Katarino Hotel & Spa

We only spent one night at Katarino Spa Hotel in Razlog, Bulgaria, and wished we’d stayed longer. The staff were warm, welcoming, and attentive, and the food was good quality at reasonable prices, just as we’d hoped. The mountain panorama was the standout, one of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve seen, with the Pirin Mountains looking peaceful and majestic. The spa was excellent, especially the heated pool, where we could relax and enjoy the scenery. The amenities really let you unwind and take in the natural surroundings. Katarino Spa Hotel is a must-visit when traveling to Bulgaria, especially around Bansko.

We spent the Christmas holidays here with our family, and it unfortunately ruined the holiday. We’d chosen the hotel because of the good reviews, especially the comments about food and kids animation, and arrived with high expectations. Our children are nine, but there was nothing suitable for their age. The hotel’s shared areas were warm and cozy, though basic, with dated furniture and very plain Christmas decorations. There was no festive feeling in the hotel. The spa seemed unchanged from 15 years ago. The pools were small for the number of guests, and the areas around them were wet and messy. Only the outdoor pool was warm enough, and it was tiny. Some staff were nice, but there were many rude employees who made us feel unwelcome. Most of the restaurant staff were unfriendly, unwilling to cooperate, and insulted guests behind their backs. The food was fresh, but the selection was basic and the same every day. Breakfast was okay. Our room’s central heating ran on a schedule. The bathtub was meant to be used for showering, but its curtain was disgusting. A noisy bar played loud music late into the night. I shared all my disappointment with someone in charge before writing a negative review, because I thought management should hear it first. They did nothing. If you arrive without expectations and find a reasonable price, you might be fine here. But if you’re used to five-star hotels and expect the minimum for the rate, you’ll definitely be disappointed. Check carefully before you make plans.

The kids activities were a big hit with my child, who’s absolutely thrilled, and we’ll definitely be back. It’s a wonderful hotel with top-level service, impeccable cleanliness, and delicious, high-quality food.

The recent renovations have made the venue even more appealing for summer visits. It’s a great place for either a summer getaway or a snowy winter stay, with a lovely view, fresh air, and all the spa goodies for a stress-free break two or three times a year. The amenities are perfect, and the food is great quality with generous portions, so keep an eye on those calories.