Bansko - Mountains - Resorts Guide

Overview: Situated in the foothills of one of the country's most beautiful mountains, Bansko is a charming and historic town with the stunning alpine backdrop formed by the Pirin Mountains. A climatic mountain resort, Bansko is known as an alpine skiing, hiking and climbing centre, but it combines its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities with the atmosphere of an ancient Bulgarian town from the 10th century, and boasts a wealth of culture and history, as well as traditional taverna-style cuisine and colourful folklore. The traditional stone and wooden buildings are an integral part of its charm and character and many relics and monuments survive from its past. The alpine character of the Pirin Mountains create excellent skiing conditions for all types of skiers and experts can enjoy some of the country's best downhill skiing at the nearby resort of Shiligarnika.

Shopping: Shopping in Bansko is confined to the necessities of life, but visitors will find plenty of souvenirs in the form of local handwork, especially embroidered goods.

Restaurants: Bansko is not short on cosy eateries, with hundreds of taverns in the town serving up hearty Bulgarian cuisine. Don't expect to find McDonalds here, though!

Nightlife: Après-ski in Bansko is not as wild as Bulgaria's other popular ski resorts at Borovets and Pamporovo. This small old-fashioned town takes its tone from the quiet locals, who prefer to while away the evenings in the large selection of low-ceilinged taverns and pubs before a roaring fire. Two of the favourites are Dedo Pene and Molerova Kushta. Most offer entertainment in the form of local musicians or folk orchestras. There are some low-key discotheques offering dancing, also frequented by the local youth who have a reputation for hot tempers.

Activities: The town does not offer many diversions in winter apart from good skiing and boarding, but the area is well known for its thermal springs and these together with several excellent swimming pools, which also have saunas and fitness rooms alongside them allow for pleasant après-ski relaxation.

Negatives: Bansko is quiet and not suited to 'party animals'.