World class slopes, guaranteed snow in many resorts, an apr?s?ski scene second to none, winter traditions that enhance the magic of this special season, and plenty of ways to fit some relaxation in between all the action. Austria offers maximum value for money with lots of snowy holiday extras. Here are some of our favourites.
Learn to ski
Learn to ski with guaranteed success in Carinthia
Everyone is guaranteed to get the hang of things quickly on a course offered by a Carinthian ski school, which is why they are offering a guarantee of success again this year. In three days beginners learn to ski well enough to tackle any blue slope with no problems. The standard price of ? 129 applies to both children and adults. And if you really cannot manage your first descent after 3 days, your course fee will be reimbursed. But with the excellently trained Carinthian ski instructors, beginners are in such good hands that hardly anyone ever needs to make use of this. www.carinthia.at
For families
Family skiing in Carinthia – The ?Family Euro? in Bad Kleinkirchheim
Bad Kleinkirchheim on the ?southern balcony? of the Alps offers Alpine skiing fun at a panoramic level. This year with the ?Family Euro? there is a very special holiday offer for families: Children under 12 can ski in one of Carinthia?s largest ski regions for just one Euro per day. And even better, the skiing or snowboarding equipment including daily ski service is free. You will find details of the promotion and the accommodation providers where it can be booked at: www.familien-euro.at / BKK
Freeriding
Lech-Z?rs am Arlberg ? the Eldorado of deep powder snow
You can live the dream of “freeriding” in Lech Z?rs am Arlberg in the region of Vorarlberg! Glistening powder snow, endless deep snow runs, blue sky and the feeling of freedom. When you are the first to make tracks in the pristine deep snow, a look at the fresh trail behind fills you with contentment and makes you want to keep on coming back or, better still, stay right in Lech Z?rs am Arlberg. 180 km of deep alpine powder snow runs speak for themselves, as does guaranteed snow from the end of November until the end of April. Under the supervision of the best trained ski guides and with the right equipment, you can experience short ascents and long downhill runs in a unique way. www.lech-zuers.at / www.vorarlberg.travel
Away from the slopes
A true one of a kind ? natural pain relief
In their quest for gold, the mountain dwellers of the Gasteinertal found a way to natural pain relief instead: the path leading into the Gasteiner Heilstollen. For over 50 years, this method has been used to treat rheumatic diseases and, after decades of experience, is considered by balneologists to be the most effective natural remedy available. The healing atmosphere of the Gasteiner Heilstollen is to be found nowhere else in the world. The perfect combination of radon, heat and high humidity provides long lasting benefits to those suffering from locomotor disorders, as well as skin and respiratory conditions. In addition, the treatment stabilizes the immune system. Long lasting alleviation of pain and a reduced need for medication are the scientifically proven effects of the Heilstollen. You can experience the Heilstollen Treatment twice a week at taster sessions, known to be a very relaxing and beneficial adventure. The treatment is also helpful in combating menopausal symptoms, as a prophylaxis (preventative medicine), as well as in stabilizing the immune system. More information www.gasteiner-heilstollen.com
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Ski and fun
Apr?s-ski, action and high-life
For those seeking a lively nightlife, there are plenty of options in Saalbach Hinterglemm, from magic huts to countless pubs and bars with live music. Numerous renowned events are planned to enhance your party mood, such as Sport 2000 Snow Mania (December), where you can try out the brand new winter sports material. Then there is Rave on Snow (December), a festival of electronic music. The sporting highlights of the season are the Swatch Snow Mobile Race (December), the international ski touring marathon Mountain Attack (January), the legendary White Style in Leogang and the Cross Country Skiing Marathon in Saalfelden (January).? The Nostalgia Ski World Cup in Leogang (January) takes us back to ?times gone by?. www.saalbach.com
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The challenge
Skiing extreme
Ski in-ski out on 100 km of linked, snowpacked slopes surrounding the Obertauern village. Special routes: the green and red Tauern Round, plus night and early morning skiing for those who can?t get enough. ??Apr?s-ski within walking distance of the hotels and pistes, and various concerts, festivals and traditions take place on/next to the pistes throughout the winter. www.obertauern.com
Interested in more tipps? Please follow this link.
For more information, or if interested in a press trip, please contact Martina Jamnig at the Austrian National Tourist Office ([email protected], Tel: 020-7440-3840, www.austria.info)