activities

Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena, Bansko

Buzzing Bansko is Bulgaria’s premier ski resort and the most snow-sure in the country. Sunshine, thumping après-ski culture, and pistes at altitudes from 900m to 2600m draw locals and foreigner each winter. This Pirin Mountains town however gets attractive not only during ski season. Discover the beauty of unspoiled nature, magnificent landscapes and endless relaxation also in the summer.

Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena is situated at the footsteps of the majestic mountain with direct access to the gondola lift station. This oasis of luxury, comfort and tranquility in Bansko is open year-round and comprises Alpine-style rooms and suites, superb conference facilities, lavish dining services and an award-winning spa centre. The hotel is currently undergoing a complete renovation of its wellness center which is taking place until May 26th when they are re-opening again.

As soon as we set foot in the hotel, we found ourself surrounded by a caring ambiance created with the genuine desire to make us feel most welcome. Each of the 157 rooms at Kempinski is designed in traditional Alpine-style with wooden furniture and bright colors. The modern and luxurious property offers deluxe and executive rooms categories featuring a private balcony, with either garden or mountain room and free Wi-Fi thought-out the property. The biggest advantage of having a mountain was the possibility to check out the current ski conditions on the slope of Pirin mountain.

Dining takes a special place at Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena. The Gallery Restaurant served a gourmet themed buffet selection ranging from local Bulgarian cuisine through Italian, French, or American style. During your stay, you can also enjoy exquisite Mediterranean food prepared on-the-spot at the Come Prima Restaurant, or embark on a culinary journey at Teppanyaki tables and treat yourself to a mouth-watering selection of traditional Japanese specialties made by team of Asian chefs. We, especially enjoyed the Asian and Gril themed buffets on Saturday and Sunday which fulfilled our hunger after long day of activities in the mountain.

The upcoming summer season bustles variety of outdoor activities. Whether you go for hiking or choose rock climbing, few hours in the mountain will get you acquainted and fulfill your desire for challenge and adventure. Try some of the cycling tours offered in the region, go for unforgettable walks in the countryside or tours between beautiful and authentic villages in the valley.

If the temperature gets too hot, cool down by climbing down a waterfall, secured by climbing ropes and try cannoning - an experience you will never forget, always fun and refreshing. For the fans of motorsports or the people who have decided to try an ATV, region of Bansko also provides wonderful tours in a beautiful mountain scenery. This will be an exciting adventure through the mountain paths suitable for groups and couples.

After long day of activities, you will find yourself surrounded by the ultimate spa experience inspired by the European cycle of the seasons. Extending over 1,200 sq m, the spa centre features 12 treatment rooms, three swimming pools, outdoor and indoor Jacuzzis, two saunas and steam baths, extensive fitness centre and unique Snow Room. A variety of authentic Thai massages, seasonal treatments and beauty procedures with all natural cosmetic products await to be discovered. We took a deep dive in the outside pool which was gave us a perfect balance between the weather outside and the water temperature. Afterwards headed to the steam sauna and cooled off in the relax area.

We cannot forget about other peaks of staying at Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena. Billiards and a kids’ club are located above the lobby area, the hotel can organise airport pick-up and drop-off from Sofia and Thessaloniki International Airport and the VIP Ski pass is available at a surcharge to all hotel guests at the hotel premises, which guarantees you a direct private access to the gondola, a big advantage especially during the winter season. As an advanced skier, I have to say that having VIP Ski pass was perfect as I could skip the queue at the beginning of the gondola station.

Towards the end of your stay at Kempinski, you are caught thinking I would like to stay here forever. If you simply cannot, at least try to enjoy it for the days you are being here and let everyone else simply envy you. For more information regarding the hotel, its facilities and direct booking, do not hesitate to visit their website https://www.kempinski.com/en/bansko/hotel-grand-arena/

or become a fan on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KempinskiHotelBansko/.