The small village of Ischgl can be found in the western reaches of Austria. The area is home to the largest skiing resorts in the whole of the Alps, and Ishgl’s ski resort is even connected with another in Switzerland, across the border!
The resort’s official name is the Silvretta Arena Ischgl-Samnaun; here is a guide to everything you need to make your next skiing holiday in Austria the best yet.
Hitting the Slopes
Despite the cold, many avid winter sportsmen will find the mountains very inviting indeed
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The sheer size of the twin resorts is enough to attract any keen skier or snowboarder to its slopes. An unbelievable area over 238km of pistes welcome you to test your skills, and enjoy the beautiful Alpine mountains. Over 40 lifts help to keep the visitors to the huge resort on the move with an impressive arsenal of cable cars, chair lifts and gondolas. The modern lift systems are some of the best in the world, and your Silvretta ski pass will even let you enjoy other places in the Paznaun Valley. Before you begin your journey down the slopes, or while you’re making your way to the top, spare a moment to marvel at the stunning views from the side of the mountain; it will surely take your breath away.
The popularity of the resort is no mystery; the picturesque mountains offer their visitors an abundance of reliable snow coverage. Beginners are welcome, however the challenge of some of the steep runs at the resort attract a great number of professionals and experienced veterans, who come to show off their skill. Even though there are plenty of difficult routes, the resort has a great reputation for being very family friendly.
The Nightlife
The Ischgl Ski Resort is world famous for its Apres-ski. Apres-ski is a French phrase that means ‘after skiing’, and a phrase that Ischgl seems to take very seriously. The popularity of the area on the whole creates a fantastic buzz over the entire resort, and the night-life, bars and entertainment it has to offer is second to none. The village is more of a town, and has a wonderful urban yet glamorous feel to it.
Staying true to the skiing culture, the narrow main street is traffic free, and has a great number of lively bars and fashion boutiques. One of the resort’s most famous events is its regular pop concerts, held at the end of the ski season. At an impressive height of 2300m, the ‘Top of the mountain concert’ has attracted some huge names in music to the Idalp Mountain. Artists such as Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Jon Bon Jovi, Maria Carey and Tina Turner are but a few of the stars on the list of past performers. Even ex-president Bill Clinton gave out a ‘message from the mountains’ in 2002, holding a world media event in the small mountain village.
Sweet Dreams
Why not slip into a sauna, or go for an after-ski soak?
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The resort has an impressive array of hotels, ranging in their star rating and price to accommodate the needs of every visitor. The hotels are well equipped; all offer access to the restaurants and entertainment provided, and some even have indoor heated pools and spas! Nothing beats relaxing in a hot Jacuzzi after spending a tiring day in the cold mountain air. Unwind, grab a drink from the hotel bar, and relax before your big night out!
Eating Out
Ischgl’s nightlife isn’t the only thing on the menu; its fantastic choice in restaurants is not to be trifled with! Visitors can find most of the good places to dine in the many hotels situated in the resort. Ischgl has been praised for its abundance of eateries, with a rich range of different types of cuisine. Every taste is catered for, ranging from Italian fine-dining in the Toscana, to traditional Austrian dishes in the Hotel Gramaser.
Many of the hotels offer wonderful evening entertainment while you eat, and independent reviews of the food have said it is of the highest standard. Make sure that you get your places early though; the best restaurants are often full at peak times!
Conclusion
If anywhere in the world has the complete skiing entertainment package, it is Ischgl. The resort has an unparalleled range of slopes and well groomed pistes for skiers and snowboarders alike. The Silvretta offers its visitors the opportunity to indulge in the fine food and wine, and party with other enthusiastic night-owls until it’s time to hit your luxury hotel. Don’t miss out on the trip of a lifetime, book your next skiing holiday at the Ischgl Ski Resort in Austria.
Image credits: Daniel Friedle, and goldener-adler
