Sofia Airport → Pamporovo

Pamporovo is regularly ranked among the sunniest ski resorts in Europe, thanks to its position on the gentle, rounded peaks of the central Rhodope Mountains, and its wide, tree-lined pistes are cut through fragrant pine forest rather than exposed rock and scree. That combination of reliable sunshine and forgiving terrain has made it the classic choice for families and beginners, with a resort centre that's easy to navigate and noticeably less crowded than Bansko in peak season.

The Rhodopes are one of Bulgaria's richest regions for traditional culture as well as nature, and Pamporovo makes a good base for exploring both: the wooden-balconied village of Shiroka Laka, famous for its bagpipe-making tradition, is a short drive away, as is the curious rock formation known as the Wonderful Bridges. In summer, the same mountains offer some of the country's best hiking away from the crowds.