Muratov Peak in Bulgaria’s Pirin Mountains is one of the most spectacular hikes near Bansko. Starting from Vihren Hut, the route passes the beautiful Muratovo Lake before climbing steeply through Banderitsa’s Gate to the 2,669 m summit. The hike offers incredible views of Pirin’s glacial lakes, dramatic cirques and Vihren, Bulgaria’s second-highest peak. Nine years after a terrifying thunderstorm on my first ascent, I returned to Muratov for a very different experience.