Chepelare, town in Bulgaria
Chepalore is a mountain town in the Rhodopes of southern Bulgaria, situated at over 1200 meters elevation and surrounded by coniferous forests. The valley offers ski runs, mountain trails, and older houses mixed with modern buildings, with winter months bringing snow across the landscape.
Chepalore was founded in the 18th century before Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule and grew into an important trading and cultural centre in the Middle Rhodopes. Its modern history as a winter sports destination has shaped the town and redefined its economy and daily life.
Chepalore is known as a centre for Bulgarian winter sports with deep roots in athletic tradition. The town takes pride in its athlete community, sports schools, and connection to notable winter sports figures, which shapes how people here spend their time and celebrate together.
Visiting is possible all year, with the winter season from December through spring offering the best skiing conditions. The town is easily reached by road and has ski lifts and cable cars for access to the slopes, plus simple but comfortable accommodation in hotels and guesthouses.
The town is home to Bulgaria's only ski and snowboard factory on the Balkan peninsula, making equipment for an international brand. This makes Chepalore a place where visitors can not only ski but also see how the equipment is manufactured.
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