Grand Hotel Therme

Food was pretty good, though there wasn't enough variety and it was often cold. It felt like the main restaurant's food was cycled to the other restaurants after each meal. Service was mixed: Alex was simply the best, so hospitable, while some others, usually the bartenders in the lower lounge and pool, were real jerks. We chose the all-inclusive pack. It wasn't as extensive as we'd have liked, but there was plenty of food and sweets, and we were fine with only two cocktail options. Some bartenders, mostly at the main lounge bar, were extra generous and would slip us a little more with a wink and a smile. The stay was good overall, but I don't think we'll return. We stayed three nights and felt the 20 euro per an hour late checkout charge was a money grab, especially at a hotel charging 300+ euro per night. It's the little things that spoil the experience. They should try a little harder.

The spa facilities are better than what I’ve seen at similar places in Bulgaria, and I’m glad I got to try the hotel as a first-time visitor to the region. Still, the price set expectations for service and quality that the rest of the stay didn’t meet. Other guests also made it hard to relax. Next time, I’d probably choose a resort that feels more authentic.

I’m writing to the people in charge of the spa center and would appreciate a quick reply. There’s a young employee at the small desk who hands out towels and bathrobes. I think his name was Mohammed. He was polite, easy to talk to, and we chatted for over 20 minutes about different things. I liked him a lot. I have a small hotel in Bansko and would like to hire him. I haven’t made him an offer yet, but I plan to speak with him over the next few days and reach an agreement. If possible, I’d also like to get in touch with the managers about bringing him over to work for me. Please get back to me quickly!

The Pulse Gym & Spa was the highlight for us. Hotel guests have a private spa, and there’s also a larger Pulse Spa that outside visitors can use. Around 6-7 PM it gets busier as the party atmosphere picks up and more young people arrive, but the place is so large that it still feels manageable. There are loads of pools and saunas, plus a spa cinema. We chose half board and still felt there was almost all-inclusive amounts of food available throughout the day, more than we could try. The hotel is often full of families and children, but it stays comfortable and well organized. Our room was spacious and very clean, and the free minibar refill each day was a great extra. A lively, modern spa resort, and I’d recommend it.