Innsbruck,
Austria
A cultural city base for a range of
little ski resorts.
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Contrary
to some expectations, Innsbruck is not an alpine ski
village; it's a bustling city of over one hundred thousand
inhabitants. Nonetheless, it attracts more North American
winter visitors than any other European ski destination.
Undoubtedly,
some are drawn by the renown created by two modern Winter
Olympics in 1964 and 1976, which is perpetuated in the
form of a very efficient infrastructure for winter sports
fans.
Other
visitors are attracted by the historical environment of
the Old Town with the renowned Golden Roof as focal point.
Here around every corner can still be found Innsbruck's
heritage of two "golden ages," the first around
1500 under the Emperor Maxmilan I, the second in the
mid-1700's under Empress Maria Thérèsia.
Overall,
the city's location, nestled into a narrow valley right
beneath rugged mountain peaks, together with its old-world
atmosphere, historic churches and buildings, interesting
monuments, rich museums and galleries, and active
commerce, all combine into an interesting
sports-plus-culture attraction. It simply makes an
excellent destination for those who seek a broader
European experience than simply skiing, or for families
where some members are less assiduous skiers.
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What's
Great
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What's
Not-So-Great
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The area has some 200 trails covering 500
kilometers (310 miles)
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It is perfect for beginner and
intermediate-level skiers - and people often compare
this area to Aspen, Colorado in terms of terrain and
cost
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The town itself is conveniently located - only
three miles from the airport and all six of the ski
areas are within a one-hour radius of town
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Innsbruck will keep you entertained with
excellent shopping and a happening nightlife
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During peak season, between December and
February, skiers may experience long lift-lines
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Little night-skiing and no heliskiing
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Typically long treks to the actual resort from
Innsbruck
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Snow conditions are somewhat unreliable
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Learn
more about Innsbruck
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