The Guardian: BG resorts are cheap to the point of absurdity
Article by Flip Byrnes, The Guardian, 25th Jan 2005

Flip Byrnes uncovers the best ski resorts in Eastern Europe

In Bulgaria; it's hard to spot the locals for all the English descending here every season. Their increasing numbers have made this the flavour of the month for one reason only. It's cheap. Crazily, undeniably, ridiculously cheap. A three-star hotel for seven nights with breakfast and dinner is from GBP 165. That's great, but is there still snow? Yes.

The two largest resorts in Bulgaria are the purpose built Borovets and Pamporovo. But the up and comer is Bansko in the Pirin Mountains, set to become the jewel in Bulgaria's snow dusted crown.

With a respectable height of 2,580m snow conditions are good, and it boasts the only half pipe in Eastern Europe. The runs are plentiful, running through a forest setting, but the real point of note is heliskiing. At only 50 Euro per person (GBP 35), it is the cheapest ride you'll ever have. It's not Alaska, but then it is also not the standard USD 500 rate. Russians and the well-heeled of Sofia head here on weekends; otherwise it is a tame yet uncrowded resort. Modern hotels mix with rickety farmhouses and empty-shelved grocery shops snuggle against well-stocked “Mehanas”, the local taverns.

Top five reasons to ski in Eastern Europe.

The cheapest ski vacation to be had anywhere, with a five-course meal costing $5, and beer from 0.40c.
· The chance to be a Marco Polo on skis and go where very few sliders have been before.
· The culture and side attractions, including UNESCO-listed sites and vibrant stopover cities.
· The fastest growing travel market in Europe. Get there before everyone else does!
· The cuisine. Not great. But certainly different.

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