Sölden im Ötztal

Sölden im Ötztal
Dynamic – not only in terms of price

The most important sporting spectacle is already history in Sölden when this guide is published. The foehn was still raging during the women's race, but at the end of October millions of people could see on their screens why an early start to the skiing winter on the glacier is worthwhile. But Sölden is of course - especially in mid-winter - more than just the glacier. Although it should say "the glaciers". A new piste was created there this winter, which bears the number 41. It starts from the mountain station of the Schwarzen Schneid and allows a crossing from the Rettenbachferner to the slopes of the Tiefenbach glacier. This means that there are now three options for switching between the two areas. The route, classified as black, is recommended for experienced skiers and rewards you with a unique view. The perspective from the Tiefenbachferner is particularly impressive. There, winter sports enthusiasts appear on the horizon almost as if from nowhere.

Wonderfulthat the main focus overall remains on outstanding mountain railways that can be used to make the most of the great terrain. Such as on the Gaislachkogel, the 3,000-meter peak that can be reached directly from the town center in two stages with the world's most powerful 10-seater monocable gondola lift. A new restaurant on two floors awaits you at the middle station as an enjoyable break. At the summit, the extravagant architecture surprises with the 007 Elements, the installation that is reminiscent of the James Bond scenes that were filmed in Sölden. Architect Johann Obermoser already provided the structural counterpoint to nature with the Gaislachkoglbahn and the IceQ gourmet restaurant at the summit. In 2018, the 007 Elements on the Gaislachkogl was opened as a double highlight. But don't forget: dress warmly, the 007 Elements is unheated! The IceQ at the Gaislachkogel mountain station is an eye-catcher as a glass design restaurant that is connected to the mountain peak by a direct suspension bridge. Leisure skiers can spice up their day of skiing with culinary delights in the lounge (40 seats inside and outside). You can get to the top with a 3S cable car that can withstand storms of up to 100 km/h.

The Gaislachkogl is also the most striking evidence that Sölden has much more to offer than the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers. The most frequently used part of the Sölden ski area has so far been left out: the Giggijoch area. On this side, Hochsölden, an exclusive hotel village at 2,083 meters, has also been built, which has been connected for some time with the comfortable "D-Liner" from Doppelmayr (10-person cabins). The Freeflow Restaurant on the Giggijoch has been shining with a fresh look since last winter. In the spirit of upcycling, the old wood of the former Almstube now delights the eye at the Gaislachkogl middle station.

Von Sölden The Giggijoch area is extremely well accessible from the beginning of the village. For many day skiers, it is the most common way to get to the ski area. The fact that there can sometimes be longer waiting times for the chairlifts after the gondola at Giggijoch - especially when the ski school starts - is a small disadvantage. By the way, it is better to use the right chairlift. The mountain is characterized by wide, family-friendly slopes, but the snow park and several race routes can also be found here. The mogul slope and the freeride route are towards Rettenbachtal. As a new challenge, a funcross trek is to be prepared for the first time in winter 23/24.

The three-thousand-meter peak It is impressive because of what is perhaps the greatest difference in altitude that can be overcome on an Austrian descent without any tow paths, i.e. "in one go". If you can. Because of course 1,700 metres of altitude also require a lot of strength. All the more so as this ride usually marks the end of the day.