Overview
A waterpark add-on in Bulgaria’s spa capital
Velingrad is built around mineral water, and Spa Hotel Elbrus leans into that with an on-site thermal aqua park. Think pools plus slides, not a quiet bathhouse. The hotel lists a children’s pool with play features, a mineral pool with slides, a 25 m mineral swimming pool, and a jacuzzi area.
Hours and how day entry works
The aqua park lists opening hours of 09:00 to 19:00, with separate posted hours for some facilities. It also notes that the area is reserved for hotel guests (including a partner property), and outside visitors are only accepted if there is availability and you reserve by phone in advance.
Pricing is posted for day and afternoon admission, but treat it as changeable and confirm at booking, especially on holiday weekends.
Location & Access
Where it is
The aqua park is part of Spa Hotel Elbrus at 116 Khan Asparuh Blvd (Han Asparuh St), in Velingrad’s Ladzhene area.
Getting there
By car, it is a straightforward city approach once you are in Velingrad. If you arrive by train or bus, a taxi or rideshare-style local transfer is the practical last step, the hotel is not a “walk from station with a towel” setup for most visitors.
Entry planning
Because day access depends on availability, call ahead before you plan your whole day around it. Ask specifically which ticket window is available (full day vs afternoon), and whether slides and children’s areas are operating that day.
What to bring
Bring a swimsuit, sandals with grip, and your own towel. The hotel lists paid locker use, so have small cash or a card option that works locally. If you are visiting with kids, bring basic pool gear (goggles, rash top) because the pace is more waterpark than spa.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is best for families and groups who want active pool time in mineral water, with slides as the main event. If your idea of a “hot spring” is quiet soaking and reading, this will feel busy, especially midday.
Families
Very family friendly on paper, with a dedicated kids pool and multiple slide options. In practice, younger kids do better earlier in the day when changing areas are calmer. For teens, the slides and pool variety are the draw.
Couples and solo travelers
Couples can still enjoy it, but it is more “play” than “retreat”. Solo travelers who like swimming will appreciate the 25 m pool, and everyone benefits from arriving at opening for more space.
Mobility and accessibility reality
It is a hotel-operated facility with multiple pool edges, wet surfaces, and likely steps in some zones. I would not assume step-free entry everywhere. If you need a specific setup (ramps, pool lift, step-free changing), call before you pay, and be ready to pivot to another Velingrad option if it does not fit.
Safety & Etiquette
Waterpark basics
Follow height and usage rules on slides, and keep hair tied back. Slide landings and pool edges are where accidents happen, so do not run, and do not let kids queue unsupervised.
Heat and exposure
Mineral pools can feel deceptively tiring, especially if you alternate warm water and sun. Rotate between pools, take shade breaks, and drink water even if you are not thirsty.
Slips and foot safety
Wear sandals on wet tile, and watch for slick patches near steps and ladder points. Move slowly in crowded areas, and keep bags away from walkways.
Etiquette in a shared resort space
Because day visitors are admitted only when the hotel allows it, be extra tidy and low-impact. Keep music off, do not take over loungers with towels all day, and leave slide lanes open for people who are actively using them.
FAQs
Can non-hotel guests visit Thermal Aqua Park Elbrus?
Sometimes. The hotel states outside visitors are only accepted if there is availability, and you need to reserve by phone in advance.
What are the opening hours?
The aqua park lists 09:00 to 19:00, with separate posted hours for some facilities inside the waterpark area.
What is included with admission?
The posted inclusions cover use of the pools and slides listed by the hotel, plus basics like changing rooms and showers. Some extras like lockers may have an additional fee.
Is it good with small kids?
Yes if you want a waterpark day. Bring flotation help if your child needs it, and plan an early arrival for less crowding.
Do I need to book ahead?
If you are not staying at the hotel, yes, booking ahead is the safest approach because outside entry depends on availability.