Golf is coming to Bansko!

Golf in Bulgaria - surprisingly, this is a phrase being heard more and more these days. Golf is becoming a very popular activity in the country and courses are being developed everywhere - including in Bansko. The newest course in Bansko gives golf lovers the unique opportunity to enjoy their favourite game amidst the scenic beauty and majestic mountains of the area. Golfing in Bansko, Bulgaria is particularly spectacular as the course is situated right at the foot of the magnificent Pirin Mountains.

Development at a professional level
Internationally renowned designers having been taking an active interest in developing state-of-the art golf courses in Bulgaria and the effort is paying off. The IBar at Dolna Banya is being developed by Jack Nicklaus and two courses between Kavarna and Balchik were designed by Gary Player. Most of the thirty upcoming golf courses (yes, 30!) in the area are being developed in three regions: at local ski resorts such as Razlog and Bansko; along the coast of the Black Sea in Balchik, Primorsko, Pamorie and Kavarna and near Bulgaria's capital, Sofia.

A lush green and equipped clubhouse
The Redenka Golf & Ski Club offers two choices of top-of-the-line Bulgarian golf apartments- the Grand Redenka and The Redenka Palace. The Grand Redenka features 119 apartments, a beauty center, a huge Sports & Spa centre, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, volleyball and basketball courts as well as underground parking and shopping.

Ihtiman, the first golf course to be developed in Bulgaria, is situated on the Trakia Highway, 40 km from Sofia. This 18-hole golf course was designed and built by English experts together with Spanish architects. In addition to two putting greens, a fully outfitted Pro Shop and driving range, this golf property also features two swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball, volleyball and football, a sauna, Jacuzzi and massage services. There are golf clubs, trolleys and carts available for hire.

Bansko - part of Bulgaria's golfing picture
By 2008, golf lovers will be able to look forward to playing at the Pirin Golf and Country Club, which will feature an exclusive golf course, designed by Ian Woosnam, the current captain of the European Ryder Cup. This complex will feature a golf course, sport centre, horse base, hotel and spa center, and more. Two other golf courses, the Kulinoto Ski and Golf Complex and Pirin Golf Holidays Club are also being planned in the immediate area. Bansko - on the Bulgarian golfing map.