frequently asked questions

When you reserve a ski or snowboard lesson, your payment covers the instructional session with our expert instructor only. Equipment rental should be arranged separately through our booking system, and it’s essential to purchase your ski pass independently. For detailed information on ski passes, please visit the provided link.

On Banderitsa Polyana which is the second (last) station of the Gondola lift.
Learn below how you will save time and avoid delays during peak periods.

Yes, there are big queues and delays, so here are a few tips for you:

Pre-Fit Your Equipment in the Evening: Visit George Ski & Snowboard Rental Shop between 18:30-20:00 the evening before your ski day to get your equipment fitted. Your gear can be stored under your name for the next morning or kept securely at your hotel. Ensure a hassle-free start by booking your equipment and fitting appointment in advance.

Purchase Your Ski Pass Ahead of Time: If your schedule permits, we highly recommend buying your ski pass the day before your planned skiing session. Details about when and where to purchase can be found on our website. This proactive approach saves you valuable time and lets you hit the slopes promptly.

Consider Driving Up the Mountain: Opting for your car can be a convenient alternative, allowing you to bypass the Gondola queue. If you haven’t obtained your ski pass yet, you can do so at Banderitsa Polyana, the top of the Gondola on the mountain.

However, be aware that the mountain road gets busy early in the morning, and parking spaces fill up quickly. To avoid delays, we recommend starting your journey from Bansko at 08:00. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes, but delays may occur due to traffic or snowy conditions. Make sure to carry snow chains with you. The parking fee is approximately 20 BGN in cash. If you’re a beginner, it’s essential to park in the designated Banderitsa Polyana area. Spaces there are limited and fill up quickly, so set out from Bansko very early. Skiers and snowboarders confident enough to tackle at least a blue run can park in other available areas. Plan your parking strategically to enjoy a hassle-free day on the slopes.

Whether you plan to explore all the lifts or stick to the beginner slopes, a valid ski pass is mandatory. Some beginners opt to save costs by purchasing a Gondola ticket, enabling them to reach Banderitsa and then walk up the short beginner slopes and ski down without using the lifts.

Similarly, experienced skiers and snowboarders, familiar with the basics, choose the Gondola ticket to access Banderitsa and then ski down the 7km blue slope from Banderitsa to Bansko, saving money in the process.

Please Note: It’s essential to be aware that the Gondola ticket is not designed for skiing use and does not include any insurance coverage. In the event of an accident requiring transfer from the slope to a medical center, individuals without a ski pass might incur significant expenses (ranging from 25 to 300 euros). Take this into account and plan your skiing experience responsibly.

To foster a positive and enjoyable learning environment, we recommend family lessons that include both young children and adults. In these sessions, families can learn the joys of skiing and snowboarding together, creating delightful shared experiences. It’s important to keep in mind that the progress of the entire family group depends on the abilities of the least experienced participant, particularly when younger children are involved.

In order to maintain a comfortable atmosphere, we avoid mixing children and adults in the same lesson if they are not acquainted. The varying learning speeds of children and adults can impact the overall experience, which is why it’s beneficial for families who know each other to learn together. However, children aged 10 years and above are encouraged to join lessons alongside adults, ensuring a balanced and harmonious learning environment tailored to the unique abilities and needs of each participant.

Please note that ski and snowboard lessons are conducted separately, each with their dedicated instructor. While we have accommodated combined lessons in the past based on customer requests, this approach is primarily suited for family enjoyment. However, for beginners and first-timers seeking the highest quality of instruction, we recommend individualized lessons. This tailored approach ensures a more focused and satisfying learning experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your skiing or snowboarding adventure.

Booking a lesson with us is simple! Lessons can be booked by visiting our shop in person or reaching out to us using the contact information provided on our website’s Contact page. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you in selecting the right lesson package and schedule based on your preferences and skill level. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you make the most out of your skiing or snowboarding experience!