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27.01.2025

During the winter, Vitosha offers incredible conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and our apartments in Sofia are just a short distance from the resort. Take advantage of the convenience of our modernly furnished accommodations and combine active winter sports with cozy relaxation in the heart of the capital.

 

It offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are many other activities such as sledding, hiking trails, and opportunities for paragliding. Initially known as a place for peaceful relaxation and walks, Vitosha transforms into a dynamic and lively winter sports hub.

Sofia is located at the foot of Vitosha, about a 20-30 minute drive away, making it one of the few capitals in the world situated so close to a mountain. During winter, Vitosha is a great place if you want to ski, snowboard, sled, or enjoy a refreshing walk in the beautiful nature while sipping a cup of hot tea.

The mountain spans an area of 278 sq. km, stretching from the Sofia Valley and Lozen Mountain in the east to the Pernik Valley in the west. Its average altitude is 1,500 meters, with its highest peak being Cherni Vrah (2,290 meters).

Vitosha Nature Park, the oldest park in Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula, is located within the mountain. It was established in 1934 and currently covers an area of 27,079 hectares.

At the foot of Vitosha (in the Boyana district) is the Boyana Church, one of Bulgaria's cultural symbols and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Above the Dragalevtsi district, on the way to Aleko Hut, lies the Dragalevski Monastery (1345).

Vitosha is among Bulgaria's 100 National Tourist Sites (Cherni Vrah - 2,290 meters). Organized tourism began on August 27, 1895, with the ascent of Cherni Vrah by writer Aleko Konstantinov and a group of friends and supporters.

A boulevard in Sofia’s city center, Vitosha Boulevard, is named after the mountain. It is the main shopping street in the city, lined with luxury stores of Bulgarian and world-famous fashion brands, cafes, and restaurants. The boulevard is just a minute's walk from our apartments and is pedestrian-only in the section between Alabin Street and Patriarch Evtimiy Boulevard. It offers a stunning view of Vitosha Mountain and its highest peak, Cherni Vrah, on one side and the St. Nedelya Church on the other.

Transportation

The Simeonovo Gondola Lift will not be operational this season. You can reach the mountain by public transport, car, or via one of the hiking trails.

Public Transport

The main bus lines serving Vitosha during the winter season are:

  • Line 61: from the National Palace of Culture (NDK) to Zlatnite Mostove, passing through Boyana. Operates daily.

  • Line 63: from Tsar Boris III Blvd. through Boyana to Zlatnite Mostove. Operates on weekends.

  • Line 66: from the Sofia Zoo through Dragalevtsi to Hotel Moreni. Operates daily.

More information about the bus schedule can be found on the Sofia Public Transport website - www.sofiatraffic.bg.

In January 2025, the Sofia Municipality decided to increase the number of buses on the busiest lines - 61 and 66. They will be equipped with racks for skis, snowboards, and sleds.

Car Access

You can reach Vitosha by car via Boyana and Dragalevtsi in 15-20 minutes. During weekends and public holidays in the winter season, access to the mountain is restricted from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. During this time, only public transport buses are allowed. In case of heavy snowfall, roads will be closed until fully cleared. Vehicles must be fully equipped for winter conditions and carry chains. The road from Hotel Moreni to Aleko Hut will be designated as a pedestrian zone, allowing only ski school buses and rescue service vehicles.

Hiking Routes

There are numerous hiking routes to Vitosha, starting from neighborhoods at the mountain’s base - Knyazhevo, Boyana, Dragalevtsi, Simeonovo, Bistritsa, Zheleznitsa, etc. Some popular routes include:

  • Dragalevtsi to Aleko Hut and Cherni Vrah (red markings)

  • Simeonovo to Aleko Hut (yellow markings)

  • Zheleznitsa to Kupena Hut and Cherni Vrah (blue markings)

  • Bistritsa to Aleko Hut (green markings)

  • Knyazhevo to Zlatnite Mostove (yellow markings)

  • Vladaia to Zlatnite Mostove (blue markings)

Aleko Ski Zone

Aleko Ski Center is the oldest and most visited ski center on Vitosha, situated around Aleko Hut at 1,800 meters above sea level. It offers several ski slopes with varying difficulty levels.

Aleko Hut is a three-story building with 88 beds, electricity, and central heating. It features a ski rental, restaurant, café, and shop.

The Mountain Rescue Service (PSS - www.pss-bg.bg/mountains/vitosha/) has a base at Aleko Ski Center and operates 24/7.

Ski Runs - Aleko Zone

During the 2024/2025 winter season, the following slopes will operate daily from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM, weather permitting:

  • Vitoshko Lale 1 (red, 1,700 meters)

  • Vitoshko Lale 3 (blue, 2,300 meters)

Lift and Equipment Operating Hours - Winter 2024/2025

  • Vitoshko Lale 1 Chairlift (1,345 meters, 1,500 people/hour)

  • Night skiing (Wednesday-Saturday) - 06:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Ski School and Rentals

The Vitosha Ski School operates daily from 09:00 AM to 04:30 PM and offers lessons and rental services.

Night Skiing

Night skiing starts on January 8 and runs from Wednesday to Saturday, weather permitting. Lift passes are available on-site or online.

Vitosha Outdoor Center

Located opposite the upper station of the Simeonovo Gondola Lift, offering equipment rentals, guided tours, and event planning.

For more information, visit www.skivitosha.com

 

A winter vacation in Sofia is a true delight for every winter sports enthusiast. The ski slopes of Vitosha offer perfect conditions for fun and adrenaline, while our apartments near the mountain provide coziness and comfort after a day full of winter adventures. Whether you are an experienced skier, snowboarder, or simply looking for a way to enjoy the winter beauty, our accommodations are the perfect place to relax. Discover the winter charm of Sofia and enjoy a unique vacation that combines active sports with relaxation in a comfortable setting.