St Ivan Rilski Spa Resort, Bansko, Bulgaria

· ski bus stop outside · 8 minutes' walk to the nursery slopes · 10 minutes' walk to the gondola · 10 minutes' walk to the ski school meeting point · 15 minutes' walk to the resort centre · 3 minutes' walk to the nearest supermarket

If you’re after a stylish, modern stay that doesn’t scrimp on facilities, add the SPA Resort St Ivan Rilski to your shortlist.

Set in spacious grounds on the edge of town, it’s perfect if you prefer staying somewhere quieter. The main gondola is a 10-minute walk or to get there even quicker you can hop on the ski bus that stops right outside.

The hotel itself has up-to-date looks, from the hardwood floors and polished granite, to the pops of colour and bold animal prints on the furniture. The contemporary theme continues upstairs in the bedrooms, which have large windows to make the most of the light – not to mention the mountain views. And if you’re staying with older kids or teens, you can choose to stay in an apartment a few minutes' walk from the reception and enjoy a little more space.

When it comes to unwinding after a big day on the mountain, the hotel wellness area has got you covered. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or enjoy the massaging jets in the hot tub as you admire the snow-covered scenery. For soothing your ski legs, you can’t beat a session in the sauna or steam room. And if you fancy some extra pampering, there’s a long list of spa treatments to choose from.

The food is another highlight here. Start the day with a varied breakfast spread and choose from things like cereal, pancakes and made-to-order omelettes. If you opt for half board, you'll also get evening meals that offer everything from vegetarian dishes and regional specialities to international favourites like pizza and pasta. You can even see the chefs in action at the live cooking stations. Or go one step further and choose all-inclusive to get buffet-style lunches and snacks throughout the day too.

You can enjoy laid-back evenings in one of the hotel bars. Get competitive with some board games or just sit back in armchair by the fire while you sip a nightcap – don’t miss trying some of the local tipple, rakia.

· restaurant (07.30am-10.30pm) · lobby bar (12pm-12am) · lounge bar (10.30-12am) · fireplace · sun terrace · free WiFi · adults-only spa with indoor and outdoor hot tubs · mountain view sauna · steam bath · extra charge for massages and treatments · indoor and outdoor pools · hotel-run kids’ club for ages 4 years and over (10am-9pm) · kids’ play area · 24h fitness room · ski room with lockers and heated boot rack · free WiFi · free shuttle bus to and from the ski lift · lift to all floors

All apartments have a kitchenette with oven, hobs, fridge, kettle, microwave, toaster. Towels, linen and cleaning are included free of charge.

Double room - sleeps 1-2: Double bed, private bath or shower and WC.

1 bedroom apartment – sleeps 2-4 (max 3 adults or 3 adults and 1 child up to 11 years): Double bed, extra double sofa-bed in living area when booked for three or four, private bath or shower, WC and balcony.

Double room - sleeps 2: Double bed, private shower and WC.

Double room - sleeps 2-3: Double bed, extra unfolding armchair bed, private bath or shower and WC.

Studio – sleeps 2-3: Double bed, extra single sofa bed when booked for three, private bath or shower, WC and balcony.

Please note: Studio and 1 bedroom apartments are located in the apartment buildings, which are a couple of minutes' walk away from the reception.

Half Board

· hot and cold buffet breakfast · afternoon snacks · buffet lunch · buffet dinner