Bulgaria Enhances Ski Resort Accessibility to Attract More Tourists and Support Local Economy, Get the Details Here

Published on December 6, 2025

The town of Samokov, situated in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria, is leading calls for legislative changes that would better facilitate the construction of ski lifts and technical snow facilities. The gateway to Borovets, Bulgaria’s oldest ski resort, it is eager to expand its tourism offer as winter sports become an increasingly important component of its economy. Speaking at the BG TOURISM – WINTER 2025/2026 forum in Pamporovo, Samokov’s Mayor Angel Dzhorgov said a change could be made that would help the region become more tourist-friendly on a year-round basis, with further infrastructure and environmental protection given the growing demands in winter tourism.

Legislative Changes Crucial for Ski Tourism Development

At the forum, Mayor Dzhorgov stressed that Bulgaria’s ski industry needs modernization, especially when it comes to the construction of ski lifts and the creation of technical snow facilities. These changes are not just about enhancing the skiing experience; they are crucial for sustaining the growth of Bulgaria’s winter tourism sector, which has seen increasing popularity in recent years.

The introduction of technical snow has become a necessity due to the impact of climate change, which has led to less predictable snowfalls. For Bulgaria’s ski resorts, including Borovets, which is located near Samokov, the ability to produce artificial snow is essential for maintaining consistent snow conditions, particularly during the early and late parts of the ski season.

According to Dzhorgov, implementing legislative changes will facilitate the construction of modern ski lifts and snow-making systems, which will improve accessibility and ensure that the mountains remain an attractive destination for skiers. He emphasized that these developments would not harm the environment but instead help protect it by reducing the reliance on cars and jeeps in the mountains.

Boosting Accessibility and Safety for Tourists

One of the main goals of the proposed changes is to keep cars out of the mountains, particularly to make the area more accessible for families, young children, and the elderly. Dzhorgov noted that ski lifts would be an essential part of achieving this goal, ensuring that visitors can access ski areas and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains without contributing to congestion or environmental degradation.

The introduction of modern lifts and better infrastructure will enhance the overall visitor experience. Tourists will be able to easily travel to the ski slopes and other attractions, improving both safety and accessibility. Additionally, Dzhorgov believes that such investments will also create long-term economic opportunities for local communities, particularly in regions dependent on tourism.

Borovets Celebrates 130 Years of Skiing Excellence

Borovets, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2026, is one of Bulgaria’s most beloved ski resorts and a focal point for the country’s winter tourism. With over 15,000 beds available across various resorts in Samokov, the area has become a popular destination for both local and international tourists. The increase in tourism, with a 6% growth in visitors compared to the previous year, reflects the growing appeal of Bulgaria as a winter sports destination.

Mayor Dzhorgov expressed optimism for the upcoming winter season, noting that Samokov is fully prepared for the tourists who will flock to the resort. The combination of modern amenities, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences ensures that Borovets remains a top choice for tourists seeking winter adventures. However, Dzhorgov emphasized that continuous investment in infrastructure and facilities is necessary to maintain and expand the region’s tourism capacity.

Focus on Sustainability and Environmental Protection

While the tourism and infrastructure projects aim to boost the economy and attract more visitors, Dzhorgov is also keen on maintaining a balance between development and environmental preservation. He highlighted the importance of developing the ski resorts with care, ensuring that the natural landscape is protected. The creation of more sustainable tourism options, such as eco-friendly hotels and responsible snow-making practices, will be key to maintaining the region’s attractiveness as a destination in the long term.

The mayor also pointed out that better management of snow-making resources could help prevent negative environmental impacts. For example, water used for artificial snow could be collected and stored for firefighting purposes, further integrating environmental sustainability into the tourism infrastructure.

The Role of Government and Stakeholder Collaboration

The Bulgarian government, through initiatives like the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, is actively supporting the development of the country’s tourism sector. Minister Miroslav Borshosh, who was also present at the forum, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting tourism in regions like Samokov. He stressed the importance of continued collaboration between local authorities, state institutions, and private sector stakeholders to ensure that the tourism infrastructure meets the growing demand.

The government has already made significant investments in Bulgaria’s tourism infrastructure, including road repairs and improved access to ski resorts. However, the call for more legislative changes to support ski tourism development is now a central priority for the country’s winter tourism growth strategy. This would help facilitate further investments and attract international tourists to Bulgaria’s mountain resorts.

A Vision for the Future of Bulgaria’s Mountain Tourism

Looking forward, Dzhorgov and other local leaders envision a thriving mountain tourism sector that offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. With the implementation of legislative changes, increased investment in infrastructure, and a focus on environmental sustainability, Bulgaria’s ski resorts like Borovets have the potential to become world-class destinations.

The government’s commitment to strengthening tourism, creating jobs, and enhancing local economies is set to benefit not just the ski industry but also other sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. The next few years will be critical in shaping the future of Bulgaria’s tourism sector, and the country is poised to be a major player in the global tourism market.

Ski Resorts as Catalysts for Bulgaria’s Tourism Growth

The push for legislative changes to raise standards among ski lifts and snow-making facilities in Bulgaria’s mountain regions acts as a crucial step towards a greater tourism strategy of the country. Environmental protection, sustainability, and better infrastructure put Bulgaria in a better position than ever to lure more tourists to its winter resorts while improving overall visitor experiences. With celebrations for the 130th anniversary of Borovets in full swing and steps underway to strengthen its tourism sector, the future indeed looks bright for Bulgaria’s mountain tourism industry.