Bulgaria has become increasingly popular for winter ski holidays over the last 10 years. Whereas France and Austria are the established preserve of the rich, Bulgaria and Slovenia in particular have become the preserve of the bargain hungry. The Eastern Europeans have been wise to the fact that there is plenty of great good value skiing available close to home for a long time and many a happy Western European who has visited has learnt the same lesson.

Bulgaria offers some excellent skiing but in our experience, in the main resorts, doesn’t offer the same value for skiing that is on offer in places like Slovenia and Poland if you’re an independent traveller or travelling on a self-catering basis. For all in ski packages available from travel agents, Bulgaria may come out as a more favourable option but for independent travellers the main resorts are not the natural choice for good value in Eastern Europe. Better value is available in the smaller resort of Pamporovo however where prices are on a par with those available in the main ski resorts of Poland so if you do want to visit Bulgaria yet want a cost effective option on a self-catering holiday Pamporovo may be your best choice.

Eating out and other activities are still good value in Bulgaria though, as are relaxation and spa treatments. Hotels and self-catering accommodation can offer good value but if you plan to ski and aren’t on a package holiday expect to pay over the odds for Eastern Europe in the main resorts of Bulgaria or head to Pamporovo for more palatable prices. Pamporovo is also said to be the best for beginners so if you’re a novice, Pamporovo could be the ideal place for you.

To give you an idea re pricing, we have put together the following information. We recommend though that you do full research on the cost of lift passes and lessons available before booking your holiday as special offers for example may be available from time to time.