Bulgaria’s Strategic Focus on Year-Round Mountain Tourism to Drive Growth, Get the Details Here

Published on December 6, 2025

At the BG TOURISM – WINTER 2025/2026 forum in Pamporovo, Southern Bulgaria, Tourism Minister Miroslav Borshosh spoke candidly about the future of mountain tourism in the country, stating that 2026 was going to be a pivotal year. Mr. Borshosh underlined that his ministry was pursuing a strategy to popularize Bulgarian mountain tourism outside the skiing season also and would turn it into a year-round destination that would welcome both local and foreign tourists. In fact, this is also in line with the more general strategy of Bulgaria to develop more types of tourism and increase its competitiveness in general.

A New Vision for Bulgarian Mountain Tourism

Bulgaria has long been a sought-after winter destination, thanks to its ski resorts in places like Pamporovo and Bansko. However, according to Minister Borshosh, the country’s mountain tourism offerings are limited compared to global destinations in the Alps. The lack of sufficient ski slopes and underdeveloped infrastructure to support year-round tourism poses a challenge to the country’s long-term competitiveness. Borshosh noted that while countries like Italy, France, Austria, and Switzerland boast more than 5,000 kilometers of ski slopes, Bulgaria has less than 200 kilometers.

This significant gap in infrastructure means that Bulgarian mountains are largely inaccessible for tourists during off-peak seasons, particularly spring and autumn, when the potential for other types of mountain tourism, such as hiking and cycling, remains untapped. To ensure the future growth of the tourism sector, Borshosh emphasized the need for infrastructure development, such as new ski slopes, improved lifts, and better connectivity, to help Bulgaria compete with more advanced tourist destinations.

Overcoming Climate Change and Diversifying Tourism

Borshosh also highlighted the challenges posed by climate change, warning that Bulgaria’s reliance on ski tourism could be a hindrance to its future competitiveness. The Minister pointed out that without diversification of tourism offerings, such as cycling, eco-tourism, and mountain hiking, Bulgaria risks being severely impacted by warmer winters and less predictable snowfall patterns.

Bulgaria is currently dependent on winter tourism, which is directly affected by climate change. The need to adapt by creating year-round tourist experiences is urgent. Borshosh emphasized that mountain tourism in Bulgaria must evolve to meet the demand for diverse outdoor activities, ensuring that visitors have a reason to visit not just during the winter months but throughout the entire year. He advocated for greater emphasis on developing sustainable tourism practices and adapting to global trends in the tourism industry.

Improving Accessibility and Infrastructure

A significant aspect of the mountain tourism plan includes improving accessibility. Minister Borshosh explained that the current transportation options to the mountains mainly rely on cars and buses, which are not ideal for supporting large numbers of visitors year-round. He suggested that more investment is needed to upgrade infrastructure, particularly with new ski lifts, gondolas, and roads, to make the region more accessible to tourists.

At the same time, Borshosh pointed out that the development of new slopes could offer additional benefits, such as creating firebreaks to combat forest fires and improving water management for artificial snow production. The development of these infrastructures, he argued, could not only boost tourism but also help address environmental challenges such as forest fires, which are increasingly prevalent in many parts of the country.

The Economic Benefits of Tourism for Local Communities

Borshosh emphasized the economic impact of expanding mountain tourism, particularly in terms of job creation. By improving accessibility to mountain regions and developing year-round tourism activities, Bulgaria could generate new employment opportunities for local communities. The development of ski slopes, hotels, and other tourism-related infrastructure could stimulate local economies, attract international investors, and contribute to solving the country’s demographic challenges by creating jobs in rural areas.

The Minister pointed out that tourism has the potential to revitalize rural areas, especially in mountain communities, where economic opportunities can be limited. Tourism-driven investments in infrastructure, hotels, and other amenities would create jobs, attract foreign capital, and help stabilize the local economies. Borshosh believes that tourism can serve as a key sector for economic diversification, particularly in regions where traditional industries are not as prominent.

The Role of Air Connectivity and Infrastructure Improvements

Another important component of the tourism strategy is improving air connectivity to Bulgaria’s mountain regions. Although Bulgaria is a relatively accessible destination in terms of air travel, further expansion of direct international flight routes to airports near major ski resorts would greatly benefit tourism. Borshosh mentioned that increased air connectivity, especially to regions like Pamporovo and Bansko, would make it easier for foreign tourists to visit Bulgaria and explore its mountain tourism offerings.

Additionally, the government plans to enhance the overall travel experience by improving regional infrastructure, including road networks, and supporting transportation options that make access to Bulgaria’s ski resorts and mountain retreats easier and more convenient. This investment in infrastructure is essential to creating a seamless experience for international tourists, especially those who are looking for high-quality, accessible travel options.

The Long-Term Vision for Mountain Tourism in Bulgaria

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, Borshosh is confident that the country’s mountain tourism sector will see substantial growth, provided the right investments are made in infrastructure, marketing, and diversification. With a clear focus on sustainability, community involvement, and international marketing, Bulgaria aims to position itself as a premier destination for year-round mountain tourism.

The efforts to diversify tourism offerings, improve infrastructure, and enhance accessibility will be crucial in ensuring that Bulgaria’s mountain regions become sought-after destinations not only for winter sports enthusiasts but also for adventure tourists, culture seekers, and eco-conscious travelers year-round.

A Bright Future for Bulgaria’s Mountain Tourism

The actions taken by the Bulgarian government are, step by step, creating a better future for mountain tourism in cooperation with local government and enterprises. As these initiatives continue to develop, Bulgaria is positioning itself as a year-round tourism destination, offering unforgettable experiences through its majestic mountains, lakes, and cultural heritage.