Sunny winter day in Panichishte

Sunny winter day in Panichishte

Georgie Georgiev

Sunny winter day in Panichishte%RIMG1 Few days ago I took a trip to the mountain resort Panichishte. It was my first visit in this beautiful place and I was fascinated. Although it was in the middle of November it was a real winter time there and everything was covered with snow. But the weather was sunny and I felt like I had got into a winter fairy tail. I left Sofia at 9 o’clock am and after two hours driving I reached Sapareva Bania at the foot of the Rila Mountain. There are about 20 minutes from Sapareva Bania to Panichishte driving along a twisted road with picturesque scenery. If there was no signboard you would never understand that there is a resort. The hotels, hostel and restaurants are huddled among the high pine trees. But don’t worry! There are signs and maps for easy orientation. %LIMG2At 11.30 am, I found myself in front of Panichishte Visitors Centre at about 1350 m above the sea level. The ground and the trees were covered with snow, the sun was shining and thought once again that I love mountain so much. I took some pictures ad I entered the centre. There is a permanent exhibition of photos and texts describing the main ecosystems, reserves, natural attractions, flora and fauna of the Rila National Park and a collection of geological materials, rocks and minerals from Rila Mountain. %RIMG3This is the first such Park centre in Bulgaria and it is patterned after the most famous national park centres around the world. I was impressed by the exhibition that shows the natural wealth of Rila. The helpful curator told me about the mountain and the name of the resort. It originates from the nearest lake, which have bowl shape. Bulgarian word “panitsa” means “bowl”. I recommend anyone who wants to learn more about Rila National Park to visit the centre. This man has a lot of to tell you. %LIMG4After that I took a walk around the resort and my admiration was growing. The weather was lovely, the snow crisped under my shoes while I was walking to the Bekyara ski run, surrounded by green pine trees, loaded with snow. After 15 minutes I reached a large meadow above the run. Several hotels and the oldest restaurant in Panichishte are situated there. But the most impressive thing was the view, which spelled me. I saw the majestic peaks of Rila far in the distance, touching the sky, covered with their winter snow caps. It took me several minutes to come out of the trance and to continue my way. %RIMG5I was curious to explore the hotels in the resort and they impressed me too. There are about 10 hotels in Panichishte which offer cosy, perfectly arranged rooms and apartments in which you can enjoy your holiday completely. The fresh air, the wonderful nature and the slopes definitely contribute to the unique atmosphere of the resort and its hotels. %LIMG6After my first visit in Panichishte I can tell you that this is a beautiful charming place. You can spend a reviving summer vacation there or to take advantage of the excellent winter sports conditions. The beauty of the place is unforgettable and it is not so commercialized yet. Panichishte is the perfect resort for those who love mountain and the splendid nature. Certainly I will be back and I hope to meet you there.