Family Christmas break ideas for 2006

Head for the hills in Bulgaria

Bansko is a picturesque alpine town that's fast becoming one of Bulgaria's best-known ski resorts. Sporty types looking for a good-value pre or post-Christmas getaway (Christmas week itself has been booked up for months already) will love the ski school and the network of tree-lined runs for beginners and the more experienced.

The under-sevens even have their own ski kindergarten, where they can make new friends while hitting the nursery slopes. If you have any energy left after a day in the fresh air, Bansko village is crammed with snug tavernas where you may well catch a local folk dance group in action.

Where to stay
The Katarino is a well-equipped, modern hotel in a quiet location on the edge of Bansko. There are 136 bedrooms, including large ones for families of four. Children will appreciate the supervised playroom with plenty of toys; parents will also like the evening babysitting service. Unwind after a hard day with a swim in the indoor pool, or head to the Wellness Centre for a sauna or Jacuzzi.

Seven nights at the Katarino with Crystal Ski Holidays costs from £528 per person, based on two sharing. This includes return flights from Gatwick, transfers and half-board accommodation. Flexible ski packs (boot and ski hire, lift passes and tuition) are extra; book in advance as it is not only cheaper but much easier to pay in the UK when you book your holiday.

The children's ski school and kindergarten can only be booked locally, and costs around £15 a day; however, if two adults pre-book any 'ski/board' or 'large ski packs', then one child will receive either free kindergarten or free ski school.
For details:
Crystal Ski Holidays www.crystalski.co.uk

What to do around and about
Arrange to spend the last night of your trip in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, giving you most of the following day to explore. Start at the National History Museum, which has an inspiring collection of ancient gold and silver, icons paintings and frescoes from the country's many monasteries.

Other highlights include the magnificent Aleksandar Nevski memorial church, whose domes glitter in the winter sun. The crypt houses another collection of icons and wood carvings, including one showing St George, the patron saint of England. Don't miss the city's bustling markets, great for picking up crafts and local foods at bargain prices.

Bansko is on the fringe of Pirin National Park, a wonderful setting for wintry walks. Otherwise, Bansko itself has an ice rink and bowling alley, or you can arrange a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh or a snowmobile expedition.

Several traditional Bansko buildings are worth exploring, including the Rila Nunnery with its collection of icons, the Church of the Holy Trinity and the richly decorated Velyanov's House.
For details:
Bulgarian tourist board www.bulgariatravel.org
Bansko tourist board www.bansko.bg