Sölden is the most famous ski resort in Ötztal. In addition to its beautiful and snow-sure ski area, Sölden is also famous for its lively après-ski scene. Concerts are held regularly, and many international ski and snowboard competitions are organized there. From Sölden, you can reach the top of the 3058-meter high Gaislachkol via the Ötztaler Gletscherbahn and a chairlift.
Sölden and Hochsölden together form a beautiful ski area. It features two glaciers that you can ski on: the Rettenbach and the Tiefenbach. Thanks to these glaciers, Sölden has guaranteed snow, so you can ski 365 days of the year. It is the only Austrian ski area with three mountain peaks above 3000 metres that can be reached by ski lifts! The ‘Big Three’, as they are known, are the Gaislachkogel, the Tiefenbachkogel, and the Schwarze Schneid.
The majority of the slopes (130 kilometres) are located near Sölden. From there you can reach two other ski areas: Gaislachkugl and Giggijoch. The latter area is particularly suitable for families, as it is easily accessible by road or by ski lift. There are also plenty of easy slopes and a children's ski school there. Gaislachkogel, on the other hand, features more challenging, red runs to enjoy. At the top of Gaislachkogl you will find Ice Q, a fantastic gourmet restaurant, and 007 Elements. This is a unique James Bond exhibition, where you will get a special behind the scenes look at the making of Spectre, for which Sölden was the filming location. With a ski pass of 6 days duration or more, you will have free access to 007 Elements!
The ski area around the Rettenbach Glacier is referred to by experts as the most challenging ski area in Austria. You can take on long, steep pistes and difficult mogul slopes there. The Tiefenbach glacier offers flatter terrain and is ideal for beginners. For snowboarders, the Giggijoch offers high jumps, a halfpipe, rails, a bumper, spines, and more. There is also a fun park on the Rettenbach glacier.
Finally, Ötztal features two smaller areas close to Vent (15km of slopes) and Ötz-Hochötz (25km of slopes). The runs in these areas are mostly blue and red. Vent is beautiful and quiet; an excellent base for ski touring trips, including to South Tyrol in Italy.
