Kitzbühel. The village which is located between the mountain peaks Hahnenkamm and Kitzbühel Horn and is best known for its spectacular downhill skiing which takes place in the middle of January each year. The alpine skiing competitions held here is one of the Winter Olympic Games’ event and is one of the toughest and most remarkable races among alpine riders.
Kitzbühel is a large ski area with plenty of slopes for everyone in the family. The area which lies amidst beautiful mountain scenery has long been a popular tourist attraction for people from all over the world for a very long time. 15 km of slopes and 57 lifts opens up the possibility for good skiing for most people. Here you can find both blue slopes and for those who want to take on a challenge, there is of course Hahnenkamm, where the downhill skiing course runs.
Through the lift system you can also get to the nearby villages such as Hollersbach, Jochberg, Kirchberg and Aschau im Zillertal. For those who want powder snow, you can often simply put on a pair snowshoes and climb the nearest peak. Even outside of the pistes, Kitzbühel is a paradise. The large frozen lake Schwarzer See offers a lot of fun activities such as ice skating and curling. There is also a large selection of good cafés and shops for those who want to stroll around the cozy alpine village.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Famous for its ski jumping, all though this resort has so much more to offer. The city, located in the southern part of Bavaria, has over the years really managed to maintain its genuine charm. The wonderful winter conditions will guarantee you a visit without disappointment.
Here you can enjoy well-managed and wide slopes that are close to the city. The largest area is called the Garmisch-Classic and consists of three interconnecting mountains: Hausberg, Kreuzeck and Alpspitze. Slopes in all kinds of difficulty levels can be found here among with a large ski course which is often appreciated.
The other area is called Zugspitze where often you can come across snow from November all the way in to May. When the fog hits the valley down below the sun usually shines here. Zugpitze is also Germany’s highest mountain standing at almost 3 000 metres tall. The mountain is a perfect excursion destination even for those without skis, up here you are met by an outstanding view that will long remain in your memory.
When you’re not going downhill skiing, you can also try hiking with snowshoes, cross-country skiing or try your luck at the casino down in the village.