Winter in the Ötztal: The Highlight of Tyrol

The legendary reputation of Sölden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl extends far beyond the longest side valley in Tyrol. Starting from the winter season 2017/18, these two top ski destinations in the back Ötztal have created a superlative alliance with their new joint ski pass. The sun-kissed ski area of Hochoetz in the front Ötztal showcases its family-friendly expertise, while ski and winter experiences reminiscent of the past can be found in the quaint mountain villages of Vent, Gries, and Niederthai. In between, a relaxing day at the Tirol Therme AQUA DOME in Längenfeld is a must.

In the Ötztal, winter reigns from October to May – set against a breathtaking backdrop: More than 250 peaks over 3,000 meters surround the premier ski areas of Sölden, Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, and Hochoetz. The altitude and the ski access to two glaciers reaching up to 3,340 m ensure absolute snow reliability. Beyond the slopes, the Ötztal offers plenty of activities – from ski touring and cross-country skiing to snowshoe hiking and relaxation.

Sölden: The Hotspot of the Alps

Sölden is a World Cup venue and one of the most renowned winter sports resorts in the Alps. This "Hotspot of the Alps" enhances its status with superlatives: the ski season kicks off as early as October on the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers, and it is the only Austrian ski area with three 3,000-meter peaks accessible via cable cars – the BIG 3. From November, 33 state-of-the-art lifts (with a capacity of up to 70,000 people per hour) open up 144 wide, snow-sure kilometers of slopes suitable for all skill levels.

Lifts & Culinary Delights on Top

The stars among Sölden's lifts are the new 10EUB Giggijoch and the 8EUB Gaislachkoglbahn – both architecturally and technically outstanding. The "Golden Gate to the Glacier" comfortably connects the glacier and winter ski areas. More than 30 ski huts and restaurants await visitors; a culinary highlight is the gourmet restaurant ice Q at Gaislachkogel (3,058 m), renowned for its spectacular "Spectre" backdrop.

Adrenalin Cup, Aprés-Ski & Events Galore

The Adrenalin Cup entices with ten action-packed disciplines – participation is free with a valid ski pass, including videos and photos. The BIG 3 Rally over Gaislachkogl (3,058 m), Tiefenbachkogl (3,250 m), and Schwarze Schneid (3,340 m) is regarded as a sightseeing highlight; the legendary ~15 km descent from Schwarze Schneid with a vertical drop of 1,970 m to the valley is also a must. Sölden's après-ski culture begins with the first snow and culminates in events like the Electric Mountain Festival at Giggijoch or the glacier spectacle "Hannibal" at Rettenbachferner.