Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel, in Austria, is a vacation resort famous not only for skiing but for a host of other related activities as well. One of the most popular resorts in the region, just two hours from Munich, Kitzbuhel attracts both the glamorous and the family crowd with equal magnetism. Its vast slopes are served by over fifty lifts and the typical Tyrolean village is surrounded by five main ski areas with something to offer skiers of all levels of expertise.

The Hahnenkamm and the Kitzbuheler Horn are the main ski areas within the village boundaries. They are located on opposite sides of the valley and each have different attractions. The former has far more terrain whilst the latter attracts fewer crowds. Kitzbuhel is now linked with the new Ki-west ski lift to another vacation resort, Westendorf, which is actually a short bus ride away. It is also connected to the neighboring Jochberg ski area with the 3S lift. Kitzbuhel is also part of the Kitzbuheler Alpen ski region which offers over 700 km of pistes on one ticket.

Kitzbuhel is a paradise for the intermediate skier and offers the longest intermediate run of six miles. The picturesque tree-lined runs surrounding this charming Tyrolean resort with cobblestone streets and painted building are unforgettable. The expert skier will find some of the most extensive mogul runs in Europe here. Kizbuhel’s “Red Devils” ski school provides extensive instruction in all languages for beginners.

Other fun activities in the region include horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating, curling, swimming in the indoor pool, indoor tennis and bowling. It is quite impossible to get bored in this resort and the beautiful village which is surrounded, in part, by a 12th century stone wall that is common to the villages of the period. Shopping at elegant shops and relaxation at its numerous bars and restaurants will take care of any time spent off the slopes.

The main attraction of the season is the Hahnenkamm race week, the most challenging ski race in the world. The race attracts expert skiers to try their skill on a route that is made of the most severe ski terrain on the whole mountain. The race and the place have the glamour and tradition to make it an absolute must for any skier.