Besides being one of the best, Borovets lays claim to being the oldest ski resort in Bulgaria. Originally called Chamkoria, it was an exclusive royal hunting resort dating from the 19th century. Renamed Borovets in 1942 the area has been developed into a large ski resort.
Borovets is just 70km south of Sophia in the Rila Mountains, The ski resort is found at the foot of Mount Moussala, the highest mountain in Bulgaria at 2,925m.
Rila National Park is home to around 200 glacier lakes and mineral springs. It is generally accepted that Rila means ‘water mountain’, the seven most picturesque Rila lakes at between 2,100m and 2,500m, attract many visitors year round. The Iskar, Maritsa and Mesta rivers all have their source in the Rila Mountains.
Rila monastery, has become Bulgaria’s national symbol and listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. This historical and cultural landmark is situated in the deep valley of the Rila River at 1,147m.
Borovets ski resort covers three ski villages: Sitniakovo, Yastrebets and Markudjik. The lift system and slopes covered with snow cannon ensure access to quality snow for all visitors.
- Firstly, the largest of the three ski areas is Sitnyakovo Central, right above the town. Pistes range from gentle to tricky.
- Secondly, Markudjik has the highest altitude, taking you up to 2,550m.
- Thirdly, Yastrebets has the best slopes in Borovets including the runs used for FIS. This is also where you’ll find Borosport Snow Park. The park is full of kickers, boxes and rails to tempt beginners and freestylers. Yastrebets is also where you can ski until after dark with floodlit pistes down to the village centre.
There is a total of 58km of wide, tree lined ski runs, there are also 35km of cross-country skiing tracks, plus biathlon and ski-jumping facilities.
Investment in the area means the fabulous mountain scenery forms the back-drop to the villages that retain their old-world charm but feature modern hotels, shops, bars and clubs. From 5* luxury to budget friendly hotels within walking distance of the lifts. As a result, Borovets has much to recommend it.
Borovets is one of the Best Ski Resorts for…
Skiing in Borovets.
Getting There.
Borovets is 70km south of Sofia in Sofia Province in the Western part of Bulgaria.
By Plane. Nearest Airports.
Most International flights arrive in Bulgaria at Sofia (SOF). Plovdiv (PDV) is used by many charter planes. You could also consider flying to Istanbul, Turkey (IST).
By Train. Nearest Railway Stations.
Dupnica is about the closest you can get to Borovets by train. It is a two and a half hour trip to cover the 90km from Sofia.
By Road. Driving, Bus and Transfers.
There is a frequent coach service from Sofia to Samokov, from where a shuttle service to Borovets is available. Car hire, taxis and shared transfers are also available from the airports.
- Sofia airport (SOF) – 1 hour 30 minutes, 70km.
- Plovdiv airport (PDV) – 2 hours, 120km.
- Istanbul, Turkey (IST) – 6 hours, 550km.
- Dupnica Train Station – 1 hour, 50km.
Secure parking is available in Borovets and many hotels offer parking.
Many of those opting for a ski holiday in Borovets will opt for a package deal. Without doubt, it would be a real challenge to beat the package deals on price and they will include your transfer to resort.
