Zliya zab

Zliya Zab (The Evil Tooth) Peak, standing at 2,678 meters, is one of the most striking and recognizable landmarks in the Malyovitsa region of the Rila Mountains. With its jagged shape resembling a sharp canine tooth, the peak commands the skyline, rising proudly above the mountain’s deep abysses. This is a place where raw alpine beauty meets the legendary history of Bulgarian mountaineering.

Geographical Grandeur and Panoramas

• Strategic Location: Situated on the main Malyovitsa ridge, the peak is nestled between Lovnitsa and Orlovets peaks. It is separated from them by the rocky saddles of "Zliya Prelez" and "Prozoretsa" (The Window) – spots that reveal breathtaking views toward the southern slopes of the range.

• The "Halkata" Phenomenon: To the south, a rocky ridge descends from the summit, featuring a unique natural stone opening known as "Halkata" (The Ring). This natural wonder is among the most intriguing and photographed landmarks in the area.

The Realm of Couloirs and Alpine Walls

• The Devil’s Couloir (Dyavolski Uley): One of the most fearsome and majestic sites in Bulgaria. Located between the southern ridges, this couloir is incredibly steep, featuring near-vertical drops that command immense respect.

• The White and Blue Couloirs: These steep stone rivers plunge from the ridges near the summit down to the Rilska River, covering a dramatic vertical drop of nearly 1,200 meters.

• The Alpine Group: Together with Dvuglav Peak and The Needle (Iglata), Zliya Zab forms the most significant alpine zone in Bulgaria, serving as the backdrop for countless legendary climbing achievements.

Shelters and Curious Facts

• BAK Shelter: Located in the arid cirque north of the peak, the Bulgarian Alpine Club (BAK) shelter is a vital resting point and a base for many climbing expeditions.

• The Biscuit Lake: Near the shelter lies a tiny pond that climbers humorously call "The Biscuit Lake" (Biskvitenoto ezerce). The name stems from a tradition where climbers would dip their dry biscuits in the small pool of water while resting.

• Nature’s Changing Face: When viewed from the north, the peak’s appearance shifts significantly, resembling a massive molar tooth dominating the rugged high-mountain landscape.