Emo Begunov skiing the West Face of Todorka, the peak opposite is Vihren Peak

Pirin Mountains

Pirin Mountains are situated in the Southeastern part of the country. According to the Slavic legends the name of the mountains derives from the name of God Perun, who was believed to live up in the mountains. The highest peak is Vihren with 2914 meters above sea level. The height of the mountains and the closeness of the Mediterranean warm and damp air masses make this part of Bulgaria with the best snow conditions in the Balkans. Pirin is also rich in environmental assets – there are 194 lakes, more that 60 mineral water springs with average water temperature of 60C. There are also a number of precious plant species such as White Pine tree /Pinus peuce/, Black Pine tree /Pinus leucodermis/, Edelweiss /Leontopodeum alpinum/. The abundant forests provide perfect condition for deep powder skiing even in warm days.
If you wolud like to see some pictures from Pirin mountains and riding along the slopes of Todorka peak, please visit the photo gallery of travel.befsa.com

Bansko

Bansko is a town with around 10000 residents at the foot of Pirin Mountains (936m above sea level) just 160 km from Sofia city. There are plenty of sights with historical and cultural significance, the most famous of which are the “Holy Trinity” church, its museums houses, and the permanent ethnographic and Bansko School of icon painting exhibitions. Traditional Bulgarian restaurants and pubs abundant in the ancient part of the town. There are numerous big luxurious and small hotels (2-4 stars) as well as many cozy private rooms.
The ski runs (35 km long) are 7 to 12 km up in the mountain. There are a 3-chair lift and 4 drag lifts. In process of construction are a 4-chair lift and a cable-car lift from Bansko to Banderitza Valley at the bottom of the ski area. The chair lifts provide easy access to the highest parts of the mountain with excellent possibilities for backcountry freeskiing.