Mountain Holidays in Bulgaria | Ski, Snowboard & Wellness

Bulgaria has secured its place on the European winter sports map thanks to its three major ski resorts: Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo. These destinations attract travelers from all over the world, known for well-maintained slopes, modern infrastructure and excellent value for money, often more accessible than the Alps.

Bansko, located in the Pirin Mountains, is considered the capital of Bulgarian skiing. The resort stands out with its long slopes suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike, and with the cultural charm of the old town of Bansko. A holiday here means more than skiing: festivals, local gastronomy and 4-5* hotels with modern spas.

Borovets, the oldest ski resort in Bulgaria, situated in the Rila Mountains, has a history dating back to the 19th century, when it was the royal family’s winter retreat. Today, Borovets offers varied slopes, snowboard parks and ski schools, making it perfect for families and groups. The lively atmosphere includes traditional restaurants, mountain bars and premium accommodation.

Pamporovo, in the Rhodope Mountains, is famous for its mild climate and many sunny days. It is highly recommended for families and beginners thanks to its gentle slopes and friendly facilities. However, experienced skiers will also find challenging runs, complemented by breathtaking mountain views.

With ActivTours®, travelers enjoy tailor-made packages including flights, premium accommodation, skipass, private transfers and concierge services. The experience is complete: from skiing and snowboarding to spa relaxation or cultural excursions nearby. By choosing these resorts through ActivTours®, you are guaranteed safety, flawless organization and a winter holiday to remember.

A ski or snowboard holiday in Bulgaria often comes with many questions, especially for first-time visitors. How reliable is the snow? What’s the best time of year? How much do equipment rental and ski lessons cost? ActivTours® has gathered the most common answers to ensure your trip is smooth and stress-free.

The winter season generally runs from December to late March, with consistent snow and well-maintained slopes. Resorts like Bansko and Borovets have modern snowmaking systems, guaranteeing good conditions even in milder winters. For snowboarders, dedicated snowparks feature ramps, half-pipes and freestyle zones, making Bulgaria attractive for all styles of riders.

Prices are far more affordable than in Austria or France. Equipment rental is simple and accessible, with options ranging from standard to premium gear. Families can benefit from significant discounts, while ski lessons are offered in English and even German, with certified instructors ensuring beginners feel safe and confident.

With ActivTours®, packages are fully customized to match each traveler’s level and needs. Children can join group lessons, while advanced skiers can try challenging runs or off-piste tours with licensed guides. Safety comes first: every package includes insurance, private transfers and 24/7 support. Our concierge service also takes care of restaurant reservations, folklore evenings and spa access for perfect après-ski relaxation.

A ski and snowboard holiday in Bulgaria becomes more than just a sport trip – it’s a complete experience where comfort, safety and fun are guaranteed. With ActivTours®, you can enjoy winter to the fullest, without surprises and with memories that last.

The Bulgarian mountains are not just for winter sports. In summer, they become a spectacular playground with alpine trails, glacial lakes and traditional villages where time stands still. If you’re wondering what are the top activities in Bulgaria’s mountains in summer, the answer is clear: hiking, cultural circuits, mountain city breaks and authentic nature experiences.

The Rila Mountains host the famous Seven Rila Lakes, a unique trail attracting visitors from all over the world. Pirin impresses with its dramatic landscapes and natural reserves, ideal for trekking and photography, while the Rhodopes reveal picturesque villages, folklore traditions and local cuisine. Summer is also perfect for cultural tours – visiting monasteries, exploring Plovdiv or Veliko Tarnovo, both UNESCO heritage sites with authentic Balkan charm.

With ActivTours®, a simple mountain holiday becomes a tailor-made experience: guided hikes, themed cultural excursions, nature picnics and premium lodge stays. Our concierge service handles every detail: private transfers, local guides, gastronomic tips and personalized activities for families, couples or corporate groups.

Thus, summer holidays in Bulgaria’s mountains are not only about nature, but about living a complete story: adventure, culture and relaxation in one. By choosing ActivTours®, you are guaranteed a complete package designed to reveal the best of the Bulgarian mountains – from breathtaking alpine trails to authentic encounters with local traditions.

Bulgaria is not only famous for its ski slopes and alpine scenery but also for its spa and balneotherapy tradition, recognized across Europe. If you’re wondering which are the most popular wellness and spa resorts in Bulgaria, three names stand out: Velingrad, Devin and Sandanski. Each has its own character, yet they all share rich thermal springs, clean air and modern spa centers – perfect for a relaxing and healthy holiday.

Velingrad, known as the “spa capital of Bulgaria,” offers more than 80 mineral springs used for both medical treatments and wellness therapies. A stay here means days spent between thermal pools, luxury spa centers and walks through pine forests, complemented by premium hotels with detox programs, yoga and personalized therapies.

Devin, located in the Rhodope Mountains, is renowned for its mineral waters with therapeutic properties. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, respiratory health treatments or simply total relaxation. The resort combines natural benefits with the modern facilities of wellness centers, creating complete recovery packages.

Sandanski is famous for its mild, Mediterranean-like climate and hot springs used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. It attracts visitors who want both rest and medical benefits in a unique natural setting.

With ActivTours®, spa holidays become tailor-made experiences: packages including access to renowned spa centers, traditional and natural therapies, nearby excursions and carefully selected accommodation. Our concierge takes care of every detail – from private transfers and gastronomic recommendations to customized relaxation programs.

Choosing Bulgaria for a wellness holiday means discovering a destination where nature and science perfectly complement each other, turning your stay into a memorable journey. ActivTours® guarantees safety, comfort and the joy of regaining inner balance.

When choosing Bulgaria for a mountain holiday, travelers often ask the same questions. Here are the top 6 FAQs answered clearly and simply.

1. What is the best ski season in Bulgaria?

The winter season runs from December to late March. Resorts like Bansko and Borovets have snowmaking systems, ensuring great conditions even in mild winters.

2. Is Bulgaria cheaper than the Alps?

Yes, Bulgaria is much more affordable while still offering excellent quality: 4-5* hotels, well-kept slopes and modern spa centers.

3. What activities can you do in Bulgaria’s mountains in summer?

Summer is perfect for alpine hiking, cultural tours, city breaks in Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, and authentic food experiences.

4. What are the best spa and wellness resorts in Bulgaria?

Velingrad, Devin and Sandanski are the most popular, known for mineral springs, natural therapies and modern wellness centers.

5. Is Bulgaria safe for families?

Yes, Bulgaria is very family-friendly, with gentle slopes, ski schools and child-oriented hotels. Many spa resorts also have facilities for kids.

6. What makes an ActivTours® holiday in Bulgaria different?

ActivTours® offers tailor-made packages: private transfers, premium hotels, 24/7 concierge and personalized cultural or wellness activities. Safety and comfort are always guaranteed.

Choosing a mountain holiday in Bulgaria is more than a practical decision. It is an invitation to discover an authentic, accessible and surprisingly diverse country where alpine adventures meet local hospitality and spa traditions. With ActivTours®, the difference is felt in every detail.

Since 2003, we have been creating tailor-made holidays focused on safety, quality and emotion. In Bulgaria, this means complete packages including private transfers or flights, carefully selected premium accommodation, ski passes and access to renowned spa centers. Most importantly, it means real human support – 24/7 concierge – taking care of bookings, restaurant recommendations and personalized activities.

ActivTours® is more than a holiday: it is a worry-free experience where every traveler enjoys flexibility and customized solutions. Families receive child-friendly packages, ski and snowboard enthusiasts benefit from expert recommendations, and wellness seekers access top retreats.

Why Bulgaria with ActivTours®? Because we combine authenticity and safety, freedom to explore and the guarantee that every moment is well organized. By choosing us, you don’t just choose a holiday – you choose a story created especially for you.