There is one kindergarten on the slopes of Bansko and a striking lack of alternatives in town.
Last year there were two private kindergartens (one in the Mall and the other named the Blue Kangaroo) with English speaking staff that were operating in Bansko. I have received information from them that they will not open for 2015/2016. I’m quite afflicted since they were endorsed by their clients. Childcare may also be provided by some of the 5* establishments in Bansko (i.e. Kempinski Grand Arena hotel), which is useful only in case you are staying in the same hotel.
This year children between 4 and 7-year-old can only participate in the Junior Ski Club program, which is operated by Ulen – the company owning Bansko’s lifts and managing the ski runs. Exceptionally younger kids may also be accepted if they are independent in going to toilet. Among others, I have read numerous complains from parents regarding the services of this club. With them they express their main concern about the bad attitude of the the caretakers. Due to conflicting feedback unfortunately I cannot recommend this business. But again I should point out that there are no real alternatives. The Junior Ski Club cannot be booked in advance, but only on spot, which is not a consolation if you like planned things ahead. During the ski season it is opened from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm. Bookings can be done in the offices of Ulen (the main one being located at the Gondola lift station).
Junior Ski Club 2015/2016 ski season rates per kid are: 30 Euro per day to (without any discount) 180 Euro for 6 days.
What to expect?
The daily program is focused on the kids’ fun and positive emotions. There is snow-play, 1-2 hours of ski tuition, lunch and depending on the weather – indoor and outdoor games. The Junior Ski Club base is located on the upper lift station.
How to get there?
You have to obtain a free pass for your child from the Ulen’s office at the bottom Gondola station and the using the lift to reach the club. NOTE: You should have a pre-booked lift pass, before trying to get a free pass for your children.
If you are not so keen on having your children close to you on the Bansko’s slopes or your children are smaller than 4-year-old, then you should look for an accommodation offering childcare.
From this year the day lift pass for children up to 7 years old is 1 only lev. Resort marketing department has changed its policy and is now offering attractive price for lift passes for children and families.
My philosophy when traveling with my two energetic children and lovely wife is that I have to be positive and at the same time prepared for changes and unplanned activity. After all, spending holidays with the people you love most must be the best time of your life.
Check out our video report of the kindergarten below
