Get ready for private ski lessons in Bansko with an ex-national racer guiding you every step — from your first wobbly turns on blue slopes to tackling reds or even carving technique if you’re up for it. Kids get their own fun area too. With entry to Pirin National Park included, you’ll leave with new skills and maybe a story or two you’ll remember long after the snow melts.
“Lean forward, not back!” That’s what Ivan kept reminding me as I wobbled at the top of the blue slope in Bansko, boots pinching a bit and snow squeaking under my skis. He’d been on Bulgaria’s national team years ago — you could tell by the way he carved down like it was nothing. I was just trying not to fall over while figuring out how to click my boots into place (harder than it looks, honestly). The air smelled sharp and clean, and there was this faint pine scent drifting from somewhere uphill. Ivan grinned when I finally managed a halfway decent snowplow turn, even though my knees were shaking.
We started on the easy runs, but after an hour or so — and a few gentle tumbles (I learned how to fall safely, which is apparently a real skill) — he nudged me toward a red slope. “You’re ready,” he said, which I didn’t believe for a second. But somehow his confidence made me want to try. There were kids zipping past us on their own lesson nearby, laughing and shouting in Bulgarian; their instructor had them weaving around little animal-shaped markers that looked like they belonged at a birthday party. It was kind of comforting, actually — everyone learning together, no pressure to be perfect.
Ivan showed me how to parallel ski and even got me thinking about short turns — though honestly, I was just happy not to crash into anyone. He told stories about racing in Sofia when he was younger (“much colder than here!”), and pointed out where the powder collects off-piste if you ever get brave enough for that sort of thing. By the end of two hours my legs were jelly but I felt this weird mix of exhaustion and pride. The sun had started dipping behind Pirin National Park’s peaks, throwing long blue shadows over the snow. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck at my desk back home.
Yes, beginners start on easy blue slopes and learn basics like putting on skis and safe falling techniques.
Yes, kids aged four and up can join; they have special areas with fun attractions designed just for them.
You’ll be taught by former Bulgarian national ski racers who know both technique and local mountain culture.
The lesson includes entry to Pirin National Park and all personalized coaching during your booked time slot.
No, equipment rental isn’t included; you’ll need to arrange skis and boots separately in Bansko.
Your experience includes personalized private ski instruction from an ex-national racer right on Bansko’s slopes, plus admission to Pirin National Park so you can focus fully on learning (or improving) without extra hassle.
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