With recent reports of thin snow in the traditional Western European resorts, The Homebuyer Show has seen an increasing number of Britons investing in Bulgaria chalets, which cost from as little as £20,000.

Pamporova

Constant snowfall throughout the season (mid December to mid April) ensures that the slopes are generally covered by up to two metres of snow. With nursery slopes for novices and black runs for the more experienced skier, all levels are catered for. For the remainder of the year, the mountains provide plenty of opportunities for keen walkers who enjoy fantastic scenery and fresh air, and so provide a fantastic buy-to-let investment opportunity.

The most popular winter ski resort is Bansko. Located at the foot of the Pirin mountains, Bansko is less than two hours drive from the capital, Sophia. The resort offers fantastic skiing, with a 3000m peak. Bulgarian Dreams, one of the exhibitors at the show, has a selection of off-plan apartments for sale in Bansko from prices as low as £23,000 for studios under 100m from the main lift.

Bansko skiing statistics (www.bulgaria.com)

In addition to being one of Europe’s prime ski resorts, Bansko is a cultural town offering a variety of alternative activities. If you prefer not to ski, there are monuments, museums and exhibitions to visit, as well as the obligatory après ski.

Bulgaria is currently tipped as the rising star of Eastern Europe. Joining the EU in 2007, the gates of property investment will open to everyone in Europe, aided by budget airlines that will spur demand and increase prices.

Bob Blanchard, of Bulgaria Homes Forever, another exhibitor at the show comments: “Now is the time to invest in Bulgaria. The past year has seen property rise in value by an astonishing 35%. I think people are starting to realise the benefits of Eastern Europe – such as the fantastic skiing.”

Nick Clark, Managing Director of The Homebuyer Show, comments: “Bulgaria is offering fantastic returns on investment at the moment, with great potential for the future. Investors need as much advice and information as possible before they commit, which is why anyone interested in buying in Bulgaria should come along to chat to the exhibitors and attend the seminars.”

To find out more about investing in Bulgarian ski resorts of Bansko, Pamporova and Borovet, as well as other emerging markets, visit The Homebuyer Show at London’s ExCeL Centre on the weekend of 25-27 February 2005. In the meanwhile our Bulgarian investments section will whet your appetite.