With its recent accession to the EU, already-popular Bulgaria has seen its profile rise even higher. Those looking for a holiday home or investment at a reasonable price would do well to look here.
As with many former Eastern Bloc countries, Bulgaria is quickly shaking off its past and is embracing – and being embraced by – the modern market. The difference between Bulgaria and some of the other neighbouring countries, however, lies in its year-round appeal.
Both winter sports enthusiasts and sun worshippers are well catered for. The Black Sea coast is a very popular summer retreat, and the good-quality developments that have sprung up host holidaymakers from all over Europe and Asia. Sunny Beach and Golden Sands are two of the more touristy resorts, with a ready supply of holidaymakers – great for the investment purchaser.
For a more low-key and naturally picturesque location, there is the town of Byala, situated on a picturesque coastal peninsula between the two international airports of Varna and Bourgas (50km north and 80km south respectively). Tourists and artists are devotees of this beautiful spot, which has been compared the region to the South of France due to the its views of lovely green rolling hills and effervescent light.
Byala also has wonderful views to the blue sea with gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The mountains of Bulgaria offer another facet of the country's abundant natural beauty. Skiers flock to Bansko, a modern, high-quality winter sport resort, whose slopes, lifts and accommodation are highly rated by skiers of various levels of experience.
Even outside the snowy season, Bansko pulls in tourists with its mix of nature and culture.
In the summer you’ll find an abundance of outdoor activities with hiking, mountain biking, riding and whitewater rafting nearby in beautiful Pirin National Park. Getting to Bansko is getting easier and easier, with a new motorway putting the area within an hour and a half’s drive from the capital Sofia. This is sure to make this already popular family-oriented resort even more sought-after.
There is also a new airport planned. Bulgaria’s status as an EU member state will translate into tangible benefits in the form of even further improvements to infrastructure – definitely good news for the investment buyer.
Bulgaria’s wonderful combination of ‘foreignness’ and accessibility, its fascinating history mixed with modern-day comfort and its very affordable property prices ensure its continuing success in the market.
Check out what’s hot in the property market in Bulgaria here.