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Kitzbuhel boasts a large and varied ski area itself and the new Kitzbuheler Alpen ski pass gives access to neighbouring resorts including Ski Welt and Alpbach, a staggering 600 km of pistes in total. Unfortunately most of the links involve trains or buses, although new lifts are being built to improve them.
Despite its reputation on the world cup circuit for the fearsome Hahnenkamm downhill, much of the skiing in Kitzbuhel is of intermediate standard, with fantastic rolling blue and red runs through the trees. For those after more of a challenge, it is not hard to find moguls and ski-routes (unpisted runs, marked on the piste map in orange diamonds). Beginners meanwhile, can take advantage of the various free lifts in the valley before heading up the Kitzbuheler Horn, which is a great area for confidence-building.
There are three ski areas accessible from Kitzbuhel itself. Looking up from the town you will see that one hill has a distinctive red and white striped aerial on the top. This is the Kitzbuheler Horn; directly opposite is the larger ski area of the Hahnenkamm, which connects with Jochberg and Pass Thurn. Bichlalm, a tiny ski area, is on the Horn side of the valley but further towards Jochberg.
Our favourite runs
Beginners:The Horn has a high, sunny, nursery-like section and quick learner will soon be cruising home on the long Hagstein piste.
Intermediates: Good intermediates should get onto the World Cup downhill run.
Advanced: The
Hanhnenkamm downhill run is a must try.
Off-piste:
Try the off-piste runs on the bowls around Ehrenbachgraben.
