1. Kitzbühel, Tirol
The small medieval town of Kitzbühel is steeped in tradition. Both the town and its ski resort (where every year professional skiers reach speeds of 140 kmph / 87 mph in front of some 60,000 spectators every January) are bywords for Gemütlichkeit – that particular brand of Austrian hospitality that guarantees the warmest of welcomes.
In addition to great off-piste action, you can follow the 35-kilometre (22 mi) circuit to take in some of the equally delightful surrounding villages and areas. Polish up your skiing skills at any one of the area's legendary ski schools such as the 'Rote Teufel' (Red Devils), and take your pick from Kitzbühel's 50-plus cosy mountain huts to join in with the legendary love of après-ski beats long into the night.
Come here for:
- 185 km / 115 mi of pistes
- Excellent hotels
- Culinary delights
- Après-ski excitement and nightlife
- Cosmopolitan atmosphere