Bansko

This has not resulted in a complete loss of Bansko’s identity however, with the centre of town holding on to its cobbled streets, cosy bars and locally inspired restaurants. The town is lively and there is a good après ski scene, no doubt fuelled somewhat by the low prices, making this a really good all round resort for a great value ski holiday.

The only way up the mountain is via the main access gondola, which quickly whisks you up to Bundarishka at 1635m. Here, the best beginner zone can be found on a gentle plateau – there is another small sector in the town, but the snow is more reliable further up. Longer blues are available via the Kolarski Express above Shiligarnika.

For more confident skiers and boarders, the revamped Todorka chair and the two Banderitza quads serve wide, open reds, which are a blast first thing in the morning with fresh corduroy. These finish steeply at the foot of the World Cup piste, but apart from that there is little to interest advanced skiers. Some off piste is available, especially if you hire a guide and go ski touring, but thick trees low down and cliffs high up limit the available terrain.