Bulgaria is only a small country, but its hospitable people and beautiful scenery make it a good holiday destination in both the winter and the summer. In winter skiing in Bulgaria is popular and the four main places to visit are Bansko, Pamporovo, Borovets and Vitosha Mountain.
Rila in Borovets, located on the Mousala ridge, is one of the country’s oldest and biggest ski resorts. The resort sits in pine woods at 1,390 metres with its highest ski tracks at 2,600 metres. Conditions are good in the winter season with plenty of snow. In addition Borovets is just 72 kilometres from Sofia. The resort has the reputation as a hotspot for nightlife on the European ski circuit. The pistes are well maintained and are suitable for all levels, the best being in the Yastrebec region. It has a good ski school for beginners and transport is well organised with numerous chair lifts and a gondola lift. The resort also has modern snowmaking machines ensuring that conditions are always excellent and there are some great ski deals to be had.
Pamporovo is in the centre of the Rhodope Mountain at 1,650 metres. It is 240 kilometres from Sofia and 85 kilometres from Plovdiv. The resort has many slopes that are suitable for beginners, but the Giant Slalom will challenge even experienced skiers. Off-piste skiing is also available, but a guide will be required. There is a good ski school with more than 100 qualified instructors and the night life and accommodation are good. Its unique Mediterranean climate and excellent snow conditions make it a popular resort.
Bansko is a more modern ski resort situated in the Pirin Mountains. The slopes are most suitable for beginners and intermediates with ski tracks 65 kilometres long. The small town that dates from the 10th century has plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars. The resort has a big new lift network and boasts the first fun park for snowboarders in the Balkans. The ski school is particularly good for children and they are also catered for by the Ulen Junior Ski Club. Bansko has the longest ski season and best snow record of any Bulgarian ski resort. Bansko is quieter than some other Bulgarian resorts and not really the place for those who like to party. Vitosha Mountain is just 10 kilometres from Sofia. Skiing conditions are good although the nightlife and hotels could be better.
Skiing in Bulgaria is a cheaper option than Western European resorts. A number of websites offer skiing in Bulgaria packages and it is worth comparing the prices under ‘Ski Holidays Bulgaria’ on several of these sites before booking your ski holiday.
