Sölden
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Seasonal Overview
Tourist Activities
Caratteristiche Attività
Sölden Ski Resort - BIG 3 Ski Area
Sölden boasts a world-class ski area with approximately 144 kilometers of perfectly groomed pistes (69.8 km blue, 44.7 km red, 29.2 km black, 0.5 km ski route) served by 31 state-of-the-art lifts. Unique in Austria, it provides direct access to three peaks over 3,000m – Gaislachkogl (3,058m), Tiefenbachkogl (3,250m), and Schwarze Schneid (3,340m) – known as the 'BIG 3', offering breathtaking panoramic views. The resort offers guaranteed snow from October to May thanks to its two glaciers, Rettenbach and Tiefenbach. It features several snow parks, including the Area 47 Snowpark Sölden, catering to freestylers of all levels. Lift pass prices vary by season and duration, typically starting from €60-70 per day in peak season. Operating hours are generally from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM during winter.
Bike Republic Sölden
A progressive and diverse mountain bike destination offering a vast network of natural single trails, purpose-built flow trails ('Lines'), and enduro routes. With over 20 natural trails and 10 purpose-built lines, it caters to all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders. Key trails include the Teäre Line (flowy, family-friendly) and the challenging Ohn Line. The Bike Republic is accessible via the Gaislachkogl and Giggijoch gondolas, providing uplift to the trailheads. Bike passes are available, and guided tours can be booked. Open from June to October, weather permitting.
007 ELEMENTS - James Bond Cinematic Installation
Located at 3,048 meters atop the Gaislachkogl, this unique architectural marvel offers a journey through the world of James Bond, focusing on 'Spectre' which was filmed partly in Sölden. The exhibition features interactive displays, original props, and stunning views of the Ötztal Alps. It's an immersive experience for film buffs and offers an architectural highlight. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission approx. €22 for adults. Accessible via the Gaislachkoglbahn.
Ice Q Restaurant
An award-winning gourmet restaurant situated at 3,048 meters on the Gaislachkogl summit, adjacent to 007 ELEMENTS. Its striking glass and steel architecture makes it a cinematic location (featured in 'Spectre'). It offers modern Alpine cuisine with panoramic views of the Ötztal Alps. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for lunch. Expect a fine dining experience with prices reflecting its exclusive location and quality. Open during lift operating hours for lunch and occasionally for special evening events.
Aqua Dome - Thermal Spa Längenfeld
While not directly in Sölden (located in nearby Längenfeld, approx. 15 km away), the Aqua Dome is the only thermal spa in Western Austria and a major regional attraction. It features 12 indoor and outdoor pools, three floating bowl-shaped outdoor pools, a vast sauna landscape, and a children's water world. It offers a luxurious and relaxing escape with stunning mountain views. A free shuttle service often connects Sölden to Längenfeld. Daily admission starts from around €50 for adults. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Tiefenbach and Rettenbach Glacier Ski Areas
These two glaciers form the heart of Sölden's early and late-season skiing, ensuring snow reliability from October to May. The Tiefenbach Glacier offers wide, gentle slopes ideal for beginners and intermediates, while the Rettenbach Glacier hosts the annual FIS Ski World Cup opening and features more challenging terrain. They are connected by a ski tunnel, the highest in Europe. Both glaciers are accessible via modern lifts (Tiefenbachbahn, Rettenbachgletscherbahn) and can also be reached by car via the panoramic Gletscherstraße (Glacier Road) (toll applies for private cars).
Accommodation
Caratteristiche Ospitalità
Das Central - Alpine . Luxury . Life 5*
A renowned 5-star hotel in Sölden, offering an exquisite blend of traditional Alpine charm and modern luxury. It features the award-winning 'Ötztaler Stube' restaurant, a 3-story 'Venetian' spa with 10 different saunas and steam baths, and a range of beauty and wellness treatments. Many rooms offer panoramic mountain views. Ski-in/ski-out access is not direct, but a complimentary shuttle service to the lifts is provided. Nightly rates typically start from €250-€500+, depending on season and room type.
Hotel Bergland Sölden 4* Superior
A design-oriented 4-star superior hotel known for its modern Alpine architecture and 'Sky Spa' on the rooftop, featuring an infinity pool with stunning panoramic views, various saunas, and relaxation areas. It focuses on contemporary luxury and wellness. Located centrally, it offers easy access to the village amenities and is a short walk or shuttle ride from the Gaislachkoglbahn. Gourmet dining is available. Nightly rates typically range from €180-€400+.
Lifts & Infrastructure
Gaislachkoglbahn Gondola
A state-of-the-art 3S gondola lift, consisting of two sections. The first section (Gaislachkogl I) transports 2,000 people/hour to the middle station (2,174m), while the second section (Gaislachkogl II) takes guests to the summit at 3,040m, with a capacity of 1,200 people/hour. It's the primary access to the BIG 3 Gaislachkogl peak, the Ice Q restaurant, and 007 ELEMENTS. It serves as a vital transport link for skiers in winter and hikers/sightseers/bikers in summer. Operating hours vary seasonally, typically 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM.
Giggijochbahn Gondola
One of the most modern and high-capacity gondola lifts in the Alps, the Giggijochbahn can transport an astounding 4,500 people per hour up to the Giggijoch area at 2,283m. It features 10-person cabins, heated seats, and free Wi-Fi. This lift is crucial for accessing a vast area of ski slopes, especially popular blue and red runs, and is a main starting point for families and ski schools. In summer, it's a key access point for hiking and biking trails. Operating hours are generally 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM.
Skischule Sölden-Hochsölden
The largest and most established ski school in Sölden, offering a comprehensive range of ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities. This includes private lessons, group lessons, children's ski school (with dedicated kids' areas), freeride camps, and adaptive skiing. Instructors are highly qualified and multilingual. Prices vary, with group lessons typically starting from €60-€70 per day or €200-€250 for 3-5 days. Located at various points throughout the resort and on the mountain.
Intersport Bründl - Giggijoch
A major ski and snowboard rental and retail shop conveniently located directly at the Giggijochbahn base station. Offers a wide selection of the latest equipment for all skill levels, professional boot fitting, and tuning services. Guests can pre-book equipment online for convenience. Rental prices for a full ski set typically range from €30-€60 per day, with discounts for multi-day rentals. Also provides bike rentals and gear in summer.
Sport & Wellness
Caratteristiche Sport
Freizeit Arena Sölden
A comprehensive leisure and wellness center located in the heart of Sölden. It offers an adventure pool with a waterfall, wild stream, and children's area, alongside a modern sauna landscape (Finnish sauna, steam bath, herbal bath, infrared cabin). Additional facilities include a fitness center, indoor tennis courts, a bowling alley, and a multi-purpose sports hall. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and active leisure, especially on non-skiing days or in the evenings. Open daily, typically from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Admission approx. €12-€18 for adults depending on access (pool/sauna).
Sölden Sports Center (Freizeit Arena)
Part of the Freizeit Arena complex, the sports center offers an indoor climbing wall, a fully equipped gym with fitness classes, and courts for various indoor sports. It provides ample opportunities for sports and fitness activities, regardless of the weather conditions. Ideal for maintaining fitness during a holiday or for trying new sports. Open daily with access included in Freizeit Arena admission or separate rates for specific activities.
Useful Information
Ötztal Tourismus Sölden Information Office
The central tourist information point for Sölden, located in the village center. Provides comprehensive information on accommodations, activities, events, lift operating times, hiking/biking maps, and weather forecasts. Offers assistance with bookings, provides multilingual brochures, and offers general tourist support. Knowledgeable staff are available to answer queries and help plan itineraries. Open daily during peak seasons, with reduced hours in off-peak.
General Services
Caratteristiche Generali
Pizzeria Salino
A popular restaurant in Sölden known for its authentic Italian pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, as well as pasta dishes and other Italian specialties. It offers a lively and casual atmosphere, perfect for families and groups. Prices are generally moderate, with pizzas ranging from €10-€20. Reservations are often recommended during peak times.
Gampe Thaya
A rustic and traditional mountain hut (Alm) located on the Gaislachalm, offering authentic Tyrolean cuisine made from local produce. Famous for its homemade cheeses, bacon, and traditional dishes like 'Brettljause' (cold cuts platter) and 'Kasnocken'. It provides a charming and cozy atmosphere with stunning views. Accessible via hiking trails in summer/autumn and ski routes in winter. Renowned for its focus on sustainability and regional quality. Prices are moderate to high for the experience. Open during summer/autumn hiking season and winter ski season.
Electric Mountain Festival
An annual electronic music festival held at the Giggijoch mountain station (2,283m) and in the valley, usually in April. It attracts thousands of electronic dance music (EDM) fans and features world-renowned DJs performing against the stunning backdrop of the Ötztal Alps. It marks one of the highlights of the late-season ski calendar, combining skiing with a vibrant party atmosphere. Ticket prices vary depending on artists and duration, typically starting from €50-€100+ per day.
Ötztaler Cycle Marathon
One of Europe's most challenging and prestigious amateur road cycling events, held annually in late August. The race covers 227 kilometers and features 5,500 meters of climbing over four alpine passes (Kühtai, Brenner, Jaufen, Timmelsjoch), starting and finishing in Sölden. While the event itself is for serious cyclists, the route provides an incredible challenge for any road cyclist to train on during the summer months. The atmosphere in Sölden during the event is electric.