sölden austria
Sölden is the largest ski resort in the Ötz valley, the longest side valley off the main Inn valley in the Tyrol. Originally the inhabitants of the upper valley settled the area from Italy over the mountains into Austria, but in the wintertime at least, the only way to the area is up the long and winding alpine road.
Because of the length of the journey on main roads rather than motorways, the nearest airport in Innsbruck is recommended as a destination for air travellers. Rail travellers too will be forced onto the local bus service after arriving at the entrance to the valley at Ötztal Bahnhof.
Despite the high mountains around it (the Sölden ski area boasts three peaks over 3,000 metres - or 10,000 feet) the village of Sölden is set in a sunny location at just under 1400 metres in altitude.
The ski slopes above the town are split into two and are reached by two separate sets of lifts. The Giggijoch cable car at the entrance to the village passes over the higher suburb of Hochsölden, which can also be reached by road (winter equipment essential).
The crowning glory of Sölden's skiing however is the link that has now been made to the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach ski areas on the former summer skiing areas at the end of the glacier road. Now all skiers in wintertime can access the high runs and marvel at the fabulous views out over some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in Austria.
