SPAS AND AFFORDABLE PROPERTIES IN SUNNY SANDANSKI

Sandanski is hot. Red hot. And I am not only talking about the up trending real estate market. This charming town has been known for a long time by Bulgarians for its hot, dry, sunny weather and the therapeutic virtues of its air and mineral water. Under communism, sanatoriums offered a wide range of treatments for asthma and other respiratory diseases. In the 90ies, Greek tourists have also discovered Sandanski before the property boom. Since January 2007, border hoping became even more popular precisely because there is no border any more. Sandanski is in Europe, one hour drive north of Salonika.

The town takes its name after a revolutionary, a hero of the fight for Macedonian independence against the Turks early in the 20th century. Yane Sandanski was assassinated in 1915 and was buried close to the Rozhen monastery, where he had found shelter. His tomb lays in the stunning landscape surrounding the holy place.

Sandanski's location at the foot of the Pirin mountains offers endless opportunities for nature, ski, spa and hiking lovers. In the winter, it is one hour away from the ski resort of Bansko. It is also close to Melnik, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Bulgaria, also famous for its wineries and for the uniqueness of its natural settings (the “pyramids”).

It is no wonder that the last communist dictator Todor Zhivkov had one of his residences built in the Polenitsa district. After the fall of communism, the residence was converted into a hotel and “christened” Sveti (Saint) Vrach. It hosts now a makeshift museum of communist memorabilia – an unexpected reminder of the former boss. If his ghost is still wandering around he might get green with jealousy.

The apartment buildings, upscale hotels, designer spas and wellness centers popping around are more than what he had never dreamed of. Polenitsa, with its elevated position and stunning panoramic views is becoming the Beverly Hills of Sandanski.

The affordable luxury of the newly built hotels is attracting even more property investors and house hunters. The lush city park with its tennis courts, artificial lake and open swimming pools is driving property price up all around. Smart developers have already bought the best building plots there and new residences are being built overlooking the park greenery .

There is a certain magic in Sandanski, probably due to the combination of natural beauty, soothing waters and mild climate. The excellent medical and spa facilities make it easier for people from the UK and Northern Europe to visit, buy and stay. After all, where in Europe can you live with less than 500 euros a month and enjoy this mild Mediterranean climate?  

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