The Vassilashki Lakes, nestled in Bulgaria’s Pirin Mountains, captivate tourists and locals with their natural beauty. Situated in the Vassilashki Cirque, these lakes lie between Todorca, Vassilashki Chukar, and one of the Tepitzki Peaks. The Cirque, opening east towards the Demianitsa River valley, channels the lake system’s waters into it via a short, vigorous stream. This terraced Cirque features several smaller Cirques arrayed like a windmill around a larger, central one, housing the primary Upper and Lower Vassilashki Lakes. Above the main cirque, two higher cirques hold Tevno Vassilashko Lake and a cluster of smaller lakes. A distinct, small secondary cirque to the northwest contains the two highest Todorini Lakes.
The lakes’ shores present steep, rocky facades, with summer water temperatures fluctuating between 9-12 degrees Celsius (48 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit). While all lakes except Tevno Lake are stocked with grayling, the trout populations remain natural. Overall, the Vassilashki Lakes basin encompasses ten lakes plus the two Todorini Lakes, covering a total area of about 180 hectares.
The Tevno Vassilashko Lake
The waters of Tevno Vassilashko Lake are blue and clean, located at 2,362 meters above sea level. The bright color gives it a local name: the Blue Lake. Also, in the center of the lake, there is a pretty island. The lake is about 390 by 215 meters and covers an area of about 65 ha. The average depth is 29 m, making Tevno Vassilashko Lake the second deepest in the Pirin. The volume is about 500,000 cubic meters. Its name is derived from the old Bulgarian word for dark, concerning the lake’s depth.
The beauty of the lake is deep but fishless, unlike other lakes. An underground river drains the upper Vassilashko Lake, making it unfavorable for fish. Yet, this unique feature does not diminish the lake’s tranquil and picturesque landscape.
Access to Tevno Vassilashko Lake is difficult since there are no marked paths to it. On the east side of Upper Vassilashko Lake, adventurers will only find an unmarked trail or a very steep route linking the Tevno Lake Shelter with the Vihren Hut. In either case, the paths are rough and difficult to explore.
The route to Lake Tevno Vassilashko is a celebration for the eyes. From the main ridge of the Pirin, the most beautiful views unfold along the Red Trail on the views of the Vihren, Kutelo, and Todorka peaks. Here, every visitor will be shocked by the beauty of the lake within the picturesquely attractive background of Pirin National Park.
The Upper Vassilashko Lake
Upper Vassilashko Lake, at an altitude of 2,154 meters, sits beneath Tipits Peak and boasts a unique boomerang shape. Its dimensions are 212 by 235 meters and span 23.2 decades. Although shallow at just 3.1 meters, its substantial water volume of nearly 29,000 cubic meters ranks it the third largest. Water from Todorini Lakes and Tevno Vassilashko Lake pours into it, eventually cascading down a steep moraine wall into the Lower Lake.
The Lower Vassilashki Lake
Lower Vassilashki Lake, also known as Ribno Lake (Fish Lake), is the group’s second largest at 35.9 hectares, nestled just below the Upper Lake at 2,126 meters altitude. Spanning 325 meters in length and 177 meters in width, its depth reaches up to 2.5 meters, resulting in a volume of 41,000 cubic meters. A charming peninsula extends into the lake’s southern section. The lake gathers waters from the surrounding cirque, initially flowing underground through a moraine wall to emerge on the eastern shore. After traveling 250 meters, the water bursts forth, cascading as the Vassilashka River in a lively flow. Rich in trout, the lake’s name reflects its abundant fish life.
The Vassilashki Lakes, with their jaw-dropping views, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking surroundings, stand as a natural marvel in Bulgaria. They offer a perfect escape for nature lovers or anyone seeking tranquility. Visiting the Vassilashki Lakes promises an unforgettable experience, leaving every visitor in awe.
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