This is a ski resort in the southern part of the Rhodope Mountains, the sunniest in Europe, with snow throughout the whole season. Pamporovo is situated 1650 meters above sea level at the foot of the Snezhanka Peak, from which you can see the shores of the Aegean Sea, according to legend. Pamporovo is 260 kilometers from Sofia, 85 kilometers from Plovdiv and 16 kilometers from Smolyan. Its existence as a resort dates back to the 1960s.
Pamporovo enjoys an exceptional climate, mild winters, and 120 sunny days during the ski season. The average temperature during the season is -3 Celsius, and 5.5 Celsius annually. The many slopes in Pamporovo are ideal for both beginners and advanced riders. All runs have been checked for safety, and are maintained in excellent condition. Over 100 high-level instructors fluent in several languages are available for beginner skiers and snowboarders.
The runs in Pamporovo are located at an altitude of 1444 to 1930 meters, east and west of Snezhanka Peak, with the toughest track called The Wall. The longest run is 5.1 kilometers and the maximum height is 476 meters. There are 9 ski lifts and 6 chair lifts available, as well as a track that is illuminated at night by 28 spotlights. The Snezhanka 2, with a length of 1176 meters and a width of 60 meters, allows riders to experience a different feeling. Snowmobiles are also available.
Pamporovo is recommended for family holidays or for those seeking a relaxing vacation in the mountains. Activities besides skiing in Pamporovo begin much earlier than sunset. The Rhodope Mountains are renowned for their local cuisine and folk traditions. Most of the hotels in the resort have at least one restaurant and bar. At the station and near the tracks, you will find various types of restaurants, each serving their own specialties. Don’t forget to try the culinary delights of the region, such as Kavarma, Banitsa, and Cheverme, and if you still have energy, the resort offers lots of night life.
Although Pamporovo is known mainly for its winter attractions, it also offers many activities in the summer. There are many marked hiking trails in the vicinity. The Tava trail for instance leads to Shiroka Laka, which can be reached on foot or by bicycle. There is also horseback riding. The Buynov Gorge, Trigrad, Yagodina and Devil’s Throat caves, Uhlovitsa, Rozhen Observatory and Planetarium, Shiroka Laka, Gela, Stoykite, Smilyan, and Arda are some of the many attractions that make the region popular during the summer season.