The Best Of Tirol Guide
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Transcript of The Best Of Tirol Guide
Insider’s Guide to Tirol
Tirol / Heart of the Alps· www.visittirol.co.uk
Tirolean Alpine Winter
Your direct connection to the „Heart of
the Alps“!
Update: July 2014, subject to change.
Scheduled � ights to Innsbruck from:Bristol 2 � ights per week www.easyjet.comLiverpool 1 � ight per week www.easyjet.comLondon up to 4 � ights per day www.ba.com, www.easyjet.comManchester 3 � ights per week www.monarch.co.uk
Further connections are bookable via Amsterdam (www.transavia.com, www.klm.com), Frankfurt (www.lufthansa.com) or Vienna (www.austrian.com).
Charter � ights to Innsbruck from:Birmingham 3 � ights per weekBristol 2 � ights per weekDublin 1 � ight per weekEdinburgh 2 � ights per weekLondon 10 � ights per weekManchester 5 � ights per weekNewcastle 1 � ight per weekSouthampton 1 � ight per week
For bookings please contact your local travel agency.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 3
Tirol - located in
the Heart of the Alps
Welcome to Tirol
How do you choose where to go on your winter ski
or snowboard holiday? Do you head to the same
resort? Or like to try somewhere different each
season and notch up the number of ski resorts
visited? Or perhaps you have had a few years off
the scene? Figuring out where to go can be pretty
daunting so we have done the hard work for you
and carefully selected the top reasons to go to some
of Tirol’s most loved resorts. Naturally we didn’t
expect you to take our word for it so we asked some
locals to provide their insider tips too. Read on to
discover what brings skiers and snowboarders back
to the Tirol year after year.
How to get to the Austrian Tirol?
Located in western Austria, the Tirol region
is known as the Heart of the Alps and is home
to over 100 ski resorts. With world-famous
ski resorts like St Anton and Kitzbühel,
along with long-time British favourites such
as Mayrhofen, Obergurgl and Alpbach, the
Austrian Tirol suits everyone from first-timers
to seasoned ski veterans. Superbly groomed
slopes, genuine hospitality, true mountain
charm, high-quality accommodation and
affordable prices are just some of the reasons
Tirol is a great choice for this winter.
Innsbruck Airport is served by daily
scheduled flights and numerous charter
flights from UK airports. easyJet flies directly
from London Gatwick, Bristol and Liverpool
to Innsbruck. British Airways has a direct
route from London Gatwick to Innsbruck,
whilst Monarch flies from Manchester to
Innsbruck. The airports in Salzburg, Munich,
Friedrichshafen, Memmingen and Zurich
are an alternative to get to the Austrian Tirol.
Exclusive or shared transfers (www.transfer.tirol.at),
as well as car hire companies, are available
to make the final journey to your destination.
And with most resorts located between 30
minutes and 1 ½ hours away skiers and
boarders can benefit from the added bonus of
a short transfer.
www.visittirol.co.uk
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 4
5 reasons to visit.....Wilder Kaiser
Head east of Innbruck to find the resorts of
Söll, Going, Ellmau and Scheffau, with access
to the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental,
Austria‘s largest ski area.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 5
• Inspiring scenery
Beneath the mighty Wilder Kaiser mountain
range are the traditional ski resorts of Söll,
Going, Ellmau and Scheffau. Each resort has
direct access using a network of 90 ski lifts
to Austria’s largest interconnecting skiing
area, the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental,
with 280 km of slopes.
• Austria’s largest ski area
With 280km of slopes providing perfect
intermediate territory, the wide and open
pistes are immaculately groomed, flattering
all skiers and boarders whatever their skill
level. You can ski all day without taking the
same lift or the same run twice.
• Apres-ski activities
Beyond the slopes try a horse-drawn sleigh
ride, Alpine curling or ice skating. With
14 km of tobogganing on 5 dedicated
runs, choose from romantic forest tracks,
speedy routes or family favourites, like the
moonlight toboggan run at Hochsöll. Here
you will also find the largest night skiing
area in Tirol with 10km of floodlit slopes.
• Tirolean Hospitality
The genuine welcome received in the Wilder
Kaiser region goes a long way. On the
mountain there are more than 70 rustic
ski huts, providing an authentic mountain
atmosphere and serving the best mountain
food - just what you need for a well-earned
break from all the action.
• On-mountain childcare
Dropping the children off at ski kindergarten
then having to make your way up the
mountain is not the most efficient use of time.
In Scheffau head to the top station of the
Brandstadl lift as a family, where children
will love the Schneepiraten KidsClub and
parents can get straight on the slopes.
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 6
Live like a local
Marco Fuchs
... lives in Ellmau, he is a ski instructor and
manager of the 1. Ellmauer Ski- and Snowboard
School. Skiing is not only his job, it’s his passion.
• The day begins with ...
... an early wake up call. There’s nothing
better than the buzz you get first thing on
a morning as you sweep down a freshly
groomed run, wind in your face, crunching
snow at your feet - this is my kind of
freedom.
• Ski this first ...
... it’s impossible to say as the SkiWelt Wilder
Kaiser-Brixental consists of 280km of slopes.
• Don’t miss this ...
... snowtubing! Blasting down a 120m track
is a lot of fun and you can make a night of it
too as it’s floodlit a few times a week.
• Locals do ...
... love to go skiing, just like our visitors. We
enjoy having a break in a ski hut, eat some
Tirolean specialities and of course après-ski
is a must!
Marco Fuchs
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 7
• Locals don’t ...
... only ski and toboggan during the day.
Floodlit slopes means the fun doesn’t stop
when darkness falls.
How much?
Zenith Holidays (www.zenithholidays.co.uk)
offers a week at the Hotel Austria in Söll
from £595 per person, including flights from
Gatwick to Innsbruck and resort transfers.
Bristol and Liverpool available on a Sunday.
Independent packages start from €386 per
person for ‘Super Ski Weeks’ to the Wilder
Kaiser, including 7 nights on B&B, 6 day ski
pass, 25% discount on ski hire and ski school
and a Wilder Kaiser Guest Card. (offer valid 6 –
19 Dec 2014 & 14 March – 12 April 2015)
www.wilderkaiser.info
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 8
5 reasons to visit.....Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau
Two years ago the Alpbach and Wildschönau
valley‘s were finally linked by a new lift,
creating the Ski Juwel ski area.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 9
• Ski Juwel shines brightly
Offering a combined total of 109km of slopes,
the recently created Ski Juwel Alpbachtal
Wildschönau skiing area has plenty of skiing
and snowboarding for all abilities on wide,
open slopes. Freestylers will enjoy the action
in three snow parks. Nightskiing is also
popular as is tobogganing, ice-skating and
other apres-ski activities.
• Traditional Villages
Wherever you choose to stay there is no
shortage of good quality accommodation
in one of the authentic mountain villages.
Alpbach has long been a British favourite and
has never lost sight of its mountain heritage,
whilst the charming villages of Niederau,
Oberau, Thierbach and Auffach make a great
base from the Wildschönau side.
• Guest Cards
All guests staying in the Ski Juwel receive
a free Alpbachtal Seenland Card or a
Wildschönau Card, offering numerous
benefits and discounts. Use of the local ski
bus network, a weekly sport and outdoor
programme, as well as entrance to various
attractions and discounts on shopping and
restaurants are generally included.
• Family Skiing
Families and children are well taken
care of in the Alpbach Valley and in the
Wildschönau, with dedicated children’s
areas and valley lifts in Reith, Alpbach and
Kramsach as well as in Oberau and Niederau.
Bobo the Penguin and the Dragon Club are
ready to teach your little ones.
• Cross-country Skiing
In addition to downhill, cross-country
skiing makes for an exhilarating alternative,
amidst delightful winter scenery. The
Wildschönau valley has over 50km of cross-
country trails, whilst the Alpbach Valley
boasts a network of close to 100km well-
maintained and prepared routes.
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 10
Live like a localNicola Thaler
... has lived in the Wildschönau Valley for over 20
years and first came here as a holiday rep. Nicola
is married with 3 children and works for the
Wildschönau Tourist Board.
• The day begins with ...
... an excellent breakfast of locally produced
bread, butter, jam, ham and eggs, with
stunning views from my window of the
Schatzberg and Gratlspitz mountains!
• Ski this first ...
... from the top of the Schatzberg, be the first
skiers on the connecting lift to Inneralpbach
for first tracks on fresh snow – heaven!
• Don’t miss this ...
... the new toboggan run in Niederau from
the Lanerköpfl down to the village – 5 km of
thrilling fun for all the family!
• Locals do ...
... go winter walking on the Alpbacher
Höhenweg and enjoy the second to none
Alpbachtal winter scenery – charming wooden
houses, panoramic view over the village Alpbach.
• Locals don’t …
... drink. Only joking! We love typical
Tirolean cuisine, Kristallbier and a
Wildschönau Krautinger schnapps.
How much?
Neilson Active Holidays (www.neilson.co.uk;
0333 014 3351) offers a week at the 3*+ Hotel
Alpenland on half board in Niederau from
£475 per person, including flights from
Gatwick, Manchester or Birmingham (+£20)
to Salzburg and resort transfers.
Independent packages start from €182 per
person for a 3 night ‘Ski & More’ short break
to Alpbach, including a 3-day Ski Juwel ski
pass and Alpbachtal Seenland Card.
www.skijuwel.com
Nicola Thaler
Get in shape for the slopesand WIN a Ski Holiday to the Austrian Tirol!Your LivingWell team and the Austrian Tirol region is standing by to help you prepare for the ski season. Plus, enter our exclusive members-only draw and it could be you enjoying a fantastic ski holiday with Inghams in the Austrian Tirol, the Heart of the Alps.
Price Draw Terms and Conditions apply.Competition closes on the 15th of December. For full terms and conditions visit www.livingwell.com/ski
WIN a ski holiday to Tirol’s WilderKaiser holiday region with INGHAMS• 7 nights including half board for two in the
4-star superior Hotel Leitenhof in Scheffau
• 5 day ski passes for the Skiwelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental, Austria’s largest interconnecting skiing area with 280 km of slopes
• Flights and transfers included
It’s not to late to become a LivingWell member and be in the draw to win.
For more information and to enter, visit livingwell.com/ski
Get in shape for the slopes
WIN a ski holidayvisit livingwell.com/ski
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 12
5 reasons to visit.....Kitzbüheler AlpsThe ski and tourist region of the Kitzbüheler
Alps is home to over 20 holiday villages,
including Hopfgarten, Kirchberg, St. Johann
and Fieberbrunn.
• 1 Ski Pass, 1000km of pistes
The Kitzbüheler Alps is one of the biggest and
most interesting ski regions in the world and
can be explored on one ski pass. The Kitzbüheler
Alpen AllStarCard gives unlimited access to
more than 1000km of slopes in the big name
ski areas, including St Johann, Kitzbühel,
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, Ski Juwel
Alpbachtal-Wildschönau and Pillerseetal.
• Cross-country and winter hiking
Across the wide sunny valleys of the Kitzbüheler
Alps are almost 600km of cross-country trails
for all levels. The landscape lends itself to winter
hiking and snowshoeing too, through forests,
across fields, past farms on the beautifully
prepared and well-signposted trails.
• Culinary delights
The cuisine in the Kitzbüheler Alps
is flavoursome and versatile, ranging
from local Tirolean dishes such as
‘Kaiserschmarrn’ (sweet pancakes with
raisins), ‘Gröstl’ (meat and potatoes) and
‘Backhendl’ (fried chicken) - through to
sophisticated national and international
dishes.
• A resort for everyone
Every ski resort in the Kitzbüheler Alps
has its own individual appeal. Fieberbrunn
is the Freeride hotspot, Brixen scores on
location with lifts going up both sides of the
valley, St Johann is a paradise for beginners,
Hopfgarten has affordable accommodation,
whilst Kirchberg is right on Kitzbühel‘s
doorstep.
• Top Events
Winter is busy in the Kitzbüheler Alpen,
from traditional folk customs during Advent
to spectacular sports events, like the Tyrol
Koasalauf in St. Johann in Tirol and the
Biathlon worldcup in the Pillerseetal.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 13
Live like a localFritz Minhard ...
... is a founding member of the Skischool Wilder
Kaiser St.Johann in Tirol and has been a ski
instructor for over 25 years! In summer he runs
his own company, Active World Holidays.
• The day begins with ...
... the first run of the gondola to one of the
beautiful mountain huts for a big breakfast
and mountain views
• Ski this first ...
... freshly groomed morning slopes on the
sunny, eastern side first, then move across to
the western side of the mountain!
• Don’t miss this ...
... a wonderful break with a Kaiserschmarrn
and a hot chocolate on a sunny terrace
• Locals do ...
... try to put their “signature” into the freshly
groomed slopes
• Locals don’t ...
... ski until the sun goes down
How much?
Crystal Ski Holidays (www.crystalski.co.uk;
020 8939 0726) offers a week at the three-star
Hotel Fischer in St Johann from £649,
including flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck
and resort transfers. Direct flights also
available from Stansted (+£9), Birmingham
(+£29), Manchester (+£39), Newcastle (+£39)
and Edinburgh (+£49)
Independent packages start from €351
per person for 7 nights, including a 6 day
Kitzbüheler Alpen AllStarCard ski pass.
www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com
Fritz Minhard
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 14
5 reasons to visit.....KitzbühelHome to the Hahnenkamm, Kitzbühel is
worthy of its world famous status with
fantastic skiing and snowboarding and a
beautiful old town.
• Ski the Streif
Feared and respected in equal measure, the
Hahnenkamm downhill race is the victory
every Alpine skier on the World Cup circuit
dreams of. Skiing the world-famous ‘Streif’,
under the direction of a local ski guide, can
really enrich the experience.
• Best Ski Resort in the World
Kitzbühel has always been regarded as one
of the big names in the ski world and in 2013
and 2014 was awarded the highest accolade
of being the best skiing area in the world by
‘Skiresort.de’, the world’s largest website for
ski resorts.
• Freeride Paradise
Possibly Kitzbühel’s best kept secret is the
amount of accessible off-piste terrain, a
whopping 200km2! A good guide is essential,
not just for safety reasons, but for showing
you where to find the powder as many of the
routes are hidden behind forests or set back
behind the mountains.
• New Bichalm Lift
Seeking out the best untracked backcountry
around the Bichalm area will be more
accessible this season with a new chairlift.
Deliberately small with a limited capacity,
the impact on the natural surroundings is
always at the forefront of all nature-loving
freeriders.
• 155 snow-sure days!
The Kitzbühel microclimate is pretty special
and as winter temperature records prove
there has been a cooling trend over the last
21 years. In fact, winter 2011/12 was the
coldest for more than 30 years and it’s safe to
say there’s about 155 ski days on average.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 15
Live like a localBeppo Hechenberger ...
... is one of the most experienced ski guides in
Kitzbühel and works for the ‘Alpin Experts’ ski school.
• The day begins with ...
... a breakfast of local cheese, ham and bacon
bought from the Tyrolean Bauernstandl
market, which takes place every Friday and
Saturday in the resort centre.
• Ski this first ...
... the Streif in the morning sun!
• Don’t miss this ...
... a ride on the Streif simulator at the
museum at the top of the Hahnenkamm
gondola. Shaped like a giant skier, you climb
inside, placing your face inside the helmet,
slot in a euro and experience the most
terrifying ride of your life!
• Locals do ...
... enjoy and appreciate the potential available
to us in the mountains but still show a great
deal of respect and consideration for nature
• Locals don’t ...
... consider Kitzbühel only as a backdrop
but as one of the most beautiful and diverse
places to live, whether in or out of season.
How much?
Snow-Wise (www.snow-wise.com;
020 33978450) offers 7 nights at the 4 star
Hotel Schweizerhof, Kitzbuhel from £1095pp
including (scheduled) flights from Gatwick to
Innsbruck, (private) transfers and half board.
Regional flights on request, supplements vary.
Independent packages start from €280 per
person for a 4 night’s accommodation on half
board and including ski pass.
www.kitzbuehel.com
Beppo Hechenberger
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 16
5 reasons to visit.....ZillertalThe Zillertal is home to some well-known
resorts, including Mayrhofen, Tux,
Kaltenbach, Gerlos and Zell am Ziller.
• The largest ski area
Over 489 kilometres of pistes, accessed
by 177 lifts and cable cars, the Zillertal
Super Ski Pass covers the four skiing areas,
namely the First Zillertal skiing area with
Hochzillertal, Hochfügen and Spieljoch, the
Zillertal Arena, the Glacierworld Zillertal
with Hintertux and, of course, Mayrhofen.
• Best mountain huts
With over 150 mountains huts in the Zillertal
region, skiers and snowboarders can not
only expect breathtaking views of numerous
3000m peaks but culinary highs to match.
Whether the focus is fine dining or traditional
Tirolean cuisine, there’s always a great
emphasis on seasonal and natural products.
• Five Snowparks
Those looking for freestyle action will find
five terrain parks in the Zillertal, suitable
for everyone from beginners to pros. Take
time to practice and perfect on the kickers,
rails and corners and the superbly prepared
halfpipes and superpipes.
• Snow Guarantee
Zillertal’s slopes range from 630m in
altitude and go up to 3250m, providing
great snow conditions, enhanced by
environmentally friendly snowmaking
equipment, which are fed with crystal
clear mountain water and can cover 75%
of the slopes, if needed. And of course, the
Hintertux Glacier, the only year-round ski
area in Austria, is located in the Zillertal.
• Snowbombing
There is no festival that can match
Snowbombing and for one week in April,
Mayrhofen turns into the stage, hosting
the ultimate show on snow. Leading DJs,
club nights, live acts and snowboarders
come together for this ultimate event, with
amazing line-ups.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 17
Live like a localWerni Stock ...
... has been a professional snowboarder since 2007
and is often found performing double backflips in
one of Zillertal’s snow parks. He regularly jumps his
way into the top ten at the international Air & Style
competitions.
• The day begins with…
... early morning action. With the sun hitting
the snow for the first time in the morning is
the best start of the day for me when I can
scratch my first lines on snow!
• Ski this first…
... one of my favourite slopes is the panorama
run in the ski area of Mayrhofen for fantastic
views of the snow-covered 3000m peaks.
• Don t́ miss this...
... check out the cosy huts next to the slopes.
Not only for the breath-taking views of the
mountains, but for the top quality Tirolean
cuisine that you can find in the huts in the
Zillertal.
• Local do...
... apres-ski. We love sitting together with
friends after a perfect ski day, having some
drinks and making plans for another day on
the slopes.
• Locals don t́...
... go on holiday. Zillertal has everything to
offer you could need for perfect winter days.
How much?
Ski Solutions (www.skisolutions.com) offers
a week at the 4* Hotel Strass in Mayrhofen
from £764, including flights from Gatwick
to Innsbruck and resort transfers. Regional
flights are available at a supplement.
Independent packages are available through
the Zillertal tourist board.
www.zillertal.at
Werni Stock
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 18
5 reasons to visit.....InnsbruckCity skiing at its best, Tirol’s capital
Innsbruck is easily accessible and has slopes
and snow on its doorstep.
• On the slopes in 30mins
How many cities can you name where you
can be on the slopes within an hour of
landing? Not many. The Olympic city of
Innsbruck was made for skiing and a quick
ride on the Hungerbergbahn can take you up
to the slopes on the Nordkette.
• Nine ski areas
The Tirolean capital is surrounded by a total
of nine ski areas and 285km of piste, making
up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. From
the Olympic slopes of the Axamer Lizum
to glacier skiing on the Stubai, all the ski
areas are easily accessible using the free bus
service and covered on one lift pass - the
Olympia SkiWorld Pass.
• Ski and Culture
Of course, it’s not all about the skiing. Take
time to explore Innsbruck’s historic Old
Town and its well-known landmarks. Stroll
through the medieval lanes in the Old
Town, marvel at the Golden Roof and visit
traditional treasures such as the Hofburg
palace.
• Olympic heritage
Innsbruck has hosted the Winter Olympics
three times, in 1964 and 1976 and again
in 2012 for the inaugural Winter Youth
Olympic Games. Take time to visit the
Olympic Ski Jump on Bergisel or have a go
on the bobsleigh run in Igls for the ultimate
adrenaline rush!
• Build your own skis/snowboard
Make and design you own high quality and
individually customised skis or board in
a weekend workshop with SPURart. All
aspects can be customised and the ski
building pros at SPURart provide all the
advice and guidance you need. www.spurart.at
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 19
Live like a localJenny Bartholomew ...
... is one of the pros at SPURart and spends her
time showing people how to build their own skis in
Innsbruck.
• The day begins with ...
Looking out of my window at the mountains
and thinking how lucky I am to live in a city
where I can see the nearest ski resort from
my bed.
• Ski this first ...
Kühtai – my personal favourite because it
has a great mix of on and off piste skiing and
is spread across both sides of the valley so
you can chase the sun throughout the day.
• Don’t miss this ...
The Christmas markets in December. There’s
nothing better to get you in the Christmas
spirit than wandering around the Innsbruck
Christmas markets with a hot mug of
Glühwein (mulled wine) after a great day on
the slopes.
• Locals do ...
Know the best mountain huts…for a great
meal, great après session or great evening of
tobogganing.
• Locals don’t ...
Have friends on a powder day. I’ve never
seen a better example of this commonly used
phrase in action than when trying to get first
tracks on the Nordkette after a big dump.
How much?
Ski Safari (www.skisafari.com; 01273 224060)
offers 4 nights B&B at the 5* Grand Hotel
Europa in Innsbruck from £475 per person,
including flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck
and return airport transfers.
Independent packages start from €369 per
person for the ‘Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck’
package for 4 nights on half board, including
ski pass.
www.innsbruck.info
Jenny Bartholomew
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 20
5 reasons to visit.....Obergurgl-HochgurglObergurgl-Hochgurgl is located in the Ötztal
region, down the valley from Sölden and just
over an hour from Innsbruck airport.
• Snow-sure from November to May
Early to open, late to close. At 1930m,
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl spends much of the
season covered with snow. There’s 110km of
beautifully prepared pistes, starting at 1800m
and peaking at over 3000m. The resort opens
in the middle of November and its impressive
altitude means it remains open until May.
• Ski-in/ski-out convenience
So much to offer. Thanks to its high speed
lift systems, the snow-sure slopes remain
crowd-free so beginners, intermediates and
families can enjoy the generous network of
runs. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl’s a hit for those
looking for ski-in/ski-out convenience,
offered by most of their 4* and 5* hotels.
• Stunning views
For breath-taking panoramic views of the
Ötztaler Alps stretching out to the silhouette
of the famous Dolomites in the south, head
to the Top Mountain Star viewing platform
at 3080m, the summit of the resort’s ski area.
Here you can take in fabulous, unparalleled
views of 21 mountain peaks higher than 3000m.
• Off the slopes
It’s not only skiers and snowboarders who
keep coming back to Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
year after year, but non-skiers too. Winter
hiking, snowshoeing and the wide Nordic
skiing tracks create that winter wonderland
feeling, whilst tobogganing on the 3km run
adds to the après-ski fun.
• Top ski schools
The ski schools in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl are
highly-regarded as having some of the best
instructors, whether you are a total beginner
or an experienced skier in need of extra tips.
Watching little ones make their first turns
under the gentle guidance of the caring ski
instructors is child’s play.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 21
Live like a localHansjörg Gamper ...
... has lived in Obergurgl for almost 30 years. In
winter he works as a ski and snowboard instructor,
is a member of the local mountain rescue team and
is probably one of the best off-piste track seekers in
the world.
• The day begins with ...
... taking part in “First Line” Skiing, followed
by a mountain breakfast at the Hohe Mut Alm.
• Ski this first ...
... the blue 26a in Hochgurgl. Perfect start
to the week with stunning views across the
Oetztal Alps.
• Don’t miss this ...
... night skiing on the perfectly groomed
slopes and the “Skivolution” ski show by the
Skischool Obergurgl on Tuesday evening.
• Locals do ...
... dance on the tables at least once a week at
the lovely Nederhütte, with their incredible
après ski party and live music.
• Locals don’t ...
... tell everybody about their secret off-piste
runs and favourite hidden powder tracks.
From time to time they let their secrets slip
during après-ski time.
How much?
Inghams (www.inghams.co.uk; 01483 791 114)
offers a week at the 4* Hotel Bellevue in
Obergurgl from £659 per person, including
flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck and resort
transfers. Flights are also available from
Birmingham (+£49), Manchester (+£49),
Leeds-Bradford and Edinburgh (+£59).
Independent packages start from £459 per
person for a 3 night stay in a 4* hotel on half
board, including a 3 day ski pass.
www.obergurgl.com
Hansjörg Gamper
· www.visittirol.co.uk· Insider’s Guide to Tirol 22
5 reasons to visit.....St Anton am ArlbergRegarded as one of the world’s top ski resorts,
St Anton am Arlberg lives up to its reputation.
• Tradition and Modern Alpine Life
St Anton am Arlberg is constantly evolving
as one of the most cosmopolitan resorts
in the Alps, with its current surge in new
luxury properties and through its innovative
infrastructure, like the Galzigbahn. Living
by the motto the ‘Cradle of Alpine Skiing’,
the resort and neighbouring villages of
Pettneu, Flirsch and Strengen have never
lost their way, preserving rural tradition and
heritage.
• Freeride Heaven
Considered one of the world’s finest freeride
areas, St Anton is the Holy Grail for expert
skiers, thanks to the sheer diversity of its
off-piste terrain, with over 200km to explore
and its consistently high snowfall records,
from December through to April.
• Location, location, location
Whether you fly into Innsbruck,
Friedrichshafen, Zurich or even Munich,
St Anton am Arlberg is easily accessible by
rail transfer. Helping to reduce your carbon
footprint, the railway station is located right
in the centre of town and there are regular
shuttle buses to the villages.
• Off the slopes
As the spiritual home of apres-ski, St Anton
am Arlberg demands as much stamina
on the slopes as it does off. Once you’ve
ticked off the legendary MooserWirt and
KK, save some energy for tobogganing, ice
skating, curling or a horse-drawn sleigh
ride. Meanwhile the ARLBERG-well.
com complex in St Anton offers a mix of
impressive wellness facilities.
• What’s on
Winter events run throughout the season,
from weekly Ski Shows on Wednesdays to
‘Ladies First’ week in January to the ‘New
Orleans meets Snow’ festival in April. One
highlight is the iconic end of season ski race
‘The White Thrill’.
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 23
Live like a localJohn Jackson ...
... has lived in St Anton for about 13 years and
currently works as a restaurant manager.
• The day begins with ...
... a substantial, tasty breakfast and a cup of
tea. That keeps me going for a few hours – so
I don’t miss any of the untouched powder.
• Ski this first ...
... on a good powder day, make your way up
to Schindler. From there, take the route
Nr. 15 - Schindlerkar. What a perfect start to
the day!
• Don’t miss this ...
... a well-earned beer in one of the numerous
après ski bars. The only thing more tempting
than the second beer is a sauna.
• Locals do ...
... love the fascination of the mountains. We
may live here but the love and appreciation of
our mountains grows each day.
• Locals don’t ...
... have time to be lazy. Life is hard in the
mountains (As John kicks back in the sun
with a cool drink in his hand and a big smile
on his face!)
How much?
VIP SKI (www.vip-chalets.com; 0844 557 3119)
offers a week at the Hotel Montjola in
St. Anton from £899, including flights
from Gatwick to Innsbruck, catered
accommodation and resort transfers.
Independent packages, ‘Powder Snow and
Ladies Weeks’ from 10th – 31st January, start
from €520 per person in a 3* Hotel with
breakfast and a 6-day lift-pass.
www.stantonamarlberg.com
John Jackson
Ta l k t o o u r h o l i d a y a d v i s o r so n 0 8 4 5 1 0 1 1 8 1 8
And suddenly
you sense
what people
here mean by
“a zest for life”.
w w w . a u s t r i a . i n f o / w i n t e r
OEW_Tirol_Bookl_148x210(+3).indd 1 09.07.14 11:27
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 25
Top Events in Tirol
21st
– 25th January 2015
Hahnenkamm Men‘s Downhill, Kitzbühel
Regarded as the most demanding course
on the world cup circuit, the world famous
Hahnenkamm will attract the world’s best
skiers and thousands of visitors.
www.kitzbuehel.com · www.fis-ski.com
31st
January 2015
SWATCH Freeride World Tour in Fieberbrunn
The world’s elite freeriders meet at Austria’s
most prestigous freeride competition in
Fieberbrunn, Tirol‘s ultimate backcountry
mecca.
www.freerideworldtour.com
3rd
– 4th
January 2015
63. Four Hills Tournament, Innsbruck
The world’s top ski jumpers gather at the
Bergisel ski jump for the third round of the
Four Hills Tournament for one of the most
popular events in the professional winter
sports calendar.
www.bergiselspringen.at
23rd
- 27th
March 2015
Altitude Comedy Festival, Mayrhofen
Where better to stage this perfect mix of
skiing, comedy and music than in one of
Tirol’s leading resorts, Mayrhofen. John
Bishop and Eddie Izzard were among
last year’s stellar line-up and 2015 won’t
disappoint.
www.altitudefestival.com
18th
April 2015
„The White Thrill“, St. Anton
The mass start with 555 participants is a
one of a kind challenge. Nine kilometres of
unprepared slopes, 1,300 metres in altitude
difference and a tough150 metre ascent take
most hardcore amateurs and even pros to their
absolute physical limits.
www.stantonamarlberg.com
2nd
May 2015
Ischgl Top of the Mountain Concert
Following tradition, Ischgl will host their
famous Top of the Mountain concerts at
Easter and at the end of the season. Big names
like Kylie Minogue, Pink and Elton John have
all performed here.
www.ischgl.com
Foto: TVB Paznaun-Ischl
follow us on Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports Ski Testing Partner Winter 14/15
www.ellis-brigham.com
London: Covent Garden, Westfield London, Westfield Stratford,Kensington High St & St.Paul’s One New Change • Cambridge Lion Yard •Xscape Milton Keynes • Bristol • Tamworth Snowdome • Manchester •Chester • Liverpool • Xscape Castleford/Leeds • Glasgow intu Braehead •Aviemore • Fort William
The North Face Stores London: Covent Garden, St.Paul’s One New Change,Westfield London & Westfield Stratford •Cambridge Lion Yard • Sheffield Meadowhall
27 SPECIALIST SHOPS NATIONWIDE
New Catalogues Out September
Tirol Winter ad 14:Layout 1 11/7/14 09:15 Page 1
· www.visittirol.co.uk · Insider’s Guide to Tirol 27
follow us on Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports Ski Testing Partner Winter 14/15
www.ellis-brigham.com
London: Covent Garden, Westfield London, Westfield Stratford,Kensington High St & St.Paul’s One New Change • Cambridge Lion Yard •Xscape Milton Keynes • Bristol • Tamworth Snowdome • Manchester •Chester • Liverpool • Xscape Castleford/Leeds • Glasgow intu Braehead •Aviemore • Fort William
The North Face Stores London: Covent Garden, St.Paul’s One New Change,Westfield London & Westfield Stratford •Cambridge Lion Yard • Sheffield Meadowhall
27 SPECIALIST SHOPS NATIONWIDE
New Catalogues Out September
Tirol Winter ad 14:Layout 1 11/7/14 09:15 Page 1
The kit may have changed, but the passion’s the same. Since the Ski Club was formed 111 years ago we’ve been helping people have the best possible time on the
snow. Visit skiclub.co.uk to find out how you can be part of the club’s future.
AT THE SUMMIT
SINCE 1903
Visit skiclub.co.uk/join or call 020 8410 2015 and quote:
TIROL1415 *When joining by Direct Debit.
Special Offer£10 off a year’s standard Individual or Family new membership*
GO SKI GO BOARDLaunched last year, GO SKI GO BOARD is
Snowsport England’s national participation
campaign aimed at getting more people into
and back into snowsports by letting them
sample the thrill of skiing and snowboarding.
Supported by the Austrian Tirol as the
exclusive destination partner, the GO SKI
GO BOARD campaign has brought together a
network of the UK’s indoor and artificial snow
slopes to offer value for money, all inclusive
ski or snowboard sessions.
New for 2014/15 is the GO FREESTYLE, GO
RACE programme. Following the success
of Team GB skiers and snowboarders at the
Sochi Winter Olympics, GO FREESTYLE
AND GO RACE are aimed at those who have
already caught the snowsports bug, enabling
them to take their skiing or snowboarding to
the next level.
GO FREESTYLE gives people the chance to
hit the snowpark for the first time and get a
taste for what it feels like to fly over a jump or
slide along a rail, and GO RACE gives people
the chance to try skiing through gates for
the first time and experience the buzz of ski
racing.
To find your nearest participating slope
in England and your nearest GO SKI GO
BOARD, GO FREESTYLE or GO RACE
session visit www.goskigoboard.org.uk
Maria-Theresien-Straße 55
6020 Innsbruck · Austria
+43.512.7272-0
+43.512.7272-7
www.visittirol.co.uk
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Tirol / Heart of the Alps · Insider’s Guide to Tirol · www.visittirol.co.uk
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