Bansko: the tourist heart of the region

Bansko is located in south-west Bulgaria's Blagoevgrad province. It has around 9,000 inhabitants and borders the Pirin Mountains. The Glazne river runs through the town and beautiful mountains are visible everywhere in the town!

Bansko's rich history in a nutshell

Bansko has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Back then, it was just a hamlet where goat herders and farmers lived.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Golden Age dawned for Bansko. It flourished as a cultural and economic centre during the Bulgarian National Rebirth. This heritage is still visible in its traditional architecture, with well-preserved houses such as the Velyanova House and Holy Trinity Church, built in 1835.
This church, with its impressive bell tower and unique frescoes, is one of the icons of Bansko.

Since 2002, Bansko has become one of Eastern Europe's biggest, best and most popular ski resorts, with thousands of tourists flocking to this mountain town to holiday every year.

The Glazne river in Bansko

Although today it is overrun by tourists, it has retained its historical charm. This, then, is the beauty and uniqueness of Bansko.

Sights in Bansko

Besides historical sites, Bansko offers access to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pirin National Park. Here you will find crystal-clear lakes, impressive peaks and lush forests, home to brown bears and wolves, among others.
Besides Pirin Park, the Old Town and the church, popular sights include Bunderishka Polyana, the ruins of Sitan Kale and Nameless Town and the highest peak of the Pirin Mountains, Vihren Peak (2,914 metres).

For culture lovers, the house-museum of Neofit Rilski, one of Bulgaria's greatest artists, is a must-see.
In the centre of Bansko, you can enjoy the atmospheric cobbled streets and cosy taverns serving traditional dishes such as kapama, shopska and kavarma.

Activities for everyone

• Winter sports: Bansko is famous for its modern ski resort, considered one of the best in Eastern Europe. With more than 75 kilometres of slopes and excellent facilities, it is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.
• Hiking and climbing: In summer, Bansko is an ideal base for hiking and mountaineering in the Pirin Mountains. Routes range from easy hiking trails to challenging climbs.
• Spa and wellness: The nearby mineral water springs in Dobrinishte and Banya offer relaxing opportunities for wellness enthusiasts.
• Festivals: Bansko hosts festivals throughout the year, including the famous international Bansko Jazz Festival in August and traditional folklore events.

Why visit Bansko?

Combining a rich history with modern amenities, Bansko offers a unique blend of culture, nature and adventure. Whether you are looking for sporting challenges, cultural discoveries or relaxation, Bansko has something for everyone.
Mountain peaks, mountain lakes, the annual Bansko Jazz Festival, annual events and FIS ski races make Bansko an attractive and internationally recognised resort.
This, combined with the fresh spring water you can find everywhere, makes Bansko the ideal location to live, work and holiday!

A visit to this town and its surrounding villages is an experience not to be missed!

Razlog: a cozy and historic mountain town

Razlog is a town north of Bansko with about 10,000 inhabitants.

Although Razlog is not as touristy as Bansko, it is definitely worth a visit. There is a nice centre with shops, restaurants and accommodation options.

It is beautifully designed with water streams, fountains and several parks. Razlog is also popular with Bulgarians who want to buy a house there or have one built in a nice location overlooking the Pirin Mountains.

There is also a lake just outside the city, with benches with a nice view of the mountains.

Also, in Razlog you have an observation tower on top of a hill, on which you can look over the whole area including the town, Bansko and the mountains!

Razlog is a cheaper alternative to Bansko, while the hiking possibilities in Razlog are endless in the beautiful nature surrounding the city!

The town of Razlog from the observation tower

Historical background of Razlog

Razlog has a long history dating back to Thracian and Roman times, evidenced by archaeological finds in the region.
In the Middle Ages, it grew into an important agricultural and cultural centre.
During the Bulgarian National Rebirth (18th-19th century), the town, like Bansko, played an important role in preserving Bulgarian traditions and identity.

Today, you can feel the atmosphere of the past in its traditional architecture and local folklore, which still has an important place in the daily life of its inhabitants.

Sightseeing in Razlog

The centre of Razlog has been greatly renewed and modernised. Today, there is a beautifully designed pedestrian area with a central square, fountains, shops and terraces.
Here you will also find St Blagoveshtenie Church; a Bulgarian Orthodox church in traditional Bulgarian style.

Just outside the centre is the Historical Museum of Razlog; here you can learn more about the history and culture of the area, with exhibits on traditional costumes, crafts and archaeological finds.

Finally, the observation tower. On this tower you have a 360˙ view where you can look over the entire valley, including Bansko's ski slopes.
This tower can be reached via a staircase of about 360 steps. It is therefore quite a climb and not recommended for people with mobility problems.

Top activities in Razlog

• Hiking and cycling: Razlog's surroundings are perfect for nature walks and bike rides, with trails leading to beautiful forests, rivers and picturesque views.
• Winter fun: Although Razlog does not have its own ski resort, it is close to the ski resorts of Bansko, Dobrinishte and Kulinoto, making it a quiet and cheaper alternative for overnight stays.
• Folklore festivals: Razlog is famous for its lively festivals, such as the traditional ‘Kukeri’ festival, where on New Year's Day, participants dressed up drive away evil spirits with colourful masks and dance.

Why visit Razlog?

Razlog offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm, rich history and access to adventurous activities. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, culture vultures and anyone who wants to experience the authentic Bulgarian lifestyle. Combined with its proximity to Bansko and the Pirin Mountains, Razlog is a fun town waiting to be discovered.

Dobrinishte: a hot spot for Bulgarian tourists

Dobrinishte is a village (officially a town) located about 8 kilometres east of Bansko.

Dobrinishte literally means ‘good place’.
The village is known for its (hot) water springs and ski slopes.
For example, there is a swimming pool in the village with hot water of up to 40˙C! This water comes straight from the ground.
There is also another old Roman bathhouse just outside the village, with hot water.

Dobrinishte has its own ski slope and chairlift. There is a total of 5 km of slopes, which of course is not crazy much. But it is a lot cheaper and quieter than Bansko and you are in the peace and quiet of nature. It's great fun to ski here once!

 

The history of Dobrinishte

Dobrinishte has a long history dating back to Thracian and Roman times.

Archaeological finds in the region point to an ancient settlement that was known for its mineral springs and strategic location. During the Ottoman period, the village was an important cultural and economic centre in the region.

Today, Dobrinishte combines traditional Bulgarian architecture with modern tourist facilities for a successful holiday.

Sights in Dobrinishte

Like Bansko, Dobrinishte lies on the edge of Pirin National Park, where many hiking trails can be found. In this beautiful nature reserve you will also find the St. Nikola Waterfall with the ruins of the Nameless Town.
If you prefer to stay a little closer to the village, you will find terraces and shops in the centre or you can take the car to Gotse Delchev Hut to take the chairlift to Bezbog Hut for a great mountain experience.
You will also find a climbing park with a coffee house on the outskirts of Dobrinishte, where you can also rent a quad bike or have a horseback riding adventure through nature!

Finally, you will find many chapels around Dobrinishte, such as St Kozma & Damyan Chapel, Sveti Iliya Chapel and St George Chapel.

What to do in Dobrinishte

• Skiing and snowboarding. In winter, Dobrinishte is an excellent base for skiing and snowboarding. The ‘Bezbog’ ski resort offers well-maintained slopes and beautiful views of the Pirin Mountains.
• Hiking and nature tours. Dobrinishte is a gateway to the Pirin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers can visit Bezbog Lake, as well as other picturesque mountain lakes, such as Popovo Lake.
• Thermal baths. Dobrinishte is famous for its thermal springs. There are more than 15 mineral springs with water reaching a temperature of 30-43°C. The silver water spring, the public thermal bath in the park and the open-air pool ‘Alfa Spa’ are popular among visitors.
• Traditional folklore. Dobrinishte is a place where old traditions are still celebrated. Visitors can enjoy local dances and folklore festivals, such as on 22 September, when Dobrinishte's birthday is celebrated.
• Rhodopes narrow-gauge railway Septemvri-Dobrinishte. A true classic, this narrow-gauge railway is now used partly as a tourist attraction. Experience it yourself and imagine yourself back in time!

Why visit Dobrinishte?

A well-known destination for Bulgarian tourists, Dobrinishte is a town full of conviviality, natural splendour and relaxation.
With its warm hospitality, beautiful nature and rich history, Dobrinishte is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Banya: water springs and spas

Banya is a small village east of Razlog. It is about 5 kilometres from the town of Razlog and 5 kilometres from the popular tourist destination of Bansko. This village is best known for its thermal springs, natural beauty and rich history.
There are many hotels, guest houses and restaurants. There are also several old Ottoman and Bulgarian bath houses that still serve as baths.

The village has a typical Bulgarian character and many historical houses in old Bulgarian style can be found.

Banya is surrounded by beautiful nature with many hiking opportunities and everywhere in the village there are spectacular views of the Pirin and Rila mountains.

History of Banya

Banya also has a long history dating back to Thracian and Roman times. The village is located in a region traditionally known for its thermal waters, which were used for healing and relaxation over the centuries.
There are remnants of ancient bath houses and traces of Thracian settlements, showing that people here have appreciated the healing properties of the warm waters for thousands of years.

During the Ottoman period, Banya remained an important centre thanks to its springs and fertile soil in the Razlog valley. In modern times, the village has become popular among tourists due to its combination of natural thermal baths and proximity to winter sports resorts.

Sights in Banya

Banya has more than 70 thermal springs with temperatures between 37°C and 58°C. Many hotels and spa centres in the village offer thermal baths, mud treatments and relaxation facilities. The mineral-rich water is known for its healing effects on joints, skin diseases and respiratory problems.

Remains of several ancient bath houses, both Roman and Ottoman in origin, can be found in Banya. They are a testimony to the village's long history as a thermal destination.
Finally, there are old wooden houses; many traditional Bulgarian houses are well preserved and showcase the local architectural style.

Fun activities in Banya

• Hiking and cycling. The Razlog valley offers spectacular routes along green hills, mountains and rivers.
• Skiing in Bansko. Nearby Bansko, just a 10-minute drive away, is one of the best ski resorts in Southeast Europe. Many tourists combine a stay in Banya with a day of skiing.
• Horse riding and ecotourism in the surrounding nature reserves. There are many riding stables in the region where you can ride a horse for a few hours with a group through nature.
• Cures in mineral waters. Many hotels and spa centres in the village offer thermal baths, mud treatments and relaxation facilities. The mineral-rich water is known for its healing effects on joints, skin diseases and respiratory problems.

Why visit Banya?

The thermal springs in the area are the biggest attraction. They attract tourists from all over Bulgaria and the rest of Europe. Its proximity to Bansko makes Banya a perfect combination of wellness and adventure.

As a small village, Banya is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities!

And there's so much more...

OK, enough about the four big places in the Bansko region, because there is so much more to discover!
Here you will find some fun trips to places a bit further from Bansko, but still worth visiting!

Pirin Golf

Take, for example, the golf resort Pirin Golf & Country Club. Some 10 km west of Bansko is Bulgaria's first major golf resort.

Pirin Golf is known for its excellently landscaped and maintained golf courses, cosy chalets and luxury hotels. Some good restaurants can also be found there.

With its location on the edge of Pirin National Park, Pirin Golf also attracts many nature lovers. And rightly so, as the hiking possibilities here are endless!

Belitsa

Belitsa is 20 km from Bansko. This is quite on the high side, which also makes it less popular with tourists. Although the village itself is not that special, the bear park and the Rila Fun Park amusement park are located near Belitsa.

The bear park takes care of bears that used to be used for dancing. These bears had to spend their lives on a chain and were forced to dance.
They were mistreated for human entertainment, in other words.
Fortunately, this is now banned and the bears have been given a new chance in life!
In this park, they are in spacious, natural enclosures that you can visit.

The Rila Fun Park is a small amusement park that includes climbing frames, an adult toboggan run, a children's track and lots of play equipment.

Velingrad

If you know Bansko, you have probably also heard of Velingrad. This city is a bit further away from Bansko, about an hour and a half (80 kilometres) away, but is definitely worth visiting as a day trip.

Known as the spa capital of the Balkans, Velingrad is full of luxury hotels, bathhouses and hot springs.

The centre of Velingrad is very cosy with many terraces and restaurants.
And want an unforgettable experience in this fun city? Then visit VeliLand. This is an amusement park with a large circus, multiple attractions, a petting zoo and much more!

Velingrad is easily reached by car via national road 84 or the Rhodopes Narrow-gauge Railway, which stops twice in the city at Velingrad-Yug and Velingrad stations.
On the way, you will drive through the resort of Yundola and over a spectacular mountain pass (especially in winter), among other places, which makes the ride there alone a fun experience!

Dobarsko

Dobarsko is a village north of Bansko and Razlog. It lies against the Rila Mountains and can be reached via the villages of Dolno and Gorno Draglishte.

The village is known for the church that stands there. This is an unusual medieval church with beautiful murals that attracts many tourists.
There are hardly any facilities in the village, apart from a school, a bakery and a small supermarket.
However, there is a beautiful waterfall and many hiking trails. The nature around the village is therefore very beautiful!

Blagoevgrad

Driving from Sofia to Bansko, you will pass Blagoevgrad. From the motorway, the city is recognisable as a large town in the valley with the cross on a hill rising far above it.

As the capital of Blagoevgrad oblast, it is the tourist, cultural and political centre of the region. About a 50-minute drive from Bansko, you will find museums, shops, terraces and much more in this city.
And do you want to experience more in Blagoevgrad? Then you can go to the Blagoevgrad Zoo or visit FC Pirin Blagoevgrad, the professional football club that has produced many Bulgarian internationals!

The city is easy to reach via the A3 motorway, which it is practically next to.

‘Bansko is not just a destination, but an experience you won't soon forget’

Conclusion: Bansko the pearl of Bulgaria?

The villages in the Bansko region are a true treasure trove of natural beauty, rich traditions and an authentic Bulgarian atmosphere. Each village tells its own story.
Whether you are looking for a skiing holiday, tranquillity in nature, cultural discoveries or a glimpse of traditional life, the Bansko region offers something for everyone.

Pack your bags and be surprised by the hospitality, breathtaking views and unique experiences these villages have to offer. The Bansko region is not just a destination, but an experience you won't soon forget.