Sölden (Ötztal)
Sölden, which is very well-known among Dutch winter sports enthusiasts, lies in the Ötzal, the prettiest of the Inn’s side valleys, nearby the Italian border. Surrounded by mountains much higher than 3000 m, Sölden is statistically one of the sunniest towns in Austria. Furthermore, its high altitude (1400-3200 m) is a guarantee for optimal snow conditions, also in December and April/May. Sölden is also home to one of the most beautiful glaciers in Austria.
During the entire season, the glacial area is connected to the regular skiing zone by 4 lifts, making this one big and highly varied skiing area with 34 lifts and more than 140 km of slopes. And... there is an absolute snow guarantee! Both the beginner and the experienced skier, who wishes to descend a difference in altitude of more than 1700 m, will find the slope of their dreams in this area. It goes without saying that such an area also devotes much of its attention to the boarders among us: one of the largest and best-maintained funparks in Austria is located in Sölden, more specifically on the Giggijoch.
"Glacier skiing till may at an altitude of 3340 metres”
The Ötztal Arena is the only skiing area in Austria with three peaks exceeding 3000 metres: the ‘Big 3’. For the advanced skier there is a challenging route, called the ‘Big 3 Rally’, which is a 50 km trip.
For the guests who have a skipass for 3 days or longer, it is also possible to go skiing in the Obergurl-Hochgurl area with the same ski pass. A 15 min drive (by skibus) from Sölden lays another 112km of slopes ready for you.
For cross-country skiers and hikers
The Ötztal not only offers the trails and hiking paths of Sölden itself, but also a slew of opportunities in the valley’s gorgeous natural surroundings. Huben/Längenfeld, located just before Sölden, is the centre of dozens of kilometres’ worth of hiking paths and cross-country trails. The town of Sölden is a veritable winter sports hub with all the associated facilities regarding after-ski enjoyment, nightlife, shopping and sports. This includes a natural ice skating rink and an expansive ‘Freizeitzentrum’ with such facilities as a swimming pool, tennis court, a sauna, fitness equipment, etc.
Aqua Dome
At 10km from Sölden, in the town of Längenfeld, is the Aqua Dome. Here you will feel part of nature thanks to the building’s remarkable design. This unique building takes the form of a crystal, is largely made of glass and contains a pair of indoor swimming pools of 34 and 36 degrees Celsius. It also has two outdoor pools. The sporty among us can visit the activity bath which has underwater fitness equipment. There is also a completely separate family and children’s area called the ‘Alpen Arche Noah’. This world of play has various attractions such as waterfalls, fountain and a 90-metre slide.