Pamporovo which is the most famous ski resort of Bulgaria had demonstrated that winter tourism is attractive in Bulgaria. Bansko’s ski resort is another example offering an alternative which is much cheaper and quieter than skiing in the Alps.

Bansko in Bulgaria – Ski & Tourism
The town
Bansko is a town and also a ski resort located at the foot of the Pirin Mountain. Situated at an altitude of 925 meters and only 160 kilometres from Sofia, the city belongs to the “oblast” (it is a region) of Blagoevgrad.
Bansko is located in the Pirin National Park which is also the name of the main street leading to the old town, the main square and the church. There are ski shops, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants. The majority of Hotels is ethno oriented and offers a wide choice of excellent grills, salads, sheep cheese and specialties of the region.
All hotels are new and three or four star hotels with spa, sauna, jacuzzi and swimming pool freely available. Turkish baths and massages are available by paying an extra.
Bansko’s ski resort
The resort grows continuously. It was the favourite place for local skiers before being discovered by tourists and becoming an essential resort in Bulgaria. Bansko offers a perfect mix between the wild nature of the Pirin Mountain and the atmosphere of the small rural towns.
The skiing conditions are perfect because Pirin Mountains are like the Alps ones and have slopes for beginners and experienced skiers.
Bansko welcomes tourists who come mainly from Russia, Greece, Great Britain, Macedonia and Serbia. Local tourists visit the station during weekends and they represent almost 20% of visitors. The ski season starts during New Year and ends after February.
The slopes of Bansko reach an altitude of 2560 meters and there are ski lifts, tows, a half pipe for snowboarders and blue, red and black runs. The “Tomba” ski track will satisfy the most experienced skiers.
To conclude, prices are attractive and significantly cheaper than in the Alps and that allows Bansko to be an essential destination if you plan to visit Bulgaria during winter.