38 | BULGARIA’S BEST OF SKI
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and other sponsors in support of Bansko. 42 boxes, containing the prizes, were buried in the snow at 2600 m above sea level. They contained an ECONIC One electric bike; another seasonal lift pass for Bansko; 3 tablets provided by A1; dinner at the elite restaurant Come Prima; 5 silver coins from Fibank; overnight stays at the Kempinski Grand Arena Bansko, 4 Points by Sheraton, and Mura hotels; unique branded skis from Coca Cola; backpacks; helmets and many other items and experiences. At the top of the ski area, the hosts had provided hot tea and mulled wine for the guests, who, in addition to the games, also took part in the first descents of this season on Plato and Banderitsa 2!
“The snowcat drivers of Ulen have worked hard to prepare the slopes in the high part of the ski area for the guests of Bansko. We are expecting suitable weather conditions so that we can turn on the modern technological snow system to cover the terrain on the other slopes. As you know, low temperatures and low humidity are required for this purpose!” said Ivan Obreykov,
Marketing
Director of Ulen AD. As of December 13th,
2025, the open slopes are 3, 11 (Plato) and 4 (Banderitsa 2 - only above the middle station of the lift). The situation
is constantly changing
depending on weather conditions. This will be updated regularly via the Bansko website and across the ski resort’s social media channels.
Bansko for the best of ski: Winter 25-26 Season Awaits...
FOR the first time in the modern history of Bansko all official events for the season start were held at 2600 m above sea level - at the top of the ski zone! As of December 13th, 2025 the snow cover in Bulgaria’s Best Ski Resort (according to the World Ski Awards) is between 70 cm at Plato and 140 cm at Todorka Peak.
Two ski legends,Giorgio Rocca and Mark Girardelli, led the teams of “Get in the Team of the Champ”. 30 participants competed in slalom, with Anton Koyuv from team “Girardelli” being fastest among them with 18:07, which ensured him the first prize in the competition - a seasonal lift pass for Bansko! The “Treasure Hunters” game attracted hundreds of enthusiasts who digged the snow for one of the many prizes provided by Ulen, Balkan Holidays, Kempinski Grand Arena Bansko, 4 Points by Sheraton, Fibank
Housing the biggest ski resort in the Balkans, Bansko enjoys sun, snow and
year-round activities for every visitor. Hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter - the very best of both worlds. With the Winter 25-26 ski season kickstarting, many will flock to her snow-topped mountains, however, Bansko is one to remember 365 days out of the year!
January 2026 OFF THE PISTE
MANY travel far and wide to enjoy the snow-covered peaks, feel the wind in their hair, and take in the spectacular views of the towns and villages below the ski runs of their choice. But what lies beneath the adrenaline rush and sunny days on the peaks? We’ve taken a look into the ever-popular Bankso ski destination to find out what turns day to night for many visitors and how you can get involved…
Nightlife
Of course the perfect way to end a day of adventure and thrill- seeking is by letting yourself go. Dancing, singing and enjoying fellow company (in a little bit of a warmer atmosphere, too) brings to a close the ultimate holiday experience. What does this look like for those experiencing Bankso you ask? Look no further than Happy Ending. Located right next to the starting station of the gondola lift, the largest après-ski bar in Bansko is also the best place to relax after getting off the slopes. Happy Ending also boasts a range of selected dishes made from local products and divine wines to satisfy even the most demanding taste. This bar/restaurant hybrid also showcases a disco with a dance floor, huge screens and an electric atmosphere. If you ask us, we believe it is amply named due to this!
Be prepared to enjoy performers such as Paul
Young, Chris Norman, Baccarat, London Beat, Lutrisha McNeil, DJ Bob Sinclair, Eva Mendes, Lovely Laura and many others who have performed here for many happy visitors. Looking
for something a little bit more
sophisticated? Look no further than the Sing Sing Piano Bar. With great live music performances
and a pumping atmosphere, many indulge in a cocktail, a glass of champagne or another drink from its rich selection. A centre for many events and parties, Sing sing Piano Bar is a firm favourite for many tourists who grace her door. I mean, who doesn’t love the ultimate party surrounded by like-minded individuals?
Food
All that skiing sure does work up an appetite. Not to worry, the surrounding areas of the Bankso ski slopes display a multitude of food varieties to cater for everyone. We’ve picked out a couple of our top picks to try. First up is Soprano’s Ristorante. Noted as one of the most popular eating establishments in the area, Soprano’s brings Italian flair to the snow-covered peaks. With authentic recipes and traditional Med vibes, you’re sure to get your fill in Soprano’s Ristorante.
For the sushi lovers out there, enjoy traditional Japanese specialties at the Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki Grill. Boasting the only Teppanyaki Grill in Bulgaria, your journey to the Far East starts here. With Asian chefs sharing their expertise, enjoy exotic delicacies to transport you from the slopes to the streets of Japan. And on a final note - one for those looking for a little bit more of a luxurious feel- check out restaurant ‘Come Prima’. Come Prima provides a romantic and cosy feel for those many enjoying their last night of holidays. This Mediterranean restaurant showcases five star service next to its open kitchen, with a culinary show to dazzle its spectators. With wines aplenty and a flair for food, make sure Come Prima is on your list to visit!
Retail therapy
Shopping.Shopping.Shopping. Not everyone’s cup of tea but for those that love it, Bankso has a little something for you. Forgot your ski gloves? Need another thermal layer? Or just want to browse for your next ski holiday? Well then take a look at Maxsport Sporting goods store. MaxSport is one of the leading sporting goods stores in Bulgaria, which offers a wide range of clothing and equipment for everyone’s needs. Shop the best of global brands such as Halti, Kjus, Vist, Peak Performance, Fischer, Phenix, Ziener, Atomic, Blizzard, Volkl, Conte of Florence and many others. They cater for all abilities and genders and will have you looking sharp on the slopes (or maybe even at the apres-ski). Find the store located at Hotel Strazhite and at the Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena. Within the same area, you will find Eleventy. This luxury Italian brand opened its first boutique in Bulgaria in 2021. Noted as ‘smart-luxury’ here, connoisseurs of high-quality clothing and natural fabrics can see, try on and choose their Eleventy garments. Think modern, dynamic and sporty when it comes to choosing your next outfit. Italian quality meets naturally produced garments, each sewn by hand and guaranteed to satisfy any shoppers needs (and wants!). Come for the ski but stay for the
extra . Bankso have a little something for all this ski season.
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