Tsrancha Peak (1145 m) is the third-highest summit in Zavalska Mountain, part of the Western Bulgarian borderlands. It crowns a ridge stretching between the village of Yaroslavtsi and the Krasava Reservoir. Covered in dense mixed forests and flanked by steep eastern and western slopes, Tsrancha remains a hidden gem for off-trail enthusiasts. There are no marked paths to the summit, making the final ascent a rugged scramble through thickets and forest terrain. Route Description The hike is physically moderate but requires basic navigation skills and resilience to dense vegetation. - Starting Point: The "St. Ivan Rilski" Church, located on the road between the village of Garlo and Staro Garlo. There is a small parking area directly in front of the church. - The Trail: The route follows dirt logging roads heading north. Along the way, hikers pass a well-maintained hunting shelter and skirt the western slopes of the peak. - Final Ascent: The true challenge begins where the dirt road ends. The last segment to the summit is off-trail, climbing the northern slope through deciduous brush and thorns. The ridge is narrow and the slopes are steep, requiring careful footing. Panoramic Views While the summit is surrounded by trees, specific openings offer magnificent vistas of Western Bulgaria's peaks. Hikers can clearly identify the silhouettes of Lyubash, Strazha (Paramun), Ezdimirska, and the prominent Rui Mountain. Practical Information - Distance: 5.1 km (one way). - Elevation Gain: 376 meters. - Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. - Gear: Long trousers and sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the thorny vegetation and lack of a defined path in the final stage. - Nearby Peaks: The route offers easy access to Malchovitsa and Velya Glava (the 11th highest peak in the range), making it a great day-trip for peak baggers.
Pernik
8.4 km away
Pernik
8.7 km away
Pernik
11.3 km away
Pernik
14.2 km away
Tsrancha is located in Pernik, Bulgaria.
Tsrancha 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 Tsrancha, 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.
Tsrancha reaches an elevation of 1,145 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.
