The number of tourists to visit Bulgaria’s winter resort of Bansko this season is expected to reach between 800 000 and one million people.

Nearly 25 per cent more tourist visits were expected during season 2006/2007 in comparison to the figures for the previous season, Novinar newspaper reported.

The majority of foreign tourists was expected to come from Russia, the report said.

The resort will be able to accommodate more foreigners because of the increased number of functioning hotels. More than 25 three to five-star hotels operate in the resort.

Bansko expected the opening of 100 new hotels, Novinar reported. In comparison to the previous year, it can accommodate twice as many tourists, or 15 000 people.

Prices for the usage of facilities vary from 50 leva for a one day lift card to 280 leva for six days of usage.

Winter resorts in Bulgaria still face a problem related to the lack of snow. In addition, construction is ongoing despite bans, Novinar reported.

Source: sofiaecho.com