Winter 2021-22 | Balkan Holidays | First Edition

Winter 2021-22 | Balkan Holidays | First Edition

55 years of

Ski & Snowboard 2021/22

Star value ski and snowboard holidays with direct flights from your local airport Bulgaria Slovenia

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

Early booking discounts Loyalty bonus • Low deposit Free 22kg luggage • Free child places

FULLY PROTECTED HOLIDAYS

BULGARIA SLOVENIA Enjoy great skiing at unbelievable prices in superb resorts

For the perfect winter holiday

GENERAL INFORMATION Skiing and snowboarding in Bulgaria and Slovenia offers great value for money and superb après-ski. It is a wonderful opportunity for beginners to learn the basics with friendly and patient English speaking instructors, and also offers challenging runs for the more experienced. A holiday to our destinations provides you with the opportunity to experience not only fantastic skiing and snowboarding, but a fascinating new culture as well. FLIGHTS AND FLIGHT ONLY We are delighted to offer flights from a choice of 8 UK airports. What is more, you can pre-book a range of in- flight extras such as first row seats, extra legroom seats and seats together (valid on charter flights to Bulgaria only). For greater flexibility we now offer flights on both low cost and scheduled services as well as charter flights. For further details please call our Reservations Department or visit our website. (Please see page 61 for further details)

ACCOMMODATION We offer a fantastic range of accommodation to suit all needs and budgets. All hotels have been given a Balkan Holidays rating based on our company knowledge only, and it shouldn’t be compared with other destinations. We have also listed the official category rating of each property to help you choose the best place to stay. (Please see page 61 for further details) WWW.BALKANHOLIDAYS.CO.UK If you have not booked yet, it might be a good idea to visit our website first. You will find discounts on selected hotels, or if the season has already started, we may have a choice of late deals available. If you have already booked with us, thank you and feel welcome to learn more about your destination. If you have already been skiing/snowboarding with us, then we would love to hear from you and see you again.

MONEY We recommend that you take Pounds Sterling or Euros with you to exchange into the local currency. If you do take cash, try not to carry large amounts of it around with you when you are on holiday, e.g. in a pocket, wallet or purse. Sterling travellers cheques are not widely accepted and do not receive as good an exchange rate as cash. Major credit and debit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are accepted for payment in some of the larger resorts and can be used to withdraw cash from bank ATMs (this service may incur charges, please check with your bank). FOOD There are many culinary delights for you to enjoy ranging from delicious local dishes to haute cuisine. All of the hotels that we feature serve freshly prepared local dishes on a Half Board and Bed & Breakfast basis. We also feature Self-Catering properties for those of you who prefer to prepare your own meals or eat out. For lunch, there is a good selection of restaurants on the slopes. There are plenty of good restaurants in all our resorts for clients on Self-Catering or for those who like to eat out in the evenings, which are all great value for money. SKI WEEKENDS Balkan Holidays are delighted to offer ski weekends to Bulgaria and Slovenia. Please visit our website for details. MAKING A DIFFERENCE With over 2 million people living with cancer in the UK, Balkan Holidays are proud to support Macmillan Cancer Support, who provide practical, medical and financial support as well as pushing for better cancer care.

PEACE OF MIND... Finally we would like to underline the fact that Balkan Holidays are a fully bonded member of ABTA (membership No. V089X) and the air holidays and flights in this brochure are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL No. 0252). We are fully bonded and licensed by the CAA for your complete financial protection.

ABTA No.V089X

Reservations 0845 130 1114

2

CONTENTS

Skiing and Snowboarding

4-5 6-7 8-9

Deals and Discounts Kids and Families

BULGARIA Bansko

10-31 32-41 42-55

Pamporovo

Borovets

SLOVENIA

Resort Info

56-57 58-59

Kranjska Gora

Lake Bohinj and Lake Bled

60 61 61

Holiday Information

Flight Times

Booking Conditions

62-66

Insurance

66 67

How to Book

Discounts for Early Bookings, see Special Offer box

A great way for single parents to make savings

A range of hotels offering free Wi-Fi connection

SINGLE PARENT SAVE

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

FREE WI-FI

Kids go free For more details see page 8

Relax and pamper yourself in hotels featured with this logo

FREE CHILD PLACES

SPA & BEAUTY

BANSKO • BULGARIA Bansko is an exciting mixture of breathtaking scenery, excellent ski facilities, modern lift infrastructure and warm hospitality, combined with the spirit of a traditional Bulgarian town. It has what it takes to suit skiers and snowboarders of all abilities and ages. The resort has become a favourite to many, including ski legends such as Alberto Tomba, Mark Girardelli, Hennes Trinkl and other sport celebrities, and is regarded as one of the best European ski resorts. Our winter resorts BOROVETS • BULGARIA Borovets is considered the liveliest of our winter resorts. It has the perfect setting for a wonderful winter holiday due to the fantastic combination of great conditions for skiing and snowboarding during the day with the wide choice of après-ski activities and nightlife.

KRANJSKA GORA • SLOVENIA Situated in the centre of Europe on the sunny side of the Julian Alps, the resort of Kranjska Gora offers modern skiing facilities coupled with a rustic alpine charm and ample opportunities for those seeking action and entertainment. Snowboarders will also find a place for themselves on the slopes. LAKE BLED AND LAKE BOHINJ • SLOVENIA Both resorts offer excellent skiing and snowboarding amenities, ski runs to suit all levels and stunning scenery. We offer a selection of hotels in each resort, which provide modern accommodation complemented by spectacular views of the lakes and the castle in Bled. They have all the right ingredients for a memorable holiday with quality hotels and amazing natural beauty, as well as a range of activities and sights that non-skiers can enjoy.

PAMPOROVO • BULGARIA Pamporovo is the Bulgarian ski resort that has won the hearts of many with its picturesque scenery. It has numerous fantastic ski runs for beginners and intermediates, with challenging black runs for those who wish to test their skills. The beautiful slopes are less crowded to make your skiing and snowboarding experience one that you will never forget.

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

3

From the first steps onto the snow, to the expert advanced ski level - we are ready to accommodate all your needs Ski and Snowboard All you need to know

A skiing holiday in the Alps can be very expensive, whereas a skiing or snowboarding holiday in Bulgaria or Slovenia is just as much fun at a fraction of the price. Whether you are a regular skier/snowboarder or a complete beginner who wants to enjoy a sport that you have never experienced before, Balkan Holidays will help you find the right holiday as thousands of skiers and snowboarders travel with us every year. LEARN TO SKI - IMPROVE YOUR WELL-BEING At Balkan Holidays, we are passionate about winter and the sports that revolve around it. It is never too late to start skiing or snowboarding. Our ski resorts have the best English speaking instructors in the industry and their professional approach with the new starters makes all the difference. Being in the mountains with friends and family engraves those unforgettable memories. Fresh, clean air, walking, hiking and winter fun down the slopes, is the best way to recharge your batteries and look after your well-being.

First Time Ski/Snowboard Pack

For absolute beginners only, we’ve put together in one package all you will need for your first week on the snow at a special introductory price. Bulgaria and Slovenia are known for their high standards of tuition, and the instructors will ensure that everyone has a great time. First Time Ski packs are available in all resorts and First Time Snowboard packs are offered in Bulgaria only. Each pack includes the following: • 6 day hire of skis or snowboard and boots • 6 day lift pass, for Kranjska Gora 5 day lift pass • SKI Bulgaria: 6 days of ski lessons, 4 hours per day • SKI Slovenia: 6 days of ski lessons, 3 hours per day in Kranjska Gora and 5 hours private lessons in total in Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj • SNOWBOARD: minimum 3 days of snowboard lessons, 2 hours per day (see resort pages) • Ski school test certificate and diploma presentation

The “First Time Ski and Snowboard” packs are only applicable to beginners (first time skiers). All clients will automatically be placed in a beginners class.

4 Reservations 0845 130 1114

Bansko

BEGINNERS A beginner is classified as someone who is taking their first steps on the slopes. There is a great temptation amongst a lot of beginners to try to move on as quickly as possible, but it’s worth remembering that those who learn all the basics properly get far more enjoyment out of their holiday. INTERMEDIATES No two “Intermediates” will be the same, as the term covers a vast range of abilities. All intermediates however, should feel very comfortable on a blue (easy) run and confident enough on a red (medium) run. They will have had at least a couple of weeks in Ski School, and will be able to perform linked turns and reasonable parallel turns. We would strongly recommend some additional lessons with professional ski/snowboard instructors because there is still a lot to learn as wrong techniques and bad habits picked up at this stage are very hard to get rid of.

ADVANCED An advanced skier/snowboarder will be confident on any terrain, be it on or off piste, and will always be in complete control. It is true to say that whilst none of the ski resorts featured in our brochure offer particularly extensive skiing, there is plenty to keep even an expert happy. Some of the most challenging ski runs you will find are in Bansko and Borovets in Bulgaria and Kranjska Gora in Slovenia. SNOWBOARDING We offer pre-booked hire and tuition for periods of 3 or 6 days in most resorts. If you’ve never tried this sport before you’ll be pleased to know it has a quick learning curve, although after your first try, you’ll probably have picked up quite an interesting collection of aches and bruises. However don’t give up, as by day two, having learnt the basic manoeuvres, you’ll soon acquire the confidence and control to start getting to grips with the sport. Hire and tuition prices are so cheap you’ve got nothing to lose.

RESORT GRADINGS On each resort introduction page you will find a grading for beginners, intermediates and experts. Our rating system will help identify how suitable each resort is for the different levels of ability based on the difficulty of the runs. The matrix below contains all the basic facts needed to ensure you choose the right resort for the type of holiday you want, and the level of skills you have. A GREENER HOLIDAY Tourism brings many advantages to people across the globe, however, to reduce its environmental impact we should all work together. In partnership with the Travelife, our hotels have introduced several energy andwater saving practices. Our agents employ local representatives and guides in our ski resorts, so not only will you get excellent advice and assistance while you are on holiday, but there is also the long-term effect of creating jobs for the local community. In our head office we ensure we recycle all our paper, cardboard and plastic, plus we have reduced the number of brochures we print, recycling any leftover at the end of each season. We care about our world and are doing all we can to reduce the impact our holidays have on it.

Resort

Bansko

Pamporovo Borovets Kranjska Gora Lake Bled (Krvavec)

Lake Bohinj

Resort height in metres

936

1620

1320

810

1450

569

Top of highest lift

2560

1937

2560

1291

1971

1800

Total number of lifts

16

14

15

19

11

8

Total km of marked pistes

75km

38km

58km

30km

30km

60km

Total km of cross country trails

9km

n/a

35km

40km

n/a

60km

Snowboard hire

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

yes

Beginners Intermediates Advanced Ski guide service (bookable locally, subject to availability) Ski School hours per week (downhill)

yes

yes

no

yes

yes

yes

24

24

24

18

5

5

Snowboard tuition hours per week

6

12

12

3

5

5

Ski / Snowboard School minimum age

7 / 12

7 / 10

7 / 8

5 / 5

5 / 5

5 / 5

Nursery

n/a

n/a

yes, 1-3yrs

n/a

n/a

n/a

Ski kindergarten ages

4-7yrs

4-6yrs

4-7yrs

3-6yrs

n/a

n/a

Highly recommended

Recommended

A good choice of resort

Some good pistes of this standard, but relatively limited in scope

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

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Europe’s top value for money skiing Deals and Discounts

Hit the slopes not your pocket

» FREE LIFT PASS - BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Bansko - for hotels Strazhite, Bansko, Pirin and Mura for bookings made by 31 March 2021 (see page 11) . » DISCOUNT ON SKI/SNOWBOARD SERVICES Half price Lift Pass Bansko - Pre-book an adult Lift Pass and get a second one (adult or child) half price. Offer applies to all hotels in Bansko excluding Strazhite, Bansko, Pirin and Mura and only valid for bookings made by 31 March 2021. 15% OFF ski/snowboard services in Pamporovo for departures on 19 Dec 2021 and from 05 Mar 2022 (see page 32) . 10% OFF Lift Pass and Ski Packs in Pamporovo for departures from 26 Dec 2021 to 04 Mar 2022. Valid for bookings made by 20 Nov 2021 (see page 32). 20% OFF ski/snowboard services and packs in Bansko for senior citizens aged 65yrs and over (see page 11) . 30% OFF lift pass price in Borovets for clients aged 14-22yrs and senior citizens aged 65yrs and over (see page 43) . » SPECIAL EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNTS SAVE UP TO £196 PER ROOM For a limited period only many of the hotels offer early booking discounts. Look for the “Book Early” logo on the hotel pages and check the applicable savings in the Special Offer box. » FREE LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE Get 22kg of FREE luggage and 10kg for infants on most of our charter flights to Bulgaria (package holidays only). » FREE WI-FI Most of our hotels provide FREE Wi-Fi , please check the hotel pages for details.

Prices starting from £299 per person

» LOW DEPOSIT - JUST £70 PER PERSON Book early and take advantage of a low deposit of £70 per person. Hurry as this offer may be withdrawn at any time. » UP TO 5% LOYALTY DISCOUNT To show our appreciation to our loyal guests, we are delighted to offer an extra discount of up to 5% to clients who spent their holiday with us between 16 Dec 2019 and 30 Oct 2021. The reference number of your previous booking must be provided for each client within 2 weeks of the booking date. Each previous booking reference can only be used once to claim your loyalty discount and cannot be used within the same season. The minimum stay is 7 nights. Discount applies to the basic adult price (on package holidays only). The offer can be withdrawn at any time and cannot be combined with other offers such as late deals or free child. » SPECIAL OFFER ON MOST HOTELS FREE nights on certain departure dates are available on most hotels featured in our brochure, please check the Special Offer box on hotel pages. » 30% OFF SKI OR SNOWBOARD EQUIPMENT CARRIAGE For all Bulgaria charter flights we are offering return Ski or Snowboard Carriage, including boots, at £20 per person, which is 30% OFF the normal price. » FREE SKI OR SNOWBOARD STORAGE For clients visiting Bansko, Bulgaria when carriage is pre-booked, the storage of own equipment (which includes skis or board, poles and boots) is FREE of charge in most hotels. Alternatively, pre-book storage to store your skis at the depot.

Please note: Offers and incentives cannot be combined and may be withdrawn at any time.

Reservations 0845 130 1114

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Value forMoney

SINGLE TRAVELLERS Many of our hotels do not charge a single room supplement on selected departure dates, making travelling alone cheaper than ever. Check the Special Offer box on the hotel pages for these and other great special offers. FREE PLACE FOR GROUP LEADERS Get your friends together and tell them that skiing in Bulgaria is fun, superb value and a great idea! Next step, book a group, and as the group leader you may, subject to the group size, qualify for a free place (applicable to flight, accommodation and transfers only). Please see page 65 for Group Bookings conditions and call our Reservations department for the latest offers. The offer cannot be combined with other offers/incentives such as last minute deals and with online discount. NO HIDDEN COSTS The holiday prices published in this brochure are inclusive of coach transfers and any applicable charges for your holiday, known at the time of printing. Coach transfers require a minimum number of passengers to operate. There may be a supplement if the minimum number of passengers is not reached.

CHRISTMAS AND NEWYEAR EXTRAS At Balkan Holidays we believe that Christmas is special and there is no better place to celebrate than in the snow- covered mountains. We have Christmas and New Year’s gala dinners with entertainment included in many of our hotel packages to make sure you are having a great time, or you can stay in Self-Catering apartments which are a good option for families or groups of friends who want to be more independent. We suggest you book well in advance as these departures are really popular and sell out fast (see applicable dates and details in the price panels on the hotel pages). Please note: Offers and incentives cannot be combined and may be withdrawn at any time.

TOP VALUE SKIING IN BULGARIA AND SLOVENIA

Bansko and Borovets take the top two places as Europe’s best value ski resorts. Kranjska Gora in Slovenia takes the fourth place in the Ski Resort report.

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

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Family Savings Shared passion for the snow

Book and save before you go

Kids Ski Free** Any holidaywith Balkan Holidays is ideal for families because we offer amazing value for money. We have put together these great offers to help the whole family ski together - just watch out your kids don’t show you up on the slopes!

Free Junior Ski Club or Free Ski Services In Bansko, if both parents pre-book "Full Ski/Snowboard" packs or "First Time Ski/ Snowboard" packs one child 4-7yrs old receives a free place in the Junior Ski Club and one child 7-11yrs old receives a free place at the ski school for 6 days.*** Children under 7yrs receive free lift pass which must be pre-booked (must be accompanied by a paying adult). Half Price Ski Kindergarten or Half Price Full Ski Pack or Half Price Lift Pass In Pamporovo, if both parents pre-book "Full Ski" packs one child 4-6yrs old receives half price Ski Kindergarten or one child 7-11yrs old receives half price Full Ski pack or half price Lift Pass. This offer excludes departures in the periods 26 December 2021 - 02 January 2022 and 12 - 18 February 2022 (all dates inclusive). Children under 7yrs may use the lifts for free but must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Reservations 0845 130 1114

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Kids and Families

FREE CHILD PLACES There are free places* for children aged 2-11yrs inclusive in all hotels showing our “Free Child Places” logo, on most departures excluding departures 26 December 2021 and 12 February 2022, andmay not be available in all room types. This offer applies to charter flight holidays to Bulgaria only. THIRD ADULT REDUCTIONS Third adult reductions apply when the third adult sleeps on an extra bed in a twin or double room in selected properties. FREE CHILD PLACES

GREAT DISCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN** There’s up to 50% off for children (2-16yrs), as long as they’re sharing with two full fare paying adults (check the hotel pages for applicable age). Larger families get the best deals in family rooms. Kids (up to 11yrs) get great discounts on excursions and entertainment as well - ranging from 40-50% off! The resorts have locally organised Ski Kindergartens, where young children have their own ski lessons and are looked after while their parents go skiing, and in Borovets there is a nursery for the very young. Please see page 5 for eligible ages. *All free places are subject to availability on charter flights to Bulgaria only, limited to one child per booking sharing with two adults, with the appropriate child reduction for the second child. Children 12yrs and over pay adult price for ski services (Borovets children 14yrs and over). **Offers and incentives cannot be used in conjunction with each other and can be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Clients must be under the same booking reference number. ***The free place at the Ski School does not include a lift pass or equipment.

SINGLE PARENTS SAVING We have a choice of hotels where single parents can make additional savings. Look for the “Single Parent Save” logo to find the participating hotels.

SINGLE PARENT SAVE

SPECIAL FAMILY INSURANCE Skiing or snowboarding as a family is great fun and it’s also a great value because we offer a special family insurance policy. Please see page 66 for further details.

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

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BANSKO • Bulgaria One of Europe’s top ten ski resorts

AMODERNSKI RESORTATAFRACTIONOFTHE PRICE Tradition meets modern in the resort of Bansko, where contemporary hotels rise above traditional houses. Ski or snowboard and enjoy more than 75 kilometres of marked ski runs, which are easily accessed by the modern gon- dola lift in less than 20 minutes. After a day on the slopes, lose yourself in the quaint cobbled streets in the town centre starting from the authentic clock tower. Bansko’s ski area has been continuously improved featur- ing snow cannons covering more than 90% of the skiing area, extra maintenance vehicles to keep the slopes in the best possible condition and extra safety installations. VIRTUALLY YOURS Several web cameras on the slopes are available on the official website of Bansko ski area: www.banskoski.com . APRÈS-SKI Dine out in one of the hundred “mehanas” offering tradi- tional cuisine and enjoy Bulgarian folklore performed by local artists. Besides the famous local church, St. Trinity, there are many historical, architectural and cultural mon- uments. There is also an ice-skating rink conveniently situated on the way to the gondola lift and just next door to hotel Strazhite. RESORT INFO Bansko is a unique combination of a modern winter sports centre and a living town, and is a true alternative to the Alps at a fraction of the price. Set at the foot of Pirin Mountain, Bansko has developed into a popular winter destination, thanks to the excellent ski/snowboard facil- ities, breathtaking nature, and the spirit of a small town preserved through the centuries. RESORT DETAILS Arrival airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sofia Airport to resort����������������������������������������������������������������170km Transfer time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2½ hours No. of resident reps ������������������������������������������������������������������3 Resort entertainer ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 1

SKI AND SNOWBOARD FACTS Height of resort ��������������������������������������������������������������� 936m Altitude of highest ski run �������������������������������������������2560m Altitude of lowest ski run �����������������������������������������������990m Marked runs ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 75km Longest run ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 7km Longest downhill route ��������������������������������������������������16km Direction of slopes ���������������������������������������������������������� North LIFTS Total length - 22km Cabin - 6.2km • Seats - 13.2km • Drags - 2.4km AND MORE! 230 snow cannons cover more than 90% of the slopes • Fun Park with rails, bumps and jumps for extreme ski and snowboard NIGHTLIFE At the end of the day, the Happy End restaurant by the gondola base station turns into a nightclub and the lively atmosphere there is only rivalled by the Amnesia disco- theque in the centre of town. Bansko’s nightlife is com- pleted by a wide selection of pubs and bars offering a variety of cocktails, live music and karaoke. For a quieter night out the Bowling arena in hotel Strazhite might be a very good alternative. SHOPS The Old Town is well worth exploring for some handmade souvenirs. You can also find a great selection of sports shops around, all with the latest ski/snowboard gadgets, gear and equipment. MEDICAL ARRANGEMENTS Mountain rescue service, ambulance, clinic (with doctor and nurse) plus first aid service on all ski slopes.

Bansko is an eco friendly environmentally responsible resort that stopped completely the use of plastic dispos- able packaging, replacing it with other biodegradable packaging options. The innovative waste management system preserves the mountain so that generations can ski for years to come.

Children

JUNIOR SKI CLUB Membership Includes

Lift ticket (to Ski Club), badge, fun pack and special club card allowing members further discounts on their next holiday in Bansko. Open daily, 7 days a week, 9am-4:30pm and located right by the slopes at the top of the gondola lift. For children 4-7yrs. Rates Include Expert supervision, snow play, lift tickets to the club, daily tuition (1 hour per day), skis, sticks, boots, lunch (full day only), all in fun-filled atmosphere. Junior Ski Club has to be pre-booked but paid for on the spot. Approx. prices from £30 for 1 day and £130 for 6 days (Winter 2020/2021 prices). SPECIAL OFFER If both parents pre-book a “Full Ski/Snowboard” pack or “First Time Ski/Snowboard” pack, one child aged 4-7yrs receives a free place in the Junior Ski Club and one child aged 7-11yrs receives a free place at the ski school for 6 days. Children under 7yrs receive free lift pass (must be pre-booked and must be accompanied by a paying adult). The ski school does not include equipment hire or lift pass. The above offers cannot be used in conjunction with each other or with any other Ski offer and may be withdrawn at any time.

Please note: Some medical services must be paid in cash. Receipts will be provided to enable you to claim back from your insurance company once you return to the UK.

“VIP Room” Restaurant

Reservations 0845 130 1114

10

Lift Pass (recommended for all travellers - no photo required) First Time Ski Pack (ski and boots hire, lift pass and 6 days, 4hrs per day tuition) Full Ski Pack (ski and boots hire, lift pass and 6 days, 4hrs per day tuition) First Time Snowboard Pack (snowboard and boots hire, lift pass and 3 days, 2hrs per day tuition) Full Snowboard Pack (snowboard and boots hire, lift pass and 3 days, 2hrs per day tuition) Ski Packs and Services Pre-book and Save! (6 days)

Adult from

Child from*

£121 £73

£190 £122

£222 £137

£205 n/a

£227 n/a

Please read details carefully before booking: *Child ages: Ski hire - 4-11; Ski school - 7-11; Lift pass - 7-11. For further information and prices for other ski pack items such as carriage, equipment hire, tuition, etc. please visit our website or call our Reservations Department.

Ski Offers

FREE LIFT PASS Pre-book an adult lift pass and get a second one (adult or child) FREE . Offer applies to hotels Strazhite, Bansko, Pirin and Mura in Bansko and only valid for bookings made by 31 Mar 2021. HALF PRICE LIFT PASS Pre-book an adult lift pass and get a second one (adult or child) HALF PRICE . Offer applies to all hotels in Bansko except Strazhite, Bansko, Pirin and Mura and only valid for bookings made by 31 Mar 2021. 20% OFF All ski/snowboard services and packs (excluding equipment carriage) for senior citizens aged 65 years and over. Please call our Reservations Department as soon as you make your booking to apply these offers. The offers cannot be used in conjunction with other offers and may be withdrawn at any time. Clients must be under the same booking reference number.

BEGINNERS

BIATHLON AND CROSS COUNTRY Bansko, with its biathlon and cross-country trails, is also the choice of Irina Nikulchina and Nina Kadeva, two Bulgarian women who are among the world’s top ten biathlon racers. SKI LIFTS WORKING HOURS AND SKI GUIDES The lift system operates 8:30am till 4:30pm each day. EXCURSIONS In addition to pub-crawling in the local taverns of Bansko, a number of excursions to nearby sites of interest, such as the Rila Monastery and exciting après-ski activities, can be booked with your local representatives in the resort for a truly memorable holiday. Children aged 2-11yrs get a reduction on selected excursions.

Bansko is a great place for first-time skiers and snowboarders, with the ULEN ski school having some of Bulgaria’s best instructors, and the ULEN rent-a-ski offering the latest in ski and snowboard equipment.

INTERMEDIATE

An array of blue and red runs suitable for intermediate skiers and snowboarders make Bansko a very good choice for both those committed to becoming experts, as well as for those who take up winter sports merely as a recreational activity.

15

17

ADVANCED

12

21

20

2

Experienced skiers enjoy some red runs and the Alberto Tomba black run. The ski and snowboard fun park area is a popular playground for experts to boast their latest tricks.

6

14

22

8

5

13

10

1

4

18

HOTELS & APARTMENTS Bansko . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Belmont . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Belvedere Holiday Club . . . . . 3 Campanella . . . . . . . . . . 4 Kempinski Grand Arena . . . . . 5 Grand Montana . . . . . . . . . 6 MPM Guinness . . . . . . . . . 7 Lion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Mura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Perun Lodge . . . . . . . . . . 10 Pirin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Premier Luxury Mountain Resort . 12 Regnum . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MPM Sport . . . . . . . . . . . 14 St. Ivan Rilski . . . . . . . . . . 15 Strazhite . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

St. George Palace . . . . . . . . 17 Tanne . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Zara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Winslow Highland . . . . . . . . 20 Winslow Infinity . . . . . . . . . 21 Winslow Elegance . . . . . . . . 22 MPM Bansko Spa . . . . . . . . 23 BARS & RESTAURANTS Happy End Bar and Nightclub . . 1 Nightclub Amnesia . . . . . . . 2 Mehana Kasapinovata Kushta . . . 3 Mehana Veselo Selo . . . . . . . 4 Mehana Bansko . . . . . . . . . 5 Mehana Molerova Kushta . . . . 6

16

7

4

5

3

9

2

19

1

3

11

Maps are for guidance only and are not to scale.

6

23

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

11

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

SPA & BEAUTY

FREE WI-FI

Kempinski Hotel GRAND ARENA

The renowned Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko is ideally positioned at the foot of the ski slopes, opposite the gondola lift and only a short walk away from the town centre. Indulge into a one of a kind luxury experience in this Alpine style hotel and enjoy the best spa in Bulgaria with the most lavish breakfast in town. The hotel has been voted as Bulgaria’s Best Ski Hotel every year since 2017 by World Ski Awards, won Bulgaria’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel award for 2019 and 2020 by World Travel Awards and Bulgaria’s Best Hotel Spa byWorld Spa Awards for 2018, 2019 and 2020. With a mixture of traditional architecture and modern comfort, this impressive hotel comprises of 5 connected buildings with an extensive range of on-site facilities. The fully refurbished Kempinski The Spa centre features a wide range of thermal facilities and offers variety of treatments. • Board basis Bed & Breakfast Half Board at supplement • Official category 5 star • Rooms 157, Floors 5, Lifts 5 • Distance from ski lifts Opposite gondola lift • Child age 11 years

Facilities Buffet restaurant “The Gallery” • Mediterranean A la carte restaurant “Come Prima” • Lobby bar • Vitamin bar • “Sing-sing” piano bar • “Bella Vista” bistro • Sushi bar & Teppanyaki grill • Room service • Indoor swimming pool • Heated outdoor swimming pool • Kempinski The Spa centre • Herbal, infrared & Finnish saunas • Sanarium • Laconium • Aroma steam bath • Experience showers • Deep digital detox area • Indoor & outdoor jacuzzi • Snow room • Fitness (24hrs) • Hairdresser’s • Shopping area • Kids club (9am-6pm) • Ski storage room • Wi-Fi † Free use of indoor & outdoor swimming pools, herbal, Finnish & infrared saunas, sanarium, aroma steam bath, self-heating wellness bench laconium, experience showers, deep digital detox area, indoor & outdoor jacuzzi, fitness, snow room, kids club during opening hours, tea/coffee making facilities in the rooms & Wi-Fi. One complimentary dinner on the 2nd day of the holiday. Accommodation Deluxe twin or double room with king size bed, shower & bath, hairdryer, balcony, minibar, cable-TV, safe, telephone, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities & air- conditioning. Deluxe mountain view rooms are also available.

Free Nights between 19-20 Dec,08-09 Jan, 19-20 Feb, 26-27 Feb, 05-06 Mar, 12-13 Mar, 19-20 Mar. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £167 per couple*.

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions and essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Grand Arena (BN501) - 7 nights B&B in deluxe twin room

710

494

Reservations 0845 130 1114

12

Deluxe double room

Vitamin bar

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

13

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

FREE CHILD PLACES

FREE WI-FI

Hotel STRAZHITE

Hotel Strazhite combines the beauty of traditional Bulgarian architecture with the comfort and convenience of a modern hotel. Situated just 300 metres from the Bansko gondola lift, hotel Strazhite is conveniently located for the enthusiastic skier who cannot get on the slopes soon enough. Bansko town centre with all its attractions, traditional restaurants and pubs is only a fewminutes walk away. The hotel is an excellent choice for your holiday with its prime location, comfortable and spacious rooms, great selection of leisure facilities, including a pleasant swimming pool and modern bowling alley.

Facilities Restaurant • Lobby bar • Cafe bar • Indoor swimming pool • Conference room • Shops • Wi-Fi • Three massage treatment rooms • Sauna • Steam bath • Fitness • Relaxation area • Bowling • Games room with pool tables • Room service • Safety deposit boxes at reception • Ski storage room • Shuttle bus to the gondola lift † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free welcome drink & use of swimming pool, fitness, sauna, steam bath & Wi-Fi throughout. Accommodation Twin room with shower, hairdryer, balcony, minibar, Sat-TV & telephone. Family room layout is split level.

• Board basis Half Board • Official category 4 star • Rooms 152, Floors 3, Lifts 3 • Distance from ski lifts 300 metres • Child age 11 years

Free Nights between 08-14 Jan & 19 Feb-11 Mar. No single room supplement for arrivals from 05 Mar. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £55 per couple*.

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Strazhite (BN419) - 7 nights HB in twin room

450

304

Reservations 0845 130 1114

14

Twin room

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

15

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

FREE CHILD PLACES

FREE WI-FI

Hotel BANSKO

Hotel Bansko is a truly wonderful hotel with a friendly atmosphere and is among the best in our winter programme to Bulgaria. The hotel is located on the edge of the Old Town, within a short walk to the town centre and the ski slopes, while shopping and nightlife are also within easy reach. The lovely swimming pool and sauna will welcome you after a day of skiing or snowboarding. Hotel Bansko also has a storage room, perfect if you are planning on taking your own skis or snowboard and boots.

• Board basis Half Board • Official category 4 star • Rooms 53, Floors 4, Lifts 2 • Distance from ski lifts 1400 metres • Child age 11 years

Facilities Restaurant • Lobby bar • Indoor swimming pool • Room service • Safety deposit boxes at reception • Sauna • Massage • Fitness • Games room with pool tables • Table tennis • Wi-Fi • Ski storage room • Shuttle bus to the gondola lift † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free welcome drink & use of swimming pool, fitness, sauna & Wi-Fi in the lobby. Accommodation Double or twin room with shower, hairdryer, minibar, Sat-TV & direct dial telephone. Deluxe double rooms with bath also available. Family room layout can be open plan or separate bedrooms.

Free Nights between 02-14 Jan & 19 Feb-04 Mar. No single room supplement for arrivals from 26 Feb. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £46 per couple*.

Twin room

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Bansko (BN418) - 7 nights HB in twin room

417

304

Reservations 0845 130 1114

16

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

FREE CHILD PLACES

FREE WI-FI

Hotel PIRIN

The 4 star hotel Pirin enjoys a central location in the popular town of Bansko and is one of the emblematic hotels in the resort, also known for being one of the best. As soon as you walk through the doors of this wonderful hotel you will feel the inviting and cosy atmosphere. In addition to its excellent leisure facilities, hotel Pirin has lots of charm, relaxing ambience and friendly staff.

• Board basis Half Board • Official category 4 star • Rooms 68, Floors 5, Lifts 2 • Distance from ski lifts 2300 metres • Child age 11 years

Facilities Restaurant • Lobby bar • Indoor swimming pool • Room service • Safety deposit boxes • Massage • Solarium • Sauna • Steam bath • Fitness • Pool tables • Table tennis • Ski storage room • Wi-Fi • Shuttle bus to the gondola lift † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free welcome drink & use of swimming pool, fitness, sauna, steam bath & Wi-Fi in the lobby. Accommodation Double or twin room with shower, hairdryer, minibar, Sat-TV & telephone. Family room layout is separate bedrooms. Single rooms also available.

Free Nights between 02-14 Jan & 19-25 Feb. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £47 per couple*.

Twin room

Lobby

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Pirin (BN421) - 7 nights HB in twin room

414

304

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

17

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

SPA & BEAUTY

FREE WI-FI

Hotel PREMIER LUXURYMOUNTAIN RESORT

The 5* Premier Luxury Mountain Resort is situated in the foothills of Pirin Mountain. It offers luxury accommodation, gourmet dining, superior Spa andWellness facilities, coupled with top class service in a relaxing and peaceful environment. Whether you are seeking an active ski holiday or just wish to relax while spending quality time with your family and friends, then Premier Luxury Mountain Resort is the place for you. The hotel offers luxurious modern rooms and suites and is within walking distance of the gondola lift. • Board basis Bed & Breakfast Half Board at supplement Christmas or NewYear’s Eve dinners are available onlywhen upgrading to Half Board. • Official category 5 star • Rooms 115, Floors 5, Lifts 4 • Distance from ski lifts 700 metres • Child age 11 years Facilities ”Amvrosia” A la carte restaurant • “Dionyssos” restaurant • “Nectar” bar • Spa & Wellness centre (indoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, fitness, aroma sauna, steam bath, Kneipp walk, relaxation area, treatments area) • Hairdresser’s & beauty salon • Children’s playroom • Games room • Cards room • Shop • Exchange desk • Wi-Fi • Ski storage room † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free use of indoor swimming pool, Spa wet area & Wi-Fi. Accommodation Double room with shower or bath, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, balcony or terrace, Sat-TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, safe, coffee / tea making facilities & minibar. Junior suite has a separate bedroom with double bed or twin beds & living room with double sofa bed. Executive suite has separate twin bedroom, double bedroom & living room with a sofa bed.

Free Nights between 02 Jan-02 Apr. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £86 per couple*.

Double room

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time.

Premier (BN503) - 7 nights B&B in double room

502

443

Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Premier (BN503) - 7 nights B&B in executive suite

534

456

Reservations 0845 130 1114

18

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

FREE WI-FI

Hotel LION

Hotel Lion is located approximately 800 metres from the gondola lift and is a good base fromwhich to explore and enjoy the excellent ski & snowboard facilities Bansko has on offer. It boasts a high standard of accommodation and a wide range of modern leisure facilities for you to make the most of after an active day on the slopes.

• Board basis Half Board • Official category 4 star • Rooms 193, Floors 6, Lifts 3 • Distance from ski lifts 800 metres • Child age 11 years

Facilities Main restaurant • Lobby bar • Indoor swimming pool • Exchange desk • Safety deposit boxes • Massage • Steam bath • Sauna • Fitness • Wi-Fi • Shuttle bus to the gondola lift † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free use of swimming pool, sauna, steam bath, fitness & Wi-Fi, wine, beer, juice, water included with dinner. Accommodation Low floor twin room with bath, hairdryer, Sat-TV, minibar & telephone. Upper floor twin rooms are also available. Family room layout is open plan.

Free Nights on 02 Jan, 08 Jan, 15 Jan & between 19 Feb-02 Apr. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £122 per couple*.

Twin room

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Lion (BN406) - 7 nights HB in low floor twin room

438

332

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

19

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

SINGLE PARENT SAVE £19

FREE WI-FI

Hotel MURA

Located approximately a 15 minute walk from the bottom station of the gondola lift, hotel Mura is also within an easy reach to the town centre, shopping and nightlife. The hotel boasts a friendly restaurant, cosy lobby bar, beautifully furnished rooms and a wellness area with jacuzzi and steam bath. • Board basis Bed & Breakfast • Official category 3 star • Rooms 70, Floors 4, Lifts 1 • Distance from ski lifts 1100 metres • Child age 11 years Facilities Restaurant • Lobby bar • Massage • Sauna • Steam bath • Jacuzzi • Relaxation room • Ski storage room • Wi-Fi • Shuttle bus to the gondola lift † Free shuttle bus to the gondola lift, free use of jacuzzi, steam bath, sauna, relaxation room & Wi-Fi in the lobby. Accommodation Twin room with shower, balcony, hairdryer, Sat-TV & telephone.

Free Nights between 02-14 Jan & 26 Feb-02 Apr. No single room supplement for arrivals from 26 Feb. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £32 per couple*.

Twin room

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Mura (BN309) - 7 nights B&B in twin room

383

345

Reservations 0845 130 1114

20

BOOK EARLY & SAVE

SPA & BEAUTY

FREE WI-FI

MPMHotel SPORT BANSKO

MPM Hotel Sport Bansko is a luxurious ski-in ski-out 4* hotel boasting an ideal location, right next to the Ski road in the popular resort of Bansko. The hotel offers comfort and hospitality for all, with the added bonus of a state of the art Relax centre, perfect for total relaxation of those tired muscles after a day on the slopes. The evening can finish with a drink by the fireplace in the cosy lobby bar.

• Board basis Half Board • Official category 4 star • Rooms 88, Floors 4, Lifts 3 • Distance from ski lifts 100 metres (opposite gondola lift) • Child age 11 years

Facilities Restaurant • Lobby bar • Relax centre with indoor swimming pool & a small children’s section, jacuzzi (local charge), steam room, sauna, Roman bath & relax zone • Ski rent shop • Ski storage room • Wi-Fi • Room service • Laundry & ironing service • Parking & garage † Free use of indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna, Roman bath, ski storage of own equipment & Wi-Fi. Accommodation Executive twin or double room with bath, cable-TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, mini fridge & tea/coffee making facilities. Deluxe double or twins & family rooms are also available.

Free Nights between 19 Feb-02 Apr. SPECIAL OFFER

Book Early and Save up to £123 per couple*.

Double room

Prices in £ per person. To price your holiday including ALL SAVINGS, visit our website, your travel agent or call us.

Child Prices from

† All other facilities may be subject to a local charge. * Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Prices are for guidance only and can go up or down (full price confirmed at time of booking). Supplements may apply. Price includes Christmas or New Year’s dinner on 25 and 31 Dec 2021. For full details of holiday insurance, flight supplements, booking conditions & essential holiday information, all of which must be read before booking, please see pages 61-66.

Accommodation (code)

Prices from

Sport (BN429) - 7 nights HB in executive double room

552

422

Book online at www.balkanholidays.co.uk

21