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Razlog: an underrated destination in the Bulgarian mountains
Razlog is simply a beautiful town and an ideal destination for nature lovers, skiers, golfers, adventurers and spa guests.
Razlog is a small town in south-western Bulgaria, located in the Razlog Valley between three mountain ranges: Rila, Pirin and the Rhodopes.
Razlog is only 6 km from the famous ski resort of Bansko, where you can enjoy excellent ski slopes and après-ski in winter. In addition, the municipality of Razlog has its own golf resort (Pirin Golf) and small-scale ski resort: Kulinoto.
Furthermore, the area around Razlog is one of the most unique spa areas in Europe. The dozens of mineral water springs and thermal baths provide a unique experience and ensure that many tourists enjoy a well-deserved relaxing holiday.
The combination of a golf, spa and ski resort is unique in the world. Within five minutes, you can be in the warm swimming pool, on the slopes or on the golf course!
Yet Razlog is often underrated and even forgotten by tourists in Bansko. They don't come here at all or only for the Lidl.
A shame, in our opinion, because Razlog is a special town and has so much beauty to offer that you will discover here!
The history of Razlog
Razlog has a rich and varied history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological finds indicate habitation from 700 BC onwards, with settlements of Thracians, Romans and Slavs. In 847, the area became part of the Bulgarian Empire under Han Presian, and in 1382 it came under Ottoman rule.
The city was first mentioned in a charter by Byzantine emperor Basil II in 1019. During the Ottoman period, Razlog was known as Mehomia.
Its inhabitants played an active role in the struggle for Bulgarian independence, notably during the Kresna-Razlog uprising in 1878 and the Ilinden uprising in 1903. After liberation from Ottoman rule in 1912, the town was renamed from Mehomia to Razlog in 1925.
Razlog is proud of its preserved architecture from the Bulgarian National Rebirth. Along Macedonia Square and Vazrazhdane Street, there are many houses in the typical Razlog style. One example is the Parapunov House, which now serves as a historical museum.
This museum houses more than 5,000 objects from different eras, including old weapons, books, traditional clothing and crafts.
Its rich history and cultural heritage make Razlog a fascinating destination for visitors interested in both Bulgaria's past and present.
What you should definitely do in Razlog: 5 fun activities
Razlog is located in an incredibly touristy region. Not surprisingly, there is a lot to see and do in the area.
Read on and you'll find a overview of activities in Razlog.
1. Climb the observation tower and enjoy the view
The Razlog observation tower is one of the main attractions in the region. It might be a bit tricky to reach via streets through the city, but once you arrive, you have to climb 365 steps.
Once you reach the top, you will enjoy the best view you could wish for!
With low-hanging fog or clouds, it is magical when you look over the cloud cover at the mountain peaks, as if you were in heaven!
At the top of the hill are benches, information boards, a cross and an observation tower with a platform where you can look down into the valley, over Bansko and Razlog and onto the peaks of the Pirin!
Several hiking trails also depart from this hill. For example, you can walk through the forest to Razlog or Bachevo.
2. Discover the culture, events and traditions in Razlog
Razlog is known for its rich folklore and traditions. One of the most famous events is the Kukeri festival “Starchevata” on New Year's Day, when men, women and children take to the streets in colourful traditional costumes and masks to chase away evil spirits. This is done to ensure a prosperous new year.
Various groups parade through the streets with large masks, drums and bells, ending up in the central square.
This festival attracts many visitors every year and is one of the most authentic Bulgarian traditions.
Come and experience it for yourself!
Other well-known events in Razlog include the “Fire of Freedom” during the national holiday, the Rock Festival in Predela and several local festivals, such as Todorovden in Bachevo and Easter celebrations in Eleshnitsa.
Would you like to know more about events in the region? Take a look at our events page here.
3. Visit the centre of Razlog: a pleasant place with terraces
Razlog is known for its unique architecture, many of which buildings have been preserved. The centre of Razlog is therefore an important place of interest.
The centre of Razlog invites you to stroll around and enjoy the sun and the surroundings. The square with fountains, together with the adjacent park, forms a pleasant whole.
The park has a large pond surrounded by cafés and restaurants with terraces, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the greenery.
The square is regularly used for open-air events, markets and music, which adds to the atmosphere during your visit.
Are you interested in local history? Then visit the Historical Museum in Razlog. This museum (located just outside the centre) offers insight into the rich history and culture of the region, with various exhibitions and artefacts.
4. Visit Pirin Golf and enjoy nature and hiking trails
Pirin Golf is a relatively new golf resort known as one of the best golf courses in Europe.
It is located about a ten-minute drive from the centre of Razlog, but it is a completely different world.
The golf courses are surrounded by luxury hotels and bungalows, and there are shops, restaurants and many different types of accommodation that make the Pirin Golf area an attractive place to visit.
There are also several water sources in the region with fresh water straight from the mountains.
There are many beautiful walking routes in this area. One of the most beautiful routes in the entire region starts at Pirin Golf.
This is the route to the Yavorov Hut. The trip to the hut takes about 2 hours and the return trip is similar, depending on the route.
At the mountain hut, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the Pirin peaks and a cup of coffee or beer with soup on the terrace.
There are also other beautiful routes that start in Pirin Golf, such as to the ruins of the town of Kalyata.
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5. Skiing in Bansko, Dobrinishte or Kulinoto
Kulinoto Ski Slot is the ski resort of Predel (municipality of Razlog), located about 12 kilometres from Razlog. It is a small-scale resort with one 1,300-metre slope and two ski lifts (one of which is a drag lift for children).
The ski resort is ideal for families with children and inexperienced skiers. It is quiet and atmospheric. Here you will find the perfect practice conditions before you start the real thing!
Ski equipment can also be purchased or rented here. There are also a few hotels in the area.
You can also ski in nearby Bansko. This ski resort is known as the largest in the Balkans and has 75 kilometres of slopes waiting for you!
Dobrinishte is also a good option for skiing. It is a lot smaller than Bansko, but that also makes it a lot quieter and more pleasant to ski in a nice environment with atmospheric restaurants.
Our favourite restaurants in Razlog
Razlog is known for its traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Here are our recommendations for restaurants in Razlog.
- Casa di Papi: fast service and an extensive menu with Italian dishes. View location
- Restaurant Mechomiya: on the edge of the city park, located in an old bathhouse from the Ottoman period. View location
- Drinks & Food 913: a small fast food restaurant with fresh burgers, chips and pastries. View location
Try local specialities such as:
- Banski Starets: A dried meat delicacy.
- Kapama: A slow-cooked stew with lots of meat, cabbage and rice.
- Shopska salad: A fresh salad with red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper and Bulgarian white cheese.
- Local wines and rakia: Bulgaria has a rich wine tradition that you should definitely try, such as the famous Melnik wines.
3 top accommodations in Razlog
The Razlog region offers a huge range of hotels and other accommodations.
Here are our tips for accommodations in Razlog.
Katarino SPA Hotel
Pirin Golf Hotel & SPA
Sveti Nikola Guesthouse
Practical information
Here is some practical information for a carefree holiday in Razlog:
- Best time to visit: Winter (December to April) for skiing; summer (June to September) for hiking and festivals.
- Accessibility: Razlog 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 Razlog, 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: Razlog 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.).
Arrived in Sofia? Here's how to get to Razlog
Razlog 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 Razlog
Once you land, it takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to drive to Razlog. 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 Razlog.
- 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 Razlog at your own pace
Many travellers choose to hire a car. This is useful if you want to explore the surrounding area, such as Dobarsko, Bansko, the thermal baths, or simply discover Razlog 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.
Come and discover Razlog and be surprised!
In addition to preserving its cultural heritage, Razlog has also developed into a modern tourist centre. Thanks to its proximity to Bansko, the town attracts many visitors who enjoy both winter sports and relaxation.
It is also an attractive destination for spa and wellness trips due to its nearby thermal springs.
Razlog combines history, culture and nature in a unique way, making it a great destination for travellers who want to discover authentic Bulgaria!
Contact us to discuss the possibilities for an unforgettable holiday. We are happy to help you arrange suitable accommodation or a mountain tour, for example.
Or plan your trip yourself and discover why Razlog is such an attractive destination!