Try skiing in Austria during Freshers Ski Week

Snow-covered mountains, blue skies, perfect slopes – all just waiting for those first wintery tracks. Sound like the perfect winter daydream? Well, there’s never been a better time to turn this dream into reality!

On 8th September, the Association of SnowSports Countries presented a unique programme called Freshers Ski Week. But what is it all about? For a period of one week, from either the 17th or the 24th January 2009, you can learn to ski for free at one of 46 great resorts, across seven different countries.

As one of the world’s leading ski nations, Austria is certainly very much involved in this programme. With over 890km of pistes, 333 ski lifts, snow reliability – the seven regions in Austria offer amazing possibilities.

Alpbach (Tirol)
52km of pistes, 21 ski lifts and thanks to a huge water reservoir, snow is guaranteed down to the foot of the mountain.

Kitzbüheler Alpen – Brixental (Tirol)
400km of pistes and 149 ski lifts - located at the heart of Euorpe’s third largest skiing region, the Brixen Valley offers everything the winter sports enthusiast could wish for.

Wilder Kaiser (Tirol)
250km of pistes, over 90 cable cars and lifts, and more than 70 huts & mountain restaurants. Awarded best international ski area 2004/05 and part of the largest connected skiing region in Austria – the Kitzbüheler Alpen.

Olympiaregion Seefeld
48 km of slopes with 32 cable cars and lifts - skiers and snowboarders can tackle everything from carving to off-piste.

Wildschönau
'First place goes to the Wildschönau Valley'. When tested by the German Automobile Association ADAC, the Wildschönau ski resort won hands down for family friendliness, variety, fun park, alpine skiing, Nordic walking, cross country skiing and après ski. The Wildschönau was awarded the first prize in the 'Small but Excellent' category for the whole of the Alps.

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
110 km of pistes, 23 lifts and the Top Express Obergurgl-Hochgurgl - a connecting gondola between Obergurgl and Hochgurgl. High above Königstal and Verwalltal valley skiers can admire the stunning Alpine scenery and the surrounding glaciers while enjoying a unique ride with this panoramic gondola.

St. Wolfgang
3 ski areas with 35km of pistes and 18 lifts - the winter magic of this magnificent region is reflected above all in its authenticity: here nature plays the leading role.

Certified english-speaking ski instructors
7 regions to choose from, each unique in itself, but all have one thing in common: a certified team of experienced ski instructors. Learn perfect technique while discovering some of the most beautiful spots within each region!

How does it work?
Just book your holiday with any of the seven participating tour operators: Airtours, Crystal, Erna Low, First Choice, Inghams, Neilson and Thomson, and you’ll receive complimentary ski tuition, lift passes and equipment hire!

For more information please visit: Austria.info