Discover Samokov & Rila
DANCE HAS NO LIMITS.
Discover Samokov & Rila
Dance brings us together. Bulgaria inspires us.
History, mountains and winter experiences — just a step away from Christmas Magic 2026.
Photo: KomemineDK, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Photos are illustrative and do not show conditions on 5–6 December 2026.
Welcome to Samokov — a town with a rich historical heritage, National Revival art and a warm, welcoming atmosphere at the foot of the Rila mountains. During Christmas Magic 2026 we invite you to discover more of the region’s beauty — from the cultural sights in town to the winter scenery of Borovets, the historic Tsari Mali Grad complex and the iconic places of Rila.
Whether you have an hour, half a day or more time before or after the festival, here you will find ideas to round off your stay. Distances and travel times are approximate. Please check opening hours, access and weather conditions before you set off.
← Back to Christmas Magic 2026Four highlights
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Archaeology & history Tsari Mali Grad — Belchin
A hilltop fortress, the Church of St Petka and panoramic views — a strong cultural highlight for half a day.
Time to allow: about 1.5–3 hours
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Winter resort Borovets
Pine forests and the winter atmosphere of one of Bulgaria’s best-known mountain resorts.
Time to allow: 1–3 hours
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History & architecture Pictured: National Revival houses at the Samokov convent The Sarafska House
National Revival Samokov in a single house — decorative details, interiors and the story of its merchant families.
Time to allow: about 30–60 minutes
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Cultural & spiritual heritage Rila Monastery
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Bulgaria — for a separate, well-planned day.
Time to allow: half a day to a full day, including travel
Christmas Magic 2026
Accommodation
Recommended places to stay for dancers, coaches and families. Rila Hotel Borovets takes bookings directly with a special promo code; for the other places, use the form below or contact Hristina Lalova directly.
Exclusively for Christmas Magic 2026 participants
Christmas Magic in the Mountains
Rila Hotel Borovets
Borovets resort · Rila Mountains
After the excitement of the dance floor, unwind in the heart of the Rila Mountains. Rila Hotel Borovets has prepared special terms for Christmas Magic 2026 participants and their families. Make a festive weekend of it: relax in the pool and thermal zone and enjoy winter in Bulgaria’s oldest mountain resort.
See the special offer
Promo code
XMASMAGIC
- 10% off the hotel’s public rates
- An extra 6% off when you join the hotel’s loyalty programme
Validity
Valid for stays from 3 to 7 December 2026 inclusive, so you can arrive up to two nights before the competition and stay up to two nights after it.
Included in the price
- Accommodation
- Buffet breakfast (coffee, tea and soft drinks included)
- 25 m indoor pool
- Jacuzzi
- Thermal zone: sauna, steam bath, cold room, Turkish bath and relaxation area
- Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
- Luggage room
- Parking: limited spaces, subject to availability on arrival
How to book
Contact the hotel directly, quote the code XMASMAGIC and mention that you are taking part in Christmas Magic 2026.
Rila Hotel Borovets, 2010 Borovets, Bulgaria
December is peak season in the mountains, so book early to secure your room.
Special prize
A Gift from Rila Hotel Borovets
A representative of Rila Hotel Borovets will present a special prize at the festival: a voucher for a free stay with the hotel’s included services: buffet breakfast, indoor pool, jacuzzi and thermal zone. The winners are chosen at the hotel’s discretion. A mountain getaway to look forward to all year!
Voucher terms
- Valid for one year, from 5 December 2026 to 5 December 2027.
- Dates are arranged with the hotel’s reservations department, subject to availability.
- Not valid for holiday packages.
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Belchinsko Uchilishte Complex
Belchin village — a short trip from Samokov
A trusted and recommended place to stay with excellent conditions, in the nearby village of Belchin.
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Hotel Arena Samokov
Samokov — right next to Arena Samokov
In the immediate vicinity of the Arena Samokov hall, where Christmas Magic 2026 takes place.
Our partners in the area
Places to stay, relax and have fun, from the partners of Christmas Magic 2026. Details are provided by the partners themselves — please confirm terms directly with them.
- Partner
Belchin villageBelchinsko Uchilishte Educational Activity Centre
The Belchinsko Uchilishte Educational Activity Centre is a place where Bulgarian traditions, crafts and customs come to life. Here children and school groups immerse themselves in Bulgaria's cultural heritage through engaging educational activities, creative workshops and encounters with skills passed down through the generations.
Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving, weaving, glass painting and pyrography, knead bread and make herbal ointments, and discover the beauty of Bulgarian folk dances.
The experience is rounded off with horse-drawn carriage rides and hikes to the medieval fortress of Tsari Mali Grad, where history and nature come together in an exciting adventure.
Every activity is a chance to learn by doing, develop creative skills and keep a living connection with Bulgarian roots.
Belchinsko Uchilishte Educational Activity Centre – a place where traditions are lived, skills are discovered and knowledge becomes an unforgettable memory.
- Partner
near Belchin villageBelchin Spring Spa Complex
Mineral-water pools, the Galla Placidia spa centre, the Izvorat restaurant, a hotel, an eco village and villas. For children — a warm indoor mineral pool, a play area and playgrounds.
- Partner
Belchin villagePark Belchin
A complex for relaxation, leisure and dining — a thermal pool, a jacuzzi, a children’s pool, a sports area and a restaurant for family gatherings and celebrations, about 40 minutes from Sofia.
Check the pools’ opening hours in December.
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Partner near Samokov
A1 Motor Park
A motorsport circuit of about 4 km with 15 turns. Track days, Race Taxi and Drift Taxi, driving and riding academies, and a bar and restaurant.
Check the schedule of events and sessions for December.
- Partner
BorovetsFlora Boutique Hotel
A boutique hotel 50 m from the Yastrebets gondola — suites and apartments, an adults-only spa and the ROOTS restaurant with a fireplace.
According to the hotel, guests must be over 10 years old.
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Partner Borovets
Rila Hotel Borovets
An alpine-style hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, a spa centre, a thermal zone, an indoor pool, five restaurants and three bars.
- Partner
SamokovHotel Arena Samokov
A hotel in Samokov welcoming the festival’s dancers, coaches and guests.
Choose by the time you have
- Up to 1 hour The sights in central Samokov.
- 2–3 hours Borovets or a museum / cultural site of your choice.
- Half a day Tsari Mali Grad and Belchin, if the sites are open.
- A full day Rila Monastery or another trip planned in advance.
Sights in Samokov
In the town itself — ideal for a free hour between performances. Check the walking route from where you are.
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History & cultureHistorical Museum — Samokov
Samokov holds a special place in the history of Bulgarian crafts, decorative arts and the National Revival. The Historical Museum is a good way to discover how the town and the region developed — local life, archaeology and the Samokov School of painting. A good short cultural visit, especially on a cold or snowy day.
Check the opening hours and whether group visits are possible.
- Pictured: National Revival houses at the Samokov convent History & architecture
The Sarafska House
The Sarafska House is a fine example of urban National Revival architecture and tells the story of Samokov’s wealthy merchant families and the town’s cultural diversity. Its decorative details and interior make it rewarding for anyone who enjoys history, architecture or photography.
Visits may be limited to set hours — please confirm in advance.
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Spiritual heritagePokrov Bogorodichen Convent
A working Orthodox convent with an important place in Samokov’s spiritual history. A visit offers a calm atmosphere and an insight into the town’s religious and cultural heritage.
Please respect the silence and the rules of a working convent; access to some rooms may be restricted.
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Town landmarkThe Great Fountain
One of the best-known symbols of central Samokov. The historic fountain is a natural stop on a walk around town and a lovely spot for a quick photo.
Outdoors; easy to combine with other sights in the centre.
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Architecture & historyBayrakli Mosque
A historic religious monument linked to Samokov’s many-layered past and the region’s architectural heritage. A good stop for visitors interested in the different cultural influences that shaped the town.
Check whether the interior is open to visitors on the day.
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Cultural & spiritual heritageChurch of the Dormition of the Theotokos
An Orthodox church tied to the local religious and artistic tradition. It fits easily into a walk around the centre together with the museum, the Great Fountain and other historic sites.
Visits depend on services and access; please follow the dress and behaviour code.
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Pictured: the Cherni Iskar River in Samokov Nature & easy walkLago Eco-trail
A green recreation area by Samokov with paths along the Iskar River, small bridges and places to rest. An easy nature option close to town when the weather allows a walk outdoors.
Take care in snow or ice — the trail is not specially maintained in winter.
Near Samokov — history, mountains and relaxation
Approximate distances — check the route and road conditions before you set off.
- Winter resort
Borovets
One of Bulgaria’s best-known mountain resorts and a natural choice for festival guests. Borovets offers a winter-holiday atmosphere, pine forests, cafés and restaurants and — when the season and conditions allow — skiing and other winter activities. Even without skiing, it is a pleasant place for a short walk and photos.
Lifts, slopes and winter facilities depend on snow conditions and the official schedule — check them for the day of your visit.
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History & architectureTsarska Bistritsa Palace
A former royal hunting lodge in the forest near Borovets. Its architecture and natural setting offer a very different experience from the busy resort area — ideal for lovers of history and park walks, if the site is open.
Check visiting arrangements, opening hours and access to the grounds in advance.
- Archaeology & history
Tsari Mali Grad — Belchin
An archaeological and museum complex near the village of Belchin. The hilltop fortress, the Church of St Petka and the ethnographic features of the area reveal layers of ancient and medieval history. One of the strongest cultural highlights for visitors with half a day to spare.
Check the opening hours, the road conditions and whether the funicular and facilities are running on the day.
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Pictured: the centre of Belchin village Spa & relaxationBelchin Mineral Baths
The area around Belchin is known for its mineral springs and places to unwind — a good choice for dancers, parents and companions who would rather relax than go on a long walk.
Choose a specific venue after checking its services, hours, prices and rules for day visitors. Booking ahead for the weekend is a good idea.
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Villages & natureBeli Iskar Village
A picturesque mountain village at the foot of Rila, known for its natural setting and as a starting point for mountain routes. The village itself makes a calm short visit, and in good conditions the area offers views of Rila and a taste of rural tourism.
In winter, check road conditions and access to routes outside the village.
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Nature & hikingBeli Iskar Eco-trail
A popular forest eco-trail near the village of the same name, following the river across picturesque little bridges. In the right season, a wonderful choice for nature lovers and photographers.
In December, check for snow, ice, fallen trees, the state of the bridges and car access. Do not set off if conditions are poor.
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SceneryBeli Iskar Reservoir
A mountain reservoir set among Rila landscapes — striking for views and photography, though access to the shore and road conditions depend on the area and the season. It is also an important drinking-water reservoir.
Follow the signs and access restrictions; do not enter closed or technical areas.
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Pictured: forests and a ski slope in Borovets Natural landmark / mountain routeThe Black Rock — Borovets area
An impressive rock formation with panoramic mountain views. A destination for keen walkers rather than a general recommendation — especially in winter.
Keep away from the edge of the rock and avoid the route in snow, ice, fog or strong wind.
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Mountains & alpine historyMalyovitsa
Malyovitsa is an iconic part of Rila, closely tied to the history of Bulgarian mountaineering and alpinism. The area is beautiful, but winter conditions can be serious.
For experienced hikers or an organised visit with a local guide, after checking the forecast and conditions. Not suitable for a short family walk in December.
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Rural & mountain tourismGovedartsi Village
A mountain village in the Rila area for guests who want to see more of the Samokov countryside and feel the atmosphere of a mountain village. The area is a starting point for nature routes.
A good drive in fair weather; mountain routes are a separate activity and need checking first.
Further afield
For guests with more free time before or after the festival.
- Cultural & spiritual heritage
Rila Monastery
Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s most important symbols and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The arcaded courtyard, frescoes, architecture, museums and mountain setting are unforgettable. A particularly strong recommendation for international guests — the trip from Samokov needs to be planned separately.
Check winter road conditions, museum opening hours and access to the complex. Please follow the visitor rules of a working monastery.
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Mineral springs & town landmarkSapareva Banya and its geyser
Sapareva Banya is known for its mineral waters and the hot geyser in the town centre — a good choice for guests who want to combine a stroll with mineral pools or a spa. Further away and most practical by car.
The geyser in the centre is in the open; pools and spa services are paid, with hours and prices set by each venue.
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High-mountain natureThe Seven Rila Lakes
One of Bulgaria’s most popular natural landmarks, famous for its high-mountain scenery. It is a seasonal mountain destination, not a standard December outing.
In winter, access requires proper preparation and can be dangerous; lifts and routes may be closed. Only for experienced hikers, after checking current conditions.
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Nature & sceneryIskar Reservoir
A large reservoir between Sofia and Samokov, surrounded by hills and woodland — a good scenic stop in fair conditions. The shoreline is long, so pick a specific accessible spot rather than navigating to the general name.
Observe the restrictions around drinking-water and technical areas.
The beauty of the region
Photos are illustrative and do not show conditions on 5–6 December 2026.
Ready-made routes
Suggestions for self-guided outings — they don’t guarantee that every site will be open.
- Route A
Samokov in 60–90 minutes
If you have a little free time between performances.
- The Great Fountain
- The Historical Museum — if it is open
- The Sarafska House — if it is open
- The convent or the Bayrakli Mosque — depending on access and interest
A suggestion for a self-guided walk — indoor sites may not be open. Check distances and hours.
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Route B Winter atmosphere in Borovets
For a free afternoon.
- A stroll around central Borovets
- Coffee or lunch in the resort
- Photos among the pine forests and winter scenery
- Tsarska Bistritsa — only if open and accessible
Lifts, skiing and snow activities on 5–6 December are not guaranteed — check in advance.
- Route C
History and mineral springs
Half a day by car.
- The Tsari Mali Grad complex
- Belchin village
- Mineral baths / a spa in the area — after checking and booking
Check the complex’s opening hours and the terms of your chosen spa.
- Route D
The nature of Rila
Only in good weather.
- Beli Iskar village
- The Beli Iskar eco-trail — only if safe and accessible
- Scenic stops along accessible public roads
The Black Rock, Malyovitsa and the Seven Rila Lakes are not for an ordinary family winter walk.
- Route E
A full day of Bulgarian heritage
A separate day, by car or organised transport.
- Rila Monastery
- The courtyard and the museum spaces open to visitors
- Return to Samokov
Check winter road conditions before you leave.
Practical information
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Opening hours
Check directly with each site before you go — hours change.
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Winter conditions
Snow, ice and road conditions — check the forecast and the roads before you set off.
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Navigation
Open the map and make sure the right place is selected.
Tourist Information Centre — Samokov
For up-to-date information on sights, routes, opening hours, local transport and tourist materials:
Useful reminders
- Check opening hours and group-visit options directly with each site.
- Mountain weather changes fast — check the forecast and road conditions.
- In winter, wear suitable footwear and warm clothes; don’t set out on icy routes unprepared.
- Confirm in advance that a museum, monastery, palace or spa is open to visitors.
- At religious sites, follow the rules on dress, silence and photography.
- The “Google Maps” buttons search by name — before you set off, make sure the right place and route are selected.
- Distances are approximate and depend on your starting point, route and conditions.
Photo credits
The photos are shared by their authors via Wikimedia Commons and used under the individual licences listed below. All have been resized and compressed for the web, with no other changes to the files. The authors are not affiliated with the festival.
- Borovec 2018.jpg — KomemineDK · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Исторически музей Самоков.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Самоковски манастир „Покров Богородичен“ 2.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Samokov-BayrakliMosque10.jpg — Gitanes232 · CC0 1.0
- Боровец, 01.01.2016 - panoramio (10).jpg — Nikolai Karaneschev · CC BY 3.0
- Tsari Mali grad.jpg — Чигот · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Бели Искър - panoramio.jpg — Делян Ковачев · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Ecopateka.jpg — Edal Anton Lefterov · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Rila Monastery 17.jpg — King of Rona · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Поглед към седемте Рилски езера.jpg — Ayoization · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Голямата чешма в Самоков.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Митрополитската църква Самоков.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Царска Бистрица двореца 1.JPG — Rumensz · Public domain
- Belchin-view.jpg — Edal Anton Lefterov · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Яз.Бели Искър.JPG — Mincov · CC BY 3.0
- Връх Мальовица през зимата.jpg — Rumyana Hristova · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Село Говедарци - panoramio.jpg — Красимир Косев · CC BY 3.0
- Sapareva banya Artificial geyser.jpg — dupnitsa.net · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Iskar-reservoir-1.jpg — Елена Чочкова (Elena Chochkova) · CC BY 2.5
- Река Черни Искър Самоков.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Боровец, 01.01.2016 - panoramio (13).jpg — Nikolai Karaneschev · CC BY 3.0
- Самоковски девически манастир.jpg — Владимир Kaladan Петков · CC BY-SA 4.0
- A1 motor park main entrance.jpg — Krasiwd · CC0 1.0
- The Rila Hotel Facade.jpg — Marketingrilaborovets · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Samokovskata dolina ot Borovets.jpg — Tropcho · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Рила - скалите над Екопътека Бели Искър.JPG — Vassia Atanassova - Spiritia · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Samokov Valley as seen from Borovets.JPG — Tropcho · CC BY-SA 4.0
Christmas Magic 2026
Thank you to our sponsors
Christmas Magic 2026 is possible thanks to the generosity and kindness of our sponsors. They believe in young dancers and help make this celebration a reality for every child who steps onto the dance floor. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
