- Kitzbühel by night. Photo © Bernard Spöttel
Kitzbuhel — Austria
Skiing reputedly started in Kitzbuhel (Kitz-bool) in 1893 after local hero Franz Reisch brought a pair of skis from Norway to try out on the mountains of Austria. From these beginnings the town has become one of the largest and liveliest resorts in the country. The ski area has 145km of pistes, including the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill run, and has benefited from many recent lift upgrades. However, in years of sparse snowfall Kitzbuhel, at an altitude of just 760m, can suffer.
One of the main strengths of Kitzbuhel, is the town itself - its picturesque centre retains colourful medieval buildings, several churches and a nearby castle which is now a hotel. The vibrant après-ski scene is typically Austrian and the nightlife alone is worth the visit to Kitzbuhel. It is a great destination for skiers and non-skiers alike, and serious shoppers will be impressed by the presence of Louis Vuitton and Swarovski.
- For serious skiers the world-famous Hanhenkamm downhill run is a must
- A visit to Kirchberg is a great excursion for non-skiers in the party.
- A horse-drawn carriage ride is the best way to see this attractive resort
- Try your hand in the casino. You may get lucky and be able to affors to shop in Kitzbuhel the following day!
- Access glorious powder fields on Bichlalm with guided snowcat tours (bookable at www.alpin-experts.at)
Kitzbuhel blogs
Skiing in Waidring
Posted by John Barr on 10th December 2010
We may be enjoying (or enduring!?) the snow here in the UK but John Barr has been busy again, off to Waidring to air his ski legs.
More Kitzbühel lifts and runs open
Posted by John Barr on 30th November 2010
John Barr has been busy in resort as the season kicks off, trying out the slopes that are open and enjoying the fabulous views with his favourite winter warmer.
Here is his latest report and some great photos to really whet your appetite for the coming season....
At a glance
- Resort altitude760m
- Highest lift2004m
- Lowest lift762m
- kms of piste170km²
- Black pistes13%
- Red pistes25%
- Blue pistes22%
- Green pistes40%
- Snow parks1
- GlacierNo
- SnowmakingYes
- Nearest airportSalzburg
(80 miles) - Lift pass price€220 / 6 days
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