"Kitzbühel’s world renown is based largely on the Streif, the annual televised downhill race on the Hahnenkamm. But in reality its extensive ski area is largely intermediate, with few pisted challenges for experts.
The charming town is a walled, medieval settlement painted with delicate frescoes. The centre is mercifully traffic-free, and a bus service ferries skiers to and from the Hahnenkamm and the Kitzbüheler Horn mountains.
Changes come slowly here. But for the 2004–5 season, after a 15-year debate, a new gondola spans the valley between the top of the Jochberg ski area and the top of Pengelstein. This means that the Ski Safari route from the Hahnenkamm to Jochberg and Pass Thurn can now be made in both directions without an annoying walk or a return bus journey.
Kitzbühel’s insuperable problem is its lack of altitude. In recent seasons it has been blessed with good cover, but conditions in early- and late-season weeks remain a gamble." |