FIVE ELEMENTS HOTEL: EXPERIENCE BEYOND THE LUXURY

A luxury spa escape is among the finest ways to restore one's energy. At the Five Elements Hotel, however, the experience is elevated far beyond the familiar. Set by the hot mineral springs of Sapareva Banya, just a short drive from Sofia, this stylish retreat is devoted to offering the most sophisticated spa, accommodation and dining journey while demonstrating a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and protection. For the team at Five Elements, care for the guest and care for nature are inseparable parts of a single philosophy that unites the spiritual, the sensory and the physical in perfect balance. Vesela Bogdanova, general manager, explains further.

The ratings, the guest reviews and the awards all show it – Five Elements is not an ordinary spa hotel. What makes the Five Elements experience unlike any other?

The love and professionalism we put into our work, as well as our constant effort to refine every detail, are inevitably noticed by our guests. Of course, our unique location plays a major role in the experience – we are next to the hottest mineral spring in Europe, at the foot of the mountain where the highest peak in the Balkans is located, and within easy reach of the capital.

Why did you choose an approach where luxury and guest comfort meet care for the environment?

We had no hesitation when it came to the responsible use of tourism resources. Experience shows that tourism often destroys its own capital through anthropogenic pressure. Considering that tourist resources have limited capacity for self-recovery, and that tourism is a typical vicious circle of growth and self-destruction, its sustainable development is crucial for its very existence as an industry. Preparing for our Green Key certification helped us train our staff and create systems and process organisation focused on environmental protection. Thus, we care for nature without sacrificing our guests' comfort.

Which of Five Elements' spa pleasures would you recommend for the colder months?

Our spa pleasures are particularly suitable in the colder months, as the mineral water is very hot and, thanks to its chemical composition, the warmth settles deep into your bones and stays there long after you have left the pool. We also offer a spacious spa area with a variety of facilities – they are pure indulgence to enjoy after a rigorous or leisurely mountain walk or winter sports. Of course, massage therapies are an added element of pleasure in a relaxing or healing programme.

And for the summer?

In summer, we organise concerts and cultural events on the open-air stage by the pools, as well as hiking trips in Rila or visits to the region's many historical sites.

Five Elements cares not only for the body and soul, but also for the palate – on what principle is the menu in the hotel's restaurants designed?

We offer breakfast and dinner on a rich buffet, included in the room price. The restaurants and interior are created with an eye to harmony with nature – part of the hotel's philosophy, which is inspired by the elements water, air, earth, fire and space, extends to the food: the atmosphere, the materials, the decoration. The emphasis is on offering special dietary and healthy options – for example a selection of salads, vegetarian dishes, slow-cooked meats, gluten-free options, fruit, lactose-free milk, olive oil and balsamic vinegar on the buffet.

Individualised experience is a key trend in hospitality today. How do you apply it at Five Elements?

Despite the high level of digitalisation and automation in the booking process, we welcome our guests with a smiling team of trained professionals who are available 24/7 to resolve any individual query. The extensive shared-space area – the Akash lobby bar – offers opportunities for quiet contemplation of nature through the panoramic windows, or of the fire in the fireplace, or enjoyment of a book from our private library, or a moment of indulgence with a signature dessert by our pastry chef. Everything will remain hidden.

Sapareva Banya, 36 Germaneya St
0707 22 155
office@thefiveelementshotel.bg
thefiveelementshotel.com