Borovets, originally known as Chamkoria, is the oldest winter resort in Bulgaria, with a history that dates back to 1896. Originally established as hunting grounds for Bulgarian Royalty, Borovets gradually developed into a modern ski resort without losing the beauty and wildlife that charmed rulers and peasants alike.
Borovets, originally known as Chamkoria, is the oldest winter resort in Bulgaria, with a history that dates back to 1896. Originally established as hunting grounds for Bulgarian Royalty, Borovets gradually developed into a modern ski resort without losing the beauty and wildlife that charmed rulers and peasants alike. The town sits at the foot of Mount Moussala, the highest peak of the Balkans, surrounded by pine forest and the Rila Mountains.
The name Rila is thought to be of Thracian origin, meaning "well-watered." Many lakes, hot springs and some of the Balkan’s longest and deepest rivers originate from Rila, including the Maritsa, the Iskar and the Mesta.
Borovets itself comes from the Bulgarian Bor, “Pine tree”, inspired by the abundance evergreens that grow in the mountains, giving the slopes a cozy private feeling. ICPD has selected a site reflecting this heritage and grandeur: Grand Borovets - A legend in the making.
White slopes
Heli-skiing for the daring, sleigh rides for the romantics, guided hikes for the naturalists.
The ski season begins in November and the mountains are covered in snow until May. Guests can enjoy 50 km of slope - a total of 18 different runs- the longest being 5.8 km. Skiers can choose between 14 different lifts, from baby tows to gondolas, to make their way up the mountain, but the cabin cableway to Mt. Yastrebets is the most imposing; 2363 meters above sea level, following a path of 4827 m, its capacity adds up to 1200 people per hour. The cableway gives access to a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks, Mt. Moussala, Mt. Malka, Moussala, Mt. Irichek, Mt. Deno, Mt. Aleko, and a huge choice of runs.
Borovets offers excellent conditions for skiing, night skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ski-jumps, biathlon, ski-doo and a half pipe for snowboarders. Runs are groomed and the resort is also equipped with snow machines. Excellent facilities mean the resort regularly hosts various winter sports competitions and has hosted the Alpine Skiing World Cup twice as well as the World Biathlon Championship.
In Summer as in Winter
Tourism in Borovets does not end with the melting of the snow. Sportsmen can get outside year round, taking trips to the Seven Lakes and hiking through the old growth forests of the National Park.
Horseback riding, tennis and swimming are available and golf course is being constructed in the town of Dolna Banya, a well-known spa center located some 20 km from Borovets.
Guests can also explore Bulgarian culture by visiting the Rila Monastery, attending a wine tasting and sampling Bulgarian delicacies, or simply relax at the spa and enjoy Borovets’ restaurants, cafes and nightlife.