Bulgaria Ski discussion board

We fancy a trip to Bansko this year (thanks to the recommends on my previous thread!), but we also fancy trying to book it ourselves rather than package it.

Is it worth booking accom before we go, or can you pick it up when you arrive? Is it more cost effective to book through an agent, or direct with the Hotel/Appt?

I know it's 160km from Sofia, say 3 hrs drive, but was wondering what the best way to get to it is? Is there a regular bus or train service, or maybe a taxi (maybe a bit far and expensive)? Is a hire car an option?

Any thoughts? Many Thanks

Hi, if it helps we did exactly that last year and saved a fortune plus ended up in a really great hotel which was the friendliest place we have ever stayed in. We booked our flights with first choice really cheap but try wizz air to sofia. Have a look on the internet for the Hotel Avalon, sorry can't remember their exact web address. The hotel is run by James who is a superb english guy and Vanya his lovely bulgarian wife. James will arrange a taxi transfer for you which was superb and took about 2 and a half hours in a really decent car. That cost about £100 return for the two of us and the hotel is very reasonable about £30 or less for a double room per night with breakfast. Well recomended, enjoy!!!

we booked acommodation throught this site cost about £250 got taxi transfere on here as well £100 return and booked flights with thomas cook very cheap about £179 for two adults return from manchester. ski hire in resort is realy easy to get and cost about 110 euros lift passes can be paid on a credit card and were £100 each. I would definatley do it this way again, book your accommodation in advance as the hotels do seem to get booked up quick, appartments arnt so bad. self catering or B and B best option as food out of the hotels is fantastic. if you go through a tour op for flights leave it as long as you dare as they get cheaper the closer to departure.