Welcome to Explore Bansko
About Us
We're Martin and Leanne Phelps, and Bansko has been a big part of our lives for many years.
Welcome to Explore Bansko
We're Martin and Leanne Phelps, and Bansko has been a big part of our lives for many years.
What started with a love of skiing, the mountains and the relaxed lifestyle of Bansko has grown into something much more than that. We've made the area our home, built friendships with local people and businesses, and over the years have welcomed hundreds of guests to stay in our chalets.
We've always believed that the best holidays are about more than just where you sleep. They're about the people you meet, the places you discover, the food and drink you enjoy and, of course, the stories you take home with you.
That's what Explore Bansko is all about.
Our Chalets
We look after a small collection of comfortable, characterful chalets in and around Bansko, each offering something a little different.
Our chalets are ideal for families, groups of friends, ski groups, university groups and anyone looking for a more personal alternative to a hotel.
Whether you want a fully catered ski holiday, a relaxing summer escape or simply a great base from which to explore the Pirin Mountains, we aim to make your stay as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Our properties have been chosen with groups in mind — plenty of space to relax together, comfortable bedrooms, social areas and those all-important places to sit down with a drink after a day out.
Snow Pine Chalet
9 ensuite berooms - sleeps 22
River Pine Chalet
6 ensuite bedrooms -sleeps 16
Ginchini Chalet
10 bedrooms - sleeps 23
More Than Just a Place to Stay
One of the things we love most about Bansko is that there is always something new to discover.
In winter, there's the fantastic skiing and snowboarding, with the Pirin Mountains providing an incredible backdrop. But Bansko is much more than a ski resort.
Come in summer and you'll find hiking trails, mountain lakes, cycling, rivers, traditional villages, great restaurants, lively bars and some spectacular scenery.
And then there's Bansko itself — a fascinating mix of old Bulgarian traditions and a modern international community. You can spend the afternoon exploring the old town, enjoy a traditional meal in a mehana, have a few beers on Pirin Street and still be back in the mountains the next morning.
Our Local Knowledge
After so many years here, we've picked up a fair bit of local knowledge!
We're happy to point you towards our favourite restaurants and bars, suggest walks and mountain trips, help with ski hire and lift passes, recommend places to visit and generally help you make the most of your time here.
That's also why we created the Explore Bansko Guide — to share the places and experiences we think make Bansko special, whether you're visiting for the first time or coming back for another adventure.
Come and Stay With Us
We don't want you to feel like just another booking number.
When you stay with us, you're staying with people who genuinely love Bansko and want you to have a great time here.
So whether you're planning a winter ski trip, a summer mountain adventure, a family holiday or a big group getaway, we'd love to welcome you to Bansko.
Come and stay with us, explore the mountains, discover the town and experience Bansko the way we know and love it.
Leanne & Martin