Journey to Muratov Peak – Discover Bulgaria’s Wild Beauty

Muratov Peak is 2669 m high and is located in the Northern Pirin. It rises on the main mountain ridge, southwest of Hvoynati Peak and northwest of the rocky Donchovi Karauli ridge, from which it is separated by the Banderishka Porta saddle. To the northwest of the peak is the Gredaro hill, and to the southwest - the Sinanishko side ridge. The peak is sharp and rocky with the shape of an almost ideal four-sided pyramid. Its slopes are steep, especially the northern and eastern ones, which are the subject of mountaineering. It is built of granite. Muratov Peak is deforested, and in places at its foot there are single groups of squat oaks. During the Revival process it was renamed Granite. Although this name appears on some of the new tourist maps, it has not managed to establish itself among tourists. The most convenient starting points for its ascent are the Vihren, Sinanitsa huts and the Spano Pole shelter. The starting point of the route is Vihren hut. It is located about 16 km from Bansko and is reached by a narrow asphalt road with many bends - a typical mountain road. You can reach the hut by car in about half an hour. Keep in mind that on weekends cars are not allowed up there at certain times. Check before you go on the Bansko Municipality website. In addition, parking spaces around the hut are difficult to find, even on weekdays. You have to be there quite early in the morning. The hike to Muratov Peak is not easy, but there is nothing risky, as long as you are careful. The route takes about two hours and 40 minutes one way, not counting breaks. The climb can be a real challenge for novice mountaineers, given the rocks and the large elevation gain that must be overcome. Vihren Hut is at 1970 meters above sea level, and Muratov Peak is at 2669 meters – that’s 700 meters straight up a scree path. The views from the top are the big reward. Head to the top with the appropriate preparation – both physical and mental, with appropriate clothing and shoes.