The reason we initially selected The Four Seasons chalet for our first skiiing holiday was that it was one of the few places that could accommodate fourteen people at a reasonable price. However, we committed to choosing it because it only had fantastic, five-star reviews on this site which demonstrated a genuine warmth for the the host, his family and the chalet itself. We booked, paid our deposit...and a year later flew out to Bulgaria.
We were not disappointed! From the moment we were met at Sofia airport by Nick's daughter, we were looked after. Nothing was too much trouble: we were greeted with an unexpected welcome drink and snacks; a friendly face fed us a hearty breakfast each day and the cheap honesty bar in the cosy lounge was kept well-stocked (it needed to be!). We were also advised on some excellent restaruants for the evening, or could order take-away meals if we preferred. If ever we had any queries, Nick was always available to answer them, but was never intrusive. This was invaluable for a large group visiting a country and doing activities most of us had very little knowledge of!
At a time to suit us each morning, we were driven to Borovets for skiing, snowboarding, sledging, walking, shopping or just relaxing by the slopes - there was pleanty for different group members to do each day. When skiing, we were treated with courtesy, patience, good humour and interesting conversation on the slopes, as Nick took it in turns to give each person specifc skiing advice to the individuals in the group. How he must have despaired at our slow progress, punctuated by probably far-too-frequent breaks! But he never showed it, nor made anyone feel inadequate. The degree of challenge was right for each person, without putting anyone at risk or in danger. This was all due to Nick's expert knowledge of the slopes, weather and his own skiing ability, of course.
Like everything else in Borovets, the lift passes, equipment hire, ski instruction and transfers were very good value. These items could be bought as needed, so suited both the novice and expert skiers/snowboarders amongst us. The flexiblility and choice was what made this holiday so easy to organise and enjoy. The range of rooms and facilities in the clean and attractive chalet meant that there was plenty of both space and privacy for a large group.
Would we go again? You bet! I'm just off to make the booking now...