Bulgaria

Bulgaria is Europe's best value for skiing: three resorts in three mountain ranges, at a fraction of Alpine prices. Bansko, in the Pirin Mountains, is the biggest and most modern, with a long gondola from a historic town and lively nightlife. Borovets, the country's oldest resort, sits below Musala in the Rila Mountains, an easy trip from Sofia. Pamporovo, the sunniest and most southerly major resort in Europe, has gentle pine-lined runs ideal for beginners. The season runs roughly December to April.