Skiing the Balkans - Fifty backcountry descents in Bulgaria

Fifty backcountry descents in Bulgaria

Bulgaria? Is there actually any skiing in Bulgaria?!?

No wonder such questions get asked. How can a small country in the south east end of Europe, roughly 400km long by 250km wide, bordering Mediterranean neighbors such as Greece and Turkey and famous for roses, wine and sandy beaches, be a ski destination, let alone a proper backcountry and freeriding one?

The reality is that the Balkan peninsula, located roughly between latitudes 36N and 47N, is a very mountainous region with multiple ranges rising more than 2000m above sea level. With some really well-preserved and even wild nature, and certain climate specifics in place, these mountains are suitable for good off-piste skiing for almost five months a year.

And when storms line up one after another and deliver powder for days, 600-1200m steep descents turn into the norm, and you spend the evenings on your own at some remote backcountry hut with no cell coverage, you will see that Bulgaria and the Balkans are a hidden skiing gem.