Bansko Resort
Surrounded by the Pirin, Rila and Rhodopi mountains, Bansko is a beautiful mountain resort with a rich history and a current population of around 10,000 permanent residents. Bansko is currently undergoing a significant development programme, but the charm of the old town is still retained at it's heart. There are dozens of narrow cobbled streets leading to hidden Mexhana that offer excellent local cuisine and always a warm welcome, but very much cheaper than typical Alpine resorts.
The snow-sports season starts in mid December and lasts through until mid April. There are numerous equipment hire stores in the area surrounding the Gondola Station with well trained English speaking staff willing to help kit you out for a day on the slopes. InterSport, located just over the road from the Gondola Station, provide an excellent hire service with friendly staff at prices much lower than the Main Station. Other stores also offer good deals so it pays to shop around. Visit the official BanskoSki site for details on facilities, prices and piste conditions in the resort. After a fun day on the slopes, the Bansko nightlife takes over. The Happy End Bar opposite the Gondola Station is a favourite starting place for many.
In the summertime, the town changes over to a quieter resort offering hiking, mountain-biking, horse-riding and fishing in the surrounding areas. In August 2007, Bansko plays the welcoming host to the 10th International Jazz festival. For 6 days and nights the town will reverberate to the sound of Jazz, performed by a host of international artistes.