High-octane slopes: from the Hahnenkamm races to vertical skiing, discover thrills in Austria’s Kitzbühel

Ski is embedded in the historic town of Kitzbühel’s very DNA. Over 125 years of skiing tradition are combined with easy accessibility, long winters, high snow reliability and a variety of sports activities, appealing to those who want to make sure they can maximise the season. But there is plenty on offer for those who prefer not to hurl themselves down a mountain, too.

An alluring medieval town located within the Kitzbühel Alps along the river Kitzbüheler Ache in Austria’s Tirol, Kitzbühel is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. It offers pretty much everything you need for the perfect winter holiday, including cross-country skiing, tobogganing, ski touring, skating, curling, and more. Together with nearby villages including Reith, Aurach and Jochberg, it makes up the vast KitzSki area, offering an impressive 233km of downhill skiing. And these slopes are within easy reach; the Hahnenkamm lift - whisking you right up into the Alps – is just a three-minute walk from the 750-year-old historic centre, so you can, essentially, ski directly from the mountain to the middle of town.

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Although there is plenty to do here year-round, the winter moments are the stand out, and the season runs generously from November to April. One of the regular draws is the annual World Cup ski races on the Hahnenkamm (the name means ‘rooster’s comb’) mountain, including the circuit’s most notable, perhaps even notorious, event: the Hahnenkamm race on the famous Streif . To say this is not for the fainthearted would be an understatement; it’s a tough, twisty, long, snaking run, filled with blind drops, steep gradients and daredevil jumps, aimed at top level international athletes.

The 83rd edition will be held from January 16-22, and makes for a fascinating spectacle for onlookers: racers can reach speeds of up to 140kph, and both you and they will be holding their breath as they approach the Mausefalle (‘mousetrap’) jump, just eight seconds in, which has an 85 per cent gradient and launches them 80m through the air. Just to make things even more challenging, there’s also an event called the Streif Vertical Up, a race where competitors have to strive to get from ground level to the top of the Streif route – which spans 3,312m and 860 vertical m – as quickly as possible.

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More sedate skiers will find themselves on one of a selection of over 90 pistes, aimed at all levels. And once on the mountains, there’s no shortage of places to refuel after a hard day’s descents. There are over 60 mountain huts and restaurants all offering delicious Austrian cuisine, from the Hornköpflhütte, known for its tasty, traditional Pressknödelsuppe (sautéed cheese dumplings in a broth) to the popular Hahnenkammstüberl, where you’ll find the likes of Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancake), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles) and out-of-this-world cakes, homemade by friendly landlady, Lisi.

For those who want an alternative to ski, or maybe just a day off from it, Kitzbühel offers a range of enticing options. Winter hiking is a big draw here, and free guided and individual hikes are available, taking you along snowy trails and through forests, observing magical scenery. There are also 70km of groomed cross-country skiing trails, some of which are illuminated through the evenings, while the adrenaline-fuelled fun of tobogganing is available, with several different runs aimed at all ages. You can also do ice skating, take a romantic, horse-drawn carriage ride, or even play curling; Sportpark Kitzbühel has the only indoor curling rink in the country.

Part of the pleasure in being here, however, is not just the snowy mountain scenery; it’s exploring the charming old town itself. Traditional and medieval architecture are found on almost every street, with many houses featuring colourful painted facades. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities, from artisanal crafts such as leathermakers and goldsmiths, to fashion designers, food stores and sports shops. In short, there are hundreds of perfect moments just waiting for you; head to Kitzbühel to experience yours.

To find out more about Kitzbühel, from resorts and accommodation to activities and experiences click here