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Ever wanted to test a hypothesis about a ski resort? Heard a lot but want to see what you hear is true? Well, we returned to Bansko, Bulgaria, to see if its title as best value ski resort is all there is, or are things changing?
It’s true that Bansko, found 170 km from Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, has, for twenty years, been attracting families, groups and couples looking for inexpensive skiing with a fun vibe.
There are 75 km of pistes, and 14 lifts, with the resort found in the Pirin National Park. With a medieval old town, and a modern lift infrastructure since 2004, Bansko has a lot to boast about.
With lift pass prices (£189 per week) and the cost of a pint of beer (£3) all low, those looking to avoid the higher costs in France come here in droves.
What’s Changed in Bansko?
On a recent visit to Bansko, we stayed in the Four Points by Sheraton, a Marriott hotel. Yes, you heard that right, the Marriott hotel group has invested here, taking over and renovating the old favourite Strazhite hotel, in an exclusive spot right at the fringe where old and new Bansko meet.
As soon as you approach the hotel, the quirky exterior light fitting, made to look like antlers, tells you you are about to enter a stylish place.
The reception area is large and warm, with plenty of space to find a sofa on which to relax.
The food is exceptional with a team led by Nicolas Courtois, and whether guests choose a dinner in the à la carte restaurant, La Terrazza, or to relax and enjoy the buffet in The Garden View Restaurant, the quality, choice and flavours are exceptional.
Mountain Gastronomy at its Best
On the subject of food, for lunch our top tips in the mountains are 180 Restaurant for delicious soups, mains and desserts; Barrels for a long lunch overlooking the slopes and deciding between the finest pizzas around, and the VIP Room overlooking the main meeting point, at Bunderishka Polyana, where you can remove your boots and swap them for cosy slippers to ensure you can indulge in your exquisite mini-burgers.
Whilst eating and drinking, two local favourites not to miss are the Shopska Salad, a simple green salad with a topping of shredded white cheese, a little firmer than Feta and delicious. Wash down with a tot of Rakia, the local fruity brandy, and you’ll truly be embraced into Bulgarian culture. Or try Banitsa, a filo pastry stuffed with cheese—delicious.
You’ll also be pleased to know that Bansko was among the first ski resorts to ban disposable plastic in slopeside bars and restaurants.
On and Off Slope Fun
The 75 km of slopes will keep beginners and intermediates happy for a week, especially due to the wide, well groomed pistes, and trees all around for pretty views from the efficient lifts.
Once teatime comes, it’s straightforward to hire a skidoo (from £42) and take your turn up the ski road from the gondola station up to Bunderishka and back. Quite the thrill.
In fact if the attractions of Bansko, and its gorgeous old buildings of Bansko’s ‘Golden Age’ such as Velyan’s House dating from the 18th century, the Icon Exhibition, preserving treasured artworks, really call your name and you want to settle here, there’s a burgeoning ‘Digital Nomad’ community using beautiful and modern work spaces, such as Nest Work Premium Coworking.
A Thriving and Evolving Resort Centre
Adding to the very popular bars such as Happy End, Amigos and Queens, another addition is the upmarket Ginger bar, on the route from the slopes to the old town, with wide open areas, and staff who are keen to accommodate you. Be aware that some bars only accept cash so check before you place your order to avoid embarrassment.
And if it's traditional fare that you want, head to a Mexana (restaurant) such as Obecanova, where not only will the meat fill you for days, but the red-and green-clad entertainers will come close and play for you.
Don’t Miss Out
With a fantastic and ever-growing gastronomy scene, excellent bars with prices that won't break the bank, obvious investment into resort facilities, and a new, glamorous hotel to boot, it's safe to say that Bansko is getting even better - yet, it still offers some of the best value skiing in Europe.
Iglu Ski has a range of holidays to Bansko, while Ulen will take care of your ski school needs. Local activities via the local tourist office are recommended. Discover all of the Bansko ski holidays we have on site or get in touch with our knowledgeable ski specialists, who'll help you to find your perfect Bulgarian ski break.