Pancharevo lake in Sofia, Bulgaria
One of the greatest things about Sofia’s location is that that you can easily escape the city in less than half an hour and find yourself in the Vitosha mountain, one of the small villages around or the beautiful Pancharevo lake. All of these options are perfect for recharging or simply getting away from the busy city or the summer heat. We’ve already talked about the Boyana waterfall in Vitosha Mountain and the Boyana church, so it is time to show you what to do at the Pancharevo lake and why it is a great (half) day trip.
Where is it?
Only 15 km away from the very heart of the city, the Pancharevo lake is easily accessed by car, bike and even public transport. This gives you the opportunity to go there on a whim when you are bored on a Saturday afternoon or just want to have a nice walk with a pleasant view. If you have time you can drive a little bit further and reach the Pasarel dam. This is going to be our next destination so stay tuned for more inspiration in Sofia’s outskirts.
What can you do at the Pancharevo lake?
This is the perfect place in the summer to practice different water sports. At the central part of the lake, you will find a small port where you can rent a boat, paddle boat or a canoe. Prices are around 4lv (2 euros) for 30 minutes, 8 lv (4 euros) for one hour and 14 lv (7 euros) for 2 hours. Close by there is a rowing school base camp and you can see a lot of people practicing and get inspired by how smooth and fast they move on the water. If you are keen on fishing, there are a lot of spots along the lake where you can do that.
Unfortunately, you cannot swim in the lake and you probably wouldn’t want to as its waters are not that clean and clear but there is a swimming pool called “Koralite” with a view of both the lake and the forest .
Just next to the water is the “Lodkite” (The boats) restaurant where you can have a refreshing beer and “shopska salad” or “tarator” in the summer. It is a very modest place with only the basic facilities when it comes to the interior, but when you are tired after canoeing, for example, you will be more than happy to have a lunch on a table along the water. Alternatively, you can try “Lebed” (The Swan) restaurant with its beautiful garden that often houses weddings and special occasions. The venue is much fancier with a polite service and refined menu.
The panoramic path
One side of the lake is guarded by a forest where a panoramic eco path is built. To be honest, it was probably panoramic when it was first built more than 50 years ago. Now the greenery surrounding the lake allows only a partial view of the water but it is still a lovely place for a hike. It is more of a walk rather than a hike because part of the road is paved and the terrain will be easy even for kids. There were lots of people taking advantage of the fresh air and cooler temperature of the forest by jogging and cycling. You can rest on some of the benches with the company of the birds singing around you or even go down to the lake and join the fishermen.
How to reach the beginning of the path: when coming from the center of Sofia leave your car at the parking close to the wall of the lake. Don’t worry, there are busses going to the lake from the city as well – number 1, 3 or 4 and they stop right next to the lake (the bus stop is called Banya Pancharevo/ Bath Pancharevo. When you reach the lake, regardless your transportation, cross the yellow bridge and walk around the wall until you reach the paved path that disappears in the forest across the lake and ta-da, you’re there.
Looks beautiful and relaxing! Like the detail about the pool for those who want to go for a swim!
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Yep, there’s something for everyone I guess 🙂
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I like the sound of Pancharevo Lake. It looks like a beautiful place for a hike. I’d love to explore the panoramic eco path but it’s a shame you can’t swim in the lake as I love a wild swim!
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Yeah, one of the best things about Sofia is that you have quite a few places for a hike or just a walk in the nature.
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When I think of Bulgaria, I never really think of how lush and green it is. One of my really good friends I met while living abroad is Bulgarian and she has completely sold me on visiting one day. This looks like a lovely place to take a day trip.
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Especially if you are visiting in the spring! Bulgaria has a lot to offer including great mountains and nature, so even if you are just travelling through the country you can enjoy the green landscapes!
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Looks like a fun place to explore and get out of the city and be in nature. I haven’t been to Sofia before
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This looks like a wonderful place to spend a day (or a few). My husband and I love water sports and are always looking to explore new waters. Thanks for the suggestion! We will definitely check it out and possibly rent some canoes too!
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Absolutely! If you are visiting Sofia and has more time the opportunities around the city for hikes and walks in the nature are quite a few. But the Pancharevo lake and some water dams that are not too far away also provide setting for canoes and fishing 🙂
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I’ve been so curious about Bulgaria since Raya Was Here (the travel vlogger) did some videos there earlier this year, I really want to go and Pancharevo Lake is definitely somewhere I’d like to take a trip to whilst there, it looks so peaceful ❤
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I love her videos, she is always so positive! So happy that she is also inspiring people to come to Bulgaria!
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I do not know much about Bulgaria. Pancharevo Lake looks like a paradise that is just a short hop away from the city. It sounds like summer time would be the perfect season to visit and try out different water sports.
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I’ve only visited during the summer and it is a great relaxation spot but now thinking that the fall will probably give it great warm colors too! Thanks for reading!
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Even though you can’t swim here, it looks very relaxing to enjoy either by kayaking or picnicking by the lake. It’s very beautiful!
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Exactly, when it is sunny it is the perfect relaxation spot close to the city! Thanks for stopping by and reading!
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It’s always nice to have an outdoor option easily accessible from a city center. I really enjoyed the same quality about Oslo, Norway and even Split, Croatia. I think I’d definitely plan some downtime on a paddle boat or for a picnic!
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Yes, that is a great addition to every city. After all, we need to escape from the busy city lifestyle from time to time. I would really love to go to Oslo! How many days you think are okay for just Oslo?
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That looks idyllic and really relaxing! I’d love to visit
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Oh it looks beautiful! Putting this place on my list for sure
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I love spending a relaxing day on or by a lake and Pancharevo looks like a great one. Would love to try that panoramic path.
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Wow! Such a bummer you can’t swim- that’s one of my favorite all-time activities. Great that it’s so close to the city, though. And doesn’t look super crowded, which surprised me.
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So much nature that too half an hour away from the city is a boon for nature lovers. By the looks of it, Pancharevo Lake is an excellent place for a day trip.
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Exactly the Beauty of Sofia – a lake and a wonderful mountain less than 30 minutes away!
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I visited Burgas, Bulgaria on a cruise last year and we went into Sunny Beach and Nessebar. I was instantly in love with the whole country. Must go back. Definitely would enjoy this lake area, too, plus I could see the splendor in Sofia as well.
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Seems like you had a great vacation! I would definitely recommend Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo as they have great old towns and are splendid historic destinations. So if you are heading to Bulgaria any time soon make sure not to miss them 🙂 I am always available for tips and ideas about my home country!
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You’ve really got some nice photos here. I love the fact that this beautiful lake is just 30 mins away from the city centre. It could easily be the place I might go to whenever I feel stressed with work. Now, if only this lake is really close to where I live… 🙂
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You would be surprised how many small places like lakes, dams, villages and eco paths one can find close by if you are looking for relaxation 🙂
It is less than 30 minutes and makes for a great place to just jump in the car when you are tired.
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What a beautiful part of the world! Looks so relaxing too. I’d love to visit Sofia. Thanks for sharing 🙂
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Fabulous photos. I’ve been many times to Pancharevo – and the hot mineral waters that feed both the decrepit (but still operational!) baths and the nifty Korali outdoor pools (http://koralite.com/en) are great.
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Hmm where are the baths? It seems like I’ve learned something new today. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts :))
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They are before the new hot water mineral pools in a quite old and decrepit building.
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