Bansko is Bulgaria's premier ski resort, having the best and most modern ski centre of all Bulgarian ski resorts. During recent years a multi-million euros investment in a brand new skiing area has been made. Bansko has the best snow record and the longest ski season (15 Dec - 1 May) of all Bulgarian ski resorts.
The town of Bansko is situated near the river Glazne in the north eastern foot of Pirin, right below the highest and most beautiful part of the mountain. Its name comes from the old Bulgarian word “ban”, which means “master”. It is just 160 kilometers away from Sofia and 6 kilometers from Razlog.
The town of Bansko is located at 925 m. above sea level and its skiing elevation is 2000-2600 m. The Pirin mountain has a predominantly Alpine character and highest peak in the area is Vihren 2914 m.
The ski pistes are located in two main ski - centres- CHALIN VALOG (1100-1600m) and SHILIGARNIKA (1700-2500m). They are approximately 10 kilometers above the town on the northern slopes of Pirin, and are easily accessible for approx. 25 minutes on the new Gondola lift which starts from Bansko. The total length of the marked pistes is 65 kilometers.
The unique combination of a well developed mountain resort and a living historical town turns it into an elegant place for entertainment. The traditional Bansko taverns (called "Mehana"), with their exceptional charm and style offer local atmosphere by their cuisine and good selection of Bulgarian wines. Most of the local "Mehanas" even offer live folk music. Many local cafes and bars offer refreshments. Discos and night clubs work without time limit, and usually close early in the morning.
Of course there's a lot to see in the town of Bansko itself, with around 120 cultural and historical monuments will have a lot to explore. Bansko is known to be unique site with international significance for the international tourism. Except for the beautiful Pirin Mountain the town possesses rich historical sites. Remains from ancient fortresses in the Staroto Gradishte site, are situated just four kilometers in western direction and the Ulen site along the Demianitsa river flow. Nearby Staroto Gradishte site there are Thracian mound hills. South of Bansko is situated the National Park Pirin included in the UNESCO list for cultural and natural sightseeing. The park is rich with its lakes, waterfalls, caves, venerable trees and historical sites.
Since the opening of Bulgaria's economy, Europeans have discovered that Bansko has been a well-kept secret. Many of Europe's top statesmen have been spotted spending time here.