Welcome to Bulgaria
Bulgaria is situated in the heart of the Balkans and is a country of contrasting landscapes. The northern part of the country is dominated by the wide-open continental Danubian Plain, while the south is marked by highlands and highland plains. The eastern part of the country takes in the shores of the Black Sea and attracts tourists year-round.
Founded in 681 AD, Bulgaria is one of Europe’s oldest countries. The history of the country has been greatly influenced by Asia. Around 85% of the population is orthodox Christian and 13% are Muslim. Meanwhile, around one-tenth of the population is of Turkish descent and 3% are Romany.
The traditional dishes of Bulgaria are an eclectic mix of the East and the West. Bulgaria’s major export products – light industry, food and wine, compete successfully with products from other EU states. Bulgarians have made valuable contributions to world art and culture. A Bulgarian folk song was recorded for the gold record sent as a message aboard the Voyager spacecraft, which was launched in 1977. Famous Bulgarians include philosopher Julia Kristeva and 1981 Nobel literature prizewinner Elias Canetti.
Sofia
Sofia is one of Europe’s oldest cities, first being settled several thousand years ago. It has been the vibrant capital, as well as governmental and cultural centre of Bulgaria for over 120 years. It is famous for its mineral springs and beautiful mountain Vitosha (2290meters), which is an excellent skiing location at only 20 minutes drive from the city center.
Mountains and ski resorts
The Rila range of mountains is arguably the most spectacular and certainly the highest mountain range in Bulgaria. Its highest peak Musala (2,925 meters) is also the highest on the Balkan Peninsula. The area is famous for its glaciers and amazing lakes. The Balkan mountain range (Stara Planina in Bulgarian language) with hill Botew peaking at 2,376 meters has played an enormous role in the history of Bulgaria. According to legends, Perelik (2,191 meters) the highest point of Rhodopes mountain range is the birthplace of Orpheus.
Borovets
The Borovets ski resort lies on the northern slopes of the Rila range and is both a summer and a winter resort. It is the oldest Bulgarian winter resort with a history that dates back to 1896.
Bansko
The lively resort, nestling in the Pirin mountains offers a first rate skiing location and an unique blend of history, culture and hospitality.
Pamporovo
This mountain health resort in the Rhodopes enjoys a Mediterranean climate and 150 days of crisp, clear snow every year. It is not only one of Europe’s finest ski resorts, but also an excellent location for family vacation and relaxation both during the winter and in the summer.
Bulgaria’s beach resorts
With a coastline of 378 kilometers of golden sandy beaches it is not a surprise that the Black Sea is a popular holiday destination.
With an air temperature between 23 and 27 C and a sea temperature between 17 and 25 C, the Black Sea coast boasts more than 300 days of sunshine every year.
Bulgaria has a number of popular Black Sea resorts mostly centered around the cities of Varna and Burgas: Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Albena, SS. Constantine & Helena, Elenite and many other. Vacationers are guaranteed sun, sea and sand, which is why they keep coming back to Bulgaria.