Resilovo Monastery,Waterfall &Hot Springs DayTrip from Sofia

If you’re looking to escape Sofia’s city buzz for a day, this tour packs in a pretty satisfying mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. It’s a good choice if you want a balanced experience: visiting a historic monastery, hiking to a stunning waterfall, and unwinding in natural hot mineral pools. Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or wellness, there’s a little of everything here.

One of the things we really appreciate about this trip is how well it combines these elements without feeling rushed. Plus, with a small group size and a knowledgeable guide, it’s designed to give you a more personal, relaxed experience. But, as with any day trip, it’s worth noting that the timing can be tight, and some parts — like the spa — do require extra tickets and costs. Still, if you’re the kind of traveler who loves discovering Bulgaria’s quieter spots and enjoying some downtime, this tour is a solid pick.

That said, it’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the slightly more rustic spa setting. Overall, it’s best suited for curious travelers who want an authentic taste of Bulgaria’s natural and spiritual landscape — not just the usual tourist stops.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary that offers cultural sights, scenic hikes, and wellness
• Small group format for more personalized attention and conversation
• Includes transportation and guided commentary in multiple languages (English, Spanish, Russian)
• Extra costs for spa treatments and entrance fees should be budgeted
• Timing is tight but manageable, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and wellness but not suited for very young children or those with mobility constraints

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Day Trip

This tour is a well-rounded way to see some of Bulgaria’s less-famous but equally charming spots just outside Sofia. It’s designed to be flexible, informative, and relaxing, with a focus on the local beauty and culture. Let’s break down what you’ll experience.

Starting Point: Aleksandar Nevski Square

Your journey begins here, right in the heart of Sofia. It’s a convenient meeting spot, close to cafes and landmarks, making it easy to find. Once everyone’s gathered, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for the drive to your destinations.

The Scenic Drive (80 Minutes)

The trip kicks off with a cozy van ride through the Bulgarian countryside. This part of the experience is pretty much about setting the scene. You’ll get glimpses of small villages, rolling hills, and the mountains in the distance — Bulgaria’s landscape is truly charming. The guide’s commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing, making the most of this relaxed travel time.

Resilovo Monastery: A Quiet Spiritual Hub

Your first stop is the Resilovo Monastery, built in 1932, and still an active women’s monastery today. It’s located at the foot of the Rila mountains, adding a scenic backdrop to its peaceful atmosphere. The monastery’s history and ongoing religious practices give it a genuine sense of reverence, and it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate this spiritual side of Bulgaria.

The architecture is modest but charming, and the calm surroundings make it a good place to pause and reflect. If you’re interested, you might also enjoy the nearby Womans Monastery — a quieter spot that highlights Bulgaria’s religious heritage.

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Waterfall Adventure (1.5 Hours)

Next up: the second-highest waterfall in Rila Mountain, standing at 39 meters, located about 900 meters above sea level. The walk to the waterfall isn’t too strenuous, but keep in mind it involves a bit of hiking and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.

Once there, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the soothing sound of rushing water. It’s a perfect photo op and a chance to enjoy Bulgaria’s natural beauty at its best. The waterfall’s height and setting make it an impressive sight, especially with the surrounding greenery.

Relaxation in Hot Mineral Pools (Aqua Club Kotvata)

After the hike, you’ll head to Aqua Club Kotvata, renowned for its therapeutic mineral waters. Here, you can unwind in outdoor jacuzzis, warm stone pools, and contrasting cold pools — the difference in temperature is designed to boost circulation and relax your muscles.

The pools have mineral water at temperatures up to 40°C, which can be especially soothing after a long walk. Many reviews mention the beneficial effects these pools have, especially on the nervous system and blood flow. Keep in mind, entrance fees are extra (30 BGN per person), and you might want to bring a bathrobe and towel, which are also available for purchase.

If you’re into wellness or just want a peaceful break in nature, this part of the trip hits the spot. It’s a highlight for many, offering genuine relaxation and a taste of Bulgaria’s mineral spring traditions.

Final Return and Reflection

After a few hours of soaking and unwinding, you’ll board the van back to Sofia, arriving around the original starting point. The journey back gives you a moment to reflect on the day’s highlights — the quiet spirituality, the stunning waterfall, and the calming hot springs.

Additional Details

• Transport: Comfortable vans with a small group size (max 6 participants) make for a relaxed experience.
• Guides: Multilingual guides provide insights in English, Spanish, and Russian, making the tour accessible for many travelers.
• Cost & Extra Fees: The tour price covers transport and guided services but not the entrance fee to Kotvata SPA (30 BGN per person), bathrobe (10 BGN), or towel (4 BGN). Budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.
• Timing: The 8-hour duration means you’ll have a full but manageable day, including travel time, sightseeing, and relaxation. Starting times vary, so check availability.
• Suitability: Not suitable for children under 4 or babies under 1, mainly due to walking and the spa environment.

What We Loved (and What to Consider)

Based on reviews and the overall setup, this trip shines with knowledgeable guides and stunning views — both crucial for a memorable day. Albert’s review notes how small groups foster good discussions and personalized explanations, making the experience more meaningful. The scenic waterfall and peaceful monastery are real highlights, and many find the spa a perfect way to wind down.

However, keep in mind that the timing is somewhat tight, especially if you want to linger at each spot. You’ll want to pace yourself and not expect to explore every corner in depth. Also, the extra costs for spa entry and accessories mean you should budget ahead if you’re planning to relax there.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Bulgaria beyond Sofia’s city limits without a huge time commitment. It suits those interested in culture, history, and nature, especially if you enjoy a bit of walking and relaxing in natural settings. If you’re looking for a quiet, authentic experience with some wellness thrown in, this tour offers a good fit.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children or anyone with mobility issues, given the walking involved and the rustic nature of the spa. If you’re after a leisurely, scenic, and somewhat spiritual day out with a friendly guide, this is a trustworthy choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 or babies under 1, mainly due to walking and the spa environment.

How long is the drive from Sofia?
The drive to Resilovo Monastery and the waterfall takes about 80 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the countryside scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for the views, and if you plan to use the spa facilities, prepare for extra costs for entry, robes, and towels.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Sofia before or after the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Russian, making the tour accessible for many travelers.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxation, though the timings are tight, so plan to keep moving.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from the entrance fee to Kotvata SPA and optional accessories, no hidden costs are specified.

Is the tour suitable for a full relaxing experience?
Definitely, especially if you enjoy wellness activities like hot springs and scenic nature walks.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified, Bulgaria’s landscape is lovely year-round; spring and early autumn offer good weather for outdoor activities.

All in all, this Bulgaria day trip offers a thoughtful mix of history, nature, and wellness. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a personal touch and want to see some of Bulgaria’s quieter, beautiful spots without the hassle of planning it themselves. Just be ready for a full day, some extra costs, and a chance to unwind in truly scenic surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: