Goldeck

Goldeck
sports mountain with sun terraces and great slopes

Directly near the town of Spittal/Drau Located in Upper Carinthia, the small but fine Goldeck ski area has long been a constant among Carinthian skiers. Although Goldeck, which is only five kilometers from the southern motorway, has recently become something of an insider tip, it is mainly frequented by locals from the surrounding area. This may be due to the fact that the infrastructure was somewhat outdated until the end of the 2000s. But that has changed: In addition to the gondola lift up the mountain at 2,142 meters above sea level, winter sports enthusiasts now have six lifts at their disposal - today there are only two drag lifts and a conveyor belt. Since construction tycoon Hans Peter Haselsteiner, whose company Strabag has its headquarters in Spittal, bought the ski area several years ago, investments have been made in infrastructure and comfort. Most recently, an 8-seater gondola and a 6-seater chairlift were built - and there is now also a new ski depot. Parking is free. With its 25 kilometers of slopes, the "sports mountain" Goldeck - as it defines itself - has a lot to offer: Among other things, according to the operator, it has the longest black valley run in the Alps. Over a length of 8.5 kilometers, there is a difference in altitude of 1,600 meters - a real challenge for most skiers, provided there is enough snow. Unfortunately, it was recently closed anyway due to the risk of rock falls.

A special treat The Goldeck is also popular with all freeski fans and boarders because of its 50 hectare freeride area - the Steilhang, Kälberriegel and Eggeralm areas are particularly noteworthy. Motivated riders will love the snow park with its boxes, rails and tubs. There are four Wi-Fi hotspots available so that you can share your experiences immediately. For beginners and those returning to skiing, there is a new 30,000 square meter ski school area with two magic carpets and two drag lifts right next to the "Talbahn Goldeck" mountain station. The difficulty levels can be gradually increased according to individual progress, making practice more fun. Additional comfort is provided by a 900 square meter ski rental shop, a professional ski service station and ski depots right next to the piste at the valley station for large groups and families. And for several years now, there has also been a ski touring educational trail on the Goldeck that leads to the 2,142 meter high mountain peak. The trail can also be walked with snowshoes.

Around these possibilities There are occasional events such as "Champ or Cramp" for particularly fit athletes, the Vertical Race over 1,490 meters in altitude or the Freeride Cup. The Goldeck, which likes to position itself as the sunniest sports mountain in Carinthia, also offers a wonderful panoramic view as far as the Grossglockner - which can be enjoyed from sun terraces at an altitude of 2,100 meters. And this is also possible at night: namely in the "Cielo" bivouac, where you can spend the night in 15 square meter pine and larch wood huts, but still with the necessary comfort and service on the mountain. Also not to be left unmentioned are the nearby natural toboggan runs, the overall balanced price-performance ratio and the options available for ski tourers - from the Seetal tour to the Goldeck crossing - a popular combined touring and piste experience. And last but not least, there are eight huts and inns in the ski area where you can stop off for a bite to eat.