The Shiroka Polyana – Borino route is a stage of the Sultans Trail, an international long-distance hiking route from Vienna to Istanbul, through the Western Rhodopes. It is about 23 km long and leads from the Shiroka Polyana reservoir to the village of Borino.
According to the Sultans Trail, the stage is 22.8 km long, with about 413 m of ascent and 814 m of descent, and takes about 6 hours 45 minutes. It passes through the Kandere ravine and by Orfey hut. Most of it runs on gravel forest roads.
The Shiroka Polyana reservoir lies at about 1,500 m in pine forest within the lands of Batak. It was built in 1959–1962 as part of the Batak hydropower cascade, and three protected areas surround it. Borino is the centre of the municipality of the same name in Smolyan province. The next stage continues from Borino to Yagodina.
A long day with more descent than ascent. There are no technical sections. Carry water and food for the whole day and the route’s GPS track.
The reservoir is about 30 km from Batak and 20 km from Dospat. The route is one-way, so plan your return from Borino in advance.
Pazardzhik region
5.6 km away
Pazardzhik region
5.7 km away
Pazardzhik region
6.5 km away
Smolyan region
7.6 km away
Shiroka Polyana – Borino is located in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria.
Shiroka Polyana – Borino 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.
Shiroka Polyana – Borino 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.
