Bears in the Woods

Bankso, Bulgaria

The fencing was substantial (& electric)

We were off on a hot date!  Mercifully, the weather held and even sleepy bears managed to stay awake for our visit.  Our host had organised a trip up into the hills to visit the Belitsa Bear Sanctuary, home in a natural forested area for some badly mistreated ex-dancing bears.  Thankfully, training of dancing bears was prohibited in 1998 and now some 27 rescued bears have found a home in this peaceful sanctuary. 

The track up into the hills was quite muddy and farmers were clearly well into preparations for winter lock-down but the scenery was just stunning.  After some heroic driving, we arrived at the base of the sanctuary.  Yes, base.  There were just a few steps (did someone say 300 or so) to get to the top of the park.  Oh well, we did really need to walk off a few calories…

 

We saw the bears!  They were waiting for us, although some looked a little sleepy.  Clearly these once mistreated bears were happy in their new homes, with spacious accommodations, plenty to eat and trained staff to take care of them.  They have access to vet services and an ambulance is even on hand.  It is wonderful so see them offered a chance at a new life.  This park is funded by the Four Paws and the Brigitte Bardot Foundations.

A measure of the success of this park is that most bears are hibernating without assistance.  Even so, they’re not likely to ever be released into the wild as they just couldn’t cope. 

Now, meet some of our gorgeous friends:

 

Nobody Told Me!

Bankso, Bulgaria

Well now, just who wouldn't want this cool snow bunny hat?

Next morning, the weather played havoc with out plans and said cart ride in Gorno Draglishte did not eventuate (sometimes 60+’s can have dreadful toddler tantrums).  After a very short bus ride though, we arrived in Bankso.  It was still drizzling.  Our accommodation was surrounded by vast craters.  (They clearly take roadwork very seriously.)  What are we doing here?  And for two nights! 

Nobody told me!  Bankso is the largest ski resort in Bulgaria.  Recent news was that Tiger Woods’ girlfriend was coming to town.  Perhaps we’d better get dressed up.  Whoops, forgot to pack the snow bunny outfit (again!).  Our hosts in Bankso were quite delightful.  We were plied with homemade cakes, pastries and a glass or two of home-brewed red wine (melnik).  Don’t think the snow bunny outfit would have quite zipped up after all that lot…

Nobody told me!  It had snowed all night. Yeah!  Roads were closed, trees fallen and lots of lovely, powdery snow!  The serious trek (or bush walk) up into the Pirin Mountains, around clear cold lakes, through pine forests and close to jagged peaks was off then. (Oh dear, such a pity!)  For those lacking in snow exposure, our host organised a short trip up into the hills for a few snowball fights, snowman (& woman) building and a “plastic bag” toboggan ride.  Non-takers of this offer were left behind at the Guest House to seriously suffer… plied with more red wine, stimulating card games and a cosy fire.

Toboggan run on green garbage bags just has to hurt!

Nobody told me!  Bankso has quite a history.  There are a number of historically significant landmarks and associated museums in town.  We explored a little of the town, but mostly the inside of a few interesting mehanes (taverns).  (Yes, it was still raining.)  All that cold weather brings on a healthy appetite and we were doing our best to sample provincial Bulgarian fare.  Not to mention finding the best Bulgarian hot chocolate.  As one must.