Vihren

Vihren is the highest peak of the Pirin mountain range in southwestern Bulgaria. The summit reaches 2,914 meters above sea level. It lies within Pirin National Park in Blagoevgrad Province, near the town of Bansko. Vihren forms the central point of the Pirin main ridge and is one of the most recognizable peaks in the range.

The Pirin mountains are predominantly composed of granitoid rocks, and Vihren presents a rugged, pyramidal summit shaped by glaciation. The area around Vihren includes several alpine lakes and cirques, and the southern slopes overlook the Popovi Lakes group.

The standard ascent is via marked trails that start from access points such as the Vihren refuge or the Popovi Lakes area. The climb is strenuous and involves scrambling in places; exposure and rapidly changing weather require preparation. Many hikers attempt it as a day trip, though longer treks are possible as part of the Pirin main ridge circuit.

As part of Pirin National Park, Vihren is within a protected area established to conserve alpine ecosystems and biodiversity. The peak is a major destination for mountaineering, trekking and winter ski touring in the region, drawing visitors to Bansko and the surrounding valleys.