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Bansko … A Fascinating New Experience … Whatever the Session  Bansko, situated in the northeastern area of the Pirin Mountain, is the youngest resort in Bulgaria, but thanks to recent development, the most up and coming. The alpine character of the mountain has created fantastic conditions for skiing, and the area is a mix of old world tradition – the town of Bansko dates back to the 10th Century and is steeped in history and culture – and modern facilities, with the addition of new high speed lifts and luxury hotels. The resort has a consistant snow record and a season spanning December to May. "Skiers can enjoy quality European skiing for all levels in Bansko, at very reasonable prices". Bansko is situated at a height of 925m, and the skiing reaches an altitude of 2,500m. There are 17 trails covering 65 km of pistes, and the newly renovated slopes of Bansko are well planned and maintained, seeming to suit beginners and intermediate levels best. The main ski areas are to be found on the northern slopes of the Pirin Mountain, the Chalin Valog, with skiing at an altitude of 1,600m, and the higher Shiligarnika, reaching 2,500m. Beginners should start off on the slopes of Todorin Vruh, with its long gentle runs, and will receive a wide variety of instruction from the English speaking ski school . Intermediate level skiers will enjoy the well groomed trails (the resort has 12 grooming machines) and the long scenic runs – try the 17km downhill run from the top of Todorka Peak, where there are fantastic views, which descends all the way down to the base of the gondola. Shiligarnika has some of the best runs for advanced skiers, and slalom tracks are available in this area. Bansko uses state of the art technology for its’ lift passes, resulting in little or no waiting time on the slopes.   "Here visitors can sample local wines and hearty Bulgarian fare at low prices, and experience the traditional music and folk-dancing". The charming town of Bansko offers visitors a slice of authentic Bulgarian mountain life, with the traditional stone and wooden buildings housing many “mehana” – local taverns where most of the après-ski entertainment is centred. Here visitors can sample local wines and hearty Bulgarian fare at low prices, and experience the traditional music and folk-dancing. There are several night clubs, casinos and good night spots here, but the atmosphere remains cosy and friendly. The shops are full of interesting locally made goods and great souvenirs. The Bansko area has some thermal hot springs to visit, and the neighbouring Pirin National Park, a UNESCO World Cultural and National Heritage Site, with its’ amazing landscape filled with rare plants and animals, is a wonderful tourist destination.
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