Bulgaria

What's your opinion on Bulgaria. I hear it is pretty cheap compared to Europe and there are two main resorts; Bansko and Pamporovo. Any knowledge on what the skiing is like and what the town and eating out atmosphere is like?

Skied in Bulgaria (2 x Pamporovo) >20 years ago and was just a great family holiday. Super cheap, friendly people, great ski instructors and perfect slopes for learning on. No complaints about accommodation or food, which was many times better than could be expected for the price. You will not find many supporters for Bulgarian skiing on this web site but have nothing bad to say about it.

It's rubbish! That's why it's cheap.

In what way is it Rubbish? Have skied in most of the Alpine countries of W Europe and is comparable to many resorts of similar size. If you are a medium level or beginner is difficult to fault. Biggest complaint seems to be first gondola in the morning which am sure can be fixed by avoiding peak time.

Look at Bansko, more than enough skiing for a week, 2500m and reasonable snow record, much lower temperatures than W Alps at moment.

Decide what you want from holiday and make you choice. If you want a short transfer and 200+Km of piste then head to France is simple, apres ski Austria, food Italy. Is pointless trying to compare resorts as everyone is looking for something different. I can see zero logic in going to a resort like Livigno due to transfer time, Andorra as too far South, Sweden too far North etc. and more fool me for dismissing places which others rave about.

If money is your real driver, then don't dismiss impact Air B & B and similar are having on vacation costs. If you are just after a room vs. family holiday then some great deals available in all major resorts.

Good advice Ranchero.

Pamporovo was rubbish, takes ages to get to and is quite expensive.

Borovets and Bansko were better although it has been some years since I been therer