Situated in South Western Bulgaria, at the foot of the Pirin Mountains; Bansko is Bulgaria's Number 1 Ski Resort.

The town of Bansko is situated near the river Glazane, right bellow the highest and most beautiful part of the mountain. Its name comes from the old Bulgarian word “ban”, which means “master”.

It is just 160 kilometers away from Sofia and 6 kilometers from Razlog. Bansko has developed into a favourite ski & snowboard destination, thanks to the excellent ski facilities combined with the unique architecture and history.

Bansko boasts the best and most modern ski centre of all Bulgarian ski resorts. During the recent years a multi-million euros investment has been made resulting in a brand new ski area, massive investment in new hotels and resort facilities.

Bansko has the best snow record and the longest ski season (15 Dec - 15 May) of all Bulgarian ski resorts. 44 Technoalpine snow cannons cover most of the slopes and make the ski season last longer. The slopes offer runs and tracks for all types of skiers and will suit both beginners and experts

The ski pistes are located in two main ski - centres- CHALIN VALOG (1100-1600 m) and SHILIGARNIKA (1700-2500 m). They are approximately 10 km above the town on the northern slopes of Pirin, and are easily accessible by a 25 minutes ride on the gondola lift, which starts from Bansko. The total length of the marked pistes is 70 kilometers. Snowboard lovers can enjoy the Balkans fun park where people from all over the world are lead by the passion of the extreme. They can build jumps suiting their taste and abilities. Slalom and Giant slalom runs are available. Bansko offers a cross-country track with a total length of 5 km.

The unique combination of a well developed mountain resort and a living historical town turns it into an elegant place for entertainment. The traditional Bansko taverns (called "Mehana"), with their exceptional charm and style offer local atmosphere by their cuisine and good selection of Bulgarian wines. Most of the local "Mehanas" even offer live folk music.

Many local cafes and bars offer refreshments. Discos and night clubs work without time limit, and usually close early in the morning.

There's a lot to see in the town of Bansko itself, with around 120 cultural and historical monuments and a lot to explore. Various souvenir shops offer the creations of the local artists and smiths.

Bansko is known to be unique site of international significance. Except for the beautiful Pirin Mountains, the town possesses rich historical sites. Remains from ancient fortresses in the Staroto Gradishte site, are situated just 4 kilometers in a western direction and the Ulen site along which the Demianitsa river flow. Nearby Staroto Gradishte site there are Thracian mound hills.

South of Bansko is situated the National Park Pirin included in the UNESCO list for cultural and natural sightseeing. The park is rich with lakes, waterfalls, caves, venerable trees and historical sites. Bansko together with Dobrinishte are also famous for their mineral springs, the reserve Bayovi dupki- Djindjiritsa.

We also recommend a visit to the famous Rila Monastery and the busy city of Sofia.