The resort
Bansko will offer good skiing from the end of December all the way through to April. Bansko has the best snow conditions in Bulgaria and additionally has a large number of snow cannons which will guarantee good snow conditions even towards the end of the season. Bansko is the gateway to the Pirin mountain region and is certainly Europe's up and coming ski resort. It offers an irresistible combination of high mountains and ancient history.
The skiing conditions are excellent with the Pirin Mountain having predominantly Alpine character with 3 peaks towering above 2900m. The slopes offer runs for all types of skier and snowboarder, from novice to expert. There are 14 pistes totalling 65km including a 16km run, plus cross country, off piste and even night skiing down the old mountain road. The mountain is served by a new eight seat high speed gondola and a network of lifts for complete access.
The Ski School is excellent with English speaking instructors, and ski classes in 5 difficulty levels. Children above the age of 5 can attend ski school. There is also a junior club ski kindergarten for the ages of 4-7 with 3 baby drags, a Wonder Carpets baby track and a winter/summer rotunda type kinder carousal. For more information on ski lessons/passes and much more visit www.banskoski.com
Bansko is not only a great ski resort, but is an excellent summer vacation. It is the host of a traditional Summer Jazz Festival, Bulgarian Folk Festival and many other cultural events during the summer making this the ideal summer holiday for those who prefer much more than lazing around.
Few countries can rival Bulgaria's superb mountain scenery. In summer hiking, fishing, kayaking and horse riding are increasingly popular and Bansko's natural beauty and the rich diversity of fauna and flora is a natural asset. Local agencies can organise trips in or around the mountains for an array of activities including white water rafting, canoeing or paragliding or just relaxing in the many picnic areas. For those who just want to wander around the 10th century old town and soak up the national heritage this is a perfect place with museums, local monuments and narrow cobbled streets where you can explore and haggle the price of souvenirs from local shops, or just relax in one of the many local bars or cafes (mexanas). The price of food for a 3 course meal plus wine is approx £6 per head and beer approx 80p, but watch out for the shorts, they like big measures!
A luxury 18-hole golf course designed by Ian Woosnam is under construction and only 10 minutes drive, which is due for completion in 2007.
Activities in and around Bansko:
| Skiing/snowboarding | Kayaking |
| Golf | Paragliding |
| Hiking | Clubs/bars/restaurants |
| Mountain biking | Shops |
| Fishing | Historical tours |
| White Water Rafting | Canoeing |
| Museums | |