Top 8 Ski Resorts in Bulgaria: Discover the Best Locations to Fall in Love With

1 Explore sophisticated Bansko

Bansko, a town nestled in the Pirin Mountains near the borders of Macedonia and Greece, is renowned for its mix of ancient charm and modern ski slopes. As one of the top ski resorts not only in Bulgaria but across the Balkans, Bansko captures the hearts of international tourists from neighboring countries like Greece, Macedonia, Romania, and Turkey. With its ultra-modern and sophisticated amenities, Bansko stands as a shining example of Southeast Europe’s finest ski resorts.
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea will leave you spellbound. To ensure you have the best experience, be sure to plan your Balkan trip in advance and take advantage of exclusive travel packages by booking your accommodation early. Let’s explore the available hotel options together!

2 Guest House Markovi

At Guest House Markovi, you’ll be able to take advantage of the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding area and also enjoy the welcoming staff and exceptional lodging. In addition, there is a bar where you can enjoy a variety of drinks and socialize with other guests. For those wanting to barbecue, there are outdoor grilling facilities available. All rooms come equipped with a private bathroom, and free WiFi is accessible throughout the guest house, so you can keep up with news and stay in touch with family and friends while away from home.

3 Pamporovo: the sunniest ski resort in the Balkans

Pamporovo, Bulgaria’s premier ski resort, is nestled among stunning pine trees and offers a wide array of options for skiers to enjoy their long-awaited winter getaway. Notably, Pamporovo is renowned as the “sunniest” ski resort in the Balkan peninsula, making it an exceptional choice for winter enthusiasts. With well-maintained slopes, easy accessibility, and a prestigious ski school, Pamporovo is particularly suitable for first-time skiers seeking thrilling ski adventures and other winter sports. Moreover, Pamporovo provides an abundance of activities beyond skiing, including exploring charming pubs and restaurants that serve delectable Bulgarian cuisine like banitsa, musaka, and the original Bulgarian yogurt. For accommodation options, please refer to the hotel listings.

4 Dobrinishte: find the best ski runs

Dobrinishte is known as a world-recognized ski resort, boasting numerous mineral springs, pristine nature, perfectly maintained ski runs, and a wide variety of ski areas and slopes suitable for both first-timers and seasoned skiers. Situated at the foot of Pirin Mountain, Dobrinishte is conveniently located near many other beautiful Bulgarian provinces and towns, making it a great destination for visitors. Once there, don’t forget to explore its well-developed and maintained runs and the lift system that leads to the Bezbog park zone a must-see spot! Plus, Dobrinishte ski resort is only 165 km (102 miles) away from Sofia and 7 km (4 miles) away from the nearby ski resort Bansko. Furthermore, it serves as a starting point for many hiking routes up the Pirin Mountain. For hotel accommodations, Dobrinishte offers several suitable options.

5 Vitosha: top resort for ski lovers and summer trekking

Vitosha mountain, located just a few km away from Sofia, offers fantastic skiing and summer trekking conditions for all skiing enthusiasts. It features two ski centers and several ski schools for beginners and more advanced skiers, as well as mountain chalets and hotels with reasonable prices. For the more luxurious option, the Family Hotel Saint George is the perfect choice. It’s worth noting that some of the biggest ski areas and slopes in Bulgaria are situated in Vitosha, and the ski season here lasts for up to 120 days, providing an incredible skiing experience. Be sure to check out what hotel options are available.

6 Admire the picturesque Govedartsi

If you’re looking for a unique skiing experience, Govedartsi is the perfect destination. Located 80 km (49.7 mi) from Sofia, this picturesque mountain village offers an ideal starting point for a trek to Rila Monastery and Seven Rila Lakes. For those seeking a more moderate experience, Maliovitsa Valley is the perfect spot. Plus, the peace and tranquility of this sleepy town will be the perfect way to end the day. Be sure to check out the hotel options for the best accommodation during your stay.

7 Kashta Peychevi

Introducing the delightful Kashta Peychevi! This must-stay place in Bulgaria offers an unbeatable combination of affordability and a friendly staff. The rooms here are fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including satellite television, complimentary WiFi, a cozy seating area, and a private bathroom with a refreshing shower and handy hairdryer. For an added bonus, some rooms even boast a balcony where you can unwind and enjoy the crisp, rejuvenating mountain air.

Located near the breathtaking Rila Mountains, Kashta Peychevi ensures that your days are filled with endless excitement. Embark on exhilarating hikes or explore the scenic surroundings on a bike ride. And worry not! The guest house provides ski lessons and offers convenient bike rentals so that you can make the most of your time in this captivating area.

8 Family Hotel Krusharskata Kashta

9 Discover the beauty of Borovets

Head to Borovets, the highest ski resort across the Balkan peninsula, for an unforgettable ski vacation! Sitting at 1350 m (4429 ft) above sea level, the slopes are located at approximately 2600 m (8530 ft), only 70 km (43.5 miles) from Sofia, making it a great starting point to explore Bulgaria’s beauties. It offers simply wonderful skiing conditions and fresh snow, with an array of activities such as night-skiing, cross-country skiing, ski-doo, ski jumps, biathlon, snowboarding and more. Enjoy the small cozy town with cute shops, luxurious hotels and bars, and delicious traditional cuisine and homemade wine. Don’t forget to check hotel options!

10 Find peace in Panichishte

If you’re looking for a unique winter vacation spot, consider Panichiste: nestled on Rila Mountain, just south of the Rila National Park and only 3 km (1.86 mi) from Sapareva Banya, the town is great for skiing and winter sports, but also renowned for its spa resorts. With an aerial lift that takes about 16 minutes and offers incredible views of the Seven Rila Lakes, and the nearby 10th-century Boyana Church, featuring Eastern European Medieval art, Panichiste makes for a great place to stay; check out hotel options today!

11 Villa Ema

12 Chepelare offers the longest ski run

Welcome to this enchanting mountain town nestled in the embrace of the grand Rhodopi mountain chain, just a short 10 km (6 miles) away from Pamporovo. Chepelare is renowned for having the longest ski run in Bulgaria, with a high-speed lift that takes you all the way up to the famous Mechi Chal peak. Additionally, there are several other lifts available for ski enthusiasts and winter sports adventurers.

What sets Chepelare apart? This charming ski and snowboard resort offers exclusive travel packages and a range of extras to ensure you have the time of your life. Surrounded by ancient fir forests and blanketed in fresh snow during the winter, this cozy mountain town transforms into lush green meadows come summer season.

Discover the perfect accommodation options available for your stay here.