Blagoevgrad region boasts an extremely favourable geographic position due to its proximity to major Bulgarian cities and airports, making it one of the best regions for second home acquisition. European transport route number four (Germany - Czech Republic - Slovakia - Hungary - Romania - Bulgaria - Greece/Turkey) traverses the region, linking it successfully not only with the rest of the country, but with Central Europe as well. The international railroad Sofia/Thessaloníki/Sofia, passing through the entire region, makes this strategically positioned region a major transport hub, increasing the number of passengers,goods and tourists every year, which greatly adds to its appeal.
Local authority has modern approach to the economic development of the county, thus to a great extent creating a flourishing real estate market. The good infrastructure and communications combined with plenty of cheap skilled labour force and numerous available production capacities gives a marvellous outlook to its economic future. Moreover, the regional economic development programme and the tourism development programme will give a new boost to its natural attractiveness. The town of Blagoevgrad hosts two universities - The Southwest University under the name of Neofit Rilsky and the one and only American University on the Balkan peninsula - the American University of Blagoevgrad, both guaranteeing a world-class education. The city lures some 10 000 students from the country and abroad, providing a healthy basis for further expansion of the real estate rent,lease and purchase market, together with the ever-growing foreign investment. The city is home to a theatre house,public library, art galleries, museums. The towns of Bansko,Melnik and Blagoevgrad all boast many monasteries, fortresses and ancient settlements with many historical and archaeological monuments within their boundaries,ideal for cultural tourism. There are some 30 thermal springs (55 degree Celsius temperature of the water) in Blagoevgrad and thus provide the necessary requisites for the vigorous development of balneology. The mild Mediterranean climate and various terrain make it perfect for starting a business and at the same time leading a healthy life.
One of the most famous Bulgarian resorts in the region nowadays is Bansko, at 925 metres above the sea level, is sited at the outskirts of north-eastern part of the Pirin mountain,near Mesta river, on the highest and enthralling karst of the mountain. Bansko is 60 km away from Blagoevgrad and 160 km away from Sofia, a perfect place for winter tourism and skiing, and it possesses very well-preserved architectural and historical monuments.
In the immediate proximity to Bansko is the most famous balneology resort in the region - Dobrinishte. The village prides itself of its plethora of thermal springs and you would certainly be fascinated with the forests of Pirin. The resort is recommended for balneo and climate treatment because of its specific climate and 17 thermal springs, but the ski tracks of Bezbog make it an attractive skiing and mountain-climbing resort too.
The town of Belitza is situated 76 km away from Blagoevgrad. Its mild Mediterranean climate proved to be specially benefiting patients with pulmonary diseases. The first park for dancing bears is located some 12 km away from the town - the only one of this kind in Eastern Europe and on the Balkans. The incredible scenery, preserved old houses, revived old customs and folklore,together wit the ingenious cuisine and a number of small houses to dwell in all make it a gorgeous place for rural and ecotourism.
The village of Kovatchevitza is situated in the southwest part of the Rhodopa mountain in the Blagoevgrad region, only 23 km away from the town of Gotze Delchev. The village is a marvel in itself, spellbinding all visitors and guests. One has the feeling of having made a tour in the past, amazed from the crafts of the local masters and the superb surroundings.
Another Bulgarian village with authentic look and feel is Leshten. Situated on the southernmost western outskirts of the Rhodopa mountain, at altitude of 590 metres, 15 km away from Gotze Delchev and some 200 km away from Sofia. The beautifully preserved houses carry their restored renaissance architecture to a new level of modern comfort, with huge verandas (chardatzi in Bulgarian) and picturesque flower gardens. In the local taverns guests are encouraged to prepare their own traditional meals. The village of Roupite is another favourite touring destination with its own specific beauty, appealing to many visitors. The nearby surroundings are beloved by many mountaineers and climbers.
The town of Sandanski is sited at the outskirts of the Pirin mountain along the valley of the Sandanska Bistritza river. Its extremely mild Mediterranean climate make it ideal destination for tourist seeking both recreation and fun. The nearby town of Melnik is famous not only for being the smallest town of the country, but also for its preserved old houses and ancient remnants of the Roman town. It is proclaimed a town - museum and historical reservation site.
The Blagoevgrad region encompasses the western part of Bulgaria at the footsteps of the Rila mountain , a place proverbial for its enticing natural beauty and fascinating scenery. The highest peak of the Rila mountain , Moussala - 2925 metres altitude of pure Alpine grandeur , and the overall Alpine nature of the mountain with its tremendous steep cliffs and glens vow serious challenge to all the best extreme sports\\\\\\\' fans from all over the world.
The region is known for its abundance in flora and fauna. It is home of the Rila National park and the world renowned Seven Lakes district, a pack of glacial lakes situated in incredible environment. The park has many touring routes and eco pathways open to the zealous tourists ready to explore it and craving for one unforgettable meeting with scenery and preserved wildlife.
The skiing lovers do not have to feel betrayed. The famous ski resorts of Bansko and Dobrinishte both offer excellent ski equipment, with extraordinary ski trails and cozy hotels and hostels. All over the Rila mountain one can find good huts and cabins. Nestled in the middle of the Rila National Park is one of the greatest spiritual centres of Bulgaria - the Rila monastery.
