GENERAL

The fashionable Alpine resort of Kitzbuhel is the premier ski resort in Austria , and one of skiing's most prestigious names as a whole. Kitzbuhel is a wonderfully beautiful Alpine town, steeped in history and with a distinct medieval feel. It has been attracting skiers and winter sport enthusiasts for over a century and enjoys a chic, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

The resort is nestled amongst the soaring peaks of the Kitzbuhel Alps in the northwestern province of Tyrol, just over an hour's drive east of Innsbruck. As one of the most complete ski destinations in Europe, holidays to Kitzbuhel are suited to beginners, intermediates and experts, families, couples and friends. Holidays to Kitzbuhel are also popular during the summer months.

The ski runs in Kitzbuhel are extensive, varied and world-class. The resort was the first to pioneer the 'ski safari' concept; offering over 90 miles of skiing without having to take an uphill step. The slopes are all-encompassing with everything from docile nursery slopes to challenging off-piste powder trails. Expert skiers can test their mettle against the formidable Streif run on the famous Hahnenkamm. Each year in January, one of skiing's most famous downhill races is held here, which remains one of the biggest sporting events in Austria. Freestylers and snowboarders can also take advantage of several terrain parks and thrilling pipes.

Winter or summer, Kitzbuhel holidays offer a lot to do away from the slopes. Outdoor activities are popular, with tobogganing, snowshoeing, ice-skating, sledging and snowmobiling all available, as well as paragliding and hot-air balloon excursions. Children are very well provided for with bowling alleys, a fun-packed water park, climbing walls and a cinema, and while the kids enjoy themselves parents can unwind in one of the luxurious spa centres. In the summer, tennis, golf and cycling are popular, whilst as the snow ebbs away a lush landscape is revealed ideal for trekking and hiking.

Shopping is very fashionable in Kitzbuhel with a fine range of designer stores and stylish boutiques. There is a huge and diverse range of dining establishments in the resort, catering for most tastes, ranging from classic Austrian fare to European and Asian restaurants. If you like to enjoy a little apres-ski socialising after a day on the slopes, you'll be in good company as the resort enjoys a really lively atmosphere in the peak months. There's certainly no shortage of bars in the resort, and you'll also find numerous popular nightclubs and a casino.

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Check out the other leading ski destinations of Chamonix and Courchevel , or go farther afield with a holiday to British Columbia in Canada