Solden

If a raucous après-ski scene, outstanding scenery in a “film set scenario” and guaranteed best snow conditions whatever time of the season, (but especially early and late season), are just what you’re looking for, then Sölden is the resort for you. Set in one of Austria’s most alluring valleys with two glaciers and a decent sized, open ski area, you’ll find a bustling bevy of restaurants, bars and night clubs to spend your time after skiing. Sölden attracts a relatively young, lively European crowd so don’t be too taken back by the vibrant party atmosphere, common to a number of Austrian resorts. From small Italian Pizzerias and snack stations to award-winning restaurants you’ll find something to suit everyone…and budgets… between the village and the significant ski area’s peaks!

With such fantastic snow conditions, it comes as no surprise that each year in October, the European World Cup programme traditionally starts here in Sölden. For the 007 film fanatics, you cannot miss the wonderful Ice Q restaurant at the summit of Gaislachkogl which featured in one of the latest films titled “Spectre”. For your days off the slopes, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. From paragliding off the top of the mountain, Ice skating, and sleigh rides to nice relaxing sessions in a hot tub and sauna. Being just over an hours drive away from the nearest airport at Innsbruck, 75km away, means both the weekly trip and short breaks to Sölden are incredibly easy with minimal travel time, making it the ideal destination for 3 to 7 nights or longer. Munich and Salzburg airports are also options, but are both well over 200km away.

Solden is quite unique to other ski areas in Austria as it offers not only three mountains over 3000 metres high, but two glaciers linking into the ski area. With guaranteed snow from the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers and truly breathtaking scenery, it’s no surprise that  his is one of Europe’s most renowned ski and snowboard resorts, with fantastic conditions normally lasting from October to June.

The impressive number of slopes for all abilities, speedy, state-of-the-art ski lifts and gondolas means that you’ll be able to take advantage of maximum ski time with minimal queuing. Sölden is well-known for its BIG 3 – the Gaislachkogl (3,058m), the Tiefenbachkogl (3,309m) and the Schwarze Schneid (3,340m), which are all connected by cable cars. Once you’re at the top you can admire panoramic views from the three viewing platforms at the top of each peak.

Intermediates will find most of the terrain is classified ‘Red’ but there are also plenty of blacks for confident intermediates and advanced skiers along with excellent ski touring opportunities. Beginners will find suitable slopes at the top of the village so they too can experience the thrill of some high altitude skiing. The ski trails provide unlimited fun for all levels of skiers. Advanced skiers should head  o Giggijoch and those of you that consider yourselves racers should try the wide, steep open runs in Gaislachkogl!

Sölden doesn’t disappoint for snowboarders either. It has its very own dedicated snowboard park within the Giggijoch area. The Gaislachkogl area also boasts slopes that offer a thrilling ride for all snowboarders. And just to top it off, with pistes above 2500m you’ll be able to ski and snowboard there throughout the season, from November to May! The ski pass also covers one day in nearby Obergurgl which is another resort you must see and ski, again being a glacier resort with fabulous snow all the time.

Most of Sölden’s accommodation is in comfortable hotels, which are predominantly four-star. At the less expensive end of the scale there are also traditional Austrian pensions and some apartments to rent, with a few catered chalet options, though mainly for groups of 8 or more. Gastehaus Kneisl, Hotel Sölderhof, Hotel Erhart, Hochsölden hotel, Das Central and the Bergland hotel are just a few of the hotel options that might suit your requirements, but just call or email us to find your ideal accommodation and often we can offer FREE transfers from Innsbruck.

SOLDEN RESORT FACTS
Top elevation 3340m
Resort elevation 1350m
Lifts in area 31
Ski area 144 kms
N/A Green
37% Blue
43% Red
20% Black