Why is an outdoor heated pool a “must-have” in 2026?
Over the past year, winter tourism trends in Bansko have changed significantly. Tourists are no longer looking only for proximity to the starting station of the lift, but also for a complete wellness experience. The outdoor pools in the region offer a unique combination of hydrotherapy and climatotherapy.
The high water temperature (the standard for winter is between 34°C and 38°C) in combination with the clean mountain air helps to:
- Improving blood circulation (effect of contrasting temperatures).
- Fast muscle recovery after intense skiing.
- Reducing stress and improving sleep.
Top 3 hotels in Bansko with the best outdoor water areas
After a thorough review of the conditions for the 2026 season, we have selected the three locations that offer uncompromising quality.
1. Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena – Outdoor Luxury
Kempinski remains the undisputed leader with its unique thermal area. Their outdoor heated pool is open all year round and offers direct, breathtaking views of the Tomba ski slope. In 2026, the hotel renovated its outdoor area with new hydromassage beds and modern lighting, making evening bathing a magical experience.
2. Grand Hotel Bansko – Scale and Diversity
If you're looking for scale, this is the place. After extensive modernization, Grand Hotel Bansko offers one of the largest outdoor jacuzzis in the region, which can accommodate up to 15 people at a time without feeling cramped. The water here is maintained at one of the highest temperatures, making it an ideal choice for the coldest January days.
3. Regnum Bansko Ski and SPA – The connection with mineral water
Regnum is unique in its strategy. The hotel has “Regnum Banya Thermal” – a separate mineral water complex, located in the nearby village of Banya. The hotel provides a regular free shuttle for its guests. This is the best choice for lovers of real healing mineral water, who want to sleep in the luxury of Bansko, but to enjoy the benefits of the village of Banya.
How to choose the right hotel?
Not all outdoor pools are created equal. Here are some criteria to consider:
- Water temperature: For winter, it should be at least 34°C. Anything below that will make you shiver after 5 minutes of standing.
- Working hours: Check what hours the area is open. Some hotels close the outdoor areas at sunset, while others (like the Kempinski) allow night swimming.
- Wind and Covenant: The location of the pool is important. If it is facing a current, even warm water will not save the situation in strong winds.
| Hotel | Facility type | Water type |
|---|---|---|
| Kempinski Grand Arena | Large swimming pool + Jacuzzi | Sweet (Heated) |
| Regnum Bansko | Thermal complex (with shuttle) | Mineral |
| Grand Hotel Bansko | Huge outdoor jacuzzi | Sweet (Heated) |
Mineral vs. Plain water
Many tourists are mistaken that all outdoor pools in Bansko have mineral water. This is not true. The town of Bansko itself does not have mineral springs. The hotels there use modern equipment to heat ordinary water.
If you are interested in the healing properties of mineral water, you should go to hotels that organize transportation to village of Banya (5 km from Bansko) or choose accommodation directly there. However, the feeling in the luxurious pools in the center of Bansko is unsurpassed because of the views and service.
Are you ready for your SPA vacation in Pirin?
Don't wait until the last minute, the best pool view rooms sell out quickly.
English (UK)