Hotel Samokov - Borovets, Bulgaria 

Having read most of the other reviews on the net we set off for Borovets with only average expectations. That was lucky. The Samokov hotel is like a never-ending hangover. Everything about it is old, the staff are disinterested and generally rude and there is very little to suggest that it is anything other than a run-down income generator for those that own it. Guest comfort is not a priority. The rooms are small, the television sets belong in a cold war museum and the linen has seen better days. The food was processed to the max and almost without exception deep-fried, and not even the Bulgarian yoghurt was up to scratch. We were hoping that the town itself might reveal a bit of Bulgarian charm (if there is such a thing) but unfortunately it was not to be. It was largely a thrown together combination of bubblegum tourist trap restaurants (each with a genuine Bulgarian standing outside trying to entice you in with promises of "cheap beer, real steak and pizza" ) and corrugated iron shops selling fake sunglasses and t-shirts. Not particularly authentic. Throw a few cheesy strip joints into the mix and you start to get the picture. I must say though that I almost feel bad writing a review like this because the mountain itself is really beautiful, and the skiing, although not on a par with most European resorts, isn't bad. In fact, it was probably the only redeeming feature of the whole trip. A few extra lifts could transform the place, and there is massive potential to develop new runs. At the moment the options are limited and it does get slightly tedious going up the same button lifts 25 times a morning, but the scenery is captivating and there are some decent runs to be found. In summary, we were never expecting much. It wasn't an expensive holiday (though not as cheap as you'd think either...) and ultimately we were still disappointed. As far as I am concerned Bulgarians have a lot to learn about hospitality, and I would strongly recommend paying a little extra and sticking with a charming, trusted Alpine resort. I hope things change for the better but until then think twice before booking.

Been to borovets 3 times. Would only go if begginer or just turned intermidiate. family of ours have stayed at other bulgarian skiing resorts and this seems the best for a mixture. average skiing brilliant nightlife. i stayed at the samokov all 3 times, nothing special but clean and tidy. none of the food in borovets is any good where ever you go. have been to austria and i rated borovets far higher for begginers as it is very cheap, to book and once out there. be careful when you book when i went in feb there were hardly any runs open due to lack of snow. ski instructors very willing to help you. ours even stayed later every night just to give us private tution and didnt want anything for it. samokov has a brilliant bar very big and light, unlike rila which may be newer but is dark and dreary.