Фотогалерея ‒ Borovets, Bulgaria

Guide to Borovets

A virtual tour of Borovets

Borovets is the largest ski resort in Bulgaria, founded back in the 19th century. Located on the picturesque slopes of the Rila Mountains, it has a very developed infrastructure, which includes: hotel and restaurant complexes, equipped slopes and lifts, a variety of entertainment for adults and children, ski schools and even a kindergarten. Borovets is very conveniently located because it's only 1.5 hours drive from Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria (the distance between the two cities is 73 km). The ski resort is open from November till May. All who seek a quiet rest, we recommend to go to Borovets in summer: silence, pine forest, picturesque mountains - ideal conditions for secluded comfortable rest for the whole family. Also worth noting are the resort's low prices, even in winter, and the very tasty and hearty national cuisine.

Tips for tourists

The national currency of Bulgaria is the lev; it's worth carrying small amounts of local currency with you when you arrive or to exchange a small amount at the airport.
Those new to skiing should not learn on their own on the slopes of the resort; you should take an experienced trainer to teach you the basics of skiing.
When choosing where to eat, note that the closer to the lift, the higher the prices. Conversely, the further away you are from the slopes, the better the service.
Population
5 000
Time zone
UTC +2:00
Language
Bulgarian
Currency
Bulgarian lion (BGN)

Tours to Borovets

Ski resorts in Bulgaria may not boast as many options as European countries with the Alps, but Borovets offers everything winter sports enthusiasts desire. It provides quality leisure activities, interesting excursions, high mountains, and all at the traditionally affordable Bulgarian vacation cost.

On average, the price of last-minute tours fluctuates between 250-350 EUR, significantly lower than many Alpine resorts. Yet, you'll find everything necessary for a great time.

For example, those who appreciate intriguing excursions should visit the Orthodox sanctuary of the Rila Monastery, located in the vicinity. Those who dislike staying in one place for too long can embark on an excursion tour to nearby attractions. You can visit the beautiful town of Malevitsa or explore the Seven Rila Lakes, admire the historic buildings of Samokov, its fountain, and central square.

In general, it's worth exploring beyond a single town. However, if you come solely for skiing, Borovets is worth it. The best months to visit this resort are December and January.

Yet, it's entirely possible to find cheap last-minute tours in the summer as well. During this time, enthusiasts of extreme paragliding flock to Borovets. The most affordable tours can be found for as little as 200 EUR, and even cheaper if you plan your own itinerary.

Interesting places in Borovets

The main attraction of Borovets is its natural treasures. The surrounding environment of the resort boasts numerous lakes and mountain peaks, perfect for hiking. The city was founded in the 19th century, so there are also plenty of historical landmarks to explore.

Borovets has a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. If you want to try Bulgarian cuisine, head to a mehana, a traditional Bulgarian restaurant. You can also grab a quick bite at street food stalls.

After an active day of skiing on the slopes of the resort, there's nothing better than relaxing in a warm bath, enjoying a sauna, or experiencing a traditional bath. Borovets has excellent spa complexes that will provide you with 100% relaxation.

Sights

Travel budget

Flight ticket prices

The most convenient way to reach Borovets is through the capital city, Sofia, which is located only 75 km away from the resort. You can also purchase a flight ticket to Vienna (125 km away from the resort).

AEGEAN offers affordable flights to Sofia. The ticket prices start from 164 USD. The travel time is approximately 5 hours with one layover. You can also find cheap flight tickets with low-cost carriers like Wizz Air.

Another way to reach Borovets is by train or bus through Sofia.

The best hotels in Borovets

The 4-star hotel "Rila" tops the list of the most popular establishments among tourists. It features its own spa center, swimming pool, and a ski kindergarten.

The hotels "Lion" and "Chamkoria" are located in the city center, and free buses are available to the ski lifts. The accommodation prices are very affordable. Both establishments have received high ratings from visitors.

"Alpin" is a 3-star hotel complex located 50 meters from the ski lifts. In addition to rooms, the establishment also offers two-story villas.

The cost of a double room in a three-star hotel starts from 30 USD (50 BGN).

The cost of vacation

The main costs of a holiday in Borovets include airfare, accommodation and food.

If you plan to ski, you'll need to buy a ski lift pass. The resort also offers ski packages (ski lift pass, equipment rental, tuition and ski evening).

All lifts in the ski resort are close to the centre of town. The hotels, which are within 800-1500m of the lifts, offer free shuttle service. Therefore you will only need transportation to Borovets from the airport.

The budget for a trip to Borovets
Flight 164 USD (280 BGN) Accomodation 20 USD (50 BGN)
Average bill in a restaurant 11.5 USD (20 BGN) Ski pass 33 USD (58 BGN)
Total: From 415 USD (715 BGN) for a 7-day holiday per person.

Borovets: tips for tourists

To make your stay in Borovets carefree and full of positive impressions and emotions, tripmydream has selected some useful tips for your trip to the resort.

Visa to Borovets

For European citizens, no visa is required.

The maximum duration of stay for tourists is 90 days within a 180-day period.

Airport

Sofia Airport is the closest airport to Borovets. It has 2 terminals, a shuttle runs between them. On the airport website you will find all the necessary information: online scoreboard, airport map, etc.

125 km. Plovdiv Airport is located from Borovets.

Transfer

The most convenient way to get to Borovets from Sofia airport is by transfer, a place for which you should book in advance. Travel time is about 1.5 hours.

If you landed in Plovdiv, you can also get to the resort by bus. The journey will take about 3 hours.

Car rental

The cost of renting an economy class car will cost from 24 BGN per day. It is worth choosing trusted companies (Firefly, Hertz, Thrifty). It will be necessary to pay a deposit and take out insurance.

Requirements for car rental: age - from 21 years old, international driving license, driving experience - from 2 years.

Transportation

The resort operates free shuttle buses to the ski lifts, which operate from 8 am to late evening.

The transfer from Sofia Airport will cost you 90 BGN (up to 4 people) and 160 BGN (9 -15 people). Getting from Plovdiv will be more expensive - 150 and 200 BGN, respectively.

Safety

Borovets is a safe city, the authorities attach great importance to maintaining law and order in it.

A ski ambulance patrol operates on the ski slopes. The inpatient hospital is located only in Samokov.

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