Ski Areas Bulgaria

Ski Areas Bulgaria

Bulgaria's ski areas are going through a period of change and have been largely modernised in recent years. Nothing was left to chance during the improvements and the ski areas now shine with new brilliancy. The pistes have been made more diverse and there is something for everyone, from beginners to experts, as well as for both skiers and snowboarders.

The most famous ski areas are located in Bansko, with a total of 75 km of piste, and Borovets, with 52 km of piste. The modernised ski area at Bansko has developed into one of the most important winter sports centres in Eastern Europe. Three ski areas belong to the Borovets ski territory in the Rila mountain chain. They are very snow-sure and offer lovely runs into the valley.

Après ski Bulgaria

After a nice day on the piste, also in Bulgaria you will find the evening continue with apres ski. Stop by on of the many "Mehanas", the cosy pubs in Bulgaria. Here you can enjoy the exceptional friendliness of the locals, regional specialities and a large selection of red wines. Bulgarian cuisine is known to be rather flavoured, rich and hearty as well as characteristically diverse. Many rich stews, yoghurt and Pitka bread in a bowl with numerous different herbs can be found on the menu. As a dessert you might try Baniza, a type of pastery. Most Mehanas also offer live music.

Those who rather stay active for apres ski have a variety to choose from. No matter if you rather prefer something quiet with bowling or swimming, something more adventurous with riding the snowscooter or partying hard in the local discos. Closing hour is not something the Bulgarians know, hot parties and unforgettable moments are guaranteed.

Excursions Bulgaria

Bulgaria surprises its visitors with a scenic, cultural, as well as historic richness. The Romans, Slavs, and Turks have definitely left their mark on this country. This can be seen especially well in Bulgaria's capital Sofia, where the remains of many Roman buildings can be found. Furthermore, the National Archaeological Museum, as well as the National Art Gallery, which is located in the building of the former tsar's palace, can be found here. The landmark of the city is the impressing Alexander-Newski-Cathedral with its gold cupolas. On the other hand, Sofia is a shopping metropolis and vibrant city. The second largest city, ranking behind Sofia, is Plovdiv, which is located at the foot of the Rhodope Mountains. The city comprises numerous parks, museums, and architecturally charming buildings. The historical city centre with its houses from the era of the National Revival of Bulgaria is definitely worth an excursion. The many magnificent orthodox churches and mosques are definitely very impressive.

An accumulation of very special orthodox churches, chapels, and monastery rooms can be explored near the village Ivanovo. The rock-hewn monastery of Ivanovo can be reached via a stair system in the rock walls. It consists of various areas and was founded in the 13th century. In 6 of the rock-hewn churches, frescos have been conserved. The rock-hewn monastery is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the identically-named mountain range, you can find the Rila Monastery, one of the most important orthodox monasteries and also the biggest in the country. The buildings belonging to this monastery, which are situated at an altitude of 1,147 m between 2 rivers, accommodate approx. 300 embellished rooms.

One single work of rock art in the near of the village Madara, attracts a lot of attention. An image was cut into a 100 m high vertical rock. It depicts the image of a rider, who has just killed a lion with his spear, and the animal is now lying in front of him. The Madara Rider, also a World Heritage Site, towers over the Madara archaeological reserve, which is a plateau that is surrounded by rocks on 2 sides.

Velingrad, on the other hand, offers less architectural works of arts, but therefore a lot more relaxation. Located in the western part of the Rhodope Mountains, it is one of the leading balneological spa resorts of the Balkans. Here you will not only find the biggest Karst spring in Bulgaria, but also numerous mineral water springs. The resort itself comprises more than 22 mineral swimming pools. A further - slightly bizarre - attraction is the Historical Museum of Velingrad, which has the most extensive exhibition of painted Easter eggs in Bulgaria.

You would like another tip regarding tourist attractions? Here it is - a visit to Kazanlak and the surrounding Rose Valley, where you will find the most oil-emulsive roses in Bulgaria, is definitely worth it. Furthermore, the essence of roses is produced here. More information can be found in the Rose Museum.