SKIING ON BUZLUDJA
Kamelia Krumova
We were quite deprived when we started our journey on the Christmas Day from Stara Zagora, as the whole plain was covered with thick fog. Once we reached the junction for Buzludja, just a couple of kilometres after we passed Kazanlak the sun smiled at us, as if we had removed the foggy curtain from our sights. The crystal blue sky opened before us and we started climbing up the road to the historical peak. Besides my secret fears, the road was very well maintained and it was a piece of cake to reach the top.
The ski zone in Buzludja is situated right beneath the emblematic Buzludja monument, which is a very attractive panorama building, resembling a flying saucer. A brand new ski drag services the intermediate slope and snow canons provides artificial snow when needed. Apres ski bar, right next to the lift offers refreshing drinks and comfort during the hard day on the slope. Three cosy hotels and one very well kept chalet offer accommodation in the site.
We went through the slope several times and felt recharged and full of energy for new endeavors. Some of the frequent visitors talked about another slope on the northern side of the mountain, but we didn’t make it, as we couldn’t find a guide to take us there.
As a whole the local ski zone is perfect for beginners, however you can find other interesting activities to entertain you during your stay in Buzludja. The sight from the panoramic building is just unbelievable, as the whole Thracian plain reveals before your eyes and the Shipka monument proudly perched on the other side of the mountain can also be seen on a clear day.
Time passed so fast and we had to go back to Stara Zagora. Our way back passed through my favourite Bulgarian town – Kazanlak – the centre of the Valley of Roses, which also called the Valley of the Thracian Kings.
We reached Stara Zagora right before dusk and shortly afterwards we found ourselves on another Christmas round in the local clubs which offered us wild parties, lots of emotions and new friends.
