SOFIA, Bulgaria — The much-anticipated opening of the ski season at Vitosha Mountain turned into frustration for hundreds of visitors as heavy snowfall and unprepared infrastructure left the mountain’s two main access roads impassable.
The congestion on the Dragalevtsi-Aleko route began early Saturday morning, with vehicles forming a traffic jam stretching for kilometers.
The situation escalated when a snowplow became stuck, forcing authorities to close the road entirely. Police redirected traffic away from the area, but with no public transport operating, many visitors were left stranded.
Bulgaria’s National Television (BNT) reported that the Simeonovski lift, the last operational lift providing access to the mountain, has been out of service since last year, exacerbating the chaos.
Roads Blocked by Snow and Winds
Efforts to clear the Dragalevtsi-Aleko and Boyana-Zlatni Mostove routes were underway overnight, with teams working tirelessly to remove snow and sand the icy surfaces.
However, heavy snowfall combined with strong winds led to significant snowdrifts, temporarily halting progress. The Sofia Municipality stated that both roads had to be closed periodically to ensure the safety of workers and travelers.
Bus services 61 and 66, which typically connect the city to the mountain, were also suspended due to unsafe road conditions. “We understand the inconvenience this has caused for visitors, but safety is our top priority,” a spokesperson for the municipality said.
Work continues in the Vitosha Nature Reserve to restore access, with snow removal crews battling the harsh conditions to make the mountain accessible once again.
Struggles Extend Beyond Vitosha
The disruption was not limited to Vitosha Mountain. Borovets, another popular ski resort, faced power outages that left the ski area without electricity.
The nearby town of Samokov was similarly affected. Resort officials confirmed that skiing operations would remain suspended until at least noon, as teams worked to restore power and ensure the safety of visitors.
The heavy snowfall has caused widespread challenges across Bulgaria, with road closures and disruptions affecting not only winter tourism but also daily life in affected areas.
Frustrated Visitors
For visitors hoping to enjoy the first day of the ski season, the experience was far from ideal. “We’ve been stuck in traffic for hours with no clear information on when the roads will reopen,” said one frustrated traveler attempting to reach the Aleko hut.
Others voiced concerns about the lack of alternative transport options and the ongoing closure of the Simeonovski lift.
Local businesses that rely on ski season tourism expressed concerns over the disruptions. “The start of the season is crucial for us, and this situation has been devastating,” said a café owner near the base of the mountain.
Moving Forward
Authorities are urging visitors to stay updated on road conditions and use extreme caution if traveling to mountain areas.
With snow-clearing efforts continuing, the Sofia Municipality expects gradual improvements over the weekend.
However, the incident highlights the challenges of maintaining access to Bulgaria’s mountainous regions during severe weather conditions.
As teams work to restore access and services, the delayed start to Vitosha’s ski season serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of winter weather and the importance of preparedness.