Spur, spa and ski: Winter escapes in Bulgaria

Different family members often enjoy separate activities during the day, so why not book a multi-activity trip where everyone's sense of adventure will be catered for?

I enjoy horse riding and love to do it on my travels, but in an active holiday hotspot such as Borovets in Bulgaria, a riding holiday can be combined with skiing or relaxing in a spa.

I recently joined a long-weekend break at the country’s first boutique hotel, called The Lodge in Borovets, centred round the great combination of adventure and relaxation.

Guests can explore the beautiful Rila National Park, close to the mountain ranges, where a former communist hunting ground called Iskar Ranch sits beside a shimmering lake.

Horse riders have plenty of mounts to choose from, with 80 horses at the ranch; although this element of the trip is really designed for experienced riders, as there is no tuition provided.

However, if you are not so keen on riding, there is hiking, kayaking and cycling available, weather permitting - all part of a range of activities offered by an 'activities butler' at The Lodge.

I was a little early to hit the ski slopes when I visited, but from December to April, guests are able to ski as well, as Borovets is a leading resort.

The Lodge has state of the art equipment and a highly trained team of instructors, so you will be in great hands.

Wellness breaks are also becoming very popular, and are increasingly merging with active holidays to give visitors even more choice.

So after snowboarding, skiing, riding or hiking, a chill-out session in the Lodge’s fabulous spa is thoroughly recommended – in particular try the Swedish massage and Thalgo facial.

If you think a spa and activity holiday has to cost the earth think again. There is no reason to slum it in below-par accommodation after a day's exertion, with short, luxury activity breaks costing under £400.

The nearest airport to the resort is the capital, Sofia. Flights leave from Heathrow, Gatwick, London City airport and London Stansted. Easyjet, British Airways and First Choice are among the airlines operating a direct service.

For more information about active holidays in Borovets visit the Bulgaria tourist office website.

Kathy Carter

Kathy Carter travelled as a guest of the The Riding Company.