Skiing reputedly started in Kitzbuhel in 1893 after local hero Franz Reisch brought a pair of skis from Norway to try out on the mountains of Austria. From these beginnings the town has become one of the largest and liveliest resorts in Austria. The ski area is has 145km of pistes and has benefitted from many recent lift upgrades although in snow sparse years, this place can suffer.
Although it is home to one of the most feared and challenging races on the circuit (the Hahnenkamm downhill race), the majority of skiing in Kitzbuhel is of intermediate standard. The main Hahnenkamm ski area links it with the neighbouring resort of Kirchberg as well as other small towns like Jochberg, Pass Thurn and Aurach.
One of the main strengths of Kitzbuhel, is the town itself - its picturesque centre retains colourful medieval buildings, several churches and a nearby castle (now a hotel). The town is large and there isn't much ski-in, ski-out accommodation but a good regular bus service services the town. The vibrant apres-ski scene is typically Austrian (very lively!) and the nightlife alone is worth the visit to Kitzbuhel.
For serious shoppers, Louis Vuitton and Swarovski are among the famous names Kitzbuhel boasts and various other activities and events are on offer throughout the year from museums and jazz festivals to polo tournaments and ice-hockey matches making it a great place for skiers and non-skiers alike.
| Resort altitude | 760m - 760m |
|---|---|
| Highest lift | 2000m |
| Lowest lift | 800m |
| Kms of piste | 145kms |
| No of lifts | 56 |
| Black pistes | 20% |
| Red pistes | 43% |
| Blue pistes | 37% |
| Green pistes | 0% |
| Snow parks | 1 |
| Glacier | No |
| Snowmaking | 65 |

| Report date: | 2 Jan 2009 |
|---|---|
| Last snowed: | 1 Jan 2009 |
| Fresh snow: | 1cm |
| Lifts open: | 53 out of 55 |
Snow depth: | |
| Lower slopes: | 40cm |
| Upper slopes: | 110cm |
Piste information: | |
| On-piste: | Excellent |
| Off-piste: | Varied |
| Resort runs: | Fresh |