Is it possible to get a cheap one day 'walkers pass' for the Gondolia so that I can meet my lazy non skiing wife for lunch (assuming that there's a restaurant up there)?
No unfortunately they charge the same whether you're with or without skis. If you buy a pass after 12 they are half the price. The weekend is also cheaper as well, so the best option is after 12 on Saturday or Sunday, although it will be a lot busier as all the guys from Sofia come down.
There's a few. One at the actual station (not amazing food) and then if you walk over the top towards the Markudjik slopes there are a couple. My favourite is the White House (first one you get to on the right-hand side), although they're all ok and there's not much in it.
I'll sit with your wife - all I do is prop up bars and fill my belly - but hey I'm not lazy ..... just snow is not my thing - planned this holiday for the kids and the big kid (hubby) We will be there 3rd - 8th Jan