Monument
Route Fish Ponds Hut - Iliyna Ri...

The starting point of the route is one of the most emblematic Rila mountain huts - is situated at 2230 meters altitude "Fish ponds " . It lies at the foot of the hill Ostreshka between the two Fish Lakes. It heads to Mermerski Preslap of which offers great views of the peaks and valleys of the Central Rila.

Namely some of the valleys in the highest mountain on the Balkan Peninsula are key to this transition. From Mermerski Preslap should go down the path which follows the river Mermeritsa (the beginning of Mermerski lake ) . The route goes more to its place where it merges with Karaomeritsa at the western foot of the hill Mermerski and thus forms Iliina River .

Although only 16 km long river Iliina is one of the most picturesque and impressive throughout Rila. Valley it has significant width and is covered with grass pasture from which you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. In the past along the river Iliina is crossed paths associated hut "Macedonia " in the Rila monastery , but in recent years the flow of tourists in the region has declined sharply . Which, of course, is another plus for avid hikers, consciously seeking solitude and escape from the noisy places .

Unfortunately there is no way to enjoy the full beauty and fury of Iliina primary river , as much of the waters of the upper river is diverted to feed the lake " Belmeken " ( the same goes for Rila river ) . The path does not deviate from the river valley all the way to the immediate vicinity of the Rila Monastery, where Iliina and Rilska merge .

The distance from the hut "Fish ponds " to the monastery takes about 5-6 hours with a normal move. Of course, this does not apply in winter or bad weather . However, the route is relatively light, since it is mainly descent . Underestimation , however, is because we are dealing with a serious challenge for both body and spirit . If desired, you can " Take " route back - go to the Rila Monastery , following the river valley of Iliinai to reach the hut "Fish ponds " in Mermerski Preslap .

• Route