Kitzbuhel, Tyrol Austria



My trip to Kitzbühel remains one of the most entertaining holidays of my life. It was New Year’s Eve 2001, and the atmosphere was exceptional. Ski resorts are especially magical at that time of year: the festive mood, the beauty of the mountains, the fireworks, outdoor parties, and people dancing in the streets despite the cold all combine to create a warm, memorable feeling.

Kitzbühel is relatively large by Austrian standards and feels more like a small town than a village, though it still has plenty of charm. It is especially popular with British visitors—one of its best-known pubs is even called the Londoner. The skiing itself is solid: most lifts are modern and well maintained, the infrastructure is reliable, and the slopes cater mainly to intermediates. Experts can still find a few more demanding runs, while beginners also have plenty of suitable options, although the easier pistes can become crowded.

Overall, I found the slopes good rather than outstanding. At the time, one drawback was the limited choice for snowboarders, although I imagine dedicated parks and features have since been added.

To sum up with, Kitzbühel is a large, well-organised, and popular ski resort with plenty to offer beyond the slopes. However, if you are looking for the atmosphere of a smaller, more traditional Austrian village, it may not be the ideal choice.