Overseas property investors may soon be sizing up Sofia, after Easyjet announced it will run direct flights to the Bulgarian capital.

The scheduled flights will begin on November 6 and they are expected to prompt other low-cost carriers to follow suit, encouraging increased travel to the country.

Easyjet will fly three times per week from London Gatwick to Sofia on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The average prices for a return trip in November is just over £50 per person including taxes and charges.

One of the real estate experts says: “The increase in direct flights to Bulgaria is a testament to the country’s ongoing popularity and proven investment - something we have been keen to see implemented since we first began operating in Bulgaria in 2002.

"Bulgaria offers some of the best value for money in Europe, particularly after joining the EU in January.”

Sofia is only an hour from the ski resorts of Bankso and Pampovoro.

"As the city’s economy continues to outstrip the national average, property prices in the capital city are among the fastest rising in the country with annual increases exceeding 22%.

Sofia has changed notably during the past six years, with economic growth being felt more strongly in the capital than anywhere else in Bulgaria.

Population has grown steadily during the past few years with unemployment at record low levels of less than 2%. Sofia International Airport has now been rebuilt and improvements are planned for the Metro.

The expert adds: “Sofia has increased her standing on the world stage in recent years so it makes sense that travel companies are following suit.

"With the Bulgarian economy thriving and more convenient travel options, we expect a marked increase in investment.”