Bulgaria is a summer hotspot
Bulgaria has for many, remained an unknown quantity for many years. But emerging triumphant from behind the Iron Curtain and through its union with the rest of Europe in 2007.
Travellers are discovering a country full of rustic charm, breathtaking scenery and unending hospitality, comfortably mixed with modern bars, restaurants and fashion boutiques.
Most foreign holidaymakers head for the Black Sea Coast but there is so much more to unearth as you head away from the tourist trails. Traditional Bulgarian life surrounds you with its slower pace of life, stunning scenery and historical monuments at every turn. The ideal environment to ensure a relaxing and revitalising holiday.
Sofia is one of Europe's most compact and foot friendly capital cities, although it's still one of the least explored by foreign travellers. Sofia enjoys a young and dynamic vibe, and mixes culture with all the modern trimmings you would expect of a capital city. Amongst the museums, theatres and art galleries, you will find glamorous shopping malls, five-star hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants. And if you're looking for a little open space, Sophia has an abundance of parkland within its boundaries with the ski slopes and hiking trails of Mt Vitosha a stone's throw away.
Scattered throughout Bulgaria, you will find sites and relics from the Ottoman rule. Bulgaria's largest and most renowned Rila Monastery lies in the forested valley within the Rila National Park. Dating from the 10th century, this historic monastery helped preserve Bulgarian culture and religion during the Ottoman centuries and is a popular attraction for both local and foreign pilgrims. The park also offers breathtaking scenery and a host of flora and fauna, with many protected plants and flowers still thriving in the mountains. And given its stunning location, the more active visitor can indulge in hiking or mountain biking to explore the thousands of miles of trails available.
Surrounded by the Rila National Park, Iskar Lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as wakeboarding, sailing, jet skiing and fishing are all available for those looking to spend their days in tranquil surroundings doing as much or as little as they want.
On route to the Borovets ski resort, you will pass through Samokov. Back in the 14th century, Samokov became a centre for iron mining and five centuries later, the Samokov School of Icon Painting and Woodcarving brought the town cultural fame. Now it is the ideal location to enjoy an evening of Bulgarian music and traditional fare mixing with the local residents who are only too pleased to demonstrate their wonderful hospitality.
Borovets itself is one of Bulgaria's oldest ski resorts and in traditional resort style, the accommodation and services comfortably flow off the mountain allowing guests easy access to on - and off-piste activities. And during the summer months, the thick pine forests all around provide excellent trails for summer hikes or biking in the crisp mountain air.
Activities within the Rila National Park suit all ages, abilities and tastes. Ranging from wakeboarding and jet skiing to mountain biking and horseback riding, there is something for everyone. To explore all that this breathtaking environment has to offer, visit Snow and Wake Bulgaria and experience the wonder for yourself.
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