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4- and 5-star hotels in Samokov
This shortlist covers the 4- and 5-star hotels listed in Samokov, from spa resorts at the Borovets slopes to a village villa and a mineral-spring complex in Belchin. It suits skiers, couples after a spa break, families and travellers touring the Rila mountains.
Staying in Samokov
Samokov is a mountain town that works as a base for winter sports, mineral springs and monasteries, including the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town itself keeps a quiet, local character, with a central square, a historical museum and family-run restaurants serving regional dishes, and it is known for its ironworking and woodcarving past and National Revival architecture. Borovets, about 10 kilometres away, holds the ski runs and lifts.
Most hotels on this list sit in Borovets, named in their addresses, at the slopes and within walking distance of the lifts and resort centre; Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence and Borovets Hills Resort & SPA are set slightly away from the busiest part, 1.3 and 2.0 kilometres from the centre. Two options sit in the Belchin area, known for mineral springs and spa stays, while Samovilla stands in Govedartsi Village, 11.6 kilometres from the centre, for a quieter rural base.
The shortlist
Ranked by hotel class, then guest rating and number of reviews.
Festa Winter Palace
Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Parking
Why stay hereA 5-star address in Borovets, 0.8 km from the centre of Samokov, Festa Winter Palace pairs an indoor pool with a fitness centre and a games room for the hours off the slopes. Families have family rooms and babysitting service; drivers get a garage and car rental service on site. Guests rate it 4.2 out of 5 across 885 reviews. Horse back riding and a Jacuzzi round out the stay, and the 24-hour front desk covers late arrivals.
See Festa Winter PalaceHotel Sokol
Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Sauna
- Free car parking
- Lounge
Why stay hereHotel Sokol sits 0.2 km from the centre of Samokov, the closest 5-star position on this list. Its spa and sauna suit skiers winding down, while the fitness centre, gymnasium and shuttle service keep active days easy. With 2230 reviews and a 3.8 out of 5 guest rating, it is the most reviewed 5-star here, and free car parking, a restaurant and skiing on site make it a practical base for groups and families.
See Hotel SokolVilla Stresov
2010 Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Sauna
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereVilla Stresov is a 5-star villa-style stay 0.5 km from the centre of Samokov, with a sauna and Jacuzzi for quiet afternoons and a garden and terrace for warmer days. There is a restaurant and bar on site, plus a library and free wifi, and free car parking for those arriving by car. It suits guests who want the amenities of a 5-star property in a small, low-key setting.
See Villa StresovSamovilla
Govedartsi Village 107 Iskar Str., Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Sauna
- Free car parking
- Breakfast
Why stay hereSamovilla stands in Govedartsi Village on Iskar Str., 11.6 km from the centre of Samokov, and its kitchens, kitchenettes and dishwasher make it a self-catering choice for families and longer stays. A fireplace, patio and picnic area add to the grounds, and the garden, free car parking and free wifi cover the essentials. Horse back riding and fishing are available, and family rooms, cots and high chairs are provided.
See SamovillaSPA Complex Belchin Spring
Yuri Gagarin Str, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereSPA Complex Belchin Spring is a 4-star property on Yuri Gagarin Str, 20.7 km from the centre of Samokov, and the highest-rated hotel on this list at 4.7 out of 5 from 1380 reviews. Its indoor pool, kids pool and massage service anchor the spa side, with badminton and horse back riding for active guests. Family rooms, a fitness centre, a buffet and free car parking complete a stay that suits couples and families alike.
See SPA Complex Belchin SpringHotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa
Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Free car parking
- Breakfast in room
Why stay hereHotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa is a 4-star resort 2.1 km from the centre of Samokov, rated 4.6 out of 5 by 1304 guests. The indoor pool, fitness centre and massage service carry the wellness side, while archery, badminton and horse back riding fill the days. A games room and entertainment activities keep children busy, and family rooms, a barber/beauty salon and free car parking are all on hand.
See Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & SpaAlpin Borovets Алпин Боровец
P.Box. 10, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Pool and spa
- Sauna
- Lounge
- Family rooms
Why stay hereAlpin Borovets Алпин Боровец is a 4-star hotel 0.7 km from the centre of Samokov with a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 398 reviews. A spa, sauna and steam room handle recovery, and skiing and horse back riding are on the doorstep for guests here for the snow. Family rooms, a playground and a chapel give it a broad appeal, with massage, a Jacuzzi and free wifi rounding out the facilities.
See Alpin Borovets Алпин БоровецRila Hotel Borovets
Borovets Resort, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereRila Hotel Borovets is a 4-star resort 0.7 km from the centre of Samokov and the most reviewed hotel on this list, with 7542 reviews and a 4.5 out of 5 rating. A games room, playground and picnic area add to the offering, alongside massage, a barber/beauty salon and free car parking.
See Rila Hotel BorovetsBelchin Garden SPA&Wellness
Belchin Banya, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereBelchin Garden SPA&Wellness is a 4-star hotel in Belchin Banya, 18.9 km from the centre of Samokov, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1715 reviews. The indoor pool, kids pool and massage service suit families and spa-goers, with badminton, karaoke and horse back riding for variety. A fitness centre, games room and buffet are provided, and free car parking and a business centre cover drivers and working guests.
See Belchin Garden SPA&WellnessBorovets Hills Resort & SPA
Borovets Hills Spa & Resort, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereBorovets Hills Resort & SPA is a 4-star property 2.0 km from the centre of Samokov, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating from 185 reviews. Its indoor pool, Jacuzzi and massage service pair with a fitness centre and games room, and horse back riding and bike rental service open up the surroundings. Family rooms and babysitting service make it workable for parents, while a business centre and free car parking add convenience.
See Borovets Hills Resort & SPAHotel Lion Borovetz
Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Parking
Why stay hereHotel Lion Borovetz is a 4-star hotel 0.5 km from the centre of Samokov, rated 4.4 out of 5 across 2168 reviews. Skiing is on site, and the indoor pool, sauna, steam room and spa cover the hours afterwards, with a pool bar and restaurant for meals. Table tennis, a playground and family rooms suit children, and free wifi, parking and a 24-hour front desk keep the practical side simple.
See Hotel Lion BorovetzEuphoria Club Hotel & Resort
Shiroka Polyana 216, Bansko, Bulgaria
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Spa
- Car parking
Why stay hereEuphoria Club Hotel & Resort is a 4-star resort 1.3 km from the centre of Samokov with a 4.4 out of 5 rating from 1072 reviews. An indoor pool, spa and swimming pool form the leisure core, and skiing and horse back riding are available for guests heading out. A restaurant, bar and playground suit families, and the property is wheelchair accessible with free car parking and multilingual staff.
See Euphoria Club Hotel & ResortFesta Chamkoria Forest Residence
2010 Borovetz, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Car parking
Why stay hereFesta Chamkoria Forest Residence is a 4-star residence 1.3 km from the centre of Samokov, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 146 reviews. It offers a spa, sauna and massage service alongside an indoor pool and kids pool, plus a gymnasium and swimming pool. Pets are allowed and babysitting service is available, making it a fit for families and guests travelling with animals; a shuttle service and free wifi are also provided.
See Festa Chamkoria Forest ResidencePark Hotel Ela
Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Families · Drivers
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay herePark Hotel Ela is a 4-star hotel 0.3 km from the centre of Samokov, the closest 4-star position here, rated 4.4 out of 5 by 806 guests. An indoor pool and fitness centre sit alongside a gymnasium and massage service, while badminton, fishing and horse back riding add outdoor options. Family rooms, a games room, a playground and a chapel give it range, with a buffet, free car parking and free wifi.
See Park Hotel ElaThe Lodge Hotel
Main Street Borovets, Samokov, Bulgaria
Best for: Drivers · Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Free car parking
Why stay hereThe Lodge Hotel is a 4-star hotel on Main Street Borovets, 0.4 km from the centre of Samokov, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 127 reviews. It is a small property with 1 to 50 rooms, keeping things quiet, and offers an indoor pool, sauna and spa for unwinding. A restaurant, bar/lounge and room service cover dining, and babysitting service, free car parking and free wifi add convenience.
See The Lodge Hotel
The shortlist side by side
| Hotel | Class | Guest rating | Reviews | Parking | Breakfast | Pool or spa | Pets | To the centre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Festa Winter Palace | ★★★★★ | 4.2 | 885 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 0.8 km |
| Hotel Sokol | ★★★★★ | 3.8 | 2,230 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 0.2 km |
| Villa Stresov | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 0.5 km |
| Samovilla | ★★★★★ | – | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 11.6 km |
| SPA Complex Belchin Spring | ★★★★ | 4.7 | 1,380 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 20.7 km |
| Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa | ★★★★ | 4.6 | 1,304 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 2.1 km |
| Alpin Borovets Алпин Боровец | ★★★★ | 4.6 | 398 | – | – | Yes | – | 0.7 km |
| Rila Hotel Borovets | ★★★★ | 4.5 | 7,542 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 0.7 km |
| Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness | ★★★★ | 4.5 | 1,715 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 18.9 km |
| Borovets Hills Resort & SPA | ★★★★ | 4.5 | 185 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 2.0 km |
| Hotel Lion Borovetz | ★★★★ | 4.4 | 2,168 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 0.5 km |
| Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort | ★★★★ | 4.4 | 1,072 | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | 1.3 km |
| Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence | ★★★★ | 4.5 | 146 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 1.3 km |
| Park Hotel Ela | ★★★★ | 4.4 | 806 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 0.3 km |
| The Lodge Hotel | ★★★★ | 4.5 | 127 | Yes | – | Yes | – | 0.4 km |
From each hotel's own listing on this site; a dash means it is not listed.
How to choose
For families
Festa Winter Palace, Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa and Rila Hotel Borovets all list family rooms and games rooms or entertainment activities, with pools that include a kids pool at Rila Hotel Borovets. Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness adds family rooms, a kids pool, a playground and games room in the Belchin area.
Festa Winter Palace · Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa · Rila Hotel Borovets · Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness
For spa and pools
Hotel Sokol has a spa, sauna and Jacuzzi, while SPA Complex Belchin Spring and Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness pair indoor pools and kids pools with massage. Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort offers an indoor pool, swimming pool and spa, though it is listed under a Bansko address rather than Samokov.
Hotel Sokol · Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness · SPA Complex Belchin Spring · Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort
For the slopes
Hotel Sokol is 0.2 kilometres from the centre and lists skiing, as does Hotel Lion Borovetz at 0.5 kilometres. Park Hotel Ela, at 0.3 kilometres, and Borovets Hills Resort & SPA are both in Borovets, close to the resort's slopes and lifts.
Hotel Sokol · Park Hotel Ela · Hotel Lion Borovetz · Borovets Hills Resort & SPA
Top guest ratings
SPA Complex Belchin Spring scores 4.7 out of 5 from 1380 reviews, the highest here. Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa and Alpin Borovets both score 4.6, from 1304 and 398 reviews, and Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence also scores 4.5 from 146 reviews.
SPA Complex Belchin Spring · Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa · Alpin Borovets Алпин Боровец · Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence
Where to stay in Samokov
Borovets
Borovets is a ski resort area a short drive from Samokov, with numerous hotels directly at the slopes and lifts. This is where most of the shortlist sits, from Hotel Sokol at 0.2 kilometres from the centre to Borovets Hills Resort & SPA at 2.0 kilometres, and it suits anyone coming for the skiing and outdoor activities.
Our picks here: Festa Winter Palace · Hotel Sokol · Villa Stresov · Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa · Rila Hotel Borovets · Borovets Hills Resort & SPA · Hotel Lion Borovetz · Park Hotel Ela
Belchin
Belchin is a village near Samokov known for its mineral springs and spa hotels, popular for wellness stays. SPA Complex Belchin Spring, on Yuri Gagarin Str, and Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness in Belchin Banya both sit here, each with indoor pools and massage, well away from the resort crowds.
Our picks here: Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness
Govedartsi Village
Samovilla stands at Govedartsi Village on Iskar Str., 11.6 kilometres from Samokov centre, a rural setting among the surrounding mountains. It lists a garden, terrace, patio, picnic area, Jacuzzi and sauna, with fishing and horse riding nearby, for a quiet stay rather than a slope-side one.
Our picks here: Samovilla
Plan your stay
Getting there and around
Samokov is reached by road, roughly an hour's drive from the capital via the A1 motorway and the E79 route. Regular buses connect the town with the capital and with Borovets. The nearest major airport is in the capital. Within Samokov, local buses and taxis serve the town, while a cable car and shuttle services link Borovets with the ski slopes. A car is useful for exploring the surrounding mountains and villages.
When to go
Winter, from December to March, is the main season for skiing in Borovets. Summer, from June to September, is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and visiting the Rila Monastery. Spring and autumn are quieter, with mild weather suitable for walking, though some mountain facilities may be limited. The town hosts occasional cultural events throughout the year.
Questions, answered
Which hotels here have free parking?
Free car parking is listed at Hotel Sokol, Villa Stresov, Samovilla, SPA Complex Belchin Spring, Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa and Rila Hotel Borovets, among others. Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence and Euphoria Club Hotel & Resort list car parking, and Festa Winter Palace has a garage.
Are there hotels with a pool or spa?
SPA Complex Belchin Spring and Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness both have indoor pools, kids pools and massage. Hotel Sokol has a spa, sauna and Jacuzzi, Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa and Rila Hotel Borovets have indoor pools, and Alpin Borovets lists a spa and steam room.
Can I bring a pet?
Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence is the one hotel on this list that states pets are allowed. None of the other hotels here list pets among their facilities, so it is worth confirming directly before you book if you plan to travel with an animal.
Which hotel is best for families?
Rila Hotel Borovets lists family rooms, a kids pool, a playground, a games room and entertainment activities, with 7542 reviews and a 4.5 rating. Festa Winter Palace and Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa offer family rooms and games rooms, and Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness adds a playground and kids pool.
Which hotel is closest to the centre?
Hotel Sokol is 0.2 kilometres from the centre, the closest on this list. Park Hotel Ela is 0.3 kilometres away, The Lodge Hotel on Main Street Borovets is 0.4 kilometres, and Hotel Lion Borovetz and Villa Stresov are both 0.5 kilometres from the centre.
Which is the top-rated hotel here?
SPA Complex Belchin Spring has the highest guest rating, 4.7 out of 5 from 1380 reviews. Hotel Yastrebets Wellness & Spa and Alpin Borovets both score 4.6, and Rila Hotel Borovets, Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness and Borovets Hills Resort & SPA each score 4.5.
Do the hotels serve breakfast?
Breakfast is listed at Villa Stresov and Samovilla, and buffets at SPA Complex Belchin Spring, Rila Hotel Borovets and Belchin Garden SPA&Wellness. Festa Chamkoria Forest Residence has a breakfast room, and several hotels, including Festa Winter Palace, offer breakfast in the room.
How far is Borovets from Samokov?
Borovets is a short drive of about 10 kilometres from Samokov town centre, making it easily accessible for a day on the slopes. Regular buses connect the town with Borovets, and within the resort a cable car and shuttle services link the hotels with the ski slopes.