Chalet in Borovets: Govedartsi, Samokov

Where can I start: Rila Mountain Lodge and the magnificent hospitality shown by Gilly and Charlie made for the best skiing holiday that I have ever had. The accommodation was top rate, extremely comfortable and welcoming; the food was exceptional and more than ample - excellent breakfast and dinners and a welcoming bowl of soup, accompanied by a beer upon return from the pistes were fantastic. The bar in the chalet provides a very good selection of alcoholic beverages and has a fantastic atmosphere. Views from the chalet are simply stunning and are very unspoilt indeed. Transfer to and from the Sofia airport and daily transfer to the Borovets (15 minutes) were prompt and timely.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Borovets are both very good indeed, with boarding off piste being exceptional and no limit to the possibilities of where to go. The local restaurants suggested by Charlie and Gilly all provided very good food that was inexpensive to say the least and good value. A day trip to Malovetsa made for a fantastic day off from skiing and provided a lovely winter hike in the snow. The Guide and Skiing instructor who has been recruited by Charlie and Gilly is an extremely amiable chap and very good as both an instructor and guide.

I would recommend staying at The Rila Mountain Lodge whole heartedly and sincerely. It has a wonderful welcoming atmosphere, the owners are more than first rate - extremely friendly and welcoming indeed, the food and beverages are fantastic and it is exceptional value.

We were pampered by our hosts, the house had loads and loads of room for the 11 of us, from tv rooms to the lounge bar (with wood burning stove) all clean, modern and comfortable - no pokey bunk rooms!
When back from skiing the children built an igloo in the grounds- supported by hosts and the very amiable dogs, or went sledging in the fields next to the chalet.
Don't worry about the drive to the slopes - not far and all done to the convenience of the guests, plus it's nice to be out in the real countryside and visit local (excellent value) restaurants.
The hosts will sort out your ski requirements so you really do feel you can just relax and enjoy your holiday.
A great property for families or groups who want to do their own thing.
Transfer time one hour thirty mins Sofia to chalet on good roads through wonderful countryside - no waiting for other people or flights.

Having just returned from a week's skiing holiday staying with Charlie and Gilly (and Tan and the other dopey dog) I can only say how sad we are to have had to come home. It only seemed like we had just arrived when we were packing to leave.

You couldn't wish to stay with 2 more beautiful people who, from the moment you walked through the door, make you feel not only welcome, but as if you were home.

Nothing is too much trouble for Charlie and Gilly (apart from trying to organise me) from the fantastic and, if required, huge breakfast to set you up in the morning (it takes a special person to make the perfect poached egg) to the final fresh coffee and brandy before bedtime. Chauffeuring everyone during the day whether it’s to the nearby skiing resorts, to the dentist (gulp!) or shops and markets. Returning to delicious hot soup and bread whilst recounting the day’s adventures. Gorgeous suppers (I haven’t eaten so well in years) washed down with local wime then great stories, fun, lots of laughter and a just a little bit of naughtiness in the bar to round off a perfect day.

The Rila Mountain Lodge is perfectly positioned offering stunning views across breathtaking scenery. Rooms are spacious and warm and the house has everything you need if you just want some me time to relax. Lots of books, games, TV with loads of films (try not to sing along to the Blues Brothers too loudly if you can avoid it) or simply a cold beer or glass of wine on the balcony to take in what’s around you. A piping hot shower before supper really sorts you out.

Obviously very much at home in the small village Govedartsi, Charlie and Gilly took us to the local bars to introduce us to the “natives” who greeted us with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. We had a couple of really fun evenings out and I would very much recommend you take time to meet and say “Nazdrave” whilst clinking glasses (remember to look the person straight in the eyes when doing so).

A week with Charlie and Gilly was far to short and already I find myself writing this review with a smile on my face and perhaps a joyful tear in my eye but most certainly love in my heart for a fantastic week away from it all. I don't take my hat off to many people but to Charlie and Gilly I bow whilst doing so. Thanks to you both and love to all. Chris, Katherine, Adam and Helen. X