How to get to Mazalat Hut: routes, tips and useful information

Sometimes a mountain escape is all we need. If you are looking for a balance between accessibility, picturesque views and a variety of hikes, there is no better choice than Mazalat Hut – the heart of the Balkan Mountains.

Basic orientation: what you need to know before you go?

Mazalat Hut is located at 1520 m above sea level in the Mandrishteto area, part of the Central Balkans. Built in 1935, it still brings the authentic feeling of alpine coziness, combined with amenities such as a bathroom, a tourist kitchen and a warm canteen. It has 60 beds, operates year-round and is one of the preferred huts on the Kom-Emine route.

To reach Mazalat Hut, you can choose between several main routes, which vary in difficulty, terrain and views. It is important to plan your climbing time well, bring the right equipment and be aware of the necessary preparation.

The most popular routes to Mazalat Hut

Each of the main routes reveals a different face of the Balkans – from beech forests to bare peaks and rock phenomena. Choose the path that suits your level of preparation and expectations from the hike:

Here is more information about each of them:

     1, From Partizanska Pesen hut

It starts in a cool forest, then unfolds with open sections and views of Shipka and Buzludzha. There is only one fountain on the way - stock up on water in time.

     2. From the Lagut area

The approach starts after the village of Stokite and passes through dense forests and sections with landslides. In recent years, the terrain has been in worse condition due to logging. It is not recommended during wet weather.

     3. From the village of Skobelevo

Extremely picturesque, it passes through diverse terrain and provides the opportunity for panoramic views. Requires good preparation and endurance.

     4. From Tazha hut

A route along the ridge of the mountain - unique with views of the Triglav massif and the Singing Rocks. It is suitable for lovers of open spaces and long hikes.

     5. From Uzana Hut

The road passes through the Balgarka Nature Park and enters the Central Balkans. The summer route passes through a shady forest, while the winter route opens up wide panoramas.

The variety of routes makes Mazalat Hut accessible to both beginners and advanced mountaineers.

Practical information about the hike to Mazalat Hut

Before you set off to Mazalat Hut, plan your logistics carefully – from transport to reservations. Conditions in the mountains change quickly, so a well-structured plan guarantees a safer experience.

For easier orientation, here are the main aspects you should keep in mind:

     1. Access and transport:

• to Partizanska Pesen Hut – 25 km asphalt road from Gabrovo;

• to Lagut area – asphalt road from Sevlievo and dirt road after the village of Stokite;

• to Uzana Hut – 22 km asphalt road from Gabrovo;

• from Plovdiv – via Shipka to Uzana or via the village of Upper Sahrane (partially dirt road).

     2. Suitable seasons:

• Spring and autumn – offer the best combination of nature, coolness and visibility;

• Summer – preferred season, but with more tourists;

• Winter – only for experienced mountaineers with proper equipment and a good guide.

     3. What to bring:

• Sturdy hiking boots;

• Raincoat and warm clothes;

• First aid kit and headlamp;

• A full water bottle – most routes have limited access to sources;

• Navigation tools – GPS, map, compass.

Proper organization doesn’t just make the trip easier – it ensures that you’ll enjoy the hike itself, instead of worrying about details on the go.

Sights and views along the route

Reaching Mazalat hut, don’t stop there – the area hides many more treasures that offer short walks with maximum return.

Peak Valcha Glava

Located 30 minutes from Mazalat hut, with an altitude of 1660 m. It is also known by its Turkish name Kurtbasitsa. It is located on the route between Mazalat hut and Tazha hut. An ideal place for sunrise or sunset - panoramic views of the Triglav massif and the Central Balkan. Suitable for a short walk without much physical exertion;

The Singing Rocks

Located about 55 minutes from Mazalat hut, on the way to Tazha hut. They are part of a nature reserve in the Central Balkan National Park. The rock phenomenon gets its name from the sounds that the wind creates when passing between the rocks - reminiscent of playing or "singing". The path to them is well marked and runs along the ridge. There are fortified sections with steps - care is required when passing, especially in wind or snow. They are often included as part of a circular route through the Triglav massif;

Golyam Kademliya

The second highest peak in the Balkan Mountains (after Botev Peak).

It is part of the Triglav massif, along with Malak Kademliya, Pyrgos and Mazalat Peak (Evil Peak). It can be reached from Mazalat Hut in about 3 hours and 15 minutes. On the way, you pass through the Chimkoliba saddle and turn off along the blue markings to the Golyam Kademliya shelter. At the top there are remains of an old military base and an operating tourist shelter. It is recommended only with good physical fitness and advance planning.

Each of these destinations can be turned into a separate mini-expedition, with an overnight stay in the hut and the possibility of additional hikes.

Advice on behavior and safety

In the area of the Mazalat hut, located in the heart of the Balkan Mountains, nature is beautiful, but also completely independent of human expectations. Therefore, responsible behavior is mandatory:

     1. Do not deviate from the markings

Deviating from it, even just for a "small photo with a better view", poses a real danger of getting lost or entering difficult-to-reach terrain. Especially in areas like the ridge between Tazha and Mazalat huts, fog can fall in minutes. Trails that look clearly defined in dry weather can become slippery and unrecognizable after rain.

     2. Make noise in the forest areas

In the beech and mixed forests on the road from Partizanska pesen hut, the Lagut or Skobelevo area, there is a real chance of encountering wild animals – roe deer, wild boars, foxes, and sometimes even bears. They are not aggressive, but they are scared of being surprised. The surest way to avoid such an encounter is to simply make noise while moving – talk, whistle or carry a bell. The sound warns the animals that a person is approaching, and they back off.

     3. Stick to established trails, especially when descending

The descents in the Mazalat hut area can seem easy, especially on wide grassy slopes or on “shortcuts”. But they often hide fallen branches, loose soil, moisture that is not immediately noticeable. Going down outside the official trail can end in slipping, injury or crossing eroded terrain, especially in sections after Mazalat Peak and towards the Gabrovnitsa River.

Mazalat Hut is among the few places in Bulgaria where the authentic mountaineering atmosphere meets the comforts of modern tourism. No matter whether you are looking for a challenge or just want to get away from the city, Stara Planina will welcome you with open arms.