Converted farmhouse near mountain resort, skiing, summer activities, sightseeing

Location: Located in Raduil, a village in the foothills of the Rila Mountains, south of Sofia, the house is well placed for winter and summer trips. The Borovets ski resort is only a 15 minute drive away where you can enjoy some of the cheapest skiing in Europe! In the summer, Borovets becomes a base for summer activities. Depending on the time of the year, activity holidays such as skiing, mountain biking, horse riding, walking and guided mountain hiking are possible. The house is also well placed for sightseeing, bird watching, photography or just getting away from it all. The nearest shop is less than a minute away. More shops are in the village centre where bars are located too. There is a restaurant but it is not operating at the moment. With car hire, many areas of interest can easily be reached or transport can be arranged from the village. To the west, the amazing Rila Monastery, the Seven Lakes and the hot spa baths of Sapareva Banya with Sofia towards the north and Plovdiv to the east. All are easy day trips. By incorporating an overnight stay you can venture a little further to reach more great places and this is something you may want to consider if you are staying longer time. This is a versatile location, whether you are looking for an adventure holiday, a family holiday, a quiet, get away from it all break or a lively one incorporating the nightlife of Borovets. Access: The house is a short distance along a grass lane. The lane is maintained, so is passable at all times. Both doors to the property are only navigable via steps so are not suitable for wheelchair access. The spiral staircase between the ground and first floors might not be suitable for people with mobility issues but there are standard external stairs as an alternative. Layout and Facilities: The house accommodates up to 8 people in 3 bedrooms comprising 2 twin rooms on the middle floor and a pine clad loft with 4 single beds, which may be configured as twin or singles. The ground floor features two bathroom/wet rooms with toilets, showers and the jacuzzi in the large bathroom is ideal for relaxing. The lounge /dining room has an L-shaped cushioned bench, a dining table and chairs, a two seater sofa, a TV, DVD and CD player and a reading library. The kitchen is equipped for self catering and features rustic beams and a glass-fronted log-burning fire. The house is fully alarmed and has off-road parking, giving you peace of mind. It is well insulated, making it cool in the summer and easier to heat in the winter. The covered porch makes a lovely terrace to sit out on. Heating and Hot Water: During winter months, the fire operates a boiler which runs the central heating and hot water. This is normal for rural Bulgaria and instruction will be given on how to operate it. Depending on heating and hot water requirements, the system can be boosted by a second log-burner and ultimately an electric immersion heater. Fires can be lit for you if required and this is especially useful if are out and about and want to come home to a warm house. For many, log fires can be a joy to maintain and we've experienced friends competing with each other! They do require some physical activity though, so they may not be suitable for the elderly or people with mobility problems. During the summer, hot water is provided by solar panels on the roof of the house, in conjunction with the electric immersion heater. Outbuildings and Garden: The house has a large informal garden with fruit trees and rock features bordering a gravelled area for off-road parking suitable for several cars. Several restored rustic timber-framed and daubed outbuildings enclose an area suitable for outdoor eating, There is also a ‘summer kitchen,’ a covered area with clay oven that has been adapted for barbecue use. Garden furniture is provided and covered seating is available in the outbuildings.The traditional barn houses an additional wood-fired boiler to boost the house heating and hot water supply and a secure ski locker for guests using their own skis. Nearby: Skiing Facilities: An 8km/15 minute drive from Mavrud Lodge, is one of Bulgaria’s prime ski resorts, Borovets. Featured in the UK press as top value European resort (Metro & Observer). It offers a range of winter sports and has a world-class biathlon track. It also has several ski schools, all with English-speaking instructors. Borovets is ideal for beginners and intermediates to hone their skills but also has plenty to offer the more experienced skier. Night time skiing is also provided. Borovets key facts - highest skiing area: 2560m; total length of runs: 58km; longest run: 12km; cross country tracks: 35km. Non-skiers can also take the gondola to enjoy the mountain views. Borovets also a base for summer pursuits, offering day walks, mountain biking and guided mountain hiking with overnight stays in mountain huts. There are plenty of après-ski activities at the many clubs, restaurants and bars, all at manageable prices. There are clubs to suit most tastes and the night-life attracts all ages. Cash points and internet access are available. Reasonably priced transport to and from Borovets may be arranged locally, at times to suit you, whether skiing, or partying into the night! Water Activities: Lakeside beaches and watersports are available at Lake Iskar, about 50 minutes by car. Water skiing, jet skiing and fishing are possible. Or you can relax and enjoy a drink and a meal at one the lakeside restaurants.