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Banya: the thermal pearl among the mountains
Banya is a small village in south-west Bulgaria, in Razlog municipality in Blagoevgrad province. Located just 5 km from Bansko and 4 km from Razlog, Banya is situated in a wide valley surrounded by three mountain ranges: the Pirin, Rila and Rhodopes.
The village is well-known throughout Bulgaria for several reasons: the panoramic mountain views, the thermal springs, the beautiful nature and the fresh mountain air.
Banya literally means ‘bath’ in Bulgarian - and that is no coincidence. The village has more than 70 natural hot springs, ranging between 37°C and 58°C.
The water is rich in minerals and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for rheumatism, skin conditions and muscle and joint pain, among other things.
Banya is one of Bulgaria's wealthier villages because of its thermal baths, which many tourists are very interested in. This has attracted many investors to build large hotel complexes, such as Grand Hotel Therme and Regnum Banya.
Banya is a small and friendly village; there are many hospitable families offering rooms or other services.
Banya is a perfect holiday destination for many different travellers. It is considerably quieter than Bansko, but close enough for day trips.
It is also perfect for a combination of skiing and relaxing in winter, and in summer it is ideal for hiking, cycling and wellness.
With its authentic Bulgarian atmosphere, traditional architecture and local cuisine, Banya is a real gem!
History of Banya
Banya has a long history dating back to Thracian times (more than 2,000 years ago). The region was popular for its thermal mineral springs, which were considered healing. The Romans also settled in the area and built bath houses - remnants of which are still visible.
During Ottoman rule (14th-19th century), Banya remained an important village because of its springs. The name ‘Banya’ literally means ‘bath’ in Bulgarian, referring to this centuries-long bathing culture. There are several relics from this era in the form of old Ottoman bath houses.
In the 20th century, Banya increasingly became a spa and tourist destination. Thanks to its proximity to Bansko (a popular ski resort), the village has become popular for tourists looking for peace, nature as well as wellness.
What to do in Banya? Our tips for the best activities
Banya is a destination that offers plenty of activities all year round. In the winter months it is known as Bulgaria's largest ski and spa resort, while in the summer months Banya transforms into a paradise for nature lovers.
Here you will discover all about the best activitiesin Banya!
1. Wellness and relaxation: unwind in spas and thermal baths
The region is known for its thermal baths and mineral water springs. It is even one of the most important spa areas in Europe.
There are no fewer than 75 mineral water springs in Banya. It is no wonder that it has been known as a spa town for thousands of years and even owes its name to these springs.
Nearby Dobrinishte is also known as a spa town. Dobrinishte is a popular holiday destination for many Bulgarians because of its spring and mountain water and the Bezbog ski resort.
In this town, for example, you'll find the outdoor swimming pool "Alfa Spa & Pool." This pool is filled with naturally warm spring water of up to 40°C, meaning it is also open in winter.
Banya and Dobrinishte are villages that have been frequently visited since ancient times for their thermal baths and the health benefits they offer. Bathhouses from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods have been discovered.
Each spring has its own unique composition, offering different health benefits. The water, for example, is very good for the skin and reduces skin problems.
The warm water is excellent for bathing in one of the many spa hotels or one of the bath houses, even in winter after skiing.
In addition, the water is also just very tasty and healthy to drink.
Well-known spa hotels and thermal baths in Banya include Hot Springs Medical & Spa Hotel, Villa Victoria and Grand Hotel Therme. The public bath Izgreva is also a well-known thermal bath.
2. Skiing and snowboarding in the largest ski resort in south-eastern Europe
Bansko is located just five kilometres from Banya and is known as Bulgaria's largest ski resort and the largest in Eastern Europe after Rosa Khutor in Russia.
There are a total of 75 km of slopes and 14 lifts in Bansko, and the ski season runs from December to April.
The Bansko ski area ranges from 990 to 2,600 metres, which means that the higher parts in particular are very snow-sure.
There are also other ski areas in the region. Dobrinishte, for example, is a great destination for families with children.
Afterwards, you can enjoy delicious food in one of Dobrinishte's many restaurants.
3. Adventure in nature
Since ancient times, everyone has known the natural beauty and healing powers of Banya's surroundings.
In the summer months, there are numerous hiking and cycling routes that explore the beautiful nature of the Pirin Mountains.
A short distance from Banya is Pirin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for hiking and nature lovers. Here, kilometres of hiking trails await you!
How about hiking from the Pirin Golf complex to the Yavorov Hut?
Walking from Banya to Dobrinishte is also a beautiful route through nature. You can combine this with the Rhodope narrow-gauge railway. That way, you can enjoy two fun activities in one day.
You can also enjoy wonderful walking or mountain biking in the forests around Banya. Here you can enjoy nature and beautiful views of the Pirin and Rila mountains.
For lovers of horse riding, Vikora Horse Riding offers tours through the picturesque surroundings of Banya. An unforgettable experience!
Not so keen on horses? Then a buggy or Jeep safari might be for you. At Bansko ATV, for example, you can race through nature on a quad bike with a group. This is a very popular and spectacular activity in the region!
Our favourite restaurants in Banya
Although Banya is small, it has a wide range of restaurants. These are our favourites:
- Restaurant Kristina: a cosy and atmospheric family restaurant. View location
- Mehana Uncles: traditional Bulgarian tavern. View location
- Restaurant “Pri Spaska”: delicious Bulgarian dishes in a traditional tavern. View location
Banya is known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Try local specialities such as:
- Banski Starets: A dried meat delicacy.
- Kapama: A slow-cooked stew with meat, cabbage and rice.
- Shopska salad: A fresh salad with red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and Bulgarian white cheese.
- Local wines and rakia: Bulgaria has a rich wine tradition that you should definitely taste. Melnik is fun to visit in this respect!
3 accommodations for the perfect wellness holiday
In Banya (and beyond), there is a wide range of hotels, restaurants and eateries. There are also several campsites in the area.
Here are our recommendations for spa hotels in Banya.
Grand Hotel Therme Banya
As part of Grand Hotels by Pulse, this hotel offers Bulgaria's largest spa centre, with pools filled with thermal spring water reaching temperatures of up to 58°C! This luxury hotel is equipped with every convenience, so look no further and come here to completely unwind in the healing thermal waters.
Regnum Banya - Thermal Spa Hotel
The wellness area with multiple swimming pools, a hot tub, a jacuzzi, a sauna and a steam bath awaits you.
Hot Springs Medical & Spa Hotel
Here you can enjoy physiotherapy, mud therapy, cold therapy and other treatments.
Practical information
Here is some practical information for a carefree holiday in Banya:
- Best time to visit: Winter (December to April) for skiing; summer (June to September) for hiking and festivals.
- Accessibility: Banya is located approximately 160 km from Sofia and can be reached by car, bus or train.
- Temperature and weather: The average temperature in winter is around 5°C, with a total of about one month of snow cover (in the valley). At night and on the mountain, the temperature can drop to as low as -20°C. In summer, the average temperature is between 25°C and 35°C during the day, but it cools down sufficiently at night.
- Accommodation: From luxury resorts and campsites to cosy guesthouses and bungalows, there is a wide range of accommodation options.
- Food & drink: In Banya, you can't escape the many traditional Bulgarian restaurants. Try local specialities such as “Banski Starets” (dried meat) and the traditional stew “Kapama”. There are also plenty of Italian, Greek and other restaurants and fast food outlets.
- Culture: Bulgarians shake their heads when they mean “yes” and nod when they mean “no”. When it comes to customer service, staff can sometimes come across as a bit grumpy.
- Safety: Banya is a very safe destination, but be aware of pickpockets and con artists in crowded places. Slippery or snowy roads are also a possibility, so drive carefully.
- Language: Bulgarian is spoken, but English is widely understood in most places (hotels, restaurants, Gondola, etc.).
How to reach Banya from Sofia?
Banya is located approximately 160 kilometres from Sofia and is therefore easily accessible from the United Kingdom and Ireland. Whether you are coming for skiing, hiking, thermal baths or simply to enjoy the mountains, the route there is easy and comfortable.
Flying to Sofia
Most travellers arrive at Sofia Airport.
From London for example, you can fly with Bulgaria Air, Wizz Air or Ryanair. Flights are regular and often surprisingly affordable.
From Sofia to Banya
Once you land, it takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to drive to Banya. The route is mostly on good (motor)ways and is doable in any season – in winter through a beautiful snowy landscape, in summer along green hills.
These are the possible transport options:
- Rental car – the most flexible way to explore the region.
- Shuttle / Airport Transfer – ideal if you don't want to drive yourself; you will be dropped off at your doorstep.
- Bus – affordable and direct from Sofia bus station to Banya.
- Train – a unique route through the mountains, but with transfers it takes about 8 hours.
Prefer not to drive yourself?
Then you can opt for an Airport Transfer. A local driver will take you to your accommodation safely, comfortably and without hassle. Especially nice if you arrive late at night or are travelling with children.
Car hire: discover Banya at your own pace
Many travellers choose to hire a car. This is useful if you want to explore the surrounding area, such as Bansko, Razlog, the thermal baths, or simply discover Banya at your own pace.
We recommend Top Rent A Car: Bulgaria's most reliable car hire company for many years.
- Transparent prices
- New and well-maintained cars
- Unlimited kilometres
- Option to cross the border, for example to the Greek coast
Below you will find the current prices and available cars at Sofia Airport for your travel dates.
We work with reliable partners such as Top Rent A Car. If you book through our link, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Banya: Bulgaria's ultimate spa destination
Banya invites you to a soothing escape, where you can not only experience the benefits of thermal baths but also enjoy Bulgaria's natural beauty, immersed in pleasant temperatures that promote a sense of well-being.
The village offers a charming setting with picturesque streets and traditional Bulgarian architecture. The green surroundings and surrounding mountains create an idyllic setting for relaxation, adventure, and exploration!
Contact us to discuss the possibilities for an unforgettable holiday. We are happy to help you arrange suitable accommodation or a mountain hike with our expertise.
Or plan your trip yourself and discover what makes Banya such a fantastic destination!