Is this the cheapest ski destination in Europe? Resort has beers for £1.17 and lift passes for £30
WHILE ski holidays remain a popular winter break among Brits, finding somewhere affordable can be a little tricky.
Thankfully, a little-known destination in Bulgaria has just been named one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe - thanks to its cut-price food and drink.
Why Borovets?
Borovets Ski Resort has been dubbed the cheapest in Europe by travel money specialist, eurochange.
They recently researched ski and snowboarding destinations that are the best value for money for Brit holidaymakers.
The travel money specialists based their findings on factors like the cost of a lift pass, accommodation prices, ski rental costs, and the price of food and drink.
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange, said: "Skiing can be a very expensive holiday, especially for families. However, there are some fantastic resorts out there offering surprisingly reasonable prices, without compromising on those amazing views and fantastic ski runs.
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"Borovets in Bulgaria came out on top as the cheapest ski resort.
"It’s definitely an underrated destination, with unbelievably low prices for food and drink, and a whole week lift pass for less than £150."
Located on the northern slopes of the Rila mountains, Borovets is described as a "gateway" to several ski and snowboard runs on the craggy Musala Ridge.
Not only does the Bulgarian town boast epic ski runs, but it's also very easy on the bank balance too.
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While ski passes start from just £29, renting out ski equipment costs just £10 per day (or £60.22 for six days).
According to the research, accommodation can be snapped up from £52.45 per night during the winter season.
Sun Online Travel have found overnight stays at Hotel Bor, a three-star hotel at the resort, for £39 per person per night, based on two people sharing a room.
Food and drink is cheap too, with a pint of beer costing as little as £1.17, while a glass of wine costs £2.33.
Holidaymakers can also dine out extremely well on a budget, with a three-course costing £5.83 per person.
What is it like in Borovets?
Borovets was originally built in the 1890s, making it the oldest winter resort in Bulgaria.
The resort, which is the second largest of its kind in the country after Bansko, is surrounded by an Alpine woodland.
It's been highly praised as a good spot for beginners.
The Bulgarian ski resort has also been favourably reviewed by visitors on TripAdvisor too.
One person wrote: "A great ski resort, especially for beginners, and great for little children to learn on the very easy nursery slope, with coffee and bars all around."
Another person added: "It's quite affordable to ski there, with many food choices around."
While someone else said: "Great place for family skiing and adult holidays, it was very cosmopolitan, including friendly locals who were very welcoming."
Borovets is a 90-minute drive from Sofia (the Bulgarian capital).
Both Wizz Air and Ryanair operate direct flights to Sofia from UK cities like London, Bristol, and Birmingham.
Prices start from £13 for a one-way ticket, with flights taking three hours and 25 minutes.
What else do I need to know about Borovets?
The local language in Borovets is Bulgarian although people may speak English at the resort.
Bulgaria is currently two hours ahead of the UK.
The local currency is the Bulgaria lev with £10 getting around 22 lev.
There are currently no Covid restrictions and Brits can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa.
However, your passport must have at least three months left after the day you plan to leave.
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The resorts with the cheapest après and lift passes
- Borovets, Bulgaria
- Vogel, Slovenia
- Les Houches, France
- Livigno, Italy
- Grindelwald, Switzerland
- Eagle Point Resort, Utah
