town. Today in Kotel there is the first school for playing folk instruments, a school for arts and crafts, etc. The weaving of goat hair rugs and of carpets is traditionally a speciality of Kotel.

In the town there is a modern hotel with restaurant, a cafe and snack bar. In its environs there are game preserves for big game. Kotel can most easily be reached along the Sofia-Bourgas motorway turning off after Sliven at the village of Gorno Alexandrovo; the town is 43 km further on.

[shokugekinospice]

Hi! Can I request proposal headcanons for Ryoali, Akisako, and Sorina, please?

Yo, yo, my dude! Of course you may request aye!

RyoAli

♥ I like thinking the person who’s gonna propose would be Ryo. Reason isn’t because he’s a guy [WOMEN CAN PROPOSE TOO, YOU CANNOT CHANGE MY MIND] but because Alice initiates almost EVERYTHING. So he’s gonna make a chance.

♥ Probably gonna be when they travel to Denmark. They relieve some childhood memories, they talk to each other about how they first met. It’s so soft and sweet.

♥ Alice brings up the fact that she’s glad they ended up still being together at this point, and she never guessed that they’ll actually turn out like this.

♥ Ryo listens to all of her rambles before saying his side of the story. This is one of the first times Alice heard Ryo speak so much without his band on.

♥ They talk until sunset together and before it is time to go back, THAT’S when Ryo proposes.

♥ Under the sunset in a beautiful place right after they discussed how much they mean to each other.

♥ Alice actually cries until the moon appears.

♥ After the crying she says yes.

♥ Alice calls him a meanie for making her cry. He kisses her as a sorry and his apology was accepted.

♥ Well, after he bridal carried her back to the place where they’ll be sleeping.

AkiSako

♥ Person to propose, be surpISED IT’S BOTH. OKAY LISTEN,,, BEFORE YOU COMPLAIN,,, They both word hard as hell and Akira is actually a bit concerned on when he can propose because... he’s thinking about Hisako’s schedule.

♥ On the other hand, Hisako has the same worries, but she also knows how much she LOVES Akira. So that’s the thing. They both want to be married, but both are busy as fuck.

♥ They both dedicate a vacation to spend time with one another. This place is Bulgaria, also one of the countries in EU that exports herbs. They plan on doing a research together here.

♥ After the research, they decide to have a tour around the place. I mean, they want to have fun after all the hard work, right?

♥ So they went to Pirin National Park, one of the most known tourist spots in Bulgaria. They spend time together there.

♥ HISAKO WITH A SUN KISSED FACE IN A BEAUTIFUL FOREST, LOOKING BACK AT AKIRA? HIS HEART? WHACK.

♥ AKIRA FISHING IN THE WATERFALLS AND ACCIDENTALLY GETTING SPLASHED BY THE FISH? HER HEART? WHACK.

♥ They both equally think the other one is beautiful, alright? And well, once they reach the meadows?? They had the same brain cell move.

♥ They propose to each other at the same time, with Akira showing the ring first and then Hisako showing hers. They end up laughing and kissing in the meaows.

♥ The tourist guide is crying. I’m crying. We’re all crying. They look perfect, thEY’RE PERFECT.

SoRina

♥ I think it’s obvious that Soma proposes because Erina refuses to be the one to propose because if she did, she’ll die out of embarrassment. Well damn, she’s right.

♥ Soma plans to propose in a simple way. Simple yet beautiful way. Similar to the same moment when he realized that he had feelings for Erina.

♥ It was a vacation for only two of them. They decided to go to a place in Japan because Erina wanted to travel around with him in Japan first before any other country.

♥ It felt like a normal day because the normal days is what made them like each other. Not the big ass competition. The normal days and how they bonded. Not any extravagant shokugekis.

♥ Okay maybe they had a little competition and Erina won, Soma was a bit disappointed but he decided to make a dish dedicated to her and she loved it.

♥ She didn’t call it delicious bUT SHE DID SAY HE WAS GETTING BETTER. A STEP CLOSE TO IT.

♥ After the whole day of spending the day together, they decided to stargaze together on the balcony of the vacation place. They talk about the moment they actually realized they fell in love with the person. 

♥ Erina is already soft as hell. WELL GUESS WHAT, SHE’S GONNA GET EVEN SOFTER.

♥ Once Soma finishes, that’s when he proposes to Erina. She actually begins tearing up because 1.) she was already too soft for her own good 2.) he planned this all along.

♥ She doesn’t say yes with a yes. She kisses his lips first, so hell yeah! She initiates it. Their hands are tangled and he places the ring on her. They continue viewing the stars together.

[travelella]

Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

Antonia Chekrakchieva

[friluftsliv-arctic]

22 de junho de 2024 - Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

Dia 3 - From Pirin National Park to Rila’s Mountain

Começamos o dia sabendo que seria longo. Nos faltaram os 4km de descida do dia anterior e o plano do dia já era longo.

Tomei um café reforçado, porque sabia que precisaria de energia e começamos a descer. Eu acordei focada e com energia. Chegaríamos ao final do dia no lugar planejado, sabendo que iria chegar acabada.

A descida foi mais rápida que o esperado, pela floresta e com sombra. Chegamos no vilarejo que fica no pé do parque. Aparentemente vem turista com condomínios de casas super chiques pro inverno.

Tínhamos 11k de estrada pela frente e não sabíamos se tentaríamos pegar carona ou não, pra focar mais na montanha. Acabou que a maior parte era em estrada de chão e na parte mais “interior” da vila, só vimos um carro e que ficou pelo começo.

Seguimos num ritmo bom. Fazia muito calor, mas estávamos focados e a estrada era boa e plana, o que ajudou muito. Estávamos rodeados de muito verde e das montanhas do Pirin ao fundo, que ficavam cada vez mais distante.

Passamos por um rebanho de vacas e seu dono. Paramos antes em um bar pra tomar uma coca e comer um chocolate. Depois paramos em um rio pra refrescar os pés. Seguimos focados. No mapa aparecia um bar no final da estrada, antes de começarmos a subir pro topo da montanha.

Um carrinho de comida com kebab e umas saladas búlgaras. Ali comemos, tomamos outra coca, pegamos água do lado da capelinha, que incrivelmente tinha uma fila enorme. A água realmente era boa. Descansamos e resolvemos encarar a subida.

Não era pouca, mas a notícia era boa: estrada na maior parte do tempo e não era muito íngrime. Estávamos no meio da floresta. Não vimos uma única pessoa. E também não víamos água. Mais escasso que no Pirin.

O pace era bom, subimos com foco e bom ritmo. Eu, como sempre preocupada com a água, pedi pro Julien confirmar se teríamos no nosso ponto de acampamento. No mapa dizia que sim, mas não tínhamos muita certeza. É raro ter água tão alto. Então fomos atrás de um rio. Enchemos as garrafas e continuamos a subir.

Tudo muito que bem já nos 20km até que a querida estrada acaba e uma nova trilha, super íngrime começa. Já estávamos em 1800m, não tinha vento e o sol ainda pegando forte. Os dias estão longos por aqui. O pôr do sol é por volta das 21h e hoje fazia 27°.

A subida, com tanto sol, me quebrou, como sempre. Eu que vinha super motivada a ir até o final do plano, pra acampar no lugar planejado, já não sabia mais com que pernas chegaria lá. Eu estava só pela água do mapa. Eu ainda tinha água. Mas hoje eu estava imunda e precisava de um banho.

O pico da montanha não chegava nunca. Sempre achávamos que estávamos ali, mas faltava mais um pouco. Quando finalmente chegamos, ambos mortos depois dos 26km, olhamos pros 3km que faltavam. Ainda tinha descida. Tinha subida. Não tinha a certeza de um lugar plano pra por a barraca, muito menos a certeza da água. Julien disse que era nessa plano a mesmo que ficaríamos.

Larguei a mochila no chão só pensando em como dormiria imunda, mas agradecendo por não ter que fazer mais nenhum esforço. Peguei meus lencinhos umedecidos, passei nos lugares importantes, voltei a ter um pouco de dignidade e montei meu acampamento.

A gente se parabenizou e ele disse: tu és forte, pode fazer o TMB tranquila. Agradeci exausta, com sorriso orgulhosa no rosto. Eu não sou um completo desastre pra quem tá iniciando.

[pangeen]

sunrise with wild horses in Balkan peninsula mountains.

Tevno lake 2512m. in Pirin National park Bulgaria

by Krasi St Matarov

[greenmanfollower]

Pirin national park, Bulgaria