This Winter's Top 5 Cheap Bulgarian Ski Destinations

As the days start to get ever so slightly shorter and we face the inevitable demise into winter, our thoughts turn towards the upcoming ski season. It may be barely on the horizon but there is no time like the present to brush off those ski boots and start hunting for those bargain ski holidays. In recent years, Bulgaria has been luring in the most discerning skiers and snowboarders with its well-established resorts and affordable prices. We’ve narrowed down Bulgaria’s top five.

Bankso

Famed as the best winter ski resort in Bulgaria, Bankso boasts long and winding ski runs and a guaranteed dump of fresh powder snow great for skiers and snowboarders. The charming town is situated at the foot of the Pirin Mountains in south-western Bulgaria, 160km from the capital Sofia where transfers to the resort are available. The town is a favourite among skiers looking for some après ski. Its lively bars offer cheap drinks and buzzing atmospheres.

Borovets

Borovets is the oldest and biggest resort in Bulgaria, with a history as a ski destination dating back to the late 19^th century. The town has been completely modernised to cater for its ever-increasing crowd who flock annually to the Rila Mountains for some fantastic snow and wild après ski. The resort boasts pistes up to a very respectable 2,600 meters above sea level and dreamy runs through snow-covered trees. Runs are mixed levels, catering for both beginners and experts.

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Pamporovo

Set amongst a magical winter landscape of pine forests, Pamporovo – in South Bulgaria and next to Greece’s border – is an enchanting Bulgarian resort that is one for budget ski holidays. The resort attracts first-time skiers who aren’t after the daredevil slopes, but are attracted by gentler runs and a laid-back atmosphere. The resort also boasts 270 days of sunshine and, whilst this means skiers are reliant on the snow machines, the weather makes for excellent visibility and incredible views – great for first-time skiers.

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Vitosha

Vitosha is situated just 10km from Bulgaria’s exciting capital – Sofia. Doubling up as a destination for keen hikers in the summer months, Vitosha really comes into its own when covered in a dusting of snow between December and late spring. The conditions and terrain of these mountains make them prime for slalom and cross-country skiing. Vitosha remains one of Bulgaria’s lesser-known resorts, meaning chalets are basic with limited facilities, but also that prices are low.

Chepelare

Chepelare is situated a short distance away from Pamporovo in a neighbouring valley in the heart of Rhodope Mountains. In terms of the skiing on offer, the runs vary in difficulty from green to black meaning there is something to suit all abilities. The resort is also the proud home of the longest ski run in the country – a gentle sweeping slope through the forests. Chepelare is one of the smaller resorts in Bulgaria, meaning it’s not one for those seeking the après lifestyle of the Alps, but it is even cheaper than the likes of Bankso or Borovets and a sure spot to snap up a ski holiday deal.