Skiing in Bansko: A week packed full of highlights
The phrase cheap and cheerful is fitting, but what a disservice that would be for what a Balkan Holidays’ trip to Bansko really has to offer – an idyllic snowy paradise that caters for you no matter what your age.
Engulfed in a mountainous wonderland perfect for those who love being out among the elements, there are enough bars, clubs, restaurants and activities at the foot of the Pirin Mountains to entertain you without even clipping in your ski boot – although I would highly recommend it.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers the perfect place where novice skiers and snowboarders can learn the ropes, or hardened thrill-seekers can show their experience in conquering black slopes, both under perfect supervision from experienced instructors.
Not for the faint-hearted, early morning starts and little sleep is a must to make the most out of the town’s booming night-life and morning ski lessons, which took its toll on our group of 16 that whittled down to myself and three others – perfect.
From beginner skiers barely able to steer, we were able to pluck up the courage to tackle a number of red slopes somewhat confidently within three days – our instructor, Dimitri, was encouraging, fun, punctual and upfront.
“I don’t help you up unless it’s dangerous otherwise how will you ever learn,” he said on an hourly basis as he stood over his students face-down in snow.
But after a couple of days it was clear to see his bold approach was by far the best as we climbed higher and higher up the Pirin Mountains by the day.
Holidays can often be a case of missed opportunities or hidden secrets that stay well hidden until you arrive home, but Balkan Holidays make sure you get there and back without missing a trick.
With the choice of either ski or snowboard equipment fully provided, only the few optional additions of a helmet and goggles were needed.
Apres-ski
Although payable extras, the apres-ski activities proved to be some of the highlights of the trip – it is hard for an evening of relaxing in hot springs after three days of skiing not to stay in one’s memory, even with the £1 pints on offer.
Soaking in an open-air hot mineral bath while snow continues to fall was just a short bus ride away from our hotel, while offering a relaxing outdoor experience that did not require thermals.
While the Bansko Bar Hop may not be to everyone’s taste, if you want to experience the town’s night-life, this is the way to go.
With drinking games and forfeits led by the engaging holiday representatives and dance groups organised by the bars, it introduces the venues early in the week leaving you to choose your poison for the remainder of your stay.
In case skiing and snowboarding is not enough, an octane-fuelled night on a snowmobile will see you ride back up an eerily-empty mountain you have become accustomed to skiing down with fellow holiday-goers.
Tracks made throughout the day spiralled their way along the route as you follow a Ski Doo instructor to the turning point, before hearing the engine roar as you race your way back down to the warmth of the open fires in the hotel bar.
With a choice of taking the vehicle for a spin any night of the week, this offers the best opportunity to be the only one on the mountain, and the most peaceful experience you can possibly have while tearing through snow drifts.
Hotel
The four-star hotel, Hotel Lion, had friendly, helpful staff and provided everything you could need.
Our room was of adequate size, most of which was taken up by a super king size bed, and had a balcony overlooking the foot of the town.
A pleasant stay was accompanied with themed food nights, filling breakfasts and access to a full health suite, which included a swimming pool, two saunas, two steam rooms and a jacuzzi.
The hotel also offered in-house spa treatment, which proved to be a must after six days of hurtling down the side of a mountain.
A few hours on the coach from Sofia Airport was a small price to pay once our feet first crunched onto the Bansko snow.
Unfortunately the travel time home was prolonged by a number of exasperating setbacks, which saw the coach leave 30 minutes late and a flight delay which saw us back in England at about 5am, four hours late.
However, this proved a small inconvenience when you consider a week packed full of highlights and good memories that make you feel proud to have been part of the Bansko community.
