Narechenski Bani is a small village on the road to the mountain resort of Pamporovo and has existed as a separate settlement since July 1, 1891. In 1910, the first public balneotherapy bath began operating there, and by 1923 Narechenski Bani had already become a well-known destination for holiday excursions and vacations in Bulgaria. During World War II, this very place served as an oasis for soldiers who found healing through the therapeutic properties of its mineral waters.
The mineral water in the resort is the only one in Bulgaria known to treat neuroses, depression, and stress-related conditions, and more recently, a luxury hotel has opened there, located in the former residence of socialist leader Todor Zhivkov.
Villa Rossa was built as a private residence for the Bulgarian head of state at the time and hosted important diplomatic meetings. Todor Zhivkov, who governed Bulgaria from 1954 to 1989, used the property not only for personal retreat but also for official meetings with foreign delegations. The building still bears the architectural hallmarks of its era: massive volumes, horizontal lines, solid materials, and a sense of seclusion.
Over the years, the property gradually deteriorated, and by 2020 there were publications announcing that it had been put up for auction by the Ministry of Defense. It is located directly above the village and is accessible via a specially constructed road. The estate has its own mineral spring and is surrounded by dense forest, offering panoramic views of the entire valley.
The current renovation is the result of a collaboration between Bulgarian and Italian architectural studios, whose goal was to preserve the building’s history while infusing it with contemporary luxury and comfort. The outdoor spaces of Villa Rossa were designed as a natural extension of the Rhodope Mountains, and in the upper hotel and villa area only electric vehicles are permitted in order to preserve tranquility, clean air, and the authentic atmosphere.
The hotel itself consists of rooms, suites, and cozy villas, and offers guests not only state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities, but also a restaurant and a bar for a fully immersive stay. Prices start from 520 BGN / 266 EUR per night on weekends and from 451.80 BGN / 231 EUR on weekdays for a double room with terrace.
Guests can enjoy the unique opportunity to experience a part of Bulgarian history by visiting the residence that once hosted important political and diplomatic events.
Photos: https://villarossaspa.com/
