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Ski Austria resort and accommodation information…

Austria, Travel & Sport, Travel

Ski Austria, is as diverse and fun as anywhere in the world, and you are in basically the home of Alpine skiing.The Austrian Tirol. The Arlberg and Land Salzburg Below are just a few of the resorts we highlight here. In the days and weeks to come there will be more and we will even get your input.
St Anton
In summer the Arlberg Austrian resort of St Anton turns into nothing less than a hotspot for walkers. Like every other resort- well in fact like the whole sport of skiing, the St. Anton Austria ski area is adapting and evolving. It moves and improves with the times. Although this evolution is both unstoppable and good for the resort, the industry and holidaymakers, there will be some who will swear the resort is “not what it used to be”.
You see, this area of The Arlberg has long been thought of as the “serious skiers” resort, and almost since time began (as far as skiers were concerned) it attracted those who awoke at the crack of dawn in search of the “steep and the deep”. Hard ski, hard party was and still is the name of the game. And these loyal and welcomed skiers were largely responsible for both St. Anton’s formidable reputation as a ski resort, as well as the development of one of the most awesome après ski line-ups in the Alps. Great: more power to them.
However, many lost sight of the fact that, in order to survive and prosper, any great resort has got to attract a wider base of skier, and must market to the beginner, the families well as the ever-aging ski population. And let’s face it. This section of the Arlberg has always had the facilities to attract and please all comers, it was just that its “bad boy of the Alps” reputation preceded it. This marketing is paying off and more recreational and holiday skiers, including families and beginners are enjoying all St. Anton has to offer.

However some things never change. The Austrian Arlberg resort of St. Anton still draws and still delights in the attentions of the serious skier. In late November the annual migration to the powder Mecca begins, and there is no let up until after Easter.

An early local pioneer, Hannes Schneider, developed ski instruction methods that are not all that different than those we know today, and as the progress of St. Anton went over the years, so too did the progress in the sport world-wide. St. Anton is a leader in the skiing business.

Much of St. Anton’s following is, as we have pointed out, largely made up of younger “serious” skiers who dearly love the challenge presented by the resort. For the skiing here can be very stiff indeed. Names like the Valluga, the Tanzboden and the Kapall will be familiar with “clued in” skiers. And the opportunity for “off piste” or powder skiing here is legendary.

A look at some of the wild places showing fresh ski tracks will bear this out. But no resort can live by challenge alone. A good resort must provide ski terrain for all standards of skiers. A good resort must provide easy access at different levels so beginners can be assured of decent snow to make their mistakes on. A good resort must feature well groomed intermediate grade slopes, so not-so-proficient skiers can feel and look a bit more proficient, confident, stylish even. This St. Anton provides; St Anton is a good resort.

Then you have the bonus of the other resorts in the immediate vicinity on the same lift pass. St. Christoph is one such entry just a little ways up on the Arlberg pass.

This much smaller and much quieter resort, has immediate access into the mainstream of skiing in the area, and allows those looking for the opportunity to get away from it all, in style. The little resort of Stuben offers that elusive special Austrian resort atmosphere that is coveted by so many winter holiday makers. It too has a lift system that is immediately connected into the St. Anton network.

Skiers based in Stuben can enjoy skiing almost directly above the resort via the Albona lift system, and also use it as an entry point into the main skiing areas. If that’s not enough to satisfy you top it all off with Lech and Zürs on the same lift pass (but not interconnected by ski lifts) and you have got a major league ski area for major and minor league skiers.
Lech and Zurs of course are also world class resorts and as such deserve their own story; even their own web site. Try www.lechaustria.com.

Lech am Arlberg
At 1450 M the stylish resort of Lech Am Arlberg in Austria has no trouble convincing visitors. Lech Zurs Austria skiing overview

If the personality of the resorts is a mixture of traditional and contemporary, what about the skiing? We are pleased to report that too is mixed, and the skier benefits. The two resorts are steeped in skiing tradition and both can boast a major role in the development of skiing style and uphill transportation. The selection of slopes is unbeatable and equally impressive from either village.

It is possible to ski between Lech and Zürs, and many people do so as a matter of routine. Besides offering tremendous potential for the normally talented recreational skier, these villages each have tremendous scope for the more adventurous punter. After fresh snowfalls, ski tracks can be seen in some amazing places. Off the beaten track the adventurous will seek out areas which can only be attempted by skiers with equal amounts of skill and daring do. If this is your forte, then this is your place.
In Lech the satellite villages of Oberlech and Zug are both good places to stay and good places to ski. The variety of terrain in these villages makes this ski destination a first class choice for skiers of all degrees of confidence and ability.

Of course the skiing in Lech and Zürs plays a major role in their tremendous popularity. A brief look at the statistics here might tell you why. The Arlberg ski pass, which includes Lech, Zürs, Oberlech, Zug, and all of the resorts in the St. Anton section can boast 260 kilometers of groomed slopes serviced by 85 different means of uphill transportation. And that does not include the marvelous selection of off piste skiing, cross country trails or ski touring possibilities. And we won’t even touch on the snowboarding possibilities here.

Not only that, the skiing in both villages, as well as the connection between them is easy and convenient to reach. In Lech town center for example beginners, experts and those in between can take a cable car to Oberlech, a choice of double chairs to Kreigarhorn, the Rutikopf bahn to Zürs, and much more than we can delve into here.

Innsbruck
Innsbruck, captital of the province of Tirol is one of that region’s, nay one of the whole country’s, top tourist draws. The same Innsbruck is also one of Europe’s best ski attractions,,
Innsbruck, captital of the province of Tirol is one of that region’s, nay one of the whole country’s, top tourist draws. The same Innsbruck is also one of Europe’s best ski attractions,but, the skiing in Innsbruck is not really in Innsbruck The skiing sold under the Innsbruck label is really the skiing immediately above and around the city.
The villages of Igls, Tulfes, Mutters and Aximer Lizum are connected to the city by a free and frequent ski bus. The ski pass which covers the bus ride also entitles the holder to slide on the more than 100km. of groomed slopes and trails in the above villages.
There are, as well, more than 150 prepared cross country trails for those who like to do a bit of gliding and kicking. So Innsbruck then is the perfect base to do some of the best skiing in the Tirol. Naturally you also have the option of staying directly in any one of the village listed here. If, for example, you choose to stay in Igls, just minutes above the city by car,you would find the perfect mountain setting. The town has a small commercial area of it’s own, ample hotels, restaurants and the like, and it’s own very definite personality.The skiing directly above it is simply a short walk from the village centre, and scenic cable car ride from there. It is a tremendous area for good recreational skiers with beginner’s slopes both at the start of the cable car and small areas right on the mountain. This area, the Patscherkofel, is skiable to 2,250m, and was the site of the downhill race during the Olympic games. The other villages just a little further away from the hub of Innsbruck, also have extensive skiing within their borders and are also ideal spots to enjoy your winter vacation.
The beauty of actually staying in Innsbruck however is your ease of transport to the slopes of all four centres. Innsbruck is also truthfully able to boast guaranteed snow. It is, in fact, just about thirty minutes by road to the year round skiing on the Stubai glacier, and not all that much farther to the Hintertux glacier which also has skiing three hundred and sixty five days a year.

Stubai Valley
The first thing that will most likely strike you , whether in snow covered winter or green summer, is the quiet, yet demanding beauty of the Stubai Valley. The Stubai Valley, very famous for the Stubai Glacier, the year round skiing destination at the very end of the Tirol, Austria valley is, if you’ll pardon the cliché, a picture perfect area to visit in just about any time of year. However before we get into all of this, I have a question. Of all of the Canadians who wrote to me telling me what kind of a monster I was, really knew that I am just a boy from Nova Scotia, one totally unconnected with Stubai Tourism except to provide information? As a person who was early to realize the potential of the Internet were these large numbers of people confusing me with either the Stubai or indeed Austrian offices of tourisWe are referring here to a story featured on Canadian TV about the Canadian tourist who went missing, was found deceased and was the subject of a supposed cover up. My guess is the lot of them thought we were responsible in some official way. Otherwise they would not have been so virulent in their condemnation. I was vilified, insulted threatened and more, all because many people think that only the Stubai Valley office of tourism could own the website bearing the name. Huh! Our only aim is to provide information that will encourage folks to visit the Stubai Valley beauty found in that particular part of Austria. We hope to make a profit from advertising and helping folk find the right accommodation, ski area, ski school or what have you. Let’s go on record here. We are not and have no affiliation with the Stubai Valley department of tourism, the Tirol Tourism office, or the Austrian National Tourist Office. We provide information at a profit.

This information mostly appears in the form of maps, hotel and tour advertising and the like. Judging by the amount of people visiting www.skiaustria.com, www.stubaiaustria.com and other domains in the Austrian Travel Network we are most successful in attracting targeted visitors to our domains.

Alpbach
Alpbach’s skiing and winter sports area fans out from the top of the Wiedersbergerhorn; covers 45 km of mostly intermediate level ski lifts. area fans out from the top of the Wiedersbergerhorn and covers 45 km of mostly intermediate level ski lifts. These skiable kilometers are served by 19 ski lifts and the super cable car “family jet” which serves the Reitherkogel area.This, as the name of the cable car implies, is a superb area for families to stay together and play together.

For those of you that prefer the kicking and gliding slipping and sliding motion of cross country or langlauf skiing, there are around 25 kms of groomed and prepared trails that will allow all to not only chase the holy grail of everlasting life, but to take in some of the spectacular scenery that is a big plus that the entire Alpbach valley provides.

Night life is there but not the “in your face” variety if you know what I mean. It is more a typical Austrian village variety with cosy and friendly being the operative words.Now here’s something that is a bit of a news flash. There is one ski pass called the Kitzbüheler Alpen Ski Pass that includes the ski areas of Alpbach valley, Wildschönau, Kitzbühel, Ski World Wilder Kaiser, Schneewinkel: in total 260 ski lifts and 680km pistes .

Kitzbühel
Of all of the resorts gathered under the umbrella of this one ski pass covering much of the Kitzbüheler Alps. Of all of the resorts gathered under the umbrella of this one ski pass covering much of the Kitzbheler Alps, the one bearing the name is by far the best known on the International scene.

Kitzbühel hosts The Hahnenkahm, one of the most treacherous and most famous of all of the downhill races on the world cup circuit. As a result it has earned much publicity in the global village and has exploited it well. The resort, combined with well, but lesser known Kirchberg, plus a host of satellite resorts on the aforementioned ski pass, Aurach, Jochberg, Ashau and Pass Thurn, present as formidable a selection of ski terrain and diversity as you are as likely to find anywhere in the alps. Kitzbühel is a resort that is steeped in history and glory.

The only thing it lacks is a snow secure altitude. That having been said, it should be noted that last year, Austria, and that includes Kitzbühel and its surrounding resorts, had probably the best snow record in the Alps. And, here it is in the second half of November, 2004 and the slopes are already white. The are is a skier’s delight, with the lift pass covering all of the resorts listed here. This makes it possible to ski above any town, no matter in which one you are staying. Kitzbühel is a resort that is as famous for its history and tradition as it is for its skiing. In addition the place is well known for the extent and variety of its nightlife, its abundant and diversified restaurants and its truly International flavor. The village, no, make that the whole region, has always been a magnet for those wanting to do a year as ”ski bums and in this writer’s opinion, the area is much better off for it. These folks, many from “the landdown under” do all of the jobs that locals do not want in many cases. In some instances thay even make it to the lofty heights of ski instructor. The latter are more likely to hang around a while. Now, with the addition of an excellent 18-hole golf course in Reith just outside town, added to its many summer is taking on the persona of a truly year round destination.
Kitzbühel is a multifaceted resort. It attracts a large number of sophisticates, and various “poseurs” from nearby countries, as well as throngs of serious “holiday skiers” from all over the globe. It is this mixture, this melting pot that makes the area so interesting. Kitzbühel is no longer a winter only resort. There are a number of golf courses in town and plenty more within a couple of hours drive. There is a lake just outside the village which also attracts locals and visitors during the summer months.

Zurs offers limited but exclusive shopping as well as exclusive and not so exclusive night life. There is little on offer here that is cheap and cheerful but that does not seem to bother any of the visiting skiers. Just like many gencerations of regular guests before them, sporty winter holidaymakers who appreciate an exclusive but relaxed ambience with discover Zrs am Arlberg as Their ski resort.

Ischgl
Ischgl and Galtur, in the Austrian Tirol are in a mountain range known as The Silvrettas. Quite possibly you are not familiar with this range

Silvrettas. Quite possibly you are not familiar with this range, but if you are a skier, you would do well to get acquainted, the area has a lot to offer. The ski terrain, which is entirely skiable with one convenient ski pass, consists of the villages of Ischgl, Galtur and the Swiss village of Samnaun on that country’s side of the mountain.

This pass covers 200kms of skiable terrain, and sixty ski lifts, all high enough (3,000m.) to all but guarantee decent snow conditions. If you are less ambitious or talented, you can opt for a less encompassing pass which covers the individual resorts only. There are several smaller entries in this circus, but for purposes of this story lets stick to the main performers shall we?
Ischgl is the first of the resorts you see as you come into the Paznaun valley. At 1,400m above sea level, this is the biggest of the resorts in the region with 35 of the total ski lifts under its direct umbrella. The next major player along the valley floor is Galtur. This is the highest village at 1,584m. It has plenty of uphill transportation both along and above the valley, all united on the bigger Silvretta ski pass. And do not forget dear reader, this region allows you skiing forays into Switzerland too. Each village has its own ski school also its own lift system, but each has equal access to the main stream as it were. There is a great “traditional Austria” feeling about the whole valley, and we suggest you give it a look in. Earlier we touched on the relative obscurity of this area with non-European skiers, in our opinion this just makes it more attractive, more authentic. There is decent, but not wild night life, and, while it is not a budget destination, it is reasonable value for money.

Munich, in Germany, and Zurich, in Switzerland are convenient airports. If you can get a flight into Innsbruck you’re even closer. The Paznaun valley is reached via Innsbruck if you are coming by car from the Munich area, and Landeck if St. Moritz is one of your ports of call.

Kirchberg
This tale of two resorts and what may be termed as their “Working neighbor” counterparts continues with this information,, This tale of two resorts and what may be termed as their “Working neighbour” counterparts continues with this information on Kirchberg. The prominent and beautiful Church is probably the first thing the visitor will notice when approaching Kirchberg. “Kirch” in German means church, and it is, we believe, from this landmark that the town takes its name. When trying to describe the personality of Kirchberg one would have to pass up usage of such words as “sophisticated, slick and up market”. Kirchberg is none of the above.

What it is, is an easy going, fun, ski resort. One where there does not seem to be a great distinction between visitors who are older and more financially stable, and the tremendous young crowd that Kirchberg attracts, who, more often than not, are watching their budgets very closely.

Now I hasten to add that this introduction does not mean that Kirchberg is not a very well run ski resort. It is. And, as a result, it has just about every facility that one could think of to make it as “user friendly” and as enjoyable as possible. In addition Kirchberg shares exactly the same skiing slopes as Kitzbühel and its immediate neighbours on the ski circus umbrella, plus a nice “home base” slope known as the Gaisberg.
It is here that beginners will first “wobble” their way to competence, and here too that “Europa Cup” ski races are held. But more about the skiing in another section. Kirchberg, about 6kms from Kitzbühel is, on the whole, less expensive than is more famous neighbour, but not less popular.

Dutch skiers have taken this resort to their hearts, and these, mixed with a liberal sprinkling of British, Australian, German and many other nationalities, make for a “mixed bag” of serious and not so serious skiers on the lookout for fun. In Kirchberg they have no trouble finding it.
Night life abounds here, and we are willing to bet that no matter what your taste you will find something that meets your fancy. There are pubs and clubs, restaurants, pizzerias, discos, the lot. In Kirchberg most of these locations are priced realistically.
There is too a wide selection and diversification of accommodation in Kirchberg, and one can rest one’s weary head in the whole range, from luxury to clean and comfortable, the choice is yours. Price ranges can be found at the tourist office, even long after normal business hours.
The full slate of non ski activities is “on tap” here. Tennis, squash, riding, swimming in selected hotels, and sleigh rides probably top the list. The best way to reach Kirchberg by road is to cross at Kufstein, take the Brixental exit, and follow the Brixental Rd.

Scheffau
The potential is indeed as big as it sounds. Because we are most knowledgeable about Scheffau. The potential is indeed as big as it sounds. Because we are most knowledgeable about Scheffau, it is this village that gets most mention. This however does not demean the others, its just that Scheffau is the one we have visited most.

Good skiers will be pleased with the expanse and satisfied with the varying degrees for challenge. Immediately above Scheffau, the skiing is varied but tending to be most appealing to the fairly experienced recreational skier. There are some bumpy runs which should please better punters, and plenty of scope for beginners.
Scheffau has it’s own lift pass, and holders of that item, as well as village guests with the larger all inclusive pass, get priority entrance to the lift system from the Scheffau starting pint. The lift pass for the whole area costs in the neighborhood of 1,300 Austrian Schillings for a six day period. The pass which covers Scheffau only is much cheaper. Scheffau has it’s own capable ski school which has enough English speaking teachers as well as ski kindergarten.
Although the village is both spread out and on the quiet side, there is plenty of very pleasant après ski activity. It is therefore and ideal destination for families, clubs and others who would like to sample a bit of Austrian life without high prices and high tourist profile.

Munich and Innsbruck are the best airports. Cross into Austria at Kufstein if you are coming by car.

Seefeld
Where on earth are you reading this article? Did you come by it by electronic means or conventional print? Where on earth are you reading this article? Did you come by it by electronic means or conventional print? Is this the first time you have come across the name Seefeld. If you are familiar with Seefeld. Do you instantly picture it as one of the up - market hangouts for the rich and famous? Do you automatically link it in social circles with the likes of St. Moritz, Gstaad, Lech or Cortina? If not I am here to tell you dear reader that you should.

If you need reasons, here’s a few. For instance Seefeld has got it all when it comes to amenities. A dynamite selection of five star hotels, a first class gaming casino, a sophisticated but varied nightlife, a very reachable global position, world class cross country trails and splendid golf and other summer attractions.
And what’s more the resort has, in my living memory, hosted no less than two Olympic games. So why is it not a household name in the global circles of captains of industry and celebrities? Well, we have a theory. We think that Seefeld is in the market of providing the best, for the most discriminating visitors, on a quiet scale. We think that the area knows its clients want privacy as well as quality, and this is the place they can get it. Not everyone wants to flaunt it just because they ‘ve got it.

Seefeld is a resort that offers the visitor a good choice in skiing activities both alpine and Nordic. And its development of non-ski, state of the art sporting facilities, in addition to one of the most formidable collection of first class hotels and restaurants on the globe, quarantee the visitor enjoyment and comfort.

The hosting of the Nordic events in two winter Olympics and one world championships, have Seefeld’s credentials firmly established on that score. However prospective visitors sometimes overlook Seefeld’s more than adequate recreational alpine skiing possibilities. Let’s have a look at them shall we?

There are two ski areas in Seefeld, serviced by 19 lifts and boosted by a whole host of sophisticated new snow making equipment. The skiing here is best suited to beginners and decent recreational intermediate a skiers, thus making Seefeld an excellent resort to improve your skills. To help you along the road to improvement, the ski school has 100 qualified English speaking instructors. The skiing on the Roshutte is the most challenging in the resort and ideal for the more serious and more experienced skier, but not the real expert.

Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is a big time ski resort in anybody’s league. One hundred and fifty nine kms of slopes are connected by 49 lifts,, Mayrhofen is a big time ski resort in anybody’s league. One hundred and fifty nine kms of slopes are connected by 49 lifts that stretch all the way from Hippach right up to the Glacier that towers over Hintertux. These slopes, naturally enough, provide skiing for all standards of skers, from total beginner to the best of the weekend crowd regions in the alps.

The region is now marketed as the Zillertal 3,000 with entrance in Mayrhofen starting from Penkenbahn and the Horbergerbahn. The area also boasts 20 kms of cross country trails for ”kickers and gliders”. The area of Mayrofen the Ahorn, does not connect to the Zillertal 3,000 extravaganza. This is likely the best area for beginners and families.

Mayrhofen, Finkenberg and Zell am Ziller joined forces with the rest of the skiing in the Ziller and Tux valleys to become part of one most impressive ski area. In fact,with the inclusion of the Hintertux glacier into its domain, these resorts and the rest on the ticket needn’t take a back seat to anyone.

In addition it is linked to the most pleasant and more taxing skiing area above the smaller village of Finkenberg, just along the road toward Tuxertal. Above Mayrhofen there are two main areas, the Ahorn and the Penken.

In our opinion the Penken is the better area for most punters. New lifts over the past years have vastly improved the choice of available terrain, as well as eliminating most of the congestion. Nothing terrifying here mind you, but nice, friendly, wide open slopes.

The Ahorn too is made of kinder, gentler stuff. If memory serves it is less extensive than it’s counterpart on the other side of the road, and although lacking in challenge, it provides a splendid playground for skiers looking to build confidence and experience and have fun at the same time.

However, as we have already pointed out the big story for skiers visiting Mayrhofen is the new Super Zillertal ski pass. Good skiers too can now list this destination among their possibilities.

There is a pretty good night life and aprés ski scene in Mayrhofen, with something on hand for all tastes and budgets. The resort is now, and has always been, very popular with the British market, but of late it is also gaining in popularity with other Europeans. This gives the area a much more international personality and in our opinion makes it a more well rounded destination.

Obergürgl, Hochgürgl
You probably don’t know this collection of resorts dear reader.
The Gurgls are for the most part popular with European skiers.
You probably don’t know this collection of resorts dear reader. The Gurgls are for the most part popular with European skiers, and to now relatively unknown in many parts of the world. Well, if information did not reach wherever you are before, you obviously discovered it now.

Now that you have this information you would do well to pay it some attention. For if you are thinking of coming to Europe to ski, you should give “The Gurgls” somewhat more than a passing glance.

This would be especially sound advice if one is looking, not for a ski vacation where the rest of the world goes, but one that is uniquely Austrian and truly European. The above nationalities in fact make up the bulk of the visiting skiing audience and lend much to their European flavour.
Although not a glacier ski area, this collection of Austrian resorts has one of the longest and most consistent ski seasons in the alps. Small wonder, when one considers that the highest of the Gurgl resorts, Hochgurgl, can boast its village center to an altitude of over 2,000 meters, and the others are not too much lower.

Obergurgl has the reputation of being a resort for the “well healed” among us, but with only 3,700 beds available, that is not too surprising. This is a classical case of the demand outstripping supply.
For a small village, Obergurgl has a surprisingly active night scene, most of which takes place in various hotel bars.

Bad Kleinkirchheim
No matter how long we publish this magazine-16 years now-we constantly amazed at the number of first class resorts that are almost completely,, No matter how long we publish this magazine-16 years now-we constantly amazed at the number of first class resorts that are almost completely unknown outside the immediate inner circles. The power of marketing is awesome when one considers that some European resorts are well known almost on a celebrity basis internationally, while others, which may even be more attractive destinations are know primarily to European travelers, and more sophisticated voyagers from farther a field.

What is it that makes a resort a superstar? Possibly even more interesting, what is it that causes a destination to fall from grace? Many do, you know. But we digress here, dear reader. Let us proceed with the task at hand. We are here to tell you a story about an Austrian resort called Bad Kleinkirchheim. You see, it is our considered opinion, that, outside the hallowed borders of central Europe and Great Britain, Bad Kleinkirchheim is relatively unsung. And for the life of me we cannot figure out why. Goodness knows the resort has all the ingredients. For openers it is a true sports, activity, healthy destination that operates just about on a 365 day basis. Heck, you can turn up here any time of year and find lot to do and someone to do it with. We hope to point out in the space allotted here that Bad Kleinkirchheim, and its satellite resorts of St. Oswald and Falkert are not only world class resorts, but, as a direct result of that possible lack of true International recognition, can be better value than many better known destinations.

Take for instance the year round aspect. BKK and its neighbors share between them a skiing area that is formidable enough for any standard of skier, a championship golf course, Thermal baths and health and beauty treatments and a neigh boring national park.

And, if you like you can enjoy all of this activity in near total luxury, as the area can boast 30 or more hotels which fall into the 4 and 5 star category, a big selection of self catering apartments, as well as the ubiquitous Austrian bed and breakfast accommodation.

Suppose you decide to visit the Bad Kleinkirchheim in winter. What you would find under the umbrella of the lift pass would be a selection of 100 km of ski able terrain ranging from most difficult to nursery. And, what’s best is, from your base in BKK the immediate ski world is at your disposal. Immediately outside, and at both ends of the village are four short and sweet beginner’s lifts. From almost the same location, better skiers can accent to the mainstream skiing using one of the “feeder lifts” which will deposit them on higher grounds. On that subject, by the way, BKK is ski able to over 2,000m and 29 different lifts will serve as the transportation. The Nockberg range will be your playground here, and host skiing slopes that are directly above BKK, or one of its aforementioned immediate neighbors. Closest to the village centre is the skiing on the Strohsack, which at just under 2,000m provides not only comfortable intermediate type skiing in the immediate vicinity, but access to the more challenging Kaiserburg section too. From here by the way, skiers can test their skills and daring-do on FIS 70 Franz Klammer. This is the sownhill run named after Austria’s famous ski racer, who recently retired after an amazingly successful career.

Bad Gastein
Lets not start this story by saying here’s a resort that needs no introduction, OK? Clearly it does need at least some. Lets not start this story by saying here’s a resort that needs no introduction, OK? Clearly it does need at least some. Probably not so much to the Europeans in our various audiences, but certainly other skiers around the globe will be less familiar with this region.

This offering is another collection of valley resorts. This is as it should be for Austria is a country made up largely of mountainous regions, and in mountainous regions there has to be valleys. Otherwise the whole country would be populated by mountain goats.

This valley is called The Gastein Valley, and the resorts within its parameters are called respectfully, Badgastein, Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein. Not likely to forget the name of the valley any time soon are you?
Never heard of it in the first place? Well dear reader I am here to tell you that this little valley is no Mickey Mouse Land. Not when it comes to providing action and amenities for visitors, anyway. That the Valley presents one very formidable ski region will become apparent when you see the stats they can boast. More than 200 kms. of downhill runs served by 53 various uphill methods of transportation should convince you that their collective hearts are in the right place. In addition there are about 100 kms of cross country trails, and methinks some valuable concessions to the snow boarding set.

But this valley is much more than a ski resort, or a collection of ski resorts. It is indeed a big time, up market, sophisticated year round activelifestyle destination. One which includes not only the aforementioned skiing when the snow flies or is made, but one with all of the other goodies that form a multi - entry year round destination too.

And with all of the action and attractions going on, the area, because of its health spas and thermal baths is good for what ails you too. One can gamble or golf, gambol or gaze, bath in the springs or spring in the baths, well you know what I’m saying. The Valley’s cup runneth over. The cure aspect of these resorts deserve a lot more attention than we are able or equipped to give in these pages, after all this is a ski magazine. Suffice it to say that with all of the natural spas, springs, baths and the like you just have to come out of a stay in this area feeling good. If you can afford it.

Hintertux
The skiing resorts that comprise the Tux Valley are not bastions of sleek or cradles
of chic. The skiing resorts that comprise the Tux Valley are not bastions of sleek or cradles of chic. They are Austrian ski resorts in the traditional sense. They were built on available natural assets in that they were nurtured slowly and carefully from traditional family run houses and pensions into a collection of smaller resorts combined in a marketing sense and with a single ski pass into one neatly run entry. The combined greatest natural asset was not the imposing glacier at Hintertux, but the ability to create a world class entity while at the same time maintaining small mountain town style and tradition.

And although accommodation and facilities have taken on a world standard facade over the years, the area still remains unchanged. The Tux continues to be traditional and natural and where sophistication and five star luxury is not on the menu, first class accommodation and real value definitely is.

Tux in Zillertal is a ski resort first and foremost. And make no mistake, the big natural resource at the end of the valley, the glacier at Hintertux, is what this whole way of life has been built around.
The height of most of the villages in this valley precludes being described as “picture postcard” stuff. It’s too high and too untamed for that. Raw beauty would be a more apt description. There is no jet set shopping, no claim to hosting the grand celebrities of the world. Still the area continues to be indecently popular with European skiers of all abilities. Even more so now, what with the super ski pass reaching down the Ziller Valley, to Mayrhofen and beyond.There a few other ski entries in Europe that can boast as much as this one, and few others have earned the extent of popularity that The Tux has from its immediate European neighbours. The area delivers the goods.

If year round action is your cup of tea, and skiing, mountain sports, tennis, and other madly active pursuits are your passions, then read on. We will use the space available to make an introduction to, or further your acquaintance with, a ski area which in the past was a rose known by another name. Tuxertal.
Why the name change? Hey, stuff happens. Things change. A change in the name of a ski area is no biggie. Tuxertal is now called Tux in Zillertal. Live with it.

Ötztal
The Ötztal Ski Arena is made up of Sölden and Hochsölden, and two somewhat smaller, but charming resorts that sit in the same valley. The Ötztal Ski Arena is made up of Sölden and Hochsölden, and two somewhat smaller, but charming resorts that sit in the same valley. These, Zwieselstein and Vent, are marketed with Sölden and Hochsölden under the above title, and skiers who stay in any of the above can benefit from the use of one all-inclusive ski pass. The Sölden and Hochsölden areas make up a big time ski region no matter whose standards you go by.

The village of Sölden lies at the foot of the Tiefenbach and Rettenbach glaciers which provide not only the bulk of the skiing in winter, but all of the summer scene. This is where you will find the majority of the off - slope action, the largest selection of hotels, shops and ski schools, as well as all the other locations and services that one needs to make a ski vacation run just that little bit smoother.
Hochsölden, on the other hand, while having decidedly fewer hotels, and virtually no shopping or night life other than that found in the hotels, has the distinct advantage of “ski in, ski out” convenience that is so coveted by many. But we opened this little narrative with a note on the skiing, so lets pick up the beat shall we? Skiing above the village is extensive, varied, and highlighted by the 365 day factor.
n fact, the glaciers from the largest year round skiable snow covering in Austria. Although national ski teams use this huge playground as a training ground, recreational skiers of all sorts of abilities will find terrain to please them as well.

It would be unfair to conclude any story about this area without recommending that one takes the effort to pay the region a visit in summer. Besides summer skiing, Sölden and Hochsölden offer all the other sporting activities that combine to make up a well rounded vacation area, plus the fresh mountain air factor. As well this is the opportunity to enjoy the villages undisturbed by the hoards that winter draws.

Sölden of course has all of the night life and apres ski action that one would expect from a resort of this size and sophistication. Nine thousand beds provide accommodation from five star hotels to charming bed and breakfast in private homes. One should find lodgings to fit both taste and budget. As well there is an excellent sports center in town, which features a great swimming pool and other sporting facilities as well as a popular restaurant/bar. This serves as a popular meeting place both before and after one’s chosen apres ski activity.

Saalbach Hinterglemm
I remember the old days of visiting Saalbach-Hinterglemm. This was way back in the early stages of Euro Ski. Saalbach Hinterglemm General Overview
I remember the old days of visiting Saalbach-Hinterglemm. This was way back in the early stages of Euro Ski. In 1978 in fact. Then there seemed to be a difference. Saalbach came to the fore as the flash, sophisticated swinger, while Hinterglemm was the more down to earth partner. No plain Jane mind, but certainly the less flash of the two.

Now I don’t know. Where does one begin and the other end. As the saying goes, that was then and this is now. So if you choose to visit these resorts in 1997, here’s what you can expect. These resorts are now, for all intents and purposes, as one.
The four kilometer stretch of road is completely developed, and there is no discernible point where one resort stops and the other starts. Where once there were wide open spaces, now there are hotels and shops. Where once cows grazed, skiers hustle about eager for the start of a new day on the slopes.
And speaking of slopes, there is a tremendous ski selection in Saalbach Hinterglemm. Spread out from the very start of the valley, as far as the eye can see, and on both sides of the highway are slopes of every size, shape and color. Wide open spaces where skiers can cruise to their heart’s content are interwoven all over the mountain side. Even not-too-talented skiers can look good here, and not scare themselves to bits while they are at it. Better skiers will enjoy these villages too.
There is enough challenge to suit most people, and if conditions permit there are plenty of powder possibilities. Saalbach is the more wide open and forgiving in ski run terms, whilst Hinterglemm offers more challenge. A splendid lift system makes it possible to ski from one to the other with ease. It is also possible to ski to the resorts on the other side of the mountain down to the village of Leogang. We suggest that you undertake this with a ski school group or a guide.
The area has excellent cross country possibilities, and if ski touring is your idea of fun, I can think of no better place to enjoy your sport. For night owls Saalbach is the more sophisticated and has the wider variety. Hinterglemm has a more “down home” atmosphere, with lots of small pubs and restaurants. Neither is inexpensive. But as we have said on numerous occasions. You get what you pay for.

Salzburg
“One of the most beautiful regions on earth” was how the famous nineteenth-century traveler Alexander von Humboldt described Salzburg and its surroundings. “One of the most beautiful regions on earth” was how the famous nineteenth-century traveler Alexander von Humboldt described Salzburg and its surroundings. The unique feature of the city, the harmony between architectural beauty and natural charms, has lost nothing with the passing of time.
Appropriately the city where Mozart was born is filled with music the whole year round. During the course of the year some 4.000 internationally famous cultural events make a stage of the city itself. The Mozart Week in January, the Easter Festival and the Pentecost Concerts, the Summer Festival, the Festival “Szene Salzburg”, the “Salzburg Culture Days” in October, the Advent Singing, the Palace Concerts and the Marionettes Theater, all keep Salzburg’s cultural scene very much alive.
The festive airs of the Renaissance and Baroque sound again at the concerts held in the elegant rooms once used by Salzburg’s prince archbishops at Hellbrunn Palace and in the Fortress Hohensalzburg; at the Hellbrunn Festival the palace grounds, the trick fountains and the palace itself form natural stages, setting scene for the festivities, and the Street Theater brings popular comedy to the beautiful old courtyards and squares.
Salzburg offers not only a unique range of internationally significant events, it also has a fascinating popular folk culture whose roots can be traced over centuries; dance, music, and songs continue to play an important role in the traditional seasonal festivities of this musical and exuberant people.

Reasonably priced accommodation is available both in the historic city center and in the unusually beautiful suburbs, with their almost rural atmosphere. There can hardly be another city of this size offering a comparable network of well-tended paths and lanes along the banks of the river, through the picturesque parks and gardens and on the hills which lie within 5 minutes’ walk of the city center.

Kaprun / Zell am See
One will become familiar with our description of resorts that are marketed as one in lift pass terms, as sort of “joined at the hip” if you will. One will become familiar with our description of resorts that are marketed as one in lift pass terms, as sort of “joined at the hip” if you will. There are many examples, and one has only to leaf through these pages to find them. Kaprun and Zell am See do not fall into that category.

They are unified in the lift pass system to be sure, but this writer believes that is where the buddy system ends. Personality wise, they could not be more different. Take Zell Am See for example. This story will portray it as a sort of a mini city with slopes. True enough, but we fall a bit short of describing the year round aspects of the resort, and miss the boat a little when we do not describe in detail the beauty and bustle of the little city which is accentuated by the lake and the mountains.
Zell Am See on The Lake in English. Snowboarders are catered for in a big way in this region. On Schmittenhohe there is a “boarder cross” setup which allows for competitions over bumps, through gates and other obstacles.

This is catching on in a big way and competitions are held in other Austrian resorts as well as in other countries. Zell am See is a true year round resort. It has 365 day skiing on the glacier at Kaprun, and having a big and beautiful lake in the middle of town is not exactly a handicap.
Kaprun though is a village. Typical, quiet but with great value and great skiing. It boasts a real Austrian mountain village atmosphere, and those looking to soak up a bit of true Austrian feeling will not be found wanting. The glacier just outside the town is the big draw and this is one of the few resorts in Europe that really still has a thriving 365 day ski season. By the way there is a great snowboarders fun park on the glacier, and the snowboard world cup will be held here in November.

St. Johann
For skiers who have never visited Austria before, and who have a brochure page idea of what the area is about, this resort might just fill the picture. For skiers who have never visited Austria before, and who have a brochure page idea of what the area is about, this resort might just fill the picture. Indeed, its special character and beauty play as large a role as the skiing facilities indrawing visitors. The resort retains its Austrian mountain atmosphere and character in spite of its sophistication, and, the area offers enough skiing challenge and diversity to please most enthusiasts.
So it should come as no surprise that the place is largely successful. Besides retaining its natural style, St. Johann works hard to improve lift facilities, services and snow making capabilities in an attempt to compete against much bigger and higher resorts.
However, besides all this marketing aggression, resort, lift and snow making improvements, and an active and pleasant apres ski scene, there has to be decent skiing to attract and hold the skiing community. St. Johann has good skiing, and terrain for any skiing standard.
Starting from both ends of the village of St. Johann, or, if it is more convenient, from the neighboring village of Oberndorf, St. Johann can offer very challenging skiing guaranteed to tax the most demanding expert, or nice, long, gentle runs for those among you still in the confidence building stage. For those in between, the palace is a veritable dream. A ski pass is available only for St. Johann or St. Johann and surrounding villages. St. Johann in Tirol is reached by car from Kufstein, and by air from Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg.

istra @ November 14, 2007