Tourist Guide (Part 2): SPA Paradise – Banya and Dobrinishte

After a whole day on the steep slopes of Todorka or a long summer hike to Vihren, your muscles need only one thing: hot mineral water.

Fortunately, Bansko is surrounded by thermal wealth. While in the town itself most of the pools have regular (heated) water, the neighboring villages Bathroom и Dobrinishte lie on real geothermal springs.

Here's your guide to the best places to relax in the valley.

A group of four friends wearing red and black knit hats warm themselves in the sparkling blue water of an outdoor swimming pool. Snow covers the edge of the pool and the surrounding trees, creating a cozy winter scene.

1. Banya: The Village of the 72 Springs

Located just 5 km from Bansko, the village of Banya has become the modern spa destination of the region. The water here is hyperthermal (up to 58°C) and is known for its healing properties for the musculoskeletal system.

Where should we go?

For luxury and comfort:

• Regnum Thermal Bath: The outdoor pool is huge and open all year round. The water is perfectly heated. There is a children's section and excellent cuisine.
• Seven Seasons: The complex offers a more relaxed atmosphere, suitable for families. The water does not have a strong sulfur smell, which many tourists like.

For an authentic experience:

• Sunrise: One of the most popular places among locals. There are several pools (with different temperature – from “warm” to “boiling”). The atmosphere is unpretentious, but the water is one of the strongest.
• The Roman Bath: A historic complex, recently renovated, offering a unique feeling of immersion in history.

Advice from locals:

If you visit Banya in winter, bring your hat. The feeling of being in boiling water while it's raining around you snow, is magical, but wet hair at -5°C is a recipe for a cold.

2. Dobrinishte: Balneology and traditions

Dobrinishte (6 km from Bansko) is an official balneological resort. The water here has a different mineral composition and is famous for its 17 springs.

Where should we go?

• Complex "Alpha SPA" (Alpha SPA): Large outdoor pool and indoor area. This is the most modern facility in Dobrinishte. In the summer it works as a full-fledged beach with a bar, and in the winter it offers hot relaxation.
• The City Mineral Bath (Public Bath): For lovers of retro experiences. This is a classic bathhouse (separated into men and women), where the water flows directly from the spring. The entrance is symbolic, and hygiene is maintained at a high level. Next to the bathhouse is the famous “Laundry” – natural troughs with warm water, where locals still wash carpets.

3. Transportation: How to get there?

Don't make the mistake of going on foot, especially in winter.

• By car: The road to both villages is excellent and clean. Parking in front of the complexes is usually free.
• Fees: The standard fare from Bansko to Banya or Dobrinishte is fixed (usually around 15-20 BGN one way). Negotiate the price in advance or ask the hotel reception to call a car for you.
• Routes and Train: The narrow-gauge train stops in Dobrinishte, but the station is far from the pools. Buses from Bansko bus station are regular, but they do not stop right in front of the spa complexes. For maximum comfort – use a taxi or your own transport.

4. Etiquette in mineral pools

1. Silver turns black: The water in Banya and Dobrinishte contains sulfur and other minerals that oxidize silver jewelry in minutes. Remove rings and chains before entering!
2. Hydration: Standing in hot water (38-40°C) dehydrates the body very quickly, even though you are in the water. Drink plenty of fluids (water or tea) until you get soaked.
3. Duration: Don't overdo it. Doctors recommend 20-30 minute sessions followed by a break. Staying too long puts strain on the heart.

Next step: After the body has rested, it's time to think about the stomach. The Bansko cuisine is legendary, but where to find the real taste?

???? Read Part 3: Culinary Tourism – Taverns, “Old man in a bathing suit”"and the capama"