Aspen Golf Bansko-the ski resort dominating Bulgaria holiday lettings.

Nov. 23, 2009 - PRLog -- Bulgaria and the ski destination of Aspen Golf Bansko.

I arrived at Sofia airport and picked up my rental car with the added extra of SAT NAV. A friend had warned me that the road from the airport to Bansko was a bit of an eye opener. The influence of European funding over the last few years has brought new dual carriage ways making it a much easier journey. In just over 2 hours I had made it to the Aspen Golf Complex which I had booked over the internet.

The Aspen Golf complex is set at the base off the Pirin Mountain range in the Razlog Valley. Stunning is the only words for the view. With ease I had checked in at Aspen Golf reception and was shown to my apartment. When I was booking the apartment I decided to go all out and go for a penthouse, although it is also known to cater for all budgets and accommodation types - right down to Bansko studios.

I had made a great choice - spacious lounge with fire place and ample bedroom. The balcony off the lounge gave me excellent views of the Pirin mountains and the Pirin Golf Course.

I decided to pop down to reception at Aspen Golf and see if they could arrange a tee time for the next day at the Pirin Golf. The receptionist contacted a company called Trinity Entertainment and advised me that I had a booking for the morning at 11.00am. She also gave me a list of local Bansko entertainment, bars and restaurants. I had not bought my clubs but for a small fee I could hire a set. With my following days entertainment organized I decided to pop out for an early evening’s meal as I didn’t want to late a night and spoil my swing.

A 5 minute drive from the Aspen Golf complex and I was in the picturesque town of Razlog. Easy parking and I found a nice little restaurant overlooking the stream.

After a super meal I experienced why Bulgaria was voted last year the most affordable place to ski in Europe. 20 lev (10euros) for 2 courses and a couple of drinks - fantastic value.

I woke up to brilliant sunshine streaming in my apartment window at Aspen Golf - a perfect day for a round of golf. My golf clubs were ready and I set out on this Ian Woosnam designed golf course. Considering this course is covered with snow for half the year the green staff have done a fantastic job of preparing this Bansko golf course. One thing I noticed as you walk down the fairways is the clean air. You feel so healthy as you breathe in the Pirin mountain air and take in the views walking the fairways. Ian Woosnam has got it spot on designing a great golf course in a setting from dreams.

After a couple of drinks and a superb meal in the clubhouse I decided to head back to the Aspen Golf complex and sample the spa facilities. A quick word with the receptionist and I had booked a massage. After a round of golf - what a perfect way to end the day. Massage, leisurely swim in the indoor pool and then ending with a try of the Turkish steam room and sauna. This complex really had it all and the staff was so keen to make you feel welcome.

The next day I decided to take a short drive from Aspen Golf into the town of Bansko. This town has put Bulgaria on the map for skiing it held the World Championship Ladies Downhill Skiing last year. The FIS Alpine Ski World Cup earlier this year was also held in Bansko, organized by the Bulgarian Ski Federation and Bulgarian Ski Pool. The Europeans Men’s Downhill will also be held there.

The town is split into two halves, one which is the old part with a pedestride square with traditional bars and restaurants and the other is the ski zone. Here you can find all the ski accessories shops, bars and restaurants for the après ski. With 70km of Bansko ski runs there is a challenge for every level of skier.

Though it was October and the ski season in Bansko had not yet started there was a real buzz around the town for the coming season.

Bansko has been regarded mostly for its skiing but with local companies like Trinity Entertainment offering a wide range of activities and trips. I can see this area growing into an all year round resort. Until you experience the Aspen Golf complex and Bansko Bulgaria, you cannot grasp how affordable a holiday in this region can be. Now I have experienced this area out of season I must make a return visit when the ski season is in full swing.

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I have spent my career doing freelance journalism. Most recently I have enjoyed writing reviews for the travel industry. The excitement of "mystery shopping" gives me a buzz.