Cigov Chark Bulgaria
Cigov Chark is a small resort in the western part of the Rhodopa mountains in Bulgaria that has become a favorite off-the-beaten-track destination for Bulgarian and international tourists. It is picturesquely located on the brinks of the Batak lake with wonderful vistas spreading over the lake and onto the mountains. Batak is the third largest lake in Bulgaria with Cigov Chark on one end and the resort Dunoto (the Bottom) on the other end.
Cigov Chark offers opportunities for nature walks, boating, fishing, hunting, and water sports. It is also a ski destination, a welcome alternative to Bansko, Pamporovo and Borovets that are Bulgaria’s main ski resorts. The ski run at Cigov Chark is brand new and has separate areas for beginners and for advanced skiers. Its total length is 1200 meters. The run is equipped with a ski lift. There are ski teachers and rental shops for ski equipment and slates. Next to the ski run is a convenient parking as well as restaurants where one can have lunch or dinner or simply order a cut of tea or coffee.
Cigova Chark is easily accessible from the town of Batak which is only 7 km away, from the spa resort Velingrad which is 15 km away and from the regional center Pazardjik, 36 km away. Some of the infrastructure of the town is still developing. Also, some of the land around is not yet converted to agricultural production or zoned for development. This has slowed down the speed of construction in Cigov Chark. This could be good or bad depending on whether one likes luxury resorts or places that are a bit on the rough side but are authentic. As it is, Cigov Chark is a great alternative to the main ski resorts and is has something to offer in every season.
Most hotels in Cigov Chark (Цигов Чарк in Bulgarian) are small guest houses which are Bulgaria’s version of Bed and Breakfast establishments and small family-run hotels. Private villas are also made available for rent on a short-term and long-term basis. As can be expected, all of those are significantly cheaper than the larger hotels in the big resorts.