Borovets, Bulgaria, where do I start? For a cheap ski experience, this is the best place on earth! I have skiied about a dozen times or so now, and Borovets without doubt offered me the best value for money of all. About 2.5 hours away by plane, try to fly to Sofia rather than Plovdiv. The airport is a lot better and transfer times a lot shorter. When choosing a hotel, it is well worth paying the extra for a resort "centre" hotel- the hotels Samakov and Rila are the best (1999). The out of resort hotels are cheaper, but can be awkward when there is a lot of snow. Bulgarian hotels are different- do not trust the star rating too much! I stayed at the Hotel Bor (3 star). The room was ok, though a bit old fashioned, staff were great, the water always brown, but the food was about a bad as you may serve- we complained about it. Borovets itself is now mainly purpose built, with two main skiing areas. The Mount Moussala area is higher, served by a Gondola lift, and almost snow sure. The Baraki area is lower, generally easier runs, but less snow sure, and is served by a number of chairlifts. I was concerned about getting bored, and skiing all the runs, but there is a good choice of pistes. I must mention here that the local ski school is EXCELLENT. Ski and boot hire though was a bit of a mixed bag. I had loads of snow (March) and good weather, but I have been told it can be very cold (down to -20) and at certain times, especially around Christmas, can be very icey- be prepared! Not a lot of shops in the town, though they are quite cheap. To shop, take a taxi to the nearby town of Samakov- its really cheap! But, watch out for petty theft here. Nightlife is mad! A great place to go as a crowd for a bit of a laugh. Beer- Astika- is very cheap, and even in the dearest nightclubs was less than a pound a pint. The hotel Samakov puts on an excellent floorshow, but you need to book. Out in the town, the Black Cat was probably the most happeneing place, but it does get lively! Eating out- you may need to in order to supplement the hotel food. Generally good and cheap, some of the restaurants seem to never close. Overall, good value, fun and I will go again! Enjoy!
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Advantages: brilliant skiing, alpine village prettiness,great English speaking ski school, Close to Italy and other resorts. Disadvantages: Not to great for veggies and nightlife fairly low key.
Fiona_Tims 15.12.2000 ·
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