When we talk about a mountain lakes, we usually imagine the clear waters of the 7 Rila Lakes or the crystal blue lakes of  Pirin. In fact, only about an hour away from the center of Sofia is situated the Boyana Lake, which is easily accessible. From the beginning of Vitosha Nature Park near the Boyana district of the Bulgarian capital, the lake can be reached in about 40-50 minutes of slow walking, including time for photos, sweet talks or to enjoy the birdsong and the blows of the woodpeckers.

The path to Boyana Lake is not steep, and a lot of signs will direct you to it. Shortly before the lake unfolds before your eyes, you will reach a fountain, and then the rock chapel of St. Panteleimon, which is actually a niche decorated with icons. Just as the saint is a protector of doctors and obstetricians, so the clean mountain air of Vitosha gives health.

Only about 5 minutes after passing the chapel you will reach the remains of the wire fence and behind it before your eyes will reveal Boyana Lake. And right here, if you imagine beautiful emerald clear waters and endless expanses of water, you will be disappointed. The lake is small and you can go around it in just a few minutes. And its maximum depth is only 2 meters.

But despite its small size, the lake is an important habitat for a number of amphibian species such as the brown toad, the great toad, the small and large crested newt. That is why it is among the sites of protection of the European natural heritage.

When it comes to an easy path near the capital you can expect a loth of people on the trail. So usually the few benches around the lake are occupied and if you are looking to enjoy the coolness of Boyana Lake, you will have to just sit on the ground. The place is suitable for pets.

In winter, the lake freezes, but although the ice reaches a few centimeters tickness, we do not advise you to try to skate on its surface, especially if you do not like ice cold baths.