Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip for Ski and SPA

Sofia , Bulgaria

Rila Mountain Winter Day Trip for Ski and SPA

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Spend an unforgettable day in the snow at the winter resort of Borovets, located in the highest mountain on the Balkan Peninsula just an hour and a half away from Sofia! Choose to try ski or snowboard practice or just enjoy a walk in the nature! After that, continue to Sapareva Banya, where you will indulge in the cozy warmth of its thermal springs.

The mineral water pools are a great way of relaxing and their healing properties have been used science ancient times.

Sample hearty local dishes like, accompanied by a glass of wine to toast the day’s adventures.

Available options

Rila Mountain Winter Trip

Rila Mountain Winter Trip<br/>Pickup included

What's included

2 hours private ski/ snowboard lessons and equipment - if option selected

Transportation by a private A/C car

English- speaking driver, who will accompany you during the day

Entrance ticket to "Rila Rock" SPA complex in Sapareva Banya with 5 panoramic pools

Trip to Borovets and Sapareva Banya

Hotel/ address pick-up and drop off

Detailed itinerary

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in Sofia at 8:30 and take you to the second largest Bulgarian ski resort Borovets. The traveling time is about 1.5 hours.

There, you will have 2.5 hours of free time to spend a fabulous day in the alpine atmosphere among the pine forest of the ski resort and to enjoy 58 km of ski slopes. Ski/snowboard equipment rental and individual ski/snowboard lessons are available upon request. Or, if you are not info winter sports, you can just enjoy a walk in the nature and also choose to take the cabin lift to see the beautiful panoramic views.

After that, you will go to Sapareva Banya - the thermal capital of the Balkans, famous for its hot mineral springs. There, you will have about 3.5 hours to relax in the "Rila Rock" SPA complex, famous for its 5 pools with panoramic views. The complex also offers lunch options as well.

The departure from Sapareva Banya is at around 17:00 and the expected return in Sofia is around 18:30.

What's not included

Lift card (about 35 euro) or lift ticket (about 20 euro) - optional, available on spot

Ski/ snowboard rental equipment - available on spot

2 hours private ski/ snowboard lessons and equipment - available on spot

Tsarska Bistritsa ticket (open Thursday - Sunday)

Gratuities (optional in the end of the trip)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Hotel/ address pick-up at 8:30 - please indicate it in the reservation.
Bring swimwear, flip-flops and warm clothes.
We do not have baby seats in the cars, so we cannot accommodate children under 5 years old on this trip.

About Sofia

Sofia is the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era landmarks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings.

Top Attractions

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is one of Sofia's most famous landmarks. It was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum and bell tower)

Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain offers a stunning backdrop to Sofia and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature.

Nature Half day to full day Free (lift tickets for skiing cost around €10-€20)

National History Museum

This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bulgaria's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours €5

Boyana Church

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church is known for its stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century.

Historical 1 hour €4

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

This historic building was once a public bathhouse and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough, cheese, and eggs. It's often served for breakfast with a side of yogurt.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It's a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and is often served as a side dish.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Kebapche

A grilled minced meat sausage made with a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It's often served with french fries or lyutenitsa (a spicy pepper and tomato spread).

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It's a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with plant-based yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Vitosha Mountain Skiing in Bansko or nearby resorts Mountain biking and other outdoor activities Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying a meal or drink at a rooftop bar Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Sofia for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian, Romanian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sofia is generally a safe city for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. It's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys

Getting there

By air

Sofia Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By train

Central Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station, South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around Sofia.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Lozenets Studentski Grad Orlov Most

Day trips

Rila Monastery

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.

Plovdiv

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Bansko

160 km (100 miles) • Full day or overnight

Bansko is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer. It's known for its stunning mountain scenery and traditional Bulgarian charm.

Festivals

Sofia Film Fest • March Sofia Pride • June Sofia International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light.
Try traditional Bulgarian rakia and meze at a local bar for an authentic experience.
Explore the underground caves and tunnels of Sofia for a unique and fascinating look at the city's history.
Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery or Plovdiv for a taste of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
Visit the National Palace of Culture for concerts, performances, and other cultural events.