Bansko is Bulgaria’s premier ski resort; it has the finest and most up to date ski center of any ski resorts in the country. Situated within the borders of the Pirin National, it is acknowledged as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Ringed by the Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope mountains, the community is already becoming one of top ski locations of Europe, and now people from many nations across Europe are beginning to congregate in the region to relish the facilities and attraction to be had there all the year long.
The Skiing
It has the longest ski season (from December 15th to May 15th) and the best snow fall of all ski resorts in Bulgaria. In the last few years, the resort has been under a huge investment program; new resort facilities and hotels are being built. Immediately opposite the gondola lift, a spanking new resort area that has superbly opulent hotels and holiday apartments is under development.
Bansko is situated 925 meters above sea level, and the ski pistes are situated on two main ski centers; there’s Chalin Valog at 1,100 to 1,600 meters, and Shiligarnika, which is at 1,700 to 2,500 meters.. The Pirin Mountain has a mainly Alpine nature, and the tallest peak in the region is Vihren, which is at 2,914 meters. The resort also provides night skiing and/or snowboarding during the season with seven kilometers of piste that have floodlights and are open from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
Après-ski
While Bansko is steeped in tradition, it is also a thriving contemporary resort. It’s said to have more than 120 time-honored Bulgarian Taverns (the locals call them mehanas), and large numbers of them have live music; so located a place to dine and drink in the area is basically not a problem!
There are also English types of pubs that show Sky Sports; there are Irish bars, night clubs, and discos that remain open far into the wee morning hours. In fact, The Lions Pub operates twenty-four hours a day!! This is merely for customer convenience, it’s not compulsory that you stay that long!!
In addition, in the area are an ice rink, two casinos, and a ten pin bowling alley.
Other Attractions
In Bansko, an ideal balance to any summer enjoyment is a horseback riding excursion. Located in the upper section of a lovely valley that opens toward the south, and on the left bank of River Mesta, Bansko offers wonderful chances to discover a pristine area of nature on horseback.
Mountain Biking
Bansko has incredible mountain bike riding areas covering hundreds of kilometers. It doesn’t matter if you’re after valley trails or a relaxing forest; if you want to get away it all or you want an adrenalin charge from the theoretical and bodily demands of alpine riding – you’ll see them all in Bansko.
Mineral Baths and Swimming
There are well-known mineral springs in the Mesta River Valley. You can partake of a calming mineral bath in Banya and Dobrinishte, two local villages. All of the four and five stars hotel have their own swimming pool, which is the greatest pick-me-up for guests who’ve spent time basking in the sun.
Cross-country carting
For fans of outdoor escapades, they can explore the areas around Bansko with a ride that’s specifically intended for mountain carting. This is a safari-like ride that thrill-seekers will want to partake of.
Perhaps the best thing of all is the prices; you can anticipate paying about 50p to 80p for a large beer and about £5 for a fine meal. Bansko offers a thrill filled or relaxing holiday, whichever you choose, at a price you can afford.