Vihren Route

by Tsveta Misheva
With its 2914 m. Vihren is the highest peak in Pirin and the second highest in Bulgaria. Till 1942 is was called "Eltepe" meaning "The mount of storms". The legend tells that on that peak was placed the marble throne of the Thracian god of thunders Perun after whom mountain Pirin is named.

The ascent of the peak is quite strenuous but by no means reserved only for professionals. If you have decided to dedicate a day of your holiday to the ascent of Vihren we recommend you the following route:

Start from Vihren hut (1950m) and follow the red markers.

From the town of Bansko there is a tar road to the hut (18km.) and a well marked path (4 hours). You can use public transport (minibuses) tП Bunderitza hut (40 min. from Vihren hut).

In 20 min. you will cross the stream "Vihrenska Voda" and reach a fork in the path. Both trails are marked. Follow the path to your right. It will lead you across the eastern slopes of Vihren, through the area of Kazanite where you  get a magnificent view of the northern face ot Vihren (2 hours) and up the saddle between Vihren and Kutelo (2.30 hours).
From the saddle the trail continues to the left and in 40 min reaches the summit. During this part of the hike you'll have to scramble over rocks using your hands. There aren't any technical problems but the rocks may be quite slippery if it is raining.
 
On descent you can use the path on the other side of the peak through "Vihrenski Preslap" and down to the hut.

The whole hike will take you about 6 hours.

Note that:
Ascending mount Vihren via "Vihrenski Preslap" is of course also possible and is actually more popular than the described ascent. It is however quite boring because for the most of the hike you'll be looking only at the steep slope in front of you. If you appreciate not only the uphill walking but the variety of terrain and magnificent panorama views - use the described route.

Once you've climbed mount Vihren, on your way to Bansko it is a good idea to take time to see "Baikushevata Mura" - an ancient Macedonian pine which is 1300 years old. Follow the tar road (not the path) to Bunderitza hut. In about 20 min. you'll see it on your left. There's a sign pointing at it and a path from the road leading to it.

It's worth it!!!