Skiing in Austria? It's Arlberg, Sankt Anton Am Arlberg

by lindamura review

► added on 24th of August, 2007

There are few places in the world that can compare to the beauty and alpine splendor of Arlberg. This modern resort is where you can get some of the finest skiing in the Alps, a place that attracts most of the people in the high society. It's the locals' commitment to quality that keeps Arlberg one of the most modern, convenient and popular resorts in the world and why enthusiast skiers keep coming back.

It is known as a place where ski history began together with Hannes Schneider who started teaching tourists to ski in 1907. He was known as one of the best teachers and things have quickly developed so that in 1911 the first Arlberg-Kandahar Cup competition was held bringing together some of the finest skiers. Schneider’s heritage of a high quality skiing school still prevails after all these years. This is where you can get the best skiing lessons as the ski school is ranked as one of the best in the world priding itself with its highly qualified instructors.

In the center of the Holiday Park in St. Anton there’s even a Skiing and Local Museum known as Ski und Heimat Museum that traces the history of the region and the development of skiing in the Arlberg. Visiting the museum enhances the cultural importance of the place.

Despite having a world class reputation, the town itself is not huge and it does not look as an overpopulated place and the fact that there are no cars allowed in the business area really gives you the impression you are in a secluded place and gives you the possibility to go back in time and enjoy nature and the simple things in life.

In this mountain range between Vorarlberg and Tyrol, snow is perfect for skiers, and the terrain that is free from trees on the slopes makes it perfect. The variety of terrain gives room for skiers of every level. Whether you're an expert with a love of big air or a beginner who wants gentle slopes with beautiful views, Arlberg has it all.

For the beginners there are the slopes down below, and for the more experienced skiers there are the runs from the Galzig and Valluga peaks. Valluga is the highest peak of 9216 feet offering the most beautiful panoramic view. If you want to experience more slopes you can choose from some popular places and famous ski resorts at the Arlberg: Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph and St. Anton which is the most fashionable attracting the rich and famous that can enjoy 16 sq. km of ski fields. Two other important sites are Gampen/Kapall with slopes fit for advanced-intermediate skiers while Rendl is known among beginner and intermediate skiers.

You can easily get to different part of the area with the spectacular cableway which has been improved lately. There are 28 gondolas that offer special entry comfort and the carrying capacity has increased by three times eliminating the queues.

There are many other things to do besides skiing so you can consider ski jumping, skating, sleigh rides, tobogganing, curling, mountain tours and more. These are the main activities in winter time summertime bringing other attractions. The scenery is beautiful with fields full of blooming wildflowers. Among the leisure activities provided are: mini golf, table tennis, and open-air chess and there are also a woodland playground, a fishing pond and a curling rink.

In order to experience true skiing, wonderful views and many other outdoor activities, be sure to make Arlberg your winter vacation resort.