Bulgaria Ski discussion board

The best was saved til last........

It was sleeting/snowing when I got up so it was even more encouraging when the pine trees close to the base of the mountain had a dusting of fresh snow.

On to the gondola and within a couple of mins out of the town thick dark clouds were producing the white magic - and must have been all night cos when we arrived at the top WOW what a difference a day makes!

I'd guess around 7 to 10 inches had fallen around the Polyana station and more when we ventured above. The snow continued to come down til around mid morning then was intermittent - and it's noticeably colder too. As I write it had mostly stopped.

Conditions are vastly improved but of course it's busy (Europa Cup also attracting visitors I guess) but today was what it's all about.

I have never skied virgin pistes but our group early today forged through shin deep (sometimes knee). Absolutely cracking.

There's a few worn patches on the all bits of the busy ski road but toward it's top it resembles a Winter Wonderland with snow covered pine trees - and it's still quicker to get down the Ski Road that down the gondola if your an OK skier - boarders will take lots more effort and time cos it flattens out at the bottom!

To say I was apprehensive about the conditions/resort last week would be a huge understatement.

However, those coming our on Saturday are in for a few days of good quality ski/boarding esp if they can get the last remaining lifts/pistes sorted. "Best conditions of the winter" accorging to one instructor I shared a lift with. Enjoy. Me and my family did.

Holiday Summary

Yes, there's a few bits and pieces that could be improved esp. the organisation around getting boots/skis sorted on first day (get there early - miss brekkie if you need to!).
But I recommend the Hotel Perun. I found staff friendly and co-operative (I think lack of linguistic skills can make some Bulgarians appear rude/direct so bear this in mind when having any conversations). The facilities are excellent and rooms more than fine - just need to suss out the heating in the bar cos it was sooooooo hot all the time.

My instructor could have been a better teacher - he was pretty new to the role. He knew how to ski and has deffo inproved my confidence if not technique. My little girl loved her teacher and continues to grow her ski skills and my other daughters/missus also had a good patient instructor in their beginners class.

The resort is busy with building work, it's not noisy near the Perun but yes, it does have loads of cranes, sites etc.

Facilities on the mountain (ie bars, eateries and loos) are the best I've experienced (Ok it's only my 3rd time ski-ing but...) - clean & good value for money.

Went to a local Mexhana last night - as recommended by the taxi driver - close to the church but off the main street. Excellent grub/wine and the bill....183 levs for 7 of us inc. 4 bottles of wine, starter etc - a tenner a head - fantastic value.

So to sum up -
- skied every day
- great hotel
- good value for money all round
- I'd recommend it esp. for beginners/lower skills intermediates.

To those coming out - have a great time. For us looking forward to work on Monday never mind, start saving for new year!

Andy P