Bansko

 Situated 160 km away from Bulgaria's capital Sofia,Bansko is a thriving mountain resort with a population of around 10.000 people. Surrounded by the Pirin mountain,it offers excellent all year conditions for mountain sports and tourism.

 The skiing season is one of the longest in Europe,from December to April. Even when snow is scarce,160 snow cannons make sure all 14 pistes,spreading over 75 km,are available to ski enthusiasts throughout the ski season.

 Whether you are a ski enthusiast or not,Bansko is well worth a visit. Start your day in one of the city's many top class hotels with a hearty breakfast,and after a leisure walk around Bansko's old town and a hot chocolate in one of the cafes,go up the gondola that connects the city with the ski centre on top of the mountain. The ride is an experience itself,as you have the chance to enjoy great views of the mountains and the city beneath you. Once on top,you can go skiing,snowboarding,or just enjoy your coffee,lunch,or drink in one of the restaurants there. As you head back to the city,make sure to stop at the foot of the Pirin mountain for an early drink to one of the cafe-pubs that offer live music as early as 5 o'clock in the afternoon.

 And after all that snow and cold,make your way to the hotel and let yourself melt away in one of the spas. In the evening,enjoy your dinner in one of the many traditional "mexana" offering Bulgarian cuisine and get ready to dance the night away in one of the city's pubs,clubs and discos,or tempt your luck in a casino.

 And as winter gives way to spring,Bansko still has a lot to offer. From hiking and mountain biking  in the Pirin to fishing,horse riding or even a round of golf at the Pirin Golf Club. Sightseeing is also an option all year round,as you can visit places like the Rila monastery,Sandansky or Blagoevgrad.

 Whenever you choose to visit Bansko,one thing is certain. You are going to have a great vacation.