Bulgaria: The new golfer’s paradise

Over the last few years the Bulgarian property market has been maturing with greater numbers of European and American secondhome buyers and investors attracted to the low cost of living in the country and high quality developments. Bulgarian Dreams, the UK’s leading agent in Bulgarian real estate, highlights that now, following the Spanish and Portugal model, golf courses are the latest craze.

There are currently five new golf resorts, designed by high-profile championship golfers, being constructed in the country with more in the pipeline. Smart purchasers and golf enthusiasts are looking to take advantage of Bulgaria’s potential to become an exciting new golf destination and golf real estate market by buying properties near the new courses.

Located in Balchik, Lighthouse Golf Resort is set on the Black Sea Coast and is one of the latest Golf complexes designed by 2006 Ryder Cup European Team captain Ian Woosnam. Also located in Balchik, Thracian Cliffs, a beautiful new championship course designed by golf legend Gary Player, is set at sea level boasting incredible views and distinct design, in contrast with the rough topography of the area. Just a few kilometres away in Kavarna, BlackSeaRama is the second 18-hole international Gary Player signature golf course in the area and is expected to complete in 2010.

Ideally located just 6 minutes from Bansko's 65 kilometre world-class ski runs, Pirin Golf is Bulgaria's unique mountain golf course. Designed by Ian Woosnam, the 18-hole Championship class layout will challenge both beginners' and masters' golfing skills. The home of the first Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, Ibar Golf, will be located in Dolna Banya, about 70 kilometres from the capital city of Sofia.

Robert Jenkin, Managing Director of Bulgarian Dreams, comments: “Golf resorts have long been a popular destination for holidaymakers and secondhome buyers. Those looking to invest in the growing Bulgarian property market will find a number of opportunities there, especially along the Black Sea coast. These new golf developments are sure to lead to further foreign and domestic investment in the country and will make Bulgaria a serious contender as a golfing paradise.”

The newly formed Bulgarian Golf Association is also helping to boost interest in the country and will be administrating golf activities and organising competitions in neighbouring countries.

Bulgarian Dreams is currently marketing a number of properties ideal for golf enthusiasts at Windows to Paradise near Balchik and The Orchard in Bansko. Windows to Paradise is located on a stunning hillside, offering a select collection of studios, one and two bedroom apartments and penthouses with the majority of the properties boasting incredible sea views. The facilities at the scheme include several outdoor swimming pools, full spa centre with indoor pool, steam bath, sauna, Jacuzzi and children’s pool. A stunning new yacht marina is also being built nearby increasing the desirability of this area.

The Orchard is Bansko’s most exclusive and chic new development located just 350 metres from the resort’s main ski lifts and offers residents the benefit of Bulgaria’s largest and most luxurious spa complex totalling 18,000 sqft. Comprising 500 studio, one and two bedroom apartments, and penthouses, the development also boasts an onsite cinema and ice rink.

Prices at Phase III at Windows To Paradise start from €38,546.63 (£26,583.88) for a studio apartment, €57,902.13 (£39,932.50) for a one bedroom apartment and €81,769.50 (£56,392.76) for a two bedroom apartment. Prices at The Orchard start from €47,000 (£32,400) for a studio, €88,400 (£60,900) for a one bedroom apartment and €145,000 (£100,000) for a two-bedroom duplex apartment.

For further sales information, visit bulgariandreams.com.