Situated in a culturally important and unspoilt region of Bulgaria, there are a number of wonderful churches, villages and museums nearby that are well worth a visit.

Rila Monastery is the biggest and most famous Bulgarian monastery dating from the late 10th century. Several traditional villages such as Leshten, Kovachevitsa and Dolen are within easy distance. They remain relatively untouched by modern life and there you’ll find beautiful traditional architecture, charming narrow cobbled streets and breathtaking natural surroundings.

The picturesque museum-town of Melnik is a fascinating example of the landscape, architecture, and wine making of the region: Cellars have been excavated in sand pyramids and provide a unique system for maturing and preserving the famous Melnik wine.

Or why not take a trip to the Bansko Museum Complex situated in a huge compound which includes the Arts Home, the Ethnographic Exhibition, Permanent Icons Exhibition and various other memorabilia?

There’s also the Pirin Folk and the International Jazz Festival hosted by the city, which feature top international artists.

These are just a few examples of some of the varied and wonderful sights and events in and around the region.