The route leads from the village of Bezvodno, Chernoochene municipality, to Chilyaka peak (1,459 m), the highest point of the Karakulas ridge in the eastern part of the Western Rhodopes. It is waymarked in blue and is about 2.5 km long.
The summit is about 2.5 km west-north-west of the village. The path crosses alternating forest and bare rocky knolls. Beside the waymarks, near the village, is a waterfall about 25–28 m high.
The summit gives a wide view over the Rhodopes. Bezvodno lies at 790–930 m above sea level, about 2.5 km south-west of the Borovitsa reservoir. Before 1934 the village was called Susus.
A short but steady climb — over 500 m of height gain from the top of the village to the summit. Wear hiking shoes and carry water.
Bezvodno is about 26 km north-west of Kardzhali.
Kardzhali region
4.1 km away
Kardzhali region
11.1 km away
Plovdiv region
13.5 km away
Plovdiv region
13.6 km away
Bezvodno – Chilyaka Peak is located in Kardzhali, Bulgaria.
Bezvodno – Chilyaka Peak 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.
Bezvodno – Chilyaka Peak is best walked from May through October, when the trail is clear of snow and weather is generally stable. Summer middays can be hot at lower altitudes — start early. Winter walking requires proper gear and route knowledge.
Suitability depends on the specific route. Bulgarian trails range from paved family-friendly paths to multi-day high-mountain crossings. Check the length, elevation gain, and surface before setting off. Sturdy footwear, water, and a basic map (offline or paper) are essential even on short walks.
