Belmeken (2,626 m) is a peak in the Belmeken part of eastern Rila, above the reservoir of the same name. In 1950 it was renamed Kolarov; today it carries its old name again.
The Belmeken reservoir and the Belmeken high-altitude sports base lie at its foot. Sokolov Vrah and Cherveni Vrah are its neighbours. The northern slope is sheer and rises above the Kutlinite cirque.
It is fairly easy to reach in summer from the south, from the Belmeken reservoir. The villages of Yundola and Sestrimo are starting points. In winter the slopes are prone to avalanches and the pole waymarks must be followed. In clear weather the summit views take in Pirin with Vihren, Slavyanka, Vitosha, the Stara Planina, Sredna Gora, the Western Rhodopes and the Iskar and Batak reservoirs. Below the summit is the highest colony of the European ground squirrel in Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula.
The Belmeken reservoir is reached from Yundola or from Sestrimo; the climb starts there.
Sofia region
1.5 km away
Sofia region
2.3 km away
Blagoevgrad region
3.9 km away
Belmeken is located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.
Belmeken is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is best for Belmeken, when trails are clear of snow and weather is most stable. Higher peaks may hold snow into June and see fresh snow as early as October. Winter visits are for experienced mountaineers with proper gear.
Belmeken reaches an elevation of 2,626 metres above sea level.
Hiking boots, layered clothing, water (1.5–2 L per person), sun protection, and a windproof jacket — mountain weather changes quickly. For longer routes also bring a map (paper or offline), a head torch, and emergency rations. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
