ESPA Innovation Award conferred in Haapsalu, Estonia, October 9, 2025 (BUBSPA Photo)
Bulgaria received two awards for innovation from the European Spas Association - ESPA Innovation Award, which are presented for the most innovative and successful practices in the field of medical spa tourism in Europe. This happened on the second day of the annual European Spas & Balneology Congress 2025, held in Estonia's Haapsalu from October 8 to 10 and organized by ESPA and the Estonian Economy and Industry Ministry. BTA is a partner of the event.
Hot Springs Medical and Spa in Banya (Southern Bulgaria) received the special jury prize in "Category 4: Innovative Spa Concept" as the first spa resort aimed at children, offering spa services for family well-being, creating an educational, caring, and fun environment for children's health. ESPA Secretary General Chila Mezosi presented the award to Tsvetina Ivanova, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Association of Balneology and SPA Tourism (BUBSPA).
The main award in the category went to the Lithuanian center E77 for holistic, authentic, and sustainable therapy.
The Inspiro Medical Centre in Sveti Vlas (on the Black Sea) received the main award in "Category 5: Innovative Health Spa Programme" for integrating climatotherapy, marine therapy, physiotherapy, and nutrition for prevention and rehabilitation, developed by a multidisciplinary team with the aim of strengthening physical and emotional well-being, according to the organizers.