Vitosha 100

Race - May 20, 2021

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

The oldest Ultramarathon in Bulgaria the distance was extended in 2017 from 88km to 98km. While the course does have some climbing on it, the vast majority of this course is runnable.

The back half of this route (from Kladnitsa to Brezite) is difficult to reach by public transport and there are sections with poor mobile coverage. I would always recommend bringing some cash as there are cafes if you are not doing the organized race.

This run is organized every year near the middle of June. There are 9 aid stations available along the way. Starting in Boyana on the edge of Sofia this route climbs quickly for the first 7km before a quick descent then another quick (but steep ascent). From there it winds its way through forested singletrack to the village of Kladnitsa.

From there it continues south over paved and gravel roads then on trail passing Reservoir Studena. The next section from the end of the reservoir follows the road through the village of Bosnek to Chuypetlovo, this section is completely uphill with the grade gradually increasing over the section. From there you are back to trails reaching the high point of the route, (about 1350m) a few kms after Chuypetlovo, from there the downhill into Yarlovo is runnable staying mostly on grassy dirt roads. From Yarlovo the trail pitches up with 7km of climbing until you reach the a fast downhill and sections on paved surfaces.

From the 74.4km checkpoint at Brezite the majority of your climbing has been done and the next 10km is on flat wide trails through tall stand of pines with the occasional view off to Sofia. The down hill into Simeonovo is the beginning of the end as from there the trail is mostly down hill with a few short climbs as you head back towards Boyana. You finish with a steep down hill on cobbled streets before crossing the main boulevard and reaching the finish line.