Catered / Sleeps 25
Should you go to Bansko or Borovets? Finally answering the age-old question of international ski tourists…
Read MoreSki Holidays & Chalet Hire in Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko is situated at the eastern end of the Pirin Mountains; Bulgaria’s most snow sure and diverse range also recognised and protected by UNESCO. It has become Bulgaria’s largest and most modern ski area.
- One big ski zone; all easily accessed and interconnected with modern lifts.
- Voted Bulgaria’s Best Ski Resort annually since 2013 in the World Ski Awards.
- 75km of pisted runs offering something for everyone – gentle blues to challenging blacks.
- Seemingly endless off-piste. Tricky tree runs and huge open bowls.
- Skiing up to 2600m, most above 1700m and 90% snow cannon coverage means Bansko is very snow sure.
- One of the most up-to-date lift networks in Europe, with every chairlift modern and high speed.
- Numerous ski roads and tracks to practise your ski touring.
- A cross-country circuit with shooting range.
- Dedicated kindergarten slope for the little ones.
- Multiple beginner areas for those first-timers.
- Most slopes are northern facing, helping to preserve the snow.
- Park with jumps and rails.
- Men’s and Women’s FIS Ski World Cup venue.
We have lift passes ready and waiting for you at your chalet, saving you a job on your first day. Blank lift pass cards are available in our chalets for a small refundable deposit. These can be topped up easily online from the comfort of the chalet for any number of days skiing using a debit/credit card. The pass will instantly be loaded and ready to use. This is a free service with the pass price remaining identical to the purchase price at the gondola. Just another advantage to staying with Snomads to provide a hassle-free holiday.
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
WINTER 2023/2024 PRICES in € | Adult | STUDENT (12-18) | Child (Under 12) | Child (Under 6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gondola Only (Pedestrians) | 22 | 20 | 14 | 1 |
| Half Day (After 12:30am) | 38 | 33 | 19 | 1 |
| 1 Day | 49 | 44 | 25 | 1 |
| 2 Days | 92 | 84 | 50 | 1 |
| 3 Days | 143 | 128 | 66 | 2 |
| 4 Days | 189 | 168 | 82 | 2 |
| 5 Days | 237 | 209 | 92 | 3 |
6 Days | 280 | 255 | 110 | 3 |
If you’re in need of ski or snowboard hire when in resort, we’ve got you covered. With our in-house rental shop we take away all the stress from getting fitted; no queuing, no hassle and you can even enjoy a drink whilst we sort everything for you. We’re always updating our equipment, and if you need something more specialist, we work closely with some of the best companies in Bansko to ensure all abilities and requirements are covered.
Fitting
On arrival, our team will get you fitted as soon as possible. For those arriving late at night, everything will be arranged first thing the following morning. Less time hanging around, more time on the mountain. During the week, if you have any queries, or fancy trying something more adventurous, our team will be happy to help. At the end of the week, just drop everything back to the chalet, nice and easy.
Servicing
We can also arrange a service of any personal equipment if required, just ask when you arrive.
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
WINTER 2023/2024 ADULT PRICES IN £ | 6 Days | 5 Days | 4 Days | 3 Days | 2 Days | 1 Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skis, boots & pole | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Skis & poles | £50 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Snowboard & boots | £85 | £80 | £70 | £55 | £50 | £30 |
| Snowboard | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Helmet | £25 | £20 | £15 | £15 | £10 | £5 |
Snowshoes | £50 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £25 | £20 |
WINTER 2023/2024 CHILD (U13) PRICES IN £ | 6 Days | 5 Days | 4 Days | 3 Days | 2 Days | 1 Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skis, boots & poles | £45 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Skis & poles | £35 | £30 | £25 | £20 | £15 | £10 |
| Snowboard & boots | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Snowboard | £45 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Helmet | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
Everyone can benefit from a lesson or two to build confidence on the slopes. In our opinion, a commendable ski school should hold three vital requirements: experienced instructors, a range of ability groups and small class sizes. We work with a couple of the highest regarded ski schools in resort, which we believe deliver on all the above.
A variety of lessons are available including standard group, private group, or one-to-one tuition. For standard group lessons, students will be grouped with others in resort of similar ability. All lessons take place in the main ski zone at the top gondola station, so a ski pass is required.
PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 2 HOURS EACH DAY
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
2023/2024 Per person PRICES IN € | 1 Day | 2 Days | 3 Days | 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mixed Group PP | 46 | 85 | 124 | 160 | 193 | 224 |
One-to-One PP | 95 | 190 | 285 | 380 | 475 | 570 |
Private Group of 2 PP | 68 | 130 | 190 | 246 | 299 | 348 |
Private Group of 3 PP | 56 | 108 | 158 | 205 | 251 | 294 |
Private Group of 4+ PP | 50 | 96 | 142 | 185 | 227 | 267 |
PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 4 HOURS EACH DAY
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
2023/2024 PER PERSON PRICES IN € | 1 Day | 2 Days | 3 Days | 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mixed Group PP | 85 | 160 | 232 | 302 | 368 | 433 |
One-to-One PP | 188 | 358 | 515 | 670 | 810 | 945 |
Private Group of 2 PP | 123 | 230 | 333 | 433 | 527 | 615 |
Private Group of 3 PP | 94 | 178 | 258 | 336 | 412 | 482 |
Private Group of 4+ PP | 80 | 153 | 221 | 289 | 354 | 416 |
STANDARD GROUP LESSONS, 2 HOURS EACH DAY
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
STANDARD GROUP LESSONS, 4 HOURS EACH DAY
Please scroll right > to view the entire table.
Children from 7 years can be taught in standard group lessons for ski or snowboard. Younger children can be taught in private group lessons only.
Lessons will be charged and need to be paid in лв (Bulgarian lev). € (Euro) prices are as a guide only. Prices are subject to change.
SKI AREA
LIFT PASS
EQUIPMENT HIRE
LESSONS
Piste Map
SKI AREA
Bansko is situated at the eastern end of the Pirin Mountains – Bulgaria’s most snow sure and diverse range also recognised and protected by UNESCO. It has become Bulgaria’s largest and most modern ski area. A Bansko ski holiday is a preferred choice for many, as it offers one of the best price-to-fun ratios in Europe.
- One big ski zone; all easily accessed and interconnected with modern lifts.
- Voted Bulgaria’s Best Ski Resort annually since 2013 in the World Ski Awards.
- 75km of pisted runs offering something for everyone – gentle blues to challenging blacks.
- Seemingly endless off-piste. You’ll find tricky tree runs and huge open bowls.
- Skiing up to 2600m, most above 1700m and 90% coverage of snow cannons means Bansko is very snow sure.
- One of the most up-to-date lift networks in Europe, with every chairlift modern and high speed.
- Numerous ski roads and tracks to practise your ski touring.
- A cross-country circuit with shooting range.
- Dedicated kindergarten slope for the little ones.
- Multiple beginner areas for those first-timers.
- Most slopes are northern facing, helping to preserve the snow.
- Snow park with jumps and rails.
- Men’s and Women’s FIS Ski World Cup venue.
LIFT PASS
We have lift passes ready and waiting for you at your chalet, saving you a job on your first day. Blank lift pass cards are available in our chalets for a small refundable deposit. These can be topped up easily online from the comfort of the chalet for any number of days skiing using a debit/credit card. The pass will instantly be loaded and ready to use. This is a free service with the pass price remaining identical to the purchase price at the gondola. Just another advantage to staying with Snomads to provide a hassle-free holiday.
WINTER 2023/2024 PRICES in € | Adult | STUDENT (12-18) | Child (Under 12) | Child (Under 6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gondola Only (Pedestrians) | 22 | 20 | 14 | 1 |
| Half Day (After 12:30am) | 38 | 33 | 19 | 1 |
| 1 Day | 49 | 44 | 25 | 1 |
| 2 Days | 92 | 84 | 50 | 1 |
| 3 Days | 143 | 128 | 66 | 2 |
| 4 Days | 189 | 168 | 82 | 2 |
| 5 Days | 237 | 209 | 92 | 3 |
6 Days | 280 | 255 | 110 | 3 |
EQUIPMENT HIRE
If you’re in need of ski or snowboard hire for your Bansko ski holiday, we’ve got you covered. With our in-house rental shop we take away all the stress from getting fitted; no queuing, no hassle and you can even enjoy a drink whilst we sort everything for you. We’re always updating our equipment, and if you need something more specialist, we work closely with some of the best winter sports companies in Bansko to ensure all abilities and requirements are covered.
Fitting
On arrival, our team will get you fitted as soon as possible. For those arriving late at night, everything will be arranged first thing the following morning. Less time hanging around, more time on the mountain. During the week, if you have any queries, or fancy trying something more adventurous, our team will be happy to help. At the end of the week, just drop everything back to the chalet, nice and easy.
Servicing
We can also arrange a service of any personal equipment if required, just ask when you arrive.
WINTER 2023/2024 ADULT PRICES IN £ | 6 Days | 5 Days | 4 Days | 3 Days | 2 Days | 1 Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skis, boots & pole | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Skis & poles | £50 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Snowboard & boots | £85 | £80 | £70 | £55 | £50 | £30 |
| Snowboard | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Helmet | £25 | £20 | £15 | £15 | £10 | £5 |
Snowshoes | £50 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £25 | £20 |
WINTER 2023/2024 CHILD (U13) PRICES IN £ | 6 Days | 5 Days | 4 Days | 3 Days | 2 Days | 1 Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skis, boots & poles | £45 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Skis & poles | £35 | £30 | £25 | £20 | £15 | £10 |
| Snowboard & boots | £70 | £65 | £55 | £40 | £30 | £20 |
| Snowboard | £45 | £40 | £35 | £30 | £20 | £15 |
| Helmet | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
LESSONS
Everyone can benefit from a lesson or two to build confidence on the slopes. In our opinion, a commendable ski school should hold three vital requirements: experienced instructors, a range of ability groups and small class sizes. We work with a couple of the highest regarded ski schools in resort, which we believe deliver on all the above.
A variety of lessons are available including standard group, private group, or one-to-one tuition. For standard group lessons, students will be grouped with others in resort of similar ability. All lessons take place in the main ski zone at the top gondola station, so a ski pass is required.
PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 2 HOURS EACH DAY
2023/2024 Per person PRICES IN € | 1 Day | 2 Days | 3 Days | 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mixed Group PP | 46 | 85 | 124 | 160 | 193 | 224 |
One-to-One PP | 95 | 190 | 285 | 380 | 475 | 570 |
Private Group of 2 PP | 68 | 130 | 190 | 246 | 299 | 348 |
Private Group of 3 PP | 56 | 108 | 158 | 205 | 251 | 294 |
Private Group of 4+ PP | 50 | 96 | 142 | 185 | 227 | 267 |
PRIVATE GROUP LESSONS, 4 HOURS EACH DAY
2023/2024 PER PERSON PRICES IN € | 1 Day | 2 Days | 3 Days | 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mixed Group PP | 85 | 160 | 232 | 302 | 368 | 433 |
One-to-One PP | 188 | 358 | 515 | 670 | 810 | 945 |
Private Group of 2 PP | 123 | 230 | 333 | 433 | 527 | 615 |
Private Group of 3 PP | 94 | 178 | 258 | 336 | 412 | 482 |
Private Group of 4+ PP | 80 | 153 | 221 | 289 | 354 | 416 |
STANDARD GROUP LESSONS, 2 HOURS EACH DAY
STANDARD GROUP LESSONS, 4 HOURS EACH DAY
Lessons will be charged and need to be paid in лв (Bulgarian lev). € (Euro) prices are as a guide only. Prices are subject to change. Children from 7 years can be taught in standard group lessons for ski or snowboard. Younger children can be taught in private group lessons only.
Piste Map
About Bansko Town
The charming historic town of Bansko can trace its roots back to Thracians (pre Roman) times, long before any skiing arrived.
Located sitting at the bottom of the UNESCO World Heritage recognised Pirin National Park, nestled on the edge of an expansive plateau with the lower, but no-less beautiful rolling ranges of the Rila and Rhodolpe mountains.
As skiing has expanded, so too has Bansko. Now Bulgaria’s largest, most popular and best-loved ski holiday resort, there is a lively feel to the town and resort with plenty of activities to keep you busy even if you’re not planning on skiing.
The town itself is full of Balkan charm and charisma, especially the old town centre, which is a captivating throwback to the village that has now become a holiday ski resort.
APRES & EATING OUT
With a wide range of restaurants, bars and old Mehanas (taverns) with live music, Bansko town and mountain has a bustling atmosphere. From international cuisine to traditional Bulgarian treats, there really is something for everyone. If an aprés-ski party is your preferred theme, Bansko has you covered with plenty of mountain bars, town pubs and entertaining nightclubs. Best of all, Bansko is one of the least expensive destinations for ski holidays in Europe!
NATURAL BEAUTY
There are two sides to every mountain, especially in Bansko. The natural beauty of the Pirin National Park is clear to see. If you fancy a day off or want to try something different, you’ve come to the right place. With a variety of bustling markets and a wide range of activities on offer, the town has everything you need.
- Go walking or snowshoeing in the mountains (guide can be arranged)
- Swim, dine and relax in local geothermal mineral spa pools
- Day trips to one of Bulgaria’s oldest churches and the infamous Rila Monastery
- Spend time wandering around the local markets
- Go up the gondola for the views (separate gondola only pass available)
- Horse riding
- Visit Bansko’s old town
- Come back in the summer for our cultural tour
BANSKO, BULGARIA FAQs
Below are the answers to some of the questions we’re often asked about our Bansko Chalets.
If you don’t find the answer to your questions below please don’t hesitate to drop us an email hello@snomads.co.uk or give us a call, we’ll be happy to answer any other questions you may have. Once you’re in resort please remember that if you want to know something, or need something extra to make your stay more comfortable, you just have to ask the resort team.
Q – What is included in the holiday price?
All our chalet stays include:
- Return Saturday transfers to Bansko from Sofia International Airport
- 7 nights accommodation, towels and bed linen
- Daily breakfast
- Two-course evening meal on 5 days with glass of wine or beer (Chalet Chico)
- Two-course evening meal on 3 days (Chalet Diana Ross/Chalet Supreme)
- Daily Shuttle to and from the gondola
- Use of chalet hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms (chalet dependent)
- Chalet WiFi
The following items are not included but we can help arrange some of these:
- Lift pass
- Non Saturday airport transfers
- Ski/snowboard equipment hire
- Ski/snowboard lessons
- Childcare
- Insurance
- Flights
Q – What payment methods do you accept?
(Visa, Mastercard, American Express) You can pay securely online, simply login to ‘MyBooking’ using the button at the top of our website. You will need your MyBooking login details provided to the lead guest.
You can also pay by bank transfer (BACS/Faster Payments). If you’re making a transfer from a non-UK account please ensure you pay both the beneficiary and payee charges.
Q – Is there a charge for using a credit card?
We accept Visa, Mastercard and AMEX. There is no charge for personal accounts.
Q – What deposit is needed to secure the holiday?
If you would like to book we require a non-refundable deposit of 30% to secure your stay.
Q – When do I have to pay for my holiday in full?
Your final balance is due at least 8 weeks before your arrival date. You will be sent a gentle reminder via email when the balance is due.
Full booking terms and conditions can be found here
Q – Can you hire ski clothing in resort?
Our Chalets run a Retro Rental offering (think bright old-school onesies). Alternatively, it is possible to hire adult clothing through our Ski School partners.
Q – Can I hire a helmet?
Childrens rental includes free helmet hire. For adults, helmets are also available for a small charge.
Q – Can I pre-book ski/snowboard hire?
It helps to speed things up if we know in advance who wants to ski and snowboard, so please complete this in MyBooking. Learn more & see prices
Q – Do the instructors speak English?
Our Ski School partners all speak fluent English.
Q – Which ski schools do you recommend?
We have partnered with a couple of schools, widely regarded as some of the best in Bansko and used by most chalet operators. Learn more & see prices
Q – When should I book lessons?
If you want lessons we need to know about these prior to arrival. Please use the link in MyBooking which will take you to our lesson order form. All lessons are booked on a first come first served basis.
Q – Can my children have lessons?
Lessons are available for all children aged 5 and above, for both skiing and snowboarding.
Q – Can I pre-book lift passes?
We no-longer offer pre-booked 6 day lift passes. Instead we have a more flexible system. Blank lift passes are availble in the chalets for a small refundable deposit. These can be topped up online for any number of days skiing using a debit/credit card. The card will instantly be loaded and ready to use, giving you plenty of time to make the first lifts.
Q – Can I buy a VIP pass?
VIP/Queue jump passes are only available to those with a full season lift pass and mountain staff. It is not possible to purchase a VIP pass and anyone offering these is lying.
Q – What are the child prices?
Our child discount is 15% off the adult price and applies to children under the age of 13 at the time of travel. Infants under the age of 3 stay for free.
Q – Can my child eat dinner earlier?
In our catered chalets we usually serve young children a bit earlier than adults. If you have Sole Use of any chalet you have the choice of all eating together if you wish.
Q – Does my child need sunglasses?
Absolutely! Snow blindness or photokeratitis is a type of temporary eye damage caused by snow reflecting UV light. Even those too young to ski may need some form of protective eyewear. Goggles are also recommended for skiing, as they offer a more comfortable fit with a ski helmet and are better than sunglasses if it’s snowing!
Q – Are car seats provided on transfers?
Unfortunately, baby seats are not available on our transfers. However, child or booster seats are available as long as they are requested when completing your travel details in MyBooking.
Q – Are car seats provided in resort vehicles?
Baby seats are not available, but booster and child seats are available in our resort vehicles.
Q – How does the shuttle work?
Our daily shuttle will drop you off each morning and pick you up in the afternoon. It is not a 24-hour service. Times vary week to week but usually the latest morning shuttle is 09:30 and afternoon pick-ups are 16:00-17:00 Staff will explain more on your arrival.
Q – I have a dietary requirement, can you cater for me?
Absolutely, just make sure this has been noted on the guest page in MyBooking so we are aware prior to your arrival.
Q – What will the weather/snow conditions be like?
We can never be too sure what the weather will be like but we do a regular snow dance! Bansko’s ski area is at high altitude and should the snow be a little sparse, snow cannon coverage of 80+% ensures there will be plenty of piste to ski. Check out the weather forecasts here to keep updated.
Q – Are there Hairdryers?
We do not supply hairdryers in our properties.
Q – Are there towels and bathrobes in the chalet?
Yes, hand and bath towels are provided. Bathrobes are available for a small charge.
Q – Do I need to take my own toiletries?
We do not supply complimentary toiletries. Hand soap is provided.
Q – Is there Wi-Fi in the chalet?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in all our chalets, the chalet team will provide you with the code on arrival. Please note whilst the signal is strong in common areas it can vary in the bedrooms.
Q – What time can I check-in?
Rooms will normally be ready by 3pm at the latest. However common areas will be available for you to use if you arrive before your room is ready.
Q – What time do I need to check out?
We ask all guests to vacate their rooms by 9:30am on their day of departure. Common areas and space for the storage of luggage will be available until your transfer arrives.
Q – My departure is in the evening can I ski on my departure day?
If you have a late transfer you are welcome to ski before it. Be aware though that the shuttle will not be available as staff will be busy getting the chalet ready for new arrivals, this also means there will be no shower facilities available for you to use. In addition, your transfer will not wait if you are late.
Q – What Bulgarian Airport do I need?
Our free transfers are from Sofia International Airport only.
Q – What type of transfer is it to resort?
Our transfer partners use a variety of minibuses, MPVs and coaches to transfer guests from the airport to resort. Wherever possible we aim to transfer directly to resort with no additional drop-offs or pick-ups.
Q – What is the transfer time?
To Bansko, the journey is about 2.5 hours.
Q – What time do the transfers leave Sofia International Airport?
There are no set times for these. We book these around your flight so if you land at midnight it’s not a problem (though we wouldn’t recommend it!). If you are part of a group you don’t all need to be on the same flight either. We do however ask you try and match your flight times with your party if possible, so we can fill our transfers maximising their efficiency and sustainability.
Q – Is there parking available at the chalet if we drive out?
Yes, there is plenty of free parking outside all our chalets.
Q – When do I provide all the names and travel information for my group?
Please provide the guest and travel arrangements of your group as soon as possible, without this information you may have a wait at the airport.
Q – Do you recommend anything else to bring?
Swimwear. As well as our hot tubs and saunas there will be opportunities for an after-ski swim or bath in local geothermal mineral springs.
Slippers or indoor-only footwear. Snow, grit and salt from ski boots and outdoor shoes can damage our wood and tile floors. There is no underfloor heating so to keep your feet toasty bring something for indoors only.
Insurance. Obviously, it goes without saying that skiing can be a dangerous activity and we strongly encourage all guests to have travel insurance and check that this covers them for winter sports. We also recommend that in addition, you bring your EHIC/GHIC (European/Global Health Insurance Card).
Details and information on this page do not form part of our terms and conditions and we will not be bound by information which is provided on this page on a goodwill basis.
GETTING TO BANSKO
NO FLIGHT DISCOUNT
EU ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GETTING TO BANSKO
Sofia International Airport is just over 2 hours drive from Bansko and Saturday RETURN TRANSFERS ARE INCLUDED in all stays! Once you’ve booked your stay in one of our chalets and sorted your flights make sure to add all your flight information in the Travel section of MyBooking. Then we’ll sort the rest, getting you to Bansko for a warm Snomads welcome!
We aim to get all our guests on a transfer within 90 minutes of their arrival. Our free Saturday transfers will be available for flights arriving between 10:00 am and 7:00 pm and on departure there will be a range of options between 2:00 am and 12:00 pm (midday). Private transfers outside these times are available but charged separately.
If some guests need to arrive on a day other then Saturday we can sort that out too, a charge will apply to non-Saturday transfers.
Besides Sofia International, Bansko is well served by a couple of other airports: Plovdiv & Thessaloniki. Though transfers from these are not included in your stay we can arrange private transfers at competitive prices, contact us for a direct quote.
NO FLIGHT DISCOUNT
We understand flying is probably the quickest way to get to us and we now offset guest stays including their return flights, but there are alternatives. Flying simply isn’t the best thing for the environment, and while offsetting helps, reducing emissions in the first place would be better for everyone. With this in mind we wanted to offer an incentive for less damaging alternative travel methods to reach us, whether that’s a leisurely train with stunning views, or a comfortable friendly coach. No more scrambles to get off the plane, or strict bag weight limits to worry about. Plus, we’ll give you a generous 40% off your Bansko stay if you avoid any time in the air for your entire journey to us (journey mimimum 1000 miles & evidence of travel required). So, if you’re keen we’ve listed some ideas below:
TRAIN TO BANSKO
The website seat61.com is a good place to start with advice on getting a train anywhere in the world.
To get to Sofia from London there are two main routes; via Brussels and Frankfurt or via Paris and Munich.
DRIVING TO BANSKO
Not for the faint hearted, it’s a couple of days from the UK, but you could turn it into an adventure across Europe with stops en route. Once in resort there’s plenty of free parking outside all our chalets.
EU ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
As the UK is no longer in the European Union, British passport holders (and other non-EU passport holders) are treated as “third country nationals” with stipulations about passport issue and expiry dates. You will be denied entry to any EU country and so need to renew your passport if either:
- Your passport is 10 years old or more on the day you enter the EU country – count this from the ‘date of issue’ on your passport. The date of expiry is irrelevant. UK Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are only valid for 10 years but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early.
- There is less than 3 months left on your passport after your return date.
Sofia International Airport is just 2 hours drive from Bansko and Saturday RETURN TRANSFERS ARE INCLUDED in all stays! Once you’ve booked your stay in one of our chalets and sorted your flights make sure to add all your flight information in the Travel section of MyBooking. Then we’ll sort the rest, getting you to Bansko for a warm Snomads welcome!
We aim to get all our guests on a transfer within 90 minutes of their arrival. Our free Saturday transfers will be available for flights arriving between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm and on departure there will be a range of options between 2:00 am and 12:00 pm (midday). Private transfers outside these times are available but charged separately.
If some guests need to arrive on a day other then Saturday we can sort that out too, a charge will apply to non-Saturday transfers.
Besides Sofia International, Bansko is well served by a couple of other airports: Plovdiv & Thessaloniki. Though transfers from these are not included in your stay we can arrange private transfers at competitive prices, contact us for a direct quote.
We understand flying is probably the quickest way to get to us and we now offset guest stays including their return flights, but there are alternatives. Flying simply isn’t the best thing for the environment, and while offsetting helps, reducing emissions in the first place would be better for everyone. With this in mind we wanted to offer an incentive for less damaging alternative travel methods to reach us, whether that’s a leisurely train with stunning views, or a comfortable friendly coach. No more scrambles to get off the plane, or strict bag weight limits to worry about. Plus, we’ll give you a generous 40% off your Bansko stay if you avoid any time in the air for your entire journey to us (journey mimimum 1000 miles & evidence of travel required). So, if you’re keen we’ve listed some ideas below:
TRAIN TO BANSKO
The website seat61.com is a good place to start with advice on getting a train anywhere in the world.
To get to Sofia from London there are two main routes; via Brussels and Frankfurt or via Paris and Munich.
DRIVING TO BANSKO
Not for the faint hearted, it’s a couple of days from the UK, but you could turn it into an adventure across Europe with stops en route. Once in resort there’s plenty of free parking outside all our chalets.
As the UK is no longer in the European Union, British passport holders (and other non-EU passport holders) are treated as “third country nationals” with stipulations about passport issue and expiry dates. You will be denied entry to any EU country and so need to renew your passport if either:
- Your passport is 10 years old or more on the day you enter the EU country – count this from the ‘date of issue’ on your passport. The date of expiry is irrelevant. UK Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are only valid for 10 years but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early.
- There is less than 3 months left on your passport after your return date.
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"I cannot recommend Snomads and Bansko enough - it makes you fall in love with skiing!"
R. Smith (December 2019)London, UK 
"I've never been on a ski chalet holiday before, but this certainly surpassed my expectations on every front"
Johnny (January 2020)Cardiff, UK
"The food was exceptional, everything looked amazing so had to give it all a go! Just beautiful 🤤"
Hannah T. (January 2020)Melbourne, Australia
"This has easily been the best ski holiday I’ve been on. There is nothing I would have changed at all!"
Dan P. (March 2019)Reading, UK
"My favourite ski trip ever, and I've been on a lot of ski trips! We're definitely going back next year, so see you there!"
Anna C. (February 2020)Manchester, UK
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