Bansko — On the piste

Skiing in Bansko is split over two connected areas, Chalin Valog and Tadorka, accessed by gondola lift. The excellent historical snow record and the fact that most of the slopes face North make the skiing here pretty reliable, and over 80% of the pistes now have snow-making coverage too for a real belt and braces approach. As there are only 70km of slopes it goes without saying that Bansko is perfect for novices and intermediates, and the price of the lift pass reflects the limited nature of the terrain. It is inevitable that advanced skiers will exhaust the pistes in the first day or two but the Balkaniada and Tomba pistes will get the legs burning. Off-piste is a real treat here and not many people take advantage of it, so hire a guide and explore the back of the Pirin. The Burton Park on Platoto offers great rails and kickers for boarders.