Saalbach Hinterglemm Ski Area

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Now officially joined as one, the two villages of Saalbach Hinterglemm whose centres were once separated by 4 kms of the floor of the Glemmtal valley at the heart of Salzburgerland. In concert they offer 200km of the best intermediate cruising in Austria set over wide swathes of both north and south slopes of the valley – and link through the village. Runs on offer include a good mix of tree lined pistes, and a massive choice of open French style linked pistes and lifts above the tree line. It is a rare combination for Austria, many well connected well prepared pistes, a formidable range – with something enjoyable, if not too challenging, for everyone; but the villages retain the charm of traditional architecture (some modern reproduction) with recognisable village centres, onion domed churches, white painted chalets and theoretically traffic free streets. There is even ski in ski out accommodation. Saalbach is the more sophisticated, fashionable, lively of the two, and has become increasingly popular with younger visitors who flock to the wide choice of night-clubs and bars. It has more of the larger hotels, a scattering of pensions, good shopping cafes and restaurants. Hinterglemm is slightly less compact, quieter at night, with better, more immediate access to the good north facing slopes good bus links with its neighbour – and is possibly the better family option.