Bulgaria is attracting increasing attention from property investors following its accession to the European Union in January, it has been claimed.

Director of overseas property investment firm Principal International Paul Cooper said that investors who wanted a property that was sure to be rented out should consider the ski resort of Bansko in Bulgaria.

Increasing numbers of people were looking for activity resorts when choosing their holidays, Mr Cooper claimed, and the resort offered year-round activity, with hiking, fishing and white water rafting available in the summer to attract visitors.

The region was also expected to get a boost from hosting the European Women's Championships in Alpine Skiing and the European Biathlon Championship, he explained.

With prices some of the lowest in Europe and affordability within reach, Mr Cooper said that it made "for a wise choice for the overseas property investor and first-time buyer".

However, DreamChalet.com recently warned that ski resorts in Eastern Europe often did not have the facilities and currently lacked the kudos of traditional ski destinations France and Switzerland.