Bansko is Bulgaria's ski resort, having the best and most modern ski centre of all Bulgarian ski resorts. During the recent years a multi-million euros investment in a brand new skiing area has been made by Yulen, the company which has the licence to run the skiing area of the resort. Bansko has the best snow record and the longest ski season (15 Dec - 15 May) of all Bulgarian ski resorts. During the last couple of years this resort is under a massive investment process with new hotels and resort facilities being under construction. A brand new resort area with super luxury hotels and holiday apartments is being developed just opposite the Gondola lift, which also makes Bansko the resort with the best hotels. The town of Bansko is situated nearby the river Glazane (left feeder of Mesta River) in the north- eastern foot of Pirin, right bellow the highest and most beautiful part of the mountain. Its name comes from the old Bulgarian word “ban”, which means “master”. It is just 160 kilometers away from Sofia and 160 kilometers from Plovdiv. Bansko has developed into a favourite ski & snowboard destination, thanks to the excellent ski facilities combined with the unique architecture and history. The town of Bansko is located on 925 m. above sea level, and its skiing area is on 2000-2600 m. The Pirin mountain has a predominantly Alpine character and highest peak in the area is Vihren 2914 m. The ski pistes are located in two main ski - centres- CHALIN VALOG (1100-1600 m) and SHILIGARNIKA (1700-2500 m). They are approximately 10 km above the town on the northern slopes of Pirin, and are easily accessible for approximately 25 minutes ride on the new Gondola lift which starts from Bansko. The total length of the marked pistes is 70 kilometers. The resort has excellent snow conditions with great snow cover from December until May. 44 Technoalpine snow cannons cover most of the slopes and make the ski season last longer. The maximum pleasure from the various ski pistes is guaranteed by 12 Kassbohrer slope maintenance vehicles. Thus the slopes offer runs and tracks for all types of skiers and will suit both beginners and experts. Slalom and Giant slalom runs are available. Bansko offers a cross-country track with a total length of 5 km. A 3 km ski run Rollbahn track is situated 2 km far from the town. Of course there's a lot to see in the town of Bansko itself, with around 120 cultural and historical monuments and alot to explore. Various souvenir shops offer the creations of the local artists and smiths. Bansko is known to be unique site of international significance. Except for the beautiful The Pirin Mountain the town possesses rich historical sites. Remains from ancient fortresses in the Staroto Gradishte site, are situated just four kilometers in western direction and the Ulen site along the Demianitsa river flow. Nearby Staroto Gradishte site there are Thracian mound hills. South of Bansko is situated the National Park Pirin included in the UNESCO list for cultural and natural sightseeing. The park is rich with its lakes, waterfalls, caves, venerable trees and historical sites. Bansko together with Dobrinishte are also famous for their mineral springs, the reserve Bayovi dupki- Djindjiritsa. Being the biggest ski resort of Bulgaria, practically Bansko offers great opportunities in this respect satisfying visitors of different financial means. There are many luxury hotels (plus one five star hotel), holiday apartments as well as more than 50 small family hotels.